Poong Ro Korean BBQ Restaurant — Restaurant in Ōtara-Papatoetoe

Further note…

A better way to put it is that the management seems different, as we no longer see the middle-aged woman who used to manage the restaurant during our visits. To clarify, we were 6 minutes late, and the next customer arrived 5 minutes early at 6:25 PM. They complained at 6:35 PM (I checked the time because we were trying to finish grilling as quickly as possible, but unfortunately, we couldn’t). From my perspective, we weren’t given enough time to finish our meal. It wasn’t nice to pack up half-cooked meat and take it home to cook, especially when we came out for a proper dinner. Do you understand?

First review…

The food has always been great, and we've been loyal customers since the original owner first opened the restaurant. However, we’ve noticed the service has went down since the change in ownership, yet we’ve continued to dine there or get takeaway. This time, we were given an hour and a half for our table, but since there were five of us, we couldn’t finish our meal within that time. Five minutes before our time was up, we were reminded of the limit, and we assured the waitress we’d leave as soon as we finished grilling. However, 10 minutes later, she returned and prompted us to leave, even though we only needed a few more minutes to finish. While I understand we were running behind, I feel we weren’t given enough time to properly enjoy our meal. It was a disappointing dining experience, and I regret agreeing to...

Great place to eat.We went in for the Charcoal BBQ we opted for 2 types of pork and the marinated beef rib, my absolute fave was the beef. So good whatever sauce they marinated that in. The meat was fresh the sides were delicious on that note I wasn't expecting that amount of sides, what a pleasant surprise. I hadn't tried them all before except for the Kim chi like stuff. I would have to say my favourite side was the egg. It was like how scrambled eggs should be cooked all the time but way smoother and prettier to look at. We also had the fried chicken due to the amount of reviews accusing I needed this in my life. It did not disappoint at all. I kid you not I took a bite from a leg and the juice squirted into the grill. The chicken was delicious definitely a must to order here. The staff were great. I felt sorry for them as there were 2 staff looking after the floor with a full house. they were very efficient, we didn't have to wait long at all. But please if your going there expecting the wait staff to cater to your every little demand don't be rude and let them do their job. Get all that you need (as much as you can) out when you first order but don't bother them too much as you can clearly see they are stretched and doing the best they can. I found the staff were awesome. Overall experience - We will definitely be coming back again. Was so so happy with everything. Thank...

Shockingly racist!!!!!

I have never been more shocked, neither have I ever experienced this type of racism. The first time we went to Poong Ro Korean BBQ restaurant l, we were welcomed with sour faces. I was there with my fiancé and they told us "we don't have meat, sorry" it sounded very strange I decided to wait outside for a few minutes. As this business was run by Asian, it appears that they would only welcome and serve them as many others walked in after and were served with no issue. I decided to give them the benefit of the doubt because it is unbelievable that this would happen in New Zealand in this day and age.

I went there again a month later and was told “sorry we are busy and fully booked tonight”. Once again I walked away, but being the curious person I am, I decided to call and make a booking that same night. At first they said “yes, sure” but as they were confirming my details they abruptly hung up the phone. I was furious and decided I would test my theory once more. I had an Asian friend call in, make a booking and go for dinner. He got perfect service. As you can imagine, I was mortified, it is unbelievable that this was happening in 2016 and in New Zealand of all...