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Ebisu Restaurant Auckland – Japanese Cuisine

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Ebisu Restaurant: Modern Japanese Cuisine at Auckland’s Waterfront

Located in the heart of Britomart at 116-118 Quay Street, Auckland, Ebisu offers a refined take on modern Japanese dining in a sophisticated waterfront setting. Set within the historic Union Fish Company building, Ebisu combines a sleek, moody interior with a focus on contemporary Japanese fare. The restaurant is renowned for its fusion of traditional Japanese techniques with European influences, creating a unique and memorable dining experience.

History and Concept of Ebisu Restaurant

Established with a vision to bring modern Japanese dining to New Zealand, Ebisu was inspired by a commitment to innovation and authenticity. The restaurant opened its doors in the historic Union Fish Company building, enhancing its charm with a blend of heritage aesthetics and contemporary style. Ebisu’s philosophy centers on a fusion of traditional Japanese techniques with European influences, setting it apart in Auckland’s culinary scene.

Ambiance and Setting

It was such a shame that the last time we visited this restaurant it was quiet, however it did give us a great chance to wander a little and take some photos of the interior decor and environment. Ebisu’s spacious yet intimate atmosphere is perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. The interior is stylish and modern, with warm lighting and plush seating in booths or tables. The waterfront location adds to its charm, offering diners beautiful views of Auckland’s vibrant harbor. This sophisticated ambiance is ideal for those seeking both comfort and elegance during their dining experience.

The Ebisu Restaurant Menu

Ebisu is known for its blend of classic Japanese dishes and inventive new-style sushi and sashimi, which are artfully crafted using fresh, seasonal ingredients. Their Omakase Sushi and Sashimi menu features the chef’s premium selection of market-fresh fish, while the Agedashi Tofu and Teriyaki Tofu cater to vegetarians looking for flavorful and authentic dishes.

Among the offerings, the Wagyu Beef Tataki stands out for its delicate balance of flavors and textures. The dish features premium Wagyu beef, thinly sliced and served with ponzu sauce and fresh garnishes. Equally enticing is the Kingfish Ceviche, highlighting the freshness of New Zealand’s local catch with a lively citrus dressing.

When we visited here recently we ordered the sashimi as a starter and the karaage chicken and duck dishes as the mains. Other standout dishes include:

Free Range Teriyaki Chicken: Served with cauliflower, sweet corn, and white truffle oil.
Miso Marinated Salmon: A deliciously savory oven-roasted dish.
Seared Duck Breast: Accompanied by kina mayo, five spice glaze, and pickled pear.

For those looking to explore Japanese flavors beyond sushi, Ebisu also offers an extensive sake menu and Japanese-inspired cocktails, making it an excellent spot for a full dining and drinking experience.

Chef Profile

Head Chef Haru Kishi leads the culinary team at Ebisu, bringing a wealth of international experience and a passion for Japanese cuisine. Chef Kishi, originally hailing from Tokyo, has worked in Michelin-starred restaurants across the globe. His expertise in harmonizing Japanese traditions with global culinary trends is evident in every thoughtfully crafted dish.

Sustainability Practices

Ebisu is dedicated to incorporating sustainability into its operations, prioritizing locally sourced and seasonal ingredients. The menu reflects this commitment, utilizing fresh, regional produce to support local farmers. The restaurant also emphasizes reducing food waste by implementing efficient kitchen processes and recycling programs, showcasing its role as a responsible dining establishment.

Visiting Details

Location: 116-118 Quay Street, Britomart, Auckland
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Parking: Convenient parking available nearby in the Britomart precinct.

Customer Reviews and Accolades

Ebisu has received acclaim for its innovative approach to Japanese dining, earning a place in Auckland’s top restaurant lists. Patrons frequently praise the attentive service and the rich, authentic flavors of its dishes. The restaurant’s accolades include recognition in national culinary awards, underscoring its reputation for excellence in both food and service.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for an exquisite Japanese meal, Ebisu delivers an unforgettable experience with its mix of authentic flavors, modern techniques, and a chic, waterfront atmosphere.

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Ebisu Restaurant Auckland – Japanese Cuisine

Description
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Reviews (0)

Ebisu Restaurant

4.4

Based on 943 reviews

Dins R.

08:49 18 Feb 25

Had lunch here for the Oki No Sushi Saturdays buffet, which I had been looking forward to for days—maybe I set my expectations a bit too high though. That said, the sushi and sashimi were fresh, fatty, and varied, with plenty of options. The desserts were fantastic, and loved the miso soup and udon as well.The one letdown for me was the From the Farm section, particularly the beef brisket—it was quite tough, and the knife provided wasn’t enough to cut through it. I managed to eat half a slice before giving up.Service was great, and I appreciate how busy they were. At $85 per person, it’s on the pricier side, so hopefully, they can refine a few aspects to enhance the experience. I’ve tried their tasting menu before and found it much better 👍

Bobby H.

21:37 15 Feb 25

Umit Soydinc

21:24 15 Feb 25

I went there to celebrate my partner's birthday and we took the premium tasting menu. I had high expectations after reading through the comments and seeing the pictures, and we ended up having one of the best meals ever, the food is simply amazing, the staff was really nice and explained everything as each plate was coming. The cocktails are also really nice, the overall presentation was superb, I highly recommend this place !

Abhishek Sharma

20:49 14 Feb 25

I had an extremely disappointing experience at this restaurant on Valentine’s Day. I booked a premium tasting menu in advance, and neither the website nor the confirmation call mentioned that only a Valentine’s set menu would be available. Upon arrival, we were informed that our booking details were not honored because the staff was “unaware” of the set menu policy—an unacceptable excuse for such a special occasion. Had they communicated this beforehand, I would have chosen another restaurant.To make matters worse, the restaurant was severely overbooked. We arrived on time at 8:45 PM but didn’t get a table until 9:15 PM, and the first course arrived at 10:15 PM. It was clear they prioritized maximizing reservations over providing a smooth dining experience. The manager, Adam, was completely unprofessional, showing no concern for their mistake or any attempt to make amends.On a positive note, the Asian lady serving us was excellent—friendly, attentive, and professional. The food itself was of good quality, but the overall experience was ruined by mismanagement and poor communication.For a high-end restaurant, I expected much better organization and customer service. Unfortunately, the way they handled reservations, long wait times, and their dismissive attitude toward complaints made this a memorable evening for all the wrong reasons. I would not return or recommend this place, especially for special occasions.

Olga B

05:44 05 Feb 25

We recently went to Ebisu for a date night, and it was a great choice. The restaurant is beautiful, with comfortable seatings and a nice cozy vibe. The service was attentive, friendly and professional, and the food was absolutely delicious.All the dishes we had had nice flavours, and were beautifully presented. I would highly recommend for you to try Ebi Mayo Roll and Rainbow Roll, these two were our top dishes of the night. A bit pricy, but worth it.

David Hansen

04:12 19 Jan 25

This was some of the best Japanese food we have eaten in Auckland, make sure to book a table. We enjoyed the selections like the rainbow sushi most as we could try more types of fish before we inevitably over ate. If you aren't sure you like sake just get the 90ml option and read the tasting notes.

P Sha

10:05 06 Jan 25

Dining at Ebisu in Auckland was an absolute treat, and the **premium tasting menu** was the perfect way to experience the best of what they offer. Every dish was beautifully presented and packed with flavor, but my personal favorites were the omakase sushi and sashimi—incredibly fresh, delicate, and just bursting with quality. Each course felt like a journey, with the sashimi and sushi selections standing out for their melt-in-your-mouth quality. The chargrilled beef fillet was another highlight, cooked to perfection with a smoky, tender finish that melted in my mouth.To top it all off, the yuzu sour cocktail was an absolute standout—zesty, refreshing, and perfectly balanced. It’s a must-order!While it’s on the pricier side, the quality and care put into the food make it worth it for a special night out. If you’re a fan of Japanese cuisine, Ebisu is definitely a must-try in Auckland! Highly recommend!

Anushka

22:28 01 Jan 25

Ebisu is an excellent Japanese restaurant. There are several delicious items on the menu such as the sushi and tempura. Additionally, the portion sizes are ideal. Despite this, the ambience was unsuitable. The music was very loud and we could not talk to each other. To resolve this, I would recommend removing the live DJ.

Hal Alexander Fu

07:24 01 Jan 25

Great Japanese inspired food. Amazing vibe of restaurant

yana georgieva

19:39 30 Dec 24

The service was very good. We were provided with information about the different types of dishes. The only thing was that we were not actually hungry, so we chose just a few small dishes.The dessert we really wanted to try was served only as part of the set menu. This is the only disappointment.

Teariki Meegan

07:26 30 Dec 24

5 StarWill definitely come backThank You

Ayu Burrows

02:54 28 Dec 24

I tried the all-you-can-eat lunch, and it was incredible!! There were so many options to choose from, and everything was just delicious. The fresh sashimi and sweet and sour fish were standouts, but honestly though, every dish was amazing. Now the desserts, I cannot stop thinking about them, they were so good😭 definitely a new favourite spot. Highly recommend!!

Mara Dolomandin

23:49 24 Dec 24

Omakase sashimi was superb. Kid’s bowl teriyaki salmon was yummy. Eggplant appetizer was also very yummy. Overall the presentation was pleasing. Next time we will choose a reservation later in the evening (after sunset) to complete the experience. Will definitely come back and perhaps try the lunch bentos. We had a very satisfying Christmas Eve dinner and was very pleased to have a choice of ala carte meals as opposed to just a set meal.

Aleksandra Firsova

07:27 17 Dec 24

Hilary Noskin

21:32 12 Dec 24

Not gluten free- especially for Celiac.

Leila

01:54 10 Dec 24

Pretty average!

Lawrence Huynh

23:15 09 Dec 24

Had the most amazing time at Ebisu. We really enjoyed their Premium Tasting Menu. Great selection during each course and everything was prepared to the highest standards. The staff were great and food was served at a great pace. We especially loved how fresh everything was and would highly recommend this restaurant.

Chakorn Techa

04:45 01 Dec 24

One of the best japanese buffet restaurants in Auckland. Fresh raw Tuna sashimi is really good. I think their sushi chef was imported from Japan. Their sushi and sashimi are better than many restaurants jn town. Their japanese desserts are similar to the ones I bought from the japan mart. The day I went, I only saw fruits salad. I was expecting a real fruit tray. That is why I only gave 4 out of 5. Please do not cut short on your dessert. Another issue is they served their foods on the cocktail bar counter top. So, clients had to wait jn a long line to get their foods. This can be changed with redesign your table layout.

isambard thomas

03:12 27 Nov 24

Alas Ebisu is one of these places that ‘choose’ to add the paywave charge to your bill, at a percentage - it’s immoral, profiteering and should be illegal (as it is in the UK and Europe). Either they should absorb the cost in the price or fight the system by lobbying government. Stop passing your business cost onto the consumer.

Mao S

08:23 26 Nov 24

Michael Ardern

18:50 24 Nov 24

Yvonne Mul

04:16 17 Nov 24

We ate duck and chicken teryaki, which were very tasty. The concept was not explained and the order not taken properly. The wine arrived very late.

Gunveen Ahluwalia

06:55 16 Nov 24

Chantal J

02:19 16 Nov 24

Mayoor Rai

08:50 14 Nov 24

Solid sushi experience in NZ. The premium tasting menu offered good value for money. The food quality was solid, but nothing stood out apart from the dessert course, which was excellent. The fish course was a repetitive play on Nobu’s miso black cod dish. The service was lacking, with a 10-minute wait for water, the bill, and minimal explanations for each course. The clubby and energetic atmosphere featured usual instrumental beats. While enjoyable, the experience may not be memorable.

Marc Gorin

11:02 12 Nov 24

The best Salmon I have had….

Oliver H

09:09 09 Nov 24

Food is ok. Good service. Must try their weekend lunch buffet

MG Avillanosa

01:17 03 Nov 24

Anna Sear

02:49 21 Oct 24

Mariam Malak

21:48 12 Oct 24

Toilets were disgusting and smelly and I wanted to vomit everything I ate Pls pls pls do something about it that would be my reason not to go back The food was delicious and great loved everything except the chewy meat Thanks

Casey Kristof

19:51 12 Oct 24

Terrible service. Took them 30 minutes to come to our table and when we ordered our food and a drink, the drink never came. Food is great and atmosphere is nice just shitty service.

S S

09:39 12 Oct 24

Beautiful restaurant, beautiful food 🤤 definitely will be back

Byron Leung

08:00 10 Oct 24

Me n wifey celebrate our wedding anniversary here, first thing we enter the restaurant is a very nice relax atmosphere and a good warm welcome and lead to our table. We choose the premium tasting menu, food is amazing, love the full course meal also the dessert give the whole experience a good ending. Thank you ebisu .

Kendra Solomon

23:05 06 Oct 24

The seafood tasted very fresh and we truly enjoyed how the buffet is presented. We loved the options available, and choosing food wasn't overwhelming because there weren't excessive options. I would love to have an opportunity to come back again...EDIT - We returned to Ebisu on 21 February 2025. This is my second time in Ebisu, and I apologize for saying this, but the buffet felt underwhelming. I brought my sister with me because I had such an amazing first experience. It was such a big difference even though I went only 4 months ago or so. The Sashimi and prawns were still bomb, but the salads on offer were not as exciting. The Braised Beef was so tough, which I informed the crew and manager of at least 3 times. I believe that if an item on the buffet could not be eaten with chopsticks (which is the basic "cutlery" provided) it might not be appropriate for the buffet. While I did feel that the Manager listened to my concerns, I think it was unfair to receive a response where they said "It might have just been the pieces you got". I took 4 pieces from 4 different parts of the beef, all of which I returned because it was very tough for "braised" beef. They did inform me that they will be checking the food that comes out that day before serving. Unfortunately because of this experience, I will no longer be returning.

Kim Seaward

06:46 04 Oct 24

A lovely family night out. Peaceful and clean. Two kids meals and three adult meals plus drinks for $170, which is pretty good for the caliber of the restaurant. The tofu was outstanding and the others enjoyed their karage. The spicy edamame was delicious and the kids meals were a decent size. I would go to happy hour elsewhere for a beverage first as cocktails were $20+ and other nice drinks $15+

Lynn Liu

09:54 19 Sep 24

#Janpanese restaurant#Set menu is valuable for four courses.Beef tataki and salmon are fresh, the sauces are different and special.Fried tofu and beef fillet are perfect, crispy and juicy.

E Wong

20:36 06 Jul 24

The environment is well spread and gives some privacy if needed. The service was efficient and friendly although some explanation was a little difficult to comprehend which is which. The egg plant was the best dish. The flavors in the dishes could be better and some might just be on the salty side. The Wagyu was not really obvious as it taste and fell just like any NZ beef. The sashimi was fresh but I think it's serve a little too thin. The two end of the baked fish was nice but the centre part was tough and rough. Although I like pickles, what they served were overbearing sourish. The desert was a little bitter in parts and ice cream wasn't smooth and firm. Overall, quite disappointed given the high expectation from all the good reviews. Unlikely to return.

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Tags: auckland, dinner, greatfood, platters, restaurant, romantic, shareplates, sushi, sushimi

Ebisu Restaurant Auckland – Japanese Cuisine

Ebisu Restaurant: Modern Japanese Cuisine at Auckland’s Waterfront

History and Concept of Ebisu Restaurant

Ambiance and Setting

The Ebisu Restaurant Menu

Chef Profile

Sustainability Practices

Visiting Details

Customer Reviews and Accolades

Photos: Ebisu Restaurant Auckland – Japanese Cuisine

User Reviews

Be the first to review “Ebisu Restaurant Auckland – Japanese Cuisine” Cancel reply

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