Cocoro

Ponsonby, New Zealand

Tucked away behind a bamboo wall in a side street off Ponsonby, Cocoro (meaning ‘the heart and soul’) is a discreet spot that always provides a satisfying evening. Inside it’s all simple, sleek wood and low lighting in authentic Japanese style. Multi-course menus – including sashimi and a chef’s signatures option – are inspired by the cultural concept of ichi-go ichi-e, a Japanese idiom (yojijukugo) that loosely means treasuring the unrepeatable nature of each and every moment. Crayfish miso soup, shisho and perilla granita and filo oysters… each course really is a moment to remember. The wine list has a natural bent but the highlight is a large selection of pure rice sakes from the motherland. There’s a central communal table for groups and those who prefer the intimacy of sitting next to each other.

Key Information

• Average price per person $58
• Tasting menu from $82
• Lunch: Thu – Sat, Dinner: Tue – Sat
• +64 9360 0927
• Visit Cocoro's Website

Location

56a Brown Street, Ponsonby, Auckland, 1021