WINNER: Azabu
One only need try and secure a table at Ponsonby’s Azabu restaurant to appreciate the long standing popularity of this establishment. Chef Yukio Ozeki has created an environment that is fun, flavourful and resolutely cool. The menu does an excellent job of paying homage to Nikkei cuisine — the fresh Peruvian-Japanese combo which results in such firm menu favourites as tuna sashimi and beef and truffle tostadas, while the staff’s attentive service and familiarity with regular customers (and to be honest who’s not a regular here?) make Azabu the choice time after time.

HONOURABLE MENTION: Depot

HONOURABLE MENTION: Amano

THE SHORTLIST:
Cassia
Ebisu
Soul Bar & Bistro
Ponsonby Road Bistro
Cibo
The Engine Room
Ortolana