Ciara Mae Ohori
Head Chef, Tokyo Tina
As Head Chef of Commune Group’s Tokyo Tina, Ciara Mae Ohori, brings her Filipino heritage, global experience and deep love for modern Japanese cuisine to Windsor’s beloved restaurant.
Born in Manila, Ohori’s passion for cooking was ignited at a young age by her mother, who she describes as her first and most enduring influence, inspiring her to share the same passion and love for food. She shares,
“Watching my mother cook every day and seeing how much joy she brought to others through her food, made me realise that this is what I wanted to do. ”
Her professional journey began in 2010 in her hometown, where she worked as a commis at Traders Hotel, Hyatt Manila. Eager to expand her skills, Ohori moved to Singapore later that year, joining Stellar at 1-Altitude. Over four years, she developed a strong foundation in kitchen operations and refined her approach to modern Japanese cuisine.
In 2014, Ohori moved to Melbourne to take on a Chef de Partie role at En Izakaya. Over five years, she deepened her understanding of Japanese culinary techniques while introducing her unique spin to traditional dishes.
In 2019, her career reached a new milestone when she started at Tokyo Tina as Sous Chef, before stepping up into the role of Head Chef in 2024, a role that has allowed her to innovate and lead with confidence. Her leadership has elevated the restaurant’s profile, blending tradition with innovation to create memorable dining experiences.
Ciara credits her first job in Singapore as pivotal, saying, “If it wasn’t for that opportunity, I wouldn’t have been able to build the career I have in Australia or shape my philosophy; respect for ingredients, precision in execution, and a focus on hospitality as an act of connection.”
When not in the kitchen, Ohori finds balance through yoga and Pilates, activities that help her recharge and stay focused in the kitchen. Her holistic approach to life is reflected in her cooking where she is always striving for excellence.
As she continues to evolve in her craft, Ohori remains driven by the same passion that first brought her into the kitchen, a desire to share her love for food and the connections it fosters.
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Hi-res imagery: via Google Drive
About Tokyo Tina
Since opening its doors in 2015, Tokyo Tina has been a beloved fixture in Melbourne's dining scene, with a menu that draws inspiration from Japan’s culinary traditions, vibrant subcultures in modern way. At the helm is Head Chef Ciara Mae Ohori, whose Filipino heritage, global culinary expertise, and passion for modern Japanese flavors infuse every dish. Tokyo Tina’s versatile space welcomes everything from cozy first dates to spirited group gatherings. With private dining rooms and the option to spice things up with karaoke, Tokyo Tina delivers an unforgettable dining experience as vibrant and dynamic as its menu.
About Commune Group
Commune is a collection of dynamic, lively and forward-thinking hospitality venues. The group, established in 2012, initially known for its alliterative sister restaurants in Windsor – Saigon Sally and Hanoi Hannah – transformed the neighbourhood and its surrounds, sparking a wave of hospitality openings in the now-established Melbourne dining hotspot. 12 years on, Commune Group continues to deliver unforgettable dining experiences across the city, combining inventive menus with vibrant atmospheres that keep locals and visitors coming back for more. With seven unique restaurants—including Firebird, New Quarter, Tokyo Tina, Hanoi Hannah Express Lane, Hanoi Hannah Vol. II, Moonhouse, and its latest venture, the Italian-inspired diner and basement bar, Studio Amaro—the group remains at the forefront of Melbourne’s culinary scene, known for pushing boundaries and creating memorable moments for every guest.
Website: www.communegroup.com.au
