The recently opened Azabu Restaurant and Sake Bar is the proud new venture of co-owner and executive chef Yukio Ozeki.
As a fan of Nikkei cuisine, Yukio's menu combines modern Japanese and Nikkei-influenced dishes with an emphasis on the fun and the interesting. Nikkei was the original fusion cuisine, being a blend of both Peruvian and Japanese cuisine. This style of cuisine is known to be bold, vibrant and lip-puckeringly tasty. At Azabu, a mixture of large and small plates is served in such a way that diners are meant to share, so don't be shy. Signature dishes include Tuna Sashimi and Beef Tataki served on a warm tostada.
Seating up to 120 people, the modern interior is a mixture of concrete and warm oak.
Azabu is located at the Karangahape Road end of Ponsonby Road with the entrance via the hidden and slightly naughty late night destination of the ROJI saké and cocktail bar; ROJI translates to 'Alley Way'. You may wish to stop by for a pre-dinner cocktail or call in after your meal at Azabu - the perfect way to end your evening.
Some of the dishes on the Azabu menu include:
Tostada
Heritage tomato aburi - w/ jalapeno mayo, mint, basil, crushed almond, coriander.
Tukune
W/ chicken meatball, teriyaki glaze, onsen tamago, aji amarillo puree.
Salmon sashimi
W/ passionfruit, coconut cream, tiger dressing, crispy squash spaghetti.
Tuna Sashimi
W/ chia seeds, pickled cucumber, apple puree.
Appetizer
Octopus w/ yuzu pepper, purple potato, chive.
Twice cooked chicken
W/ asian citrus sauce, star anise, cinnamon.
Combine these modern Japanese and Nikkei flavours, add a dining room that provides a lively atmosphere, you will be sure to have a truly unique Azabu dining experience.
AZABU, 26 Ponsonby Road or 11 Maidstone Lane (some car parks available),
T: 09 320 5292, www.azabuponsonby.co.nz