For the Love of Japanese: Our Pick of the Best Japanese Restaurants in New Zealand

Operating since 1997, Jizo is an icon for Japanese food in Dunedin and New Zealand alike. Its expansive menu ticks all boxes: think the classics, such as sushi, sashimi, karaage chicken, donburi and udon, as well as some more innovative takes. Definitely try the sushi balls - small flavour bombs of sushi rice, topped with teriyaki seasoned protein. Prepare yourself for a taste explosion! Jizo is constantly busy, but its quick service means waiting times are nothing extreme. No worries for the vegetarian, vegan or even keto customer - Jizo has you covered, with menus catering for all dietary requirements. The prices are also reasonable, even for a student budget, so neither a nibble nor a feast will burn a hole in your pocket.

Inconspicuously tucked away in Christchurch’s Edgeware Mall, Tomi delivers on its promise of creating authentic Japanese flavours with local and seasonal fare. The crowd-pleasing sashimi is made fresh from local market ingredients and skilfully prepared and presented. Nab a seat at the bar, and watch the masters at work - the care and precision applied is nothing short of mesmerising. All the expected dishes are available, but other popular dishes include pork kakuni (slow cooked pork belly) and Tomi’s homemade ice cream, with flavours such as black sesame, and orange and cardamom. Sip sake while you dine; if you’re overwhelmed by the choice, head chef and owner Joe Chan is passionate about his pairings, so follow his lead as he capably plays matchmaker (with your food and sake of course!)

Following the Christchurch earthquake, chef (and namesake) Kinji was forced to relocate his restaurant to the Christchurch’s suburbs, making it a destination in its own right. The loyalty of its patrons has not faltered, and bookings are recommended so you don’t miss out. With over 25 years of operating expertise, Kinji is best known for his impressive knowledge and masterful skills, especially when it comes to preparing sushi and sashimi. In addition to seafood, menu highlights include venison, Kinji Fried Chicken and tempura. Our recommendation is ordering ‘omakase’ (chef’s choice), where Kinji serves Japanese dishes that showcase his current favourites on the menu. All of the food is well priced and ideal for sharing, although there are plenty of options if you are not that way inclined. BYO available.

Photo Credit:  Kinji Japanese Restaurant

Widely regarded by locals as one of the capital’s best sushi go-tos, Tatsushi originally opened on Victoria Street in 2012 and has had to relocate to Edward Street in order to accommodate its growing popularity. Tatsushi offers more than just delicious sushi; its katsu, udon and tempura are all well reviewed too. Banging lunch deals provide the perfect opportunity to sample all the different dishes on offer, so you can feast on your favourites come dinner. Although still reasonable, Tatsushi’s prices are reflective of being located in Wellington’s CBD. Every dish is prepared with the love and care that the Japanese excel at. From homemade tofu and stock, to hand picked fish and seasonal ingredients, you can be sure that the food you are eating is fresh, and scrumptiously authentic.

Photo Credit: Tatsushi Restaurant

A more refined menu than some of its listed counterparts, Yamoto takes pride in cooking authentic food, simply but well. Take your seat at the U-shaped bar and watch the chefs delicately prepare and present sushi and sashimi right in front of you. It’s hard to go past seafood when you know it’s that fresh. Sip on the complimentary green tea while pondering the menu, bearing in mind that the friendly kimono-wearing staff are ready to assist you with food recommendations and sake pairing suggestions. Don’t miss the deep fried cream cheese - slightly unconventional perhaps, but a flavour bomb all the same. And don’t be put off by the queue outside, as rest assured it moves quickly and it is well worth the wait.

MASU is located in the vibrant Federal Street dining precinct and serves modern, innovative Japanese cuisine, embracing the traditional style of Japanese ‘robata’ cooking - that is, cooking over open fire (or in this case, a charcoal grill). The drama and performance of cooking over fire adds to the anticipation and makes the eating experience only more delicious. Headed by Kiwi chef Nic Watt, the food focuses primarily on fresh seasonal produce and enhancing natural flavours. The style of the food is reflected in the decor - clean and simple. Be seated at the sake and shochu bar, or at the dining tables, and tuck in. If it becomes your regular, buy a Kume jar filled with a customised shochu blend and enjoy it each time you dine at Masu. That’s one way to spot a local.