Chim Don Don — Restaurant in Christchurch

I don’t know where to start this review, and have very mixed feelings about the dining experience.

I had high expectations based on many great reviews, but unfortunately it ended with some disappointment.

The service and vibe were great. We particularly enjoyed two dishes we ordered Takoyaki balls and Sizzling Yakisoba noodles. The Japanese drinks were good too.

However some dishes really need some improvement, as they were either bland or not well-seasoned and sauced. (We have visited Japan in the past two years and have been to many restaurants, from top award-winning places to locally popular Izakaya there, as well as some good ones in South Island).

I have to say this restaurant has great potential but so far it is just not as great as other guests...

I'ld almost rather not write a review and leave this place as a little secret gem to ourselves. This Japanese restaurant has a homely charm and serves up an eclectic mix of (mostly) Japanese , korean, thai and even a western dishes (Surf and Turf). Staying true to their roots, this place serves some uniquely Okinawan dishes, an added bonus from all the rather generic Japanese places in the city that aren't actually runned by authentic Japanese. Food and service has been consistently good. Small and cozy, it can get pretty busy quick and everyone is somewhat seated within an earshot of each other. Bookings are probably essential given the size...

The J staff looked a bit unwillingly to service. The food was so-so which means it was totally overpriced. Ordered Gyoza and Udon, both just not worth the price…🥲 The homemade Gyoza just tastes too much like a supermarket dumpling. Meanwhile the Udon with chicken was much more disappointed. Way too hot hard to eat though and the Onzen egg just became normal boiled egg.

Would feel much more better if they rather provide tasty foods with good portion instead of big portion of not-tasty foods.

The atmosphere was okay.

Lastly, it was okay to...