I was so disappointed by my visit here.

I give Monsoon Poon 2 stars, only because of the lovely girl who greeted us at lunch time and took the time to introduce us to the menu. She also informed me that in order to ensure a table I should arrive before 7pm as they get busy.

So my family and I set out to celebrate my daughters birthday and walked down to the restaurant at 7pm. On arrival we were sent to the bar while a table was prepared for us. I noticed a room opposite the front desk and asked if we could be seated there as we had children in our party and the bar was ridiculously loud. I was told that was not possible (even though they do not take reservations the table was not available).

While waiting at the bar to be seated we ordered drinks and checked twice to see when we could be seated and were told it wouldn't be long. The noise in the bar became louder as the evening went on and I was forced to stand outside with my 3 yr old daughter who was becoming upset. In the 40 minutes we waited to be seated or even spoken to, we observed how the restaurant went from about 15 patrons to about 50. All who were seated before us.

The service was well below what I had experienced earlier in the day. We eventually settled our bill at the bar and left the restaurant hungry and annoyed.

I don't usually review things, however, I just felt this place deserved one. Unfortunately, I could go no lower than 1 star for this place. I suppose 1 star could go to its reasonable service and the smiling hostess who thanked us for organising payment in our big group so efficiently.

The environment was comfortable, but cramped. The big table we were placed at were in the way of everyone. Over the night, I observed some patrons standing at the end of our table trying to figure out a way to shimmy past us to reach the loos.

As for my meal (Shaking Beef), it sounded so scrumptious on paper. I had high hopes for this place and I was sorely disappointed. Presentation was good. But that's as much laud it gets from me. One mouthful and I had a blast of flavour, in a bad way. It was such a strong sour and salty flavour I was really 'shaking' from the thought of having to make my monies worth by consuming my dish. My poor assaulted tastebuds. White rice was dry and hard. How can you go so wrong with rice, especially since you charge $4 per serving?

I am not too surprised at the previous reviewer's comments where 5 of his party were 'violently ill' post their meal and that is was a seemingly common occurrence. The curries were served lukewarm. This is unacceptable. Luke warm temperatures are perfect for bacteria to multiply. Unfortunately, even though they may have an A grading now, it does not mean they are any wiser in regards to food safety. You can STILL get sick from an 'A' graded premises with bad food safety practices! As long as Monsoon Poon serves lukewarm curry, you ought to be wary.

Overall, in the group of 22 of us, the majority of us were unimpressed and sore that we had to pay that much for such unimpressive meals. I don't mind paying for good food. My personal opinion is that Monsoon Poon's a 'rip-off' as the food was not worth its weight in gold.

Monsoon Poon is a great place to eat -and its so nice that its finally got its A-Rating from the council again after so long.

As always the food is stylish and tasty and the service is good.

Unfortunately, as is well known, the following day 5 of my 10-strong group were violently ill. This is the very annoying thing about here - for some reason the next day you are violently ill from eating here, but most of the time you aren't and we were hoping that having an A-rating again would mean this problem would be finished.

I always love going to Monsoon Poon; the huge colorful paintings of Buddha, flowers and watermelons on the walls, the hanging wooden masks, funky wall paper, various seating areas and long bench tables make for a great ambiance.

The menu is a mixture of dishes from all over Asia and I love the fact that if you order your meal to be hot, as in spicy, it will most definitely be HOT! Service has always been super efficient so you're never left waiting for long.

Great non-alcoholic cocktails too if you're not in the mood to 'drink', btu if you are the Patron dessert cocktail is worth a try too. I would definitely recommend a visit for the decor alone, but the food is awesome too.

Both meals at Monsoon Poon have been excellent - I particularly like the choice of different types of Asian cuisine - the dishes are light and authentic, the portion sizes generous without being oversized, (suited both my wife and I), the wines by the glass good also. Didn't make it to dessert on both occasions, but looked divine both on the menu and on the table next to us - might be a good idea to go for dessert only one time! The only criticism (small though it is) - if you struggle to read menus in low light - remember to bring your reading glasses as the ambiance in the front annexe is low light with lanterns. Will definitely go again - just loved it. (Note to self - reading glasses)

Monsoon Poon in Customs Street, Auckland, has a funky decor and a great by-the-glass wine list. The menu gave us a wide variety to choose from. The food was well presented and authentic. They even have a delicious dessert menu. You wouldn't want to drive after the dessert cocktail!

Went here last week, service was quick and efficient, the food was great (real mix of styles) and they even let us book a table!

Monsoon Poon – "Love U long time…". Where can I start with the Monsoon Poon? Well, first off homage must be dished out to the person who came out with the concept and design, what a cracker! It kinda invokes a dining/drinking venue with a vast oriental twist for those who enjoy an experience different to the norm in Auckland, and this is exactly what you get at the Monsoon Poon.