Mad Samurai — Restaurant in Waitematā

Disappointing Buffet Experience We recently dined with a group of 8, having made a reservation a week in advance. Unfortunately, the experience was extremely disappointing due to several issues:

Insufficient Food Supply: Despite our reservation for 8 people made a week in advance, the restaurant did not provide sufficient food for our group. This is unacceptable, as they had ample time to prepare. Overcooked Fried Food: Many of the fried items were overcooked and tasted bitter. This significantly affected the overall dining experience. Delayed and Incomplete Wagyu BBQ: When we added Wagyu BBQ to our order, it was served very late, well after 8 PM （We start at 7pm and they said no order after 8:30pm). Moreover, the portions were minimal, and they did not provide the full amount we requested, despite it being a buffet. Argumentative at Checkout: When we expressed our concerns at checkout, the staff argued that everything was weighed and portioned correctly and that the skewers were handmade. However, they seemed to forget that this was supposed to be a BUFFET with no stated quantity limitations. Despite our grievances, we paid the full price for all 8 people, which amounted to $60 per person. The quality of food and service was far below our expectations. We hope the management takes this feedback seriously and makes the necessary improvements to avoid disappointing other customers...

Trying to figure out where to eat and just happened to stumble onto this place on a Friday evening. SO glad we did because the food and entire experience was incredible. First of all it was tucked back in Snickel Lane and was considerably less crowded than many of the other restaurants we popped into, so we were able to sit immediately and order drinks. I ordered the BRB Hazy Pale Ale - not totally sure if it was the frosty glass or the beer itself but this was by far the best beer I had anywhere in Australia OR New Zealand. We jumped into food with the edamame- again, not sure what was going on here but this is the best edamame I’ve had in a long time. It was just steamed and seasoned with salt per usual, but something about the edamame beans themselves had so much more flavor than I’ve ever had. For the main course I had the on special Pork Katsu and my partner had the Wayu Black Burger. You can see from the pictures that the burger was just insane. Recently read a “best burgers in Auckland” post and they’re definitely missing this one!! The Pork Katsu also came with steamed rice and miso soup and was overall just DELIGHTFUL. On top of everything the small staff of 3 running the place were lovely. Seriously go here- you won’t be...

We stumbled upon this charming Japanese restaurant quite by accident, tucked away in a cozy alley in the heart of Auckland. It's the kind of hidden gem you might miss if you're not paying attention, but trust me, it's worth the search.

Their menu is a delightful showcase of Japanese cuisine, featuring dishes crafted with the freshest ingredients. We indulged in the Bento Plate, Pork Katsu, steak, & Green Tea Cheesecake, each bursting with vibrant flavors and remarkable freshness. The generous serving portions ensured we left feeling fully satisfied.

Despite being a small restaurant with just one chef and one waitress on the day when we were dining for a weekend lunch, the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. They made us feel welcome and ensured our dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. Whether you're a seasoned sushi and sashimi lover or new to Japanese cuisine, Mad Samurai promises a satisfying meal tailored to your...