Long-running Hawthorn Japanese restaurant closes doors after thirty-two years

A long-standing Japanese restaurant in Hawthorn has shut down permanently following over three decades of operation in the Melbourne dining scene. Ocha ceased trading after its owners initiated voluntary liquidation proceedings due to mounting financial pressures and rising operating expenses. These factors ultimately made further trade unsustainable for the independent local business.

Owners Michele Rogersson and Yasuhiko Yoshida released a joint statement explaining that independent small eateries face severe difficulties under current economic conditions. They said they worked exceptionally hard for the establishment over the decades, but the business reached a point where they could no longer sustain operations in the traditional manner. The venue's website now displays a formal notice confirming the closure.

Andrew Juszva from GS Andrews Advisory was appointed as the voluntary liquidator to manage the formal winding up of the company assets and oversee administrative steps. The popular venue previously earned multiple listings in local food guides and received a notable nomination for best bring your own restaurant in 2013. Local diners expressed disappointment as the long-running establishment concludes its extensive history in the suburb.

The owners noted that long-term restrictions enforced during the pandemic alongside subsequent broader industry challenges severely affected their financial stability over recent years. They added that while this specific chapter has officially closed, they have not completely ruled out finding another way to share their culinary culture with customers. Further details regarding the liquidation process will be handled by the appointed advisory firm.