Tanuki Sushi and Sake Bar is an Izakaya style restaurant where the Japanese chefs prepare the food in front of you. Towards the back of the restaurant there is a Zashiki area where you can take your shoes off and have a small private party.

Do not be disappointed if you can not get a seat in Tanuki's Cave, the food upstairs is superb and is made to be shared. Let us not forget that sake is a good lubricator and with over 20 to choose from you will have the conversion flowing in no time.

Overview

Price Range Lavish
Accepts credit cards Yes
Licence This venue is licenced

Products and specialities

Sushi
Sashimi
Tempura
Domburi and their signature dish: the Tanuki Steak, NZ scotch fillet in a ponzu sauce.

Hours

  • MonClosed
  • Tues -
  • Wed -
  • Thurs -
  • Fri -
  • Sat -
  • Sun -
  • HolidaysClosed
Reviews

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Not to be confused with Tanuki's Cave, this sake bar is a true Japanese gem in the heart of the city. Up three sets of narrow stairs, past the neon lights and into a cozy Japanese haven, you'll find some of the best Japanese cuisine in town. The plates are for sharing which makes the whole experience that much better! A friend and I went last night, we decided to take no phone sand just enjoy the atmosphere. Always a lovely evening at Tanuki's!

I LOVE this place. The staff are fantastic & friendly. I always go here for my birthday dinner & all my friends love it too! #shoutme

I like to come here when in Auckland for business, as its got a cosy atmosphere, especially in the cave. The staff are always friendly, and the beer is good (Gisborne Gold by the bottle!) fried octopus balls are a favourite.

Take a walk down Queen Street and step down the stairs to this delightful restaurant. You will immediately feel secluded from the rest of the World. The food is fantastic - we chose a selection of small plate items which were delicious; from the scallops to pork belly, stuffed mushrooms, tiger prawns and tofu salad - there’s something for everyone!

I always gather friends to this great Japanese restaurant. Staff are always friendly and Sushi is delicious.

This is where to come when you want to have yourself a sake experience. Don’t be surprised if you stumble out thinking you are in Japan and attempting to speak Japanese, just go with it, at least you will know you have had a good night.

Tanuki is a great little restaurant with delicious food and fantastic atmosphere. I’m a big fan of the terriyaki chicken and the sushi. If you’re dining with someone who’s not exactly a pro with chopsticks the very friendly staff will happily go find a fork with no discernible judgement. It’s perfect for a quiet dinner for two or for a big group.

When it comes to first dates I don't think you can go wrong with Japanese, and when it comes to Japanese Tanuki's is the perfect destination. The extensive menu has a wide variety of dishes that are perfect for sharing and the informal bustling atmosphere and friendly service is perfect for anyone feeling slightly nervous. There's plenty of alcoholic beverages available, I'd recommend getting a big Asahi to share and perhaps a sake if you are that way inclined. My favourite dishes that I'd recommend are the karaage chicken, the broccoli with peanut sauce, the sashimi platter, the raw beef and the deep fried cheese. Also if your date is a vegetarian there are plenty of vege options to keep them happy.

It really is a cave! Love the rustic, intimate atmosphere - lots of sake and drinks on offer, and the chicken skewers are absolutely delicious (although it took mine 30 mins to come out!).

What an exquisite variety of food! And wow, what a cultural experience! :D