Ima Cuisine

Finally found the opportunity to dine at Ima Bistro last Friday. It was a good thing I'd made a booking as the place was definitely more than bustling when we arrived. We were later told that they were busier than usual due to a recent review that had been published. Service was a little slow as there was only 2 staff members on the floor. However, when staff did attend our table, the service was very warm and friendly. I definitely felt welcomed. From my observation, there were a lot of people who were regulars of the place as the waitresses were on first-name basis with them. Drinks selection was good. Definitely enjoyed the bottle of wine recommended to us by the waitress. It was spot on for what we were after so at least she knew her stuff. Food was brilliant. Although a very succinct menu, you were provided a diverse enough range to cover all preferences. We had a mix of entrees. The platters had plenty of food on it. Even though only for 2 persons, I reckon it was enough for 3-4 people if you're not big eaters. Portion sizes are definitely decent for the price you are paying. Ima has stuck true to its theme of "simple, honest, healthy and nurturing" food. The food at Ima Cuisine definitely evokes the sense of "home-cooked" rather than "restaurant food". It was delicious and well presented. Personally, I preferred the Moroccan Chicken over the lamb due to the flavour. But everything was prepared really well overall. Lamb was cooked so well that the meat was tender and fell apart. No dessert that night as was busting from the entree and main!All in all, a great experience albeit the longer waiting times. It was worth it in the end though.

Had a very enjoyable meal at Ima. Food simple but tasty and well executed. Nice cosy atmosphere and friendly service. The filo cigars stuffed with pistachio and Turkish delight on the desert platter were divine. We tried Ima because we had read good things about it in various places and it didn't disappoint. Glad to have found this cosy little place in the centre of town that has the feeling of a friendly neighborhood place, but without having to get into the car and drive to the burbs.

Nice little restaurant, happy staff. Food needs improvement though. Chicken main came out sweaty, with its juice running all over the plate. A messy presentation. Chicken was warm, not hot, probably due to the fact that it had to be deboned and stuffed with filling. Spices/flavors were not balanced, chicken had minimal taste. Overall disappointed and will not go back to Ima again. But I must emphasize that the staff were pleasant.

Ima is one of my very favorite restaurants in Auckland. The people are charming and friendly. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming.And the food! Everything my family has ever eaten at Ima has been delicious. When we first stumbled upon Imas one evening, we had a dessert platter. So delicious and interesting, we decided to come back for dinner at the first opportunity. Good decision. The slow cooked lamb with ebly and things is fragrant and tender and a generous portion. The seafood pasta al Carticcio comes with a surprise which I will not spoil here, and it was delicious. It was worth the trip over the bridge to come to Imas. When the opportunity came along to come to the city for breakfast, I looked forward to some more of Yael's delicious food. How does this sound - Shakshuka: eggs, moroccan merguez sausage and spicy slow roasted tomatoes. Well it tasted even better than it sounds. And Ima's blintzes - crepes filled with vanilla and citrus ricotta and orange syrup - exquisite. Naturally they make delicious coffee, and there were a pile of fresh baked good that I will have to go back for soon. Next mission - lunch... I heard this rumour that Yael makes her own fresh falafel...

We have heard good things about Ima and Ibn and always wanted to check it out, and finally we did!
LOVE it! I had the Ceviche which was so good for starter and then the Lamb shoulder for a main.
This place is great for something a little different to try!

Ima is one of my favourite central city locations. Great food that really makes you stand up and take note. During the week I had the cerviche (starter) and the slow-cooked lamb...practically melt in the mouth stuff.
It's reasonable too - the house wine is only $7 a glass...now that's a steal.