Best Karaage Chicken in Auckland CBD (2026)

Auckland CBD is home to a vibrant mix of eateries serving up the beloved Japanese dish, karaage chicken. With its crispy exterior and succulent meat, this dish has become a favourite among locals and visitors alike in 2026. Dive into the bustling food scene and find your perfect plate of karaage!

20 places

Anzu Sashimi & Bowl 안주

4.9(218)

asian restaurant · CBD

Sushi, Sashimi, Bowl, Donburi, Karaage and Korean Fried Chicken for lunch and dinner in Auckland CBD. You can order simply online!

asian fusion bowl donburi

218 reviews

$$ Staff Pick

The Cave Yakitori Bar

4.8(1,027)

yakitori restaurant · Auckland CBD

The Cave is Auckland’s Japanese yakitori and kushiage bar, offering a wide variety of meats, seafood, and vegetable dishes grilled on bamboo skewers.

grilled chicken japanese sake japanese yakitori

1,027 reviews

Ken Yakitori Bar Anzac

4.6(960)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the authentic atmosphere and quality of the yakitori, making it a reliable spot for Japanese cuisine.

960 reviews

The Don

4.5(870)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

The Don - CBD is a popular spot in the Auckland CBD area, offering authentic Japanese food.

asian donburi japanese

870 reviews

$$ - $$$

Kajiken Auckland

4.6(551)

ramen restaurant · Auckland CBD

Kajiken is New Zealand's first and only specialty Abura Soba (oil soba) restaurant, bringing authentic Nagoya-style soupless ramen to Australia and New Zealand.

casual dining japanese cuisine nagoya-style abura soba

551 reviews

The Donburi House (Japanese)

4.7(97)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the generous portions, authentic flavours, and affordability of the dishes. Many describe it as a hidden gem for hearty Japanese food.

97 reviews

Koiya Japanese Elliott St

4.8(18)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

KOIYA is a modernized Japanese restaurant focusing on providing only the freshest ingredients and kind service for customers.

fresh ingredients kind service modern japanese

18 reviews

$$ - $$$ Metro Top 50

Hello Beasty

4.8(1,957)

restaurant · Auckland CBD

Buzzy destination offering creative East Asian-New Zealand fusion fare in a colourful setting.

chinese cuisine contemporary new zealand fusion japanese cuisine

1,957 reviews

$$$

Ebisu

4.4(1,012)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

Hip, lively venue for elevated Japanese food ranging from classic sushi to creative cooked mains.

contemporary japanese japanese beer japanese cocktails

1,012 reviews

Koiya Japanese Restaurant

4.7(508)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

KOIYA is a modernized Japanese restaurant focusing on providing only the freshest ingredients and kind service for customers.

fresh ingredients japanese cuisine modern japanese

508 reviews

Fuga Modern Japanese Brasserie

4.6(331)

japanese restaurant · Auckland CBD

Reviewers consistently praise the outstanding food and exceptional service, highlighting the warm hospitality and authentic flavours.

331 reviews

Shoya

4.7(258)

japanese restaurant · Central

Reviewers consistently praise the authentic and high-quality ramen, as well as the welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff.

258 reviews

Yume Japanese Izakaya

4.3(1,653)

japanese restaurant · Freemans Bay

YUME is a vibrant izakaya bringing the flavour and buzz of Japan to Auckland, serving fresh sashimi and creative small plates perfect for sharing over sake.

japanese small plates sake sashimi

774 reviews