Rakuu — Restaurant in Ballina

Wow as a local I thought I’ll try this cute little Japanese restaurant….. unfortunately it was unlike any Japanese restaurant I have ever been too . I assumed on a Friday night that this restaurant would trade at least till 8:30 -9 pm , but we arrived to a very rude older Japanese lady who was quick to let us know we close kitchen in five mins , made us feel bad for placing an order and rushed . There was limited to any table service , told literally to get your own cutlery , napkins , chilli powder etc . Tables were filthy dirty , tempura prawn and gyoza the worst I’ve ever eaten . When I asked for a small portion of mayonnaise, the lady said we charge for that ! Really ? The ramen was dark and cloudy and highly over salted , not enjoyable at all . I was also shocked to see them refusing a family of four who wanted to eat there , instead they went next door to the kebab shop . The eight or so staff in the kitchen I’m sure could have accommodated that family . I won’t be eating here again , and will inform friends and family also . The best Japanese is in Byron bay , Japanese kitchen , service impeccable and food absolutely on point ! Never have I ever been disappointed with service and food at a Japanese restaurant, so...

Fantastic traditional Japanese food.. whole thing from ordering and the service from the staff are as polite an professional as if you were in Japan. We only ordered takeaway but we ordered large to celebrate our MIL birthday but as she has 2 little dogs an house destroyed by floods an no able to leave them.. we ordered takeaway an went for walk by river an ate there. Was beautiful. Both the Katu an Kaarage Bento boxes are a winner an couldn't decided which one we liked. We all shared all so everyone got some.. the Rakuu sauce is the perfect dressing, very well balanced in flavour an taste. Everyone's overall an suprise favourite was the pork belly sushi.. sadly only 3 pieces but enough for everyone to try. We will order more next time.. an...

Comfortable and clean with authentic atmosphere. Looks to be family run. Traditional and extensive menu. Food is excellent. Really like the option to have protein with salad rather than the usual rice. Protien Don meals also available with rice. Great Ramen selection and sushi all made fresh to order. I ordered Karrage Chicken Ramen $25. It was packed with Umami flavour. Noodles were slippery and aldente. It was comfortably busy during my midweek lunch visit, lots of locals. My order was taken straight away it’s counter service and the meal came out about 10 minutes later. Rakuu is also licensed. There is a grab and go cabinet with sushi and rolls for...