Izakai Eatery - Tauranga

Robust aromene. not too expensive. will go again. was just the sweet department this time.

This place and concept is a real gem. Inventive menu and everything was delicious. This was a real standout experience in Mt Maunganui.

When I got in touch with Tourism Bay of a Plenty to help me plan my trip around, they recommended me this precise restaurant, which I then knew I could trust right away When they mentioned it was a Māori-Japanese restaurant, I was even more excited Having now eaten here, I can confirm it did deliver Location is convenient in Bayfair shopping mall, by Arataki beach, and on the way to Mount Maunganui summit when coming from Rotorua (from which you can get beautiful views around the lovely Bay of Plenty after a short and easy hike, recommended) There are lots of seats, and you can book you get your favorite one eventually Good atmosphere with chill music, and rather dim lights Menu is wide enough, with meat, fish, and vegan options, plus a few desserts I was recommended 3 meals in particular, hāngi-style pork belly watercress ramen (noodles), creamed paua prawn gyoza (dumplings), and octopus takoyaki balls I went for the 2 first, along with a fresh apple spritz mocktail, and ended my lunch with a kumara pie The noodles could totally have been enough for a whole meal, while the gyoza would more be of a starter/side unless you're not very hungry Everything had great flavors, so yummy, I was full but still wanted more Definitely recommended!

High cost but worth it for us. We loved everything and left wanting more. My favourites would have to be the pāua dumplings and Ika mata. Less favorite, the kūmara dessert pie (similar to a Pumpkin pie).

I would like to thank izakai for our lunch. We feel very grateful to have had our dishes at home after so much waiting, you know that time is pressed for everyone. We would have appreciated paying for our ramen, but everything else was on the house. Thanks to the waitress and the chefs for that