I used to visit often when it was run by the Japanese owners, but the food has changed dramatically since then. Unfortunately, the quality has declined to the point where it simply doesnβt taste good anymore. Iβm genuinely disappointed. The sushi used to be excellent, and the katsudon was once incredibly delicious, but that standard is no longer there. To make things worse, the server tried to take my plates away even though I was just about to get up and pay, which felt unnecessary and rushed. Overall, it was a very poor experience. Itβs sad to see such a great restaurant formerly one of the best in NZ drop this far in quality.
Contacts & Location
π Address: 1123 Pukuatua Street, Hillcrest, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
π Phone: +64 7 348 1938
π Website: yamatojapaneserestaurantrotorua.com
About Us
Yamato Japanese Restaurant keeps things classic fishβandβchips and focused on flavour. Outdoors works when the weather plays along. Pricing lines up with the offer. Fish lands crisp with light batter and chips stay tidy. Service stays present without fuss.
Photos
Reviews
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Immanuel β ββββ
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Nuclearranger β β β β β
We had two rice bowls, sushi and a salad. The chicken rice bowl was average but tasty. The beef rice bowl was amazing. The steak was cooked perfectly and had a wonderful crisp. The biggest sushi roll chunks my wife has ever had. The flavor was 5/5.
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Paulo Cantara β β β β β
The food was absolutely awesome, and the service was really good β the team was friendly and attentive throughout. I gave 3 stars for the atmosphere only because I was hoping for a more traditional Japanese-themed setup to complete the dining experience. Still, the quality of the food and service more than makes up for it. Definitely another restaurant Iβll look forward to visiting whenever weβre in Rotorua. Cheers, Yamato!
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Maria K β β β β β
I really loved the portion, even if it was a tad expensive for the amount. We had a nice lunch on the lighter side, with enough food leaving us full and satisfied and not enough to overwhelm. The atmosphere and service is beautiful, and the food as well; flavourful, mouthwatering and everything good. Would come back here again!
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qing sha β β β β β
Such a pleasant place with amazing foods! Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. We ordered plum wine tasting sets, all 5 of them are super tasty and strong enough! The Yuzo tonic was huge and yummy as well! This place definitely deserves 5 stars!
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Shaki K β β β β β
What a gem! I've found my go-to restaurant in Rotorua. The sweetest people, fresh and tasty authentic Japanese food, a sense of community, busy with regular patrons. Thank you Yamato, see you again soon.
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Aylwyn Gan β β β β β
Food was good, very fresh serving of sushi but service was kind of slow, maybe it was a crowded midweek. Seems very popular with the locals too for a good Japanese dinner. Prices are quite pocket friendly too
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Vicky Huang β β β β β
Lovely sashimi boat, and very busy restaurant. We arrived 6pm the restaurant just opened, after sitting down, the restaurant fill up very quickly
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houdini 1827 β β β β β
We had the best experience today. The service from all staff was amazing. The manager was so welcoming, friendly and accommodating. The food was absolutely spectacular. My favourite place to eat out. We definitely will be dinning there on a regular basis. Could not fault anything. Great job to everyone. Thank you. Keep up the great work. U guys rock.
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Bill Park β β β β β
Yamato has always been my favorite. I like the new owner :) sheβs very friendly. Food review 1) sushi rice can be less sweet 2) fish and tamago sushi were perfect 3) shrimp popcorn too sweet and too much sauces 4) tofu salad can have more salads? 5) udon was good 6) negitoro was good 7) tataki was good but maybe dressings on the beef might be better? 8) waitresses were bit lost and confused not sure why. I came in and they were busy among themselves so I had to wait in front of the counter awkwardlyβ¦ Anyhow, definitely good sushi, better than Auckland
New Review
FAQs
What is the address of Yamato Japanese Restaurant?
Yamato Japanese Restaurant is located at 1123 Pukuatua Street, Hillcrest, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand
What is the phone number of Yamato Japanese Restaurant?
You can contact Yamato Japanese Restaurant at +64 7 348 1938
How can I get to Yamato Japanese Restaurant?
You can find directions to Yamato Japanese Restaurant by following this map link