Become a Best partner Swap to AU
Best Japanese Restaurants Auckland
Published 27 May 2024

Savour authentic Japanese cuisine across Auckland, from beachfront elegance to casual izakaya-style dining. Whether you're craving contemporary fine dining or robata-grilled dishes, there's something for everyone seeking a taste of Japan.

  • Tokyo Bay

    20 The Strand, Takapuna
    For a refined dining experience or memorable celebration, Tokyo Bay at Takapuna Beach is ideal. This premier destination offers authentic Japanese cuisine crafted by experienced sushi master Mr. Chikara Sato, a 'fugu' blowfish licensed chef. Enjoy stunning beach views while savouring dishes like spicy fresh tuna and panko tiger prawn sushi, delicate duck dumplings shumai, or sizzling teppan-yaki meals.
    Read more
  • Azabu Mission Bay

    44 Tamaki Drive, Auckland CBD
    Experience unique dining at Azabu Mission Bay, where contemporary Japanese cuisine blends with Peruvian flair. Favourites include the seared beef tostadas with mushroom, pickled daikon, and truffled sesame dressing, or the black tiger prawn dumplings with golden kumara crisps. Azabu also offers a diverse brunch menu, making it ideal for any occasion.
    Read more
  • Cocoro

    56A Brown Street, Ponsonby
    Housed in a charming brick building, Cocoro—meaning 'heart and soul'—offers contemporary Japanese cuisine. Renowned for its iconic sashimi platter, Cocoro also features Chef Makoto Tokuyama’s three degustation menus, perfect for a memorable evening. With accolades like 3 Hats from the Cuisine Good Food Awards and a spot on The World’s 50 Best Discovery List, Cocoro ensures an unforgettable meal.
    Read more
  • MASU by Nic Watt

    Sky City Auckland, 90 Federal Street, Auckland CBD
    Experience Japanese cuisine at MASU by Nic Watt on Federal Street. This minimalist restaurant features robata—dishes cooked over a charcoal grill. Watch chefs at the robata hearth prepare skewers, adding a theatrical element to your meal. MASU, open for dinner, offers a sake and shochu bar, open-plan dining, and The Obi Room for private dining, seating 18. Enjoy signature dishes like salmon tartar with rice crackers and gochujang lamb cutlets, made from fresh, seasonal produce.
    Read more
  • Japanese Bistro Zen

    104 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD
    Located near Auckland's waterfront, Japanese Bistro Zen offers exquisite Japanese cuisine with a modern twist. Inspired by the classic French bistro, Zen serves high-quality yet approachable dishes. Enjoy traditional Kaiseki-style meals in a wooden interior reminiscent of historical Japanese architecture. For lunch, try the convenient Bento Box with tempura, sushi rolls, miso soup, and teriyaki dishes. Dinner features small plates like karaage chicken and teppan scallops, alongside mains such as katsu, teriyaki salmon, and melt-in-the-mouth wagyu.
    Read more
  • Kazuya

    193 Symonds Street, Eden Terrace
    Indulge in an extraordinary dining experience at Kazuya that transports you directly to Japan. Chef Kazuya's fusion of European and Japanese cuisine transforms each dish into a culinary masterpiece. Specialties like Spanner crab and Waitaha Wagyu promise an unforgettable dining experience that will have you eagerly returning for more.
    Read more
  • Ebisu

    116 – 118 Quay Street, Auckland CBD
    Located in a historic waterfront building, Ebisu offers contemporary Japanese fare in a moody, atmospheric space. The menu blends classic Japanese and European techniques, featuring new-style sushi and sashimi, and traditional dishes with creative twists. Enjoy an extensive sake menu, Japan-inspired cocktails, and a selection of local and imported beers. Settle into a comfortable booth or table for Express Lunch, Dinner, Dessert, or Drinks.
    Read more
  • Tanuki’s Cave

    319 B Queen Street, Auckland CBD
    Tanuki’s Cave distinguishes itself as a top Japanese restaurant in Auckland with its authentic yakitori and kushiage offerings. Nestled off Queen Street, the lively bar entices patrons with the alluring scent of grilling chicken. Their menu boasts a diverse selection of meats, seafood, and vegetables, all expertly skewered and grilled with their signature in-house sauce or salt. Pair your meal with their impressive array of Japanese sakes and beers.
    Read more
  • Taiko

    334 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby
    Nestled in Kingsland, adjacent to the train station, this izakaya-style eatery offers a stylish and relaxed setting for diners. Taiko's experienced Japanese chefs craft a range of authentic dishes, from fresh sushi to contemporary favourites. Accompany your meal with Japanese beer, fine wine, or sake for the perfect pairing. Renowned for stunning presentations and fresh flavours, Taiko was honoured as one of Metro Magazine's Top 50 Restaurants in 2008.
    Read more
  • Danryu

    10 Victoria Road, Devonport
    Experience Devonport's finest at Danryu Japanese Seafood Restaurant. Offering a delectable menu of fresh seafood, sushi, and sashimi, prepared with the freshest ingredients, it caters to all palates with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Known for its impeccably fresh seafood and burst of flavours, it's perfect for casual gatherings or romantic dinners year-round.
    Read more