Hidden Gems Budget-Friendly Japanese

Five Great Teppanyaki Restaurants in Auckland

Best Restaurants Editorial

Published 27/08/2026

Dinner and a show took on a new meaning when the Japanese created the Teppanyaki style of dining. While this method of cooking originated roughly 200 years ago, it became popular around the world in the mid 1960s when New York restaurant franchise Benihana opened its first doors as a “Japanese steakhouse.” In the late 80s Teppanyaki landed on Aotearoa soil with the introduction of Daikoku, New Zealand’s first Teppanyaki restaurant, which, fun fact: is still there today; Same building, same owner, same theatrical experience. Years later, Kiwis have grown to love this style of dining, and what’s not to love? A talented Japanese chef cooking up fresh ingredients on a hot grill with flames, smoke and an impressive amount of skill at your very own table, now that’s our kind of show!

Looking to book a seat at your very own Teppanyaki table?

Here are five great Teppanyaki restaurants in Auckland tried and trusted.

The OG: Daikoku Quay
148 Quay Street, Auckland Central

It only seems right to start at the beginning with the first ever Teppanyaki restaurant in New Zealand, Daikoku Quay. Daikoku fuses traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, with menu options like Wagyu Steak cooked to your order right in front of your eyes on a sizzling hot plate. The freshest seafood sourced locally, and a selection of fresh vegetables seared to perfection. Pro tip: always say yes when the chef asks to fire a piece of scrambled egg into your mouth, you may look silly but it’s all part of the fun.
Contemporary Luxury: Kureta
22/26 Albert Street, Auckland Central, Auckland Central

Moving on to Kureta, located in JW Marriott for those wanting a more contemporary Japanese dining experience. Kureta positions themselves as ‘Japanese-inspired,’ offering an unconventional Teppan house experience. They fuse traditional Japanese flavors with local artisanal ingredients, taking notes from global hospitality trends to bring you an unforgettable luxury dining experience.
The All Star: Katsura
71 Mayoral Drive, Grand millennium, Auckland Central

Katsura has something for everyone at their Grand Millenium Auckland restaurant. Focussing on traditional Japanese flavours, and offering up a contemporary dining experience. At Katsura you can expect the classic hot grill Teppanyaki flair, along with a raw bar for a more relaxed experience where chefs prepare sashimi and sushi if you’re that way inclined.
Hidden Gem: Heizo Teppanyaki
3d Short St, Newmarket

A more traditional, hidden gem style of Teppanyaki restaurant, reminiscent of those you may find in a back alley in a Japanese city, Heizo is an intimate affair. Heizo may be understated but that does not take away from the family-style atmosphere of this small but mighty establishment. Seating only 30, booking is essential to secure your spot in front of owner and chef, Takeshi Iioka, where you can find him behind the grill cooking up many an authentic dish. Don’t forget to order the ice cream and bananas for dessert, it’s sensational.
Neighbourhood Local: Teppan Dining Bowz
5 Pah Rd, Epsom

Our final selection is Teppan Dining Bowz, it may be no-frills but it's earned its spot on our list for a reason. Here you can expect big flavour and a great night out for both an intimate date night or a large group of friends. Teppan Dining Bowz, located in Epsom, offers a warm but lively atmosphere, while serving up dishes like the Crayfish Miso Soup, Grilled Salmon and Japanese cheesecake for dessert.