Nishiki

Overview

Japanese and BYO is a combo that is just super fine. Fresh, light and mostly healthy, it almost certainly cancels out the ill effects of whatever tipple(s) takes your fancy on the night. It's science.

On the fringes of the CBD, Nishiki is a stumbling stroll down from Ponsonby Road. The dining area is large and open and the big table is perfect for big groups. If a hot date night is more your set up though, sit near the kitchen and watch the action up close.

What really stands out with Nishiki is the awesomeness of the menu. A brightly-coloured, mural sized visual feast lays out a veritable banquet of choices. Order heaps of everything and engage in chopstick wielding battles over who gets what. Tori mayo is without doubt one of the best things you can put in your mouth. Cannot get enough of Japanese mayo. On anything. On everything.

The sashimi is fresh to death while the chicken teriyaki oozes saucy goodness. Dishes tend to arrive in no particular order and at times you may wait a while, especially during the busy periods. Just roll with it. A crisp sauvignon (bottle) to start, lots of warm house sake and you will soon forget about when/what you ordered.

Nishiki is packed every night. They say the early bird catches the worm and booking a table here 2-3 weeks in advance is a necessity.

If you’re reading this and you haven’t been to Nishiki, please do.