Totoya — Restaurant in Upper Harbour

Been here many times, they are famous for their amazing side dishes. Their stew, in particularly the pork bone soup is very yummy and generous in the portion.

However there will always be a queue to come into this restaurant, especially in the weekend. Also, they seem to be not that nice to people other than Koreans. We were second table to come in for a particular occasion and ordered pretty quickly. However I looked around, all the Korean seated tables were served first and we had to wait 45 minutes before we got half our orders here. I had to ask whether the other half was coming and he said it was but I felt if I didn't ask we were never going to get the other half. They also left out the pancake side dishes and start serving other tables and giving them the pancake side dishes.

Despite the amazing food, I really can't give 5 stars for this kind of service in...

Totoya has amazing tasting Korean food.

Cons: 1/ They're always busy, and they do not accept reservations, so you will have to wait in line to get a table. It can also get crowded at times.

2/ The parking is pretty bad. The same one exit/entry that can only fit one car at a time.

Pros: 1/ Extremely generous, they have the most side dishes out of any Korean restaurant in New Zealand, and you can ask for a refill,

2/ Their takeaway packaging is very good,

3/ Their menu is very cheap considering the portion sizes,

4/ The staff are very kind, always have a smile on their face despite how busy they are they never stop working.

On the basis of food and staff alone, I would say it's my favorite Korean restaurant in New Zealand, but just be prepared to...

Updated after finally receiving the receipt: Side dishes are on the better side (4/5) with more selection of side dishes as a norm, mains are ok and smaller in portion than many others. Taste is ok (3.5/5) as is selection, a few staples including eg kimchi fried rice aren't on the menu (3.5/5). The place is very busy and there's no phone number or website for booking or contact so just wait for a table. They do not print out itemized receipts as a norm, however it is possible to request one to be emailed to you. Parking is limited as is the norm with most places on the shore. Would recommend to try out their side dishes for casual dining, it's harder to use as a corporate lunch destination due to booking and invoice...