Cocoro

Overview

And when that feeling rolls around for Japanese food, you best set your sights on Auckland’s finest Japanese restaurant – Cocoro.

Universally acclaimed by critics from all walks of life (except those looking for cheap eats), their artful and modern take on Japanese food literally sets a new standard. Like all the most studious imported cuisines in New Zealand, they have worked to integrate a few Kiwi twists into their menu – to the delight of consumers (lamb or whitebait anyone?).

Offering both a degustation menu and a regular tapas offering of scrumptious dishes, Cocoro, keeping with the best restaurants in our fine city, don’t accept reservations for anything less than a degustation booking – best get in early for a table.

On that point, as with everything about the experience the décor and styling is done beautifully – prepare yourself for a social experience however as the place has a rather unique setup - one large shared table for the majority of guests to share. It’s not quite the norm, but works out just fine.

Runner up in the Cuisine Best Specialist Restaurant category, it’s a matter of seeing is believing. Just be sure to go easy on the lengthy sake menu – you are there for the food after all.