Ebiya Japanese Eatery is built on the idea of bringing the everyday flavours of Japan to the Byron community. Japanese food culture values balance, lightness, and nourishment – dishes that are comforting yet never heavy, simple yet deeply satisfying. This is the essence that Yuko Ebihara and the Ebiya crew aim to share through their menu each day.
‘Our story began at the Byron Farmers Market, where we continue to trade every Thursday, says Yuko. ‘The market became our first home – a place to connect with locals, introduce fresh Japanese flavours, and become part of the weekly rhythm of Byron. After four years operating our shop in Ballina, opening our space in the Byron Arts & Industry Estate in 2025 felt like a natural extension of that connection.’
‘At Ebiya, we take inspiration from Japan’s “shokudo” – casual neighbourhood eateries serving honest, everyday meals. These are places where people stop by for a comforting lunch, grab something nourishing for later, or enjoy food that feels both simple and special. We hope to offer that same feeling here; a place that fits naturally into people’s routines, approachable and reliable.
‘Our menu reflects the food people in Japan enjoy day-to-day: Karaage Chicken Bowl, Gyudon (Wagyu Beef Bowl), Miso Eggplant, fresh daily sushi rolls, colourful deli salads, and our daily special dishes. These meals are prepared with real, honest ingredients and a focus on balance – flavourful without being heavy, and satisfying without overwhelming the body. They are the kinds of dishes you can return to again and again.
‘What we hear most from customers is that Ebiya offers a welcome pause in the day: somewhere to enjoy something wholesome, grounding, and consistently tasty. This inspires us to keep focusing on seasonality, careful preparation, and the beauty of simplicity.
‘Through Ebiya, we hope to share the warmth and calm found in Japanese everyday cooking – meals that bring comfort, reset the body, and become part of daily life.
‘We look forward to welcoming you and sharing these flavours with you soon,’ says Yuko.
Ebiya Japanese Eatery 0478 724 317, Shop 1 / 6 Tasman Way, Byron Bay.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
