For customers seeking more traditionally presented Japanese food and etiquette this restaurant is perfect. Sharaku is tucked away off Queen Street. Customers are greeted by kimono-clad staff. As with their location, Sharaku are not obvious about their standards but the restaurant prides itself on the level of training required for staff.
The sushi chef, Taka-san, is a fully qualified itamae and if you know anything about Japanese food training and preparation, this is saying something; (to reach the giddy heights of itamae, in sushi chefdom, you must pass through a five year apprenticeship, after which you are allowed to prepare the rice for sushi. The novice is then permitted to stand alongside the head chef, is addressed as wakiita, and may prepare fillings for the sushi. After more years, the wakiita graduates – finally.
To have reached itamae level, he must handle the food and utensils well, know how to treat customers, and how to carry out all aspects of his job). Given this training, you know that you are in good hands with Taka-san at Sharaku. All the classic dishes are here, from sushi and sashimi through to tempura; all artfully prepared and all beautifully presented. The knowledgeable staff are always on hand to provide advice concerning the food and drinks.
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Kathryn Marsh, 9 years ago
We loved our visit to this restaurant…we thought the food was plentiful and delicious..the ambience delightful and fantastic service.
We will definitely be back when we are next in Auckland…
clare, 12 years ago
Sahraku was a very disappointing dining experience. On arrival there were not enough table settlings and they had to be asked 2x to rectify this which took over 20mins. We waited over an hour for our food and people in after us were served before us. The mains came before the entrees and the set dishes were served without the appetisers. The toilets had no soap. The service was very poor and despite being advised of problems nothing was done to rectify them despite being told they would. They did not reduce the bill when asked to account for the missing items and poor service. We will not be returning. Sharaku has a lot to do to lift its game in a competitive market with so many good Japanese restaurants in town. Promising to rectify things and not following through is not good enough. A one star rating overall .
Jerry, 13 years ago
While the food was very good, it was not plentiful (compared to other Japanese restaurants for the price), and the service was well below average. They were polite enough but we were kept waiting while at least 10-15 people came in after us (all Japanese), and they served their food before us! Our food took nearly an hour to arrive, unacceptable when others after us were served first. We were left wondering if our nationality meant that we were placed on the bottom of the list for service. Will not be returning.
Tony, 14 years ago
The decor inside was great! Forgot all about Auckland once I stepped through the door. Nice and quiet with gentle Japanese music playing in the background. The food was great!! (Especially the Karaage!! Hontou ni oishii ne!!).
Just a really lovely place to be at =D