Dish Cult Dines: Waku Waku

Hidden in the deepest nook of the Remuera Village, Waku Waku is small enough to completely miss if you’re not paying attention. Once you walk inside, the eye is instantly drawn to an overhead shower of flora, and an open kitchen showcasing the chefs at work.

The menu and decor are reminiscent of Japan, with traditional traces and an added modern flair. This adheres closely to the creative visions of owners Makoto Tokuyama and Jason Lee, who both wished to revive ‘Old value, Modern Japanese Style’ through this hidden gem. Tokuyama is a highly commended chef at the head of the prestigious Cocoro in Ponsonby.

Paired with Lee, they are a pair going 20 years strong. Not to mention their nominated head chef Lucas Lee is behind many top tier restaurants that we all know and love (Gochu, Cocoro, Sidart).

Every element of this franchise contributes to a premium dining experience. Each dish is presented on top of ceramics handcrafted by Betty Chung and Light + Vessel- by acknowledging that no two dining experiences are the same and adding a touch of uniqueness to every meal.

Overall, the food and location are only fitting to live up to such famous names behind this Modern Japanese fusion restaurant.

Waku Waku has three ‘clans’ under their expertise with each of them contributing their own special element of cuisine, making this restaurant well-rounded in all aspects of the dining scene. The JSN clan focuses on traditional Japanese grill and deep fried dishes, the MKT clan’s area is seafood, and the NTO clan is centred around delivering the best drinks varying from tap beer to Japanese cocktails.

With such prestigious chefs and a diverse portfolio, it’s hard to resist the temptation to go to this recent opening. Waku Waku has definitely pushed the envelope open in Remuera to
accommodate more asian cuisine.

In spite of the higher price point, this is a place definitely worth taking a look – if you can find it. (We’ll give you a hint though, look for Shop 1/D/415 Remuera Road, Remuera).