WashoCook

On Auckland’s North Shore, WashoCook leans into the sweet spot between tradition and playful invention. The cooking is unmistakably Japanese in spirit—clean, comforting and umami-led—yet unfussy and contemporary in its presentation.

Bowls of handmade chicken tempura udoon arrive with a savoury broth and gentle crunch from lotus root and seasonal greens, a study in warmth and balance. Elsewhere, the sushi burger gives a cheeky nod to street-food culture, layering teriyaki chicken or teriyaki salmon in a rice-bound stack that eats as satisfyingly as it sounds.

Small plates keep things convivial: karaage chicken is all crisp edges and juiciness, while gyoza dumplings bring pan-fried pleasure to the table. To sip, there are dashi soup shots in delicate cherry blossom or matcha, alongside green tea and Japanese drip coffee; the matcha latte, served hot or iced, adds a creamy, ceremonial note.

To finish, the silky ZEN Pudding in matcha and sesame is quietly indulgent, and ice cream meets tradition with matcha and fried pancake or vanilla with sweet mochi. WashoCook offers an easy-going space to graze, share and linger—Japanese comfort with a twinkle in its eye. Make a date, bring your curiosity, and let the umami do the talking.