12 minute read
Channel Eats Out: Sakebar Nippon
Selection of delicious dishes.
Masa, Yoshi and Mako.
The Channel Team: Nikki Davidson, Tanya Rotherham, Kim McIntosh.
Entertaining traditions at Sakebar Nippon Takapuna's most fun Japanese restaurant.
Surely this is the most entertaining restaurant experience you’ll find in Takapuna. Described as an Izakaya restaurant, best translated as a Japanese-style gastropub, which originated from sake shops that allowed customers to sit on the premises to drink, Sakebar Nippon has an informal, lively atmosphere.
You cannot help but smile and laugh when you enter and receive a raucous welcome from all the staff who beat the drums, tinkle the kitchen utensils and announce the new arrivals.
On your own, you can sit at the bar and watch the Japanese chefs chop, toss, slice and fry fresh ingredients. Sharing with others is relaxing in the booths surrounded by banners and other Japanese imagery including pretty lanterns overhead. And this is where we settled in for a fun, interactive meal one warm March evening.
Masa, young television journalist on a year’s work and language experience, looked after us (in his ‘year of the rat’ hat) with some cold drinks and patiently stayed on standby while we perused the large pictorial menu (available to view on their website). We were trying to design a selection of dishes that truly reflected the wide range on offer. But first, we started with a little sushi and some most delectable gyoza; the most popular appetiser on the menu. Chunky chopped vegetables in a spinach dumpling wrapper, along with the pork gyoza, were lightly fried and served with chopped fresh spring onions. One of each was just right.
A full range of classic Japanese cuisine is presented to choose from, including the choicest sashimi, sushi, skewers, teppan, tempura and udon dishes. We chose the trio of sashimi with kingfish, salmon and tuna along with the perfect beef tataki. Both picture perfect and fresh in the mouth. Some succulent chicken karage and sesame green beans balanced the flavours well.
We ensured we’d saved room for dessert and were rewarded with one of the best crème brulees we’d had anywhere. The green tea machi ice-cream was moreish while the banana tempura was surprisingly light and delicious.
A chat with Masa, chef Yoshi, and manager Mako gave us more insight in to all the ‘extras’ you get here at Sakebar Nippon. The karaoke dining room allows a group to enjoy a fun evening along with a couple of set menu options while, if it’s your birthday, you could be the recipient of a resounding birthday wish from the team and their various instruments, hats and masks. It’s a very inclusive experience here.
Arigato gozaimusu to the wonderful welcoming and entertaining team at Sakebar Nippon. We’ll be back for some karaoke! Open 7 days for dinner 5pm until late 32-34 Anzac Street, Takapuna. 09 486 2249 www.sakebar.co.nz If you would like your café, bar or restaurant reviewed by the Channel team, please contact us. Beef Tataki. Sakebar Nippon entrance on Anzac Ave.
Tok Tok is a unique restaurant with Asian fusion cuisine located in the heart of Takapuna. Our menu features dishes with ‘twists on the traditional’ and our cocktail and wine selection is exciting. Groups are welcome.
T A K A P U N A
NEW THIS MONTH: Try our popular, award-winning crispy roast duck salad, a fresh and lightly spiced flavour infusion.
Open Mon 5pm till late. Tues-Sun 12pm till late! 129 Hurstmere Road Takapuna. 09 489 3988. Email: toktokkitchen@gmail.com Visit: www.facebook.com/Toktakapuna/ or www.toktok.co.nz CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Taylors on Hurstmere
Takapuna's friendliest little wine and tapas bar and everyone's favourite local just around the corner from the Bruce Mason theatre. Summer menu going strong! Try our salt and pepper squid and yummy lamb bruschetta!
T A K A P U N A
NEW THIS MONTH: 11th March Comedy Night 30th March BBQ Quiz Please email to book, tickets sell out fast Veuve $65 between 5-7pm and happy hours 3-5pm - EVERYDAY! Happy 2020 and Cheers!
Otto Woo Otto Woo is an award winning noodle bar, with healthy meals that are not boring. Gourmet westernised Asian fusion food with strong Japanese and Thai – Malaysian influence that’s fresh and funky and served in iconic paper noodle boxes just like a New York style noodle bar. Perfect for a quick dine-in meal or healthy nutritional takeout it's tasty as well as healthy, with lots of fresh herbs and vegetables. Otto Woo is healthy, nutritious and delicious. We’ll see you there. T A K A P U N A
NEW THIS MONTH: Dine in/takeout delivery
Open 7 days 1130 am – 9pm 09 488 0388 484 Lake Rd Takapuna ottowoo.co.nz CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
NZ Tang Restaurant & Bar
T A K A P U N A
High quality, honest, wholesome lunch and dinners. International cuisine with a gourmet Asian twist such as sashimi, sweet and sour snapper, Zhenjiang spareribs and crispy pork or dumplings made with top quality seafood and meats. Familiar Kiwi choices too like fish and chips, lamb rack and burgers and a kids menu too.
152 Hurstmere Rd. Takapuna Lunch 1130-3pm Dinner 5pm-late 6 days a week Closed Mondays and public holidays www.epicureanml.co.nz https://www.facebook.com/nztang. AuthenticChineseCuisine/ CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
The Commons The Commons & The Gardens An all-day social hub and eatery, perfect for after work drinks, week-night dinners, all-day lunches, elegant indoor dining, or one-off events. Enjoy live entertainment in The Gardens, Two menus: all-day à la carte, with sharing plates and express lunch; or our dining menu, a modern twist on classical themes. Our outstanding customer service matches the relaxed, yet classy environment. T A K A P U N A
21 Hurstmere Road 09 3904512 Book at www.thecommons.co.nz Functions: functions@thecommons.co.nz The Gardens open 7 days The Commons Mon-Thurs from 4pm The Commons Fri-Sun from 12pm CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Tucks and Bao
Tucks & Bao is a casual all-day bar & eatery offering tasty dishes, like popcorn shrimp with sriracha sauce, perfect as a sharing plate. Inspired by Asian street food, the crispy pork belly steamed bun with peanuts and hoisin sauce is perfectly paired with NZ wines, craft beers on tap, & cocktails.
T A K A P U N A
NEW THIS MONTH: Drop in for a $14 express lunch, or an after-work drink at the daily $8 happy hour from 3 to 6pm. We also offer deliver takeaways for home and catering platters for work. (10% discount online ordering use code 10-OFF’ )
Open 7 days, 11.30am to late 70 Hurstmere Road, Takapuna 09 486 1615 hello@tucksandbao.co.nz www.tucksandbao.co.nz CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
The Cinnamon Club We are an Indian fusion cuisine restaurant located in Murrays Bay. Owner / chef Sunil Kumar invites you to try one of our many dishes with a twist on the traditional while still authentic and catering to vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free diets. Drop in for $10 lunch special 11.30am – 2.00pm Wednesday to Sunday. Take-away and delivery available for lunch special also. M U R R A Y S B A Y
NEW THIS MONTH: The Cinnamon Club welcomes you to BYO favourite wine.
Open Wed – Sun 11.30am – 2pm, Mon – Sun 5 - 10pm. 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay 09 281 0146 thecinnamonclub@outlook.com www.thecinnamonclub.co.nz www.facebook.com/thecinnamon/ CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
The Milford Cafe, Bar and Restaurant
M I L F O R D
Ali and Helen welcome you to their modern, airy eatery featuring fresh, contemporary European cuisine. Open six days for breakfast, lunch and dinner, great Underground coffee and Peroni beer on tap. Enjoy sunny alfresco drinks or dining in the heart of Milford Village. Bookings recommended.
NEW THIS MONTH: Express Lunch Special – Choice of lunch main dish and a glass of wine or beer for just $23.
Open Tues – Fri 10am – 10pm, Sat/Sun 8am – 10pm 7 Milford Road, Milford 09 488 9388 www.themilford.co.nz facebook instagram CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Blake's Providore Start 2020 right by eating healthier with Blake’s range of high end, chef-made meals to heat and eat at home. We have a range of new meals to try this year as well as old favourites including lasagne, shepherd’s pie, Moroccan chicken tagine, and more. We always have a large range of vegetarian and vegan meals too such as falafels with red pepper cauli, and roast aubergine, broccoli and sticky tofu. The cabinet is freshly stocked every day with healthy breakfast and lunch options. Catering is also available. Let Blake do the cooking for you and enjoy convenience without compromise! M I L F O R D
8.30am – 6.30pm Monday - Thursday 8.30am – 5.30pm Friday, 8.30am – 3.30pm Saturday 89 Kitchener Road, Milford 09 486 5711 www.blakesprovidore.co.nz CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
La Spiaggia Italian This family run restaurant La Spiaggia means 'restaurant on the beach' and serves traditional Italian and European dishes. The pork belly has been a crowd favourite since its introduction and the three steak choices of eye fillet, scotch fillet and rib eye have had people coming back for more. The wood fired pizzas are well known around the Bays - the oven’s aromas fill the restaurant as you walk in. Make the most of the view as you sit across from the beach. NEW THIS MONTH: Try our spinach and ricotta ravioli served in a Napoletana sauce with fresh basil. Open Tues - Sun from 5pm, 470 Beach Road, Murrays Bay 475 5643 info@laspiaggia.co.nz www.laspiaggia.co.nz M U R R A Y S B A Y CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
HAVE A RESTAURANT AND WANT A GOOD WAY TO PROMOTE IT?
To get your restaurant advertised in our popular Channel Eating Out Guide contact:
Nikki Davidson - nikki@channelmag.co.nz, 021 453 534 Tanya Rotherham - tanya@channelmag.co.nz, 027 457 5027
Kim McIntosh - kim@channelmag.co.nz, 021 419 468
别不同 STAR YUM CHA RESTAURANT
G L E N F I E L D
Described by Concrete Playground as a gem on the North Shore, we are one of the oldest Chinese restaurants in town and have an extensive menu. Groups are welcome and can utilize our private dining area. Known for our traditional Cantonese food, great seafood and Yum Cha we have over 101 menu choices including our popular dim sum, the much-loved sticky rice parcels wrapped in bamboo leaf, and golden yolk custard buns. If you are a big fan of Yum Cha, pop in to try us - you won’t regret it!
Open everyday 10am – 10pm 13A Link Drive, Wairau Park, Glenfield 09 443 6898 CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
French Rendez-Vous French Rendezvous team invite you to their French Restaurant in an amazing and unique lake view location in heart of Takapuna. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner (only on booking 24 h prior the date) with traditional French dishes like onion soup, beef bourguignon and also lots of gluten free galettes and sweet crepes. Book your table online via website below To book a table https://french-rendez-vous-caferestaurant.business.site/ Follow our events and specials on social media links below https://www.facebook.com/FrenchRendezvousTakapuna/ https://www.instagram.com/frenchrendezvoustakapuna/ 2a Manurere Avenue – Right next to The PumpHouse Takapuna 09 487 0009 T A K A P U N A CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Zomer
At Zomer we are using only the best seasonal, local produce to create dishes which celebrate our local environment and culture. Come and sample our fantastic new NZ king salmon ceviche, vegan poke bowl, free range marinated chicken and mango salad plus all your old favourites!
T A K A P U N A
NEW THIS MONTH: Come down and say hi to the best local cafe in Takapuna. You might even catch us in Takapuna with our food truck, La Rotisserie!
Open Mon-Fri: 7:30-15:00, Sat-Sun: 8:00-15:00, 4 The Strand, Takapuna Beach 09 488 7594 zomer.co.nz CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Vic Road Kitchen Vic Road Kitchen's food is created from a focus on using fresh, seasonal New Zealand produce with the menu changing daily. All set in a beautiful old building in Devonport. Executive Chef Ian Shields and ‘partner in wine’ Harriet Byrnes have combined their extensive knowledge and experience, delivering delicious rustic Mediterranean fare and a curated wine offering that both locals and visitors love. NEW THIS MONTH: There is something different every day as the menu and winelist are changing constantly. Local’s love it! Vic Road Kitchen, 57-59 Victoria Road, Devonport. Tues to Fri 4pm til late; Sat&Sun 11.30am til late. Ph 09-445-9797, Email: reservations@vicroadkitchen.co.nz www.vicroadkitchen.co.nz D E V O N P O R T CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Located in the heart of Takapuna, (formally Bolliwood) Clove restaurant is under new management offering delightful fine Indian cuisine.
T A K A P U N A
A very reasonable dinner special of chicken, lamb or vegetable curry and rice is only $15.99 on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday nights.
The daily lunch special at $11.99 and includes curry, rice, Naan, and Poppadom.
Open 7 days, Lunch 11.30am – 2.30pm, Dinner 5-10pm 17 Huron St, Takapuna Fully Licensed Ph 09 489 9911, www.cloveindiancuisine.co.nz CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Black Rice
An Asian fusion restaurant and located in Orchard Park Retail Hub, Albany. Black Rice offers a cosy dining environment with patio and VIP private dining room too. Our popular tapas-style small sharing plates offer an unparalleled dining experience inspired by a diverse range of cuisines and cultures.
A L B A N Y
NEW THIS MONTH: Our fusion style lunch from only $12.50.
Open Tuesday - Sunday, 11am - 11pm Unit 10B, 21 Corinthian Drive, Albany 09 415 8377 www.facebook.com/BlackRiceAlbany CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
Fish Kitchen Fish Kitchen is located on Devonport Wharf and has a commitment to showcasing fresh ingredients from artisan suppliers, sustainability and zero waste policies. They may also have the best views of the Waitemata Harbour. Capacity for 150 people, including outdoor and indoor dining on the wharf. An extensive seafood offering including mussels, clams, squid and octopus – all as available. These support their signature ‘fish ‘n’ chips’ dishes. NEW THIS MONTH: Open for breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 9am. Fish Kitchen, Devonport Wharf Mon to Fri 11.30am til late; Sat&Sun 9.30am til late Phone (09) 445 1777, Email: reservations@fishkitchen.co.nz www.fishkitchen.co.nz D E V O N P O R T CLOSED DUE TO COVID19 LOCKDOWN
