OUR STORY
At Doju, we bring modern Korean dining to Melbourne’s CBD. Our menu celebrates seasonal ingredients, creative techniques, and the warmth of shared dining. Whether it’s an intimate dinner, a gathering with friends, or a special celebration, we strive to offer a refined dining experience inspired by the spirit of Korea.
The story unfolds below — scroll on.
Meet Mika
Born in Jeollanam-do, South Korea — a region renowned for its bold and vibrant flavours — Mika Chae’s journey into the culinary world began unexpectedly.
After moving to Melbourne in 2013, he started out washing dishes until one day, a chef handed him a chef jacket and invited him into the kitchen. What began as chance quickly grew into passion.
Mika later moved to Tasmania, where he immersed himself in the world of local produce, working closely with farmers and learning the beauty of seasonality. This shaped his philosophy of simplicity: letting ingredients speak for themselves.
In 2024, Mika shared this approach on SBS The Cook Up with Adam Liaw (Season 7), showcasing his ability to connect Korean flavours with Australia’s best produce.
Now back in Melbourne, Mika brings this ethos to Doju — crafting dishes that are thoughtful, balanced and deeply rooted in both heritage and place.
The name Doju carries Mika’s story within it. It blends Jeollanam-do, his hometown, with Meju — the traditional fermented soybean block that forms the foundation of many Korean staples such as doenjang, ganjang and gochujang.
Just as meju begins the journey toward something greater, Doju marks the beginning of Mika’s own culinary chapter. It is a name that embodies origins, transformation and the patient care behind meaningful food.
Name of Doju
OUR ETHOS
At Doju, everything starts with respect for ingredients. Mika personally selects produce and maintains close relationships with the farmers and makers who share his values.
We believe in keeping things simple — allowing the true character of each ingredient to shine. If it isn’t grown or crafted to the standards we uphold, it won’t find its way onto the menu.
For us, quality is not a choice but a commitment. Good things take time, and at Doju, time and care are the heart of everything we do.
