North Lakes tasty asian fusion hit provided by Blaktan

Combining a coffee roasting cafe with modern Asian cuisine was a leap of faith for James Kyung Je and it was with enthusiasm that patrons embraced the idea.

The licenced restaurant is now booked out most Friday and Saturday nights, say James, who is from South Korea.

“After four weeks, we had lots of good reviews on our Facebook page and we’re now busy,” he says.

James is the coffee roaster and barista, while the kitchen magic is produced by the chef Bo Moon.

He too comes from South Korea and worked for 10 years at a five-star hotel and at the famous Mooloolaba Spice Bar before coming to Blaktan.

James says he shares Bo 's dream and agrees that this Asian fusion style will fit well in North Lakes because asian cuisine has few fine dining choices.

He says the meals are perfectly presented, giving diners a range of flavours to taste, and using all the fresh ingredients. The Gyoza itself is created on site.

Blaktan Coffee Bar and Kitchen serves traditional breakfasts, but also offers Asian flair options including blessed eggs with torched salmon or braised pork belly in Japanese style. The menu is updated monthly, reflecting feedback from the customer.

The name of the venue was influenced by James and wife Jamie’s rottweiler, Mango. The colour scheme has been used in the ­fit-out and Mango’s face is featured on the restaurant’s logo.

“The rottweiler is a beautiful animal with a beautiful colour combination – black and tan. They are loyal and smart,” he says.