About
Welcome to Ken Yakitori Bar, a hidden gem located at 15 Gooch Place in Somerville, Manukau, where the art of Japanese cuisine shines through perfectly grilled yakitori and sumptuous donburi rice dishes. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand, this intimate eatery invites food lovers to indulge in a culinary experience that bridges traditional Japanese flavors with modern flair.
At Ken Yakitori Bar, every dish tells a story. The menu showcases an array of donburi rice options, each priced at NZ$21. You can select from a delightful Pork Curry Don or opt for the unique Ebby Curry Don. Chicken lovers will delight in the Chicken Curry Don or the crispy Chicken Katsu Don. For those seeking a vegetarian option, the Tofu Katsu Don provides a satisfying experience bursting with flavor. Each dish is carefully crafted to provide a balance of taste and texture, making every bite a journey to Japan.
The stars of the show, however, are the charcoal-grilled vegetables. Imagine savoring the smoky sweetness of Charcoal Grilled Kumara or the juicy tenderness of Charcoal Grilled Corn, both priced at NZ$6.50. The menu offers a variety of grilled delights, like Charcoal Grilled Mushrooms and Asparagus Wrapped With Pork, ensuring that every meal is complemented by something exceptional from the grill. The Charcoal Grilled Broccolini and Eggplant highlight the versatility and creativity behind Ken Yakitori Bar’s culinary approach.
As you explore the menu, don't miss their unique offerings, like the Hoki Fry and Grilled Rice Cakes with Dango Sauce, which provide a delightful twist to your meal. The attention to detail and quality ingredients shine through each dish, creating an experience that is both authentic and innovative.
With friendly service and a cozy atmosphere, dining at Ken Yakitori Bar feels like being welcomed into a family kitchen. Whether you are a yakitori enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this restaurant encourages you to explore the depth of flavors and culinary artistry that Japanese cuisine has to offer. If you find yourself in the Manukau area, give Ken Yakitori Bar a visit; you won't leave disappointed!
“ The food is perfect, very delicious and the service is amazing as well. The environment is clean and the atmosphere is super chill. ”
“ Pretty legit 日本 yakitori Taste the flames. The food is fresh and respectfully, delicately handled with a great deal of talent. The sauces are well balanced and the presentation is mouth watering. The decor and locale is a little basic. It’s an intimate, low key evening, but the quality is there. The staff are cool and the dishes roll out of the kitchen impeccably. The sake and beer menu could be wider but in general this is a hidden gem. Perfect for a date or a quick “hungry but not sure how hungry” small plate stop. Loved it and will be back. ”
“ I used to frequent this restaurant with my family for more than 10 years when I lived in the area. I recently came back to the area with my fiancee for a date, everything was just as I had remembered. The food tasted the same and the atmosphere is still great. I'm glad they have been able to survive the pandemic and hope they keep making the food I love. ”
“ Overall the food was good but the seasoning was generally spicy so it is not really kid friendly. The small plates allow us to try different dishes, which was a good experience. ”
“ I have been coming to Ken’s Yakitori for more than 25 years starting with the city establishment. The quality persists and the prices still reasonable . I visited the Botany branch which has more of a Family clientele and a quite different bib as is to be expected suburbs v city. Like the city it soon fills up. We had the mixed player of chicken thigh , chicken mince balls , prawn , and beef. Plus a plate of chicken livers and other plate of chicken thighs all marinated and cooked to order over charcoal. We accompanied the bbq items with gyoza fooled by a desert of green tea ice cream. Total bill $46 . We got a table straight away at 6pm but by 7pm the place was full with people waiting. So a reservation is recommended most nights. ”
“ Great food. Unique stools to sit on at the table but comfy. Warm sake was delicious on a cold night. We've been several times and will definitely be returning. We booked as we were a group of 4 but we've just walked in as a group of 2 and easily got a place at the counter seating area. ”