Vibe
A Zen-cool combo of polished concrete and natural timber, with a big, central table used either for larger bookings or a collection of couples and smaller groups. Expect ‘New Style Japanese Cuisine’, contemporary spins on traditional flavours delivered ‘izakaya’-style on elegantly presented small plates ($10-25).

Service
Friendly and professional, with just the right time between courses. Extra points for answering all of our questions about the origin of ingredients; oysters from Stewart Island and prawns from New Caledonia if you’re wondering.

Winelist
Worthy of a fine-dining restaurant with a great selection of New Zealand and Australian wines, five different Japanese beers and a pleasantly bewildering array of sake, shochu and green tea.

Highlights
Plump Southern Glory oysters with ponzu vinegar (three for $12), or melt-in-the-mouth slow-cooked pork belly ($18). And who knew that fresh wasabi was so much more flavourful?

Most Surprising Dish
Scallops ($12) with a silky smooth chawanmushi (savoury baked custard) and topped with shimmering spheres of caviar.

The Bottom Line
A contemporary and elegant alternative to Auckand’s other more rustic Japanese eateries. The concise shared plates are perfect for sharing with a significant other or with a larger group. Two people including one glass of wine and one beer, $129.

A Reason to Return
The leisurely experience of Cocoro’s, six course, 12-plate degustation menu ($80), accompanied by a ‘Sake Flight’, showcasing different rice wines.

venue information venue map view auckland review user reviews (6) image gallery (4)