About Izakai Bar & Eatery
Located inside Tauranga’s Bayfair Shopping Centre (at 19 Girven Road, Mt Maunganui), Izakai Bar & Eatery is a modern Japanese-style restaurant with a distinctive Kiwi twist. It opened as part of Bayfair’s major dining precinct expansion in mid-2018 . The concept was born in April 2017 when owners Liam Millard and a friend returned from Hong Kong with the idea of blending familiar Japanese “izakaya” dining with New Zealand flavours . The name “Izakai” itself combines “izakaya” (Japanese tavern) with “kai” (food in Māori) to highlight this fusion .
Inside, the décor by award-winning firm Walker Mitchell mixes native New Zealand materials – lots of timber, stone textures, and earthy tones – to create a warm, inviting ambience . The layout is intentionally intimate: a long, curving bar faces an open kitchen so guests can watch chefs at work, just as in a classic izakaya . According to the Bayfair directory, the eatery seats around 30–40 people indoors with additional outdoor patio seating (about 40 m² of covered outdoor area) . This compact layout – essentially one level with indoor-outdoor flow – makes Izakai ideal for cozy date nights or small groups. Signature features include Japanese-inspired share plates (like gyoza, ramen and yakitori) paired with local twists and a strong emphasis on handcrafted cocktails and NZ beers . The restaurant quickly gained acclaim: in its opening year it won “Outstanding New Venue” at the Bay of Plenty Hospitality Awards .
Events and Programming
While Izakai is primarily a restaurant and bar rather than a concert hall, it does host occasional special events. Examples from recent years include themed dinners and fundraisers: Eventfinda listings show Izakai hosted a “Ladies Lunch Kura Kai” fundraiser in March 2021, a New Year’s Eve party on 31 Dec 2019, and wine-tasting nights with local wineries . These one-off events tend to feature fixed-price menus or special pairings rather than touring artists. The venue does not have a regular live-music schedule; however, diners sometimes enjoy subtle live jazz or acoustic music in the evenings, especially on weekends. On busy nights like New Year’s Eve or local festival dates, Izakai may arrange ticketed dining packages. Typically, the programming revolves around seasonal promotions – for example special festive menus or sashimi nights – rather than continuous performances. Because the space is intimate, any live entertainment is low-key; Izakai markets itself as a place for enjoying food and cocktails together, rather than a loud concert scene.
Tickets and Booking
Izakai does not sell “tickets” in the traditional concert sense. Instead, customers reserve tables or drop in as walk-in guests. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner service on weekends. You can book a table through the online booking link on their website or by calling the restaurant directly. The restaurant is open seven days a week, with lunch starting at 11:30am and dinner continuing until late (Monday–Tuesday it closes earlier – last bookings about 7:45pm, Wednesday–Sunday last bookings about 8:30pm ). For parties of ten or more, it’s advised to call in advance at (07) 572-0484 to discuss arrangements . In general, plan ahead: popular dates (holidays, weekend nights) can book up. There is no ticket fee or cover charge – you simply pay for the food and drinks you order.
No formal box office exists, but for special events (e.g. wine dinners) the restaurant may partner with ticketing agencies. As of now, Izakai has not advertised ongoing ticketed concert series. The best strategy for securing a spot on busy nights is to make a reservation several weeks in advance. Same-day walk-ins are possible but subject to availability. Cancellations or changes are typically handled by phoning the restaurant in time; for large group bookings the restaurant may ask for a confirmation or deposit policy (common in NZ hospitality). Gift vouchers (for meals) are also available for purchase, which can serve as prepaid “tickets” for dining .
Seating and Layout
The venue is arranged around a single open-plan dining room centered on its long curved bar. Many guests choose barstool seating at the bar itself, which offers an up-close view of the open kitchen. The rest of the space has low wooden tables with chairs or benches, arranged for couples or small groups. There are no separate balconies or upstairs levels – everything is at ground level. A glass wall opens onto a partly sheltered outdoor patio (about 40 m²) with additional tables. Overall capacity is modest (probably on the order of 50 patrons in total): roughly 30–35 inside and around 15–20 on the patio, depending on table layout. The layout emphasizes communal dining; even indoor tables are close enough for an intimate feel rather than quiet privacy.
For the best dining experience, the “hot seats” are the bar stools by the chefs, because you can watch the cooking action. Those with fondness for al fresco dining should ask for a patio table (weather permitting) – it’s great in Tauranga’s climate. Afternoon sunlight can be bright on the outdoor tables, so spring/summertime diners may want sunglasses or to sit where the awning provides shade. Indoors, seats away from the kitchen are slightly quieter (the open kitchen does generate heat and kitchen noise), whereas bar seats can be a bit louder with music and conversation but more lively. Sound-wise, Izakai maintains a warm buzz: background music and lively chatter create a jovial atmosphere. The acoustics are typical of izakaya-style eateries (full-bodied but not echoey). On slower afternoons you might notice ambient jazz or lounge music; on peak nights the buzz of diners often fills the room. In any case, there are no obstructed-view seats or pillars – the space is flat and open.
Getting There and Parking
Izakai is located in the Bayfair Shopping Centre at the corner of Maunganui Road and Girven Road in Mount Maunganui . The easiest way to reach it by car is via Girven Road (follow signs to the Bayfair “Dine” entrance). Bayfair offers almost 2,000 parking spaces free for up to four hours . There is a multi-level covered carpark accessible from Girven Road and Farm Street, as well as surface parking off Maunganui Road. All parking areas are well-lit and monitored, with dedicated mobility (disabled) and parent-parking spaces located near the entrances . The restaurant itself sits in an outdoor dining lane adjacent to the Girven Road carpark entrance.
For those relying on rideshare or taxis, the Bayfair main entrance (Girven Road side) or the Bus & Taxi Hub near Farm Street are convenient drop-off points. The shopping centre is very accessible by public transit: multiple Tauranga bus routes stop right by Bayfair. In fact, Bayfair’s official info notes that the bus stop for the centre is on Farm Street, “right next door” . From there it’s a short flat walk (almost not a block). If walking from the Mount Maunganui town centre, it’s about a 3 km (40 minute) walk via Oropi Road or Canoe Lane, mostly level; or a 5 km drive downtown. (Be aware there are no train stations in Tauranga – bus is the main public transit option.) In summary: driving and parking are straightforward, with ample free bays, and city bus lines between Bayfair and most Tauranga suburbs run regularly.
Inside the Venue
On arrival you’ll find a casual, welcoming vibe. There’s no formal coat check – the staff are happy to hang a jacket for you or you can simply slip it over your chair. Security is minimal since it’s a family-friendly eatery, but standard hospitality checks apply (for example, drinkers must show ID). Once seated, you’ll notice the décor is a fusion of Japanese and Kiwi influences: rustic wood-carved panels, woven flax mats, and subtle Maori art motifs complement modern Japanese lantern lighting. The interior lighting is soft and warm; outdoor tables have overhead heaters/umbrellas for cooler evenings. Background music – often a mix of smooth jazz or contemporary tunes – fills the space but never overpowers conversation.
Several TripAdvisor reviewers praise Izakai’s attentive, friendly service and lively atmosphere . Diners describe drinks and dishes as beautifully presented and delicious. Expect table service by enthusiastic staff who guide newcomers through the menu. The menu itself emphasizes sharing – think “plates to share” rather than single entrees. Popular dishes (from current menus) include rāmi (ramen) bowls with NZ coastal ingredients, house-made gyoza dumplings, horopito-glazed lamb skewers, and seasonal specials like kanika (seafood) salads or kūmara (sweet potato) specials. The official description notes “Ramen, Gyoza and Yakitori skewers” among its staples . Cocktails are a highlight: you’ll find inventive craft cocktails (e.g. an espresso martini with blackberry reduction) alongside NZ beers and a modest wine list of local wineries. In short, Izakai is known for imaginative fusion food.
Practical amenities: restrooms are available inside the mall (not a separate stand-alone restroom inside Izakai), but are easily reached through the dining area. The mall and restaurant are fully wheelchair-accessible. High chairs for children are available on request. Outlets for phone charging are not advertised, so bring fully charged devices. There is no cloakroom or advance checked luggage area – valuables are your responsibility or with the attendants. Wi-Fi: while Izakai itself does not specifically advertise free Wi-Fi, Bayfair offers free public Wi-Fi in common areas (signal may be spotty inside the eating lane).
Inside Izakai, the combination of restaurant and bar means you can linger as long as you like over drinks. There is no fixed time limit, other than peak night demand. The dining area typically remains open late – often well past 10pm on Friday/Saturday nights – to accommodate lingering after-dinner drinks. The kitchen closes later in the evening (in weeknights, usually by 10pm; weekends a bit later), but cocktails and wine can be enjoyed until closing. Expect relatively relaxed bra or smart-casual attire from other guests, especially on weekends (smart jeans and shirt, or neat casual dress).
Nearby Amenities
Izaki benefits from Bayfair’s extensive amenities. Within the shopping centre, after your meal you could pop into the United Cinemas (a seven-screen, Dolby Atmos-equipped theatre) less than a minute’s walk away . The centre also has a Timezone arcade and indoor climbing for kids, so it can be a family-friendly outing (if you have kids in tow, the parent-parking and play areas are handy). For pre-dinner drinks or coffee, nearby in Bayfair you’ll find a café bar (The Coffee Club) and an outdoor craft beer garden (Ugly Squirrel Brewery) just down the lane.
Restaurants and Bars: Bayfair’s dining precinct groups several eateries together. A few steps from Izakai are a gourmet burger shop (The Burger Collective or similar), a Mexican taqueria (Mad Mex), and an upscale pizza place (Farina Pizzeria). There’s also a modern Asian noodle bar and several fast-casual spots. If you arrive early, you could pre-dinner at a sake bar or enjoy dessert at a nearby gelato/coffee kiosk. (If you’re in the mood for a pub atmosphere, just a block away on Girven Road is a modern tavern. And for nightlife, the nearby Baycourt Performing Arts Centre hosts occasional shows, though Izakai is not directly linked to those events.)Hotels and Lodging: Bayfair is just 3–4 km north of Mount Maunganui’s beach and village. Nearby hotels include big-brand motels and smaller boutique stays. For example, the Mercure Resort (formerly Distinction) is just a 5-minute drive up Maunganui Road, and the Papamoa area has a motel cluster. A handy Taṅgŏ tip: if you’re staying downtown (older Mount town), it’s a 10-minute drive, or a $10–$15 local taxi/rideshare ride to Bayfair. Visitors often book Bayfair-area hotels (like rated Leisure Lodge or Rose Bed and Breakfast a short drive away) to be close to this dining hub.Transportation: Taxi and rideshare drivers know Bayfair well as a landmark. The main drop-off is in front of the dining precinct on Girven Road. For onward travel, Tauranga’s main bus terminal is at Bayfair – buses to Tauranga city center, Papamoa, or the Western suburbs all pass here. If you finish late at night, note that city buses stop running around 9–10pm, so plan to taxi home or ensure safety if walking to a car in the parkade.
What Makes This Venue Special
Izaki stands out in Tauranga’s dining scene for its philosophy of cultural fusion and hospitality. It wasn’t just another sushi bar; instead, it introduces true izakaya-syle dining with New Zealand flair. This fusion was widely noted by media and patrons alike: for instance, a Bay of Plenty editorial commented on Izakai’s unique blend of Māori ingredients and Japanese culinary techniques . Inside, every detail – from the open kitchen design to the personalized cocktail stories – reflects a local storytelling ethos. The owner, a Mount Maunganui native who studied hospitality overseas, imbued the restaurant with values of manaakitanga (Māori hospitality) and omotenashi (Japanese hospitality) . This ethos shows in the service: staff speak of welcoming guests as whānau (family) and providing kindness and generosity beyond just serving food .
Architecturally, the restaurant is notable for its award-winning design. It won “Outstanding New Venue” in 2018 (Bay of Plenty Hospitality Awards) specifically for its fresh concept . Walker Mitchell’s design has been praised by restaurant reviewers for generating a “quintessential New Zealand feel” through native materials . Indeed, one SunLive news article even included an interior floor plan as a highlight (an unusual accolade for a restaurant opening) . The curved-carved wooden bar is a focal point – it’s as much a piece of art as a serving area – so nice that guests often photograph it before their meal.
Culturally, Izakai has contributed to Bayfair’s evolution into a local dining hotspot. Before it opened, Bayfair was mostly shops; now locals and tourists alike cite the new dining lane as a reason to visit. TripAdvisor reviews frequently list Izakai among the “best restaurants in Mount Maunganui,” with travelers noting it as a “must-try” for its inventive cuisine. One couple from 2024 wrote that Izakai is “always in our top five” and praised the special menu items . This kind of word-of-mouth shows how Izakai has become part of the community’s eating-out culture. In short, Izakai’s passion for fresh, locally inspired Japanese food and community connection – combined with its distinctive interior – makes it truly special in the Tauranga scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The entire dining area is step-free, making wheelchair or stroller access straightforward. Bayfair provides lots of disabled parking (with mobility permits) near all entrances . The restaurant staff are used to accommodating special needs, so don’t hesitate to ask for help (they can push a chair closer or offer an accessible table).
Timing Your Visit: Peak dinner hours (around 6pm-8pm) can fill up fast, so book ahead via their website or phone . If you’re planning a weekend meal without reservation, arrive early (5pm) or expect to wait. Izakai opens daily at 11:30am; lunchtime is more relaxed (good for quieter meals) but still popular with shoppers. Note that on Mondays and Tuesdays the kitchen closes earlier (last bookings 7.45pm ) – plan accordingly if dining early in the week.
Reservations & Guests: You can reserve online (via the link on Izakai’s site) or by phone. For large groups (10+), call directly in advance . They do not take reservations via email or messenger; always confirm by phone if in doubt. If your party exceeds capacity, consider splitting into two bookings or going at off-peak times. No tickets or pre-purchased passes are needed; just check in with the host on arrival. There’s no formal cancellation fee for normal bookings, but be sure to cancel warmly if you can’t make it.
Seating and Weather: If the weather is nice, request a table on the patio – it’s fun and airy (though a fan and heaters keep it comfortable if evenings cool). New Zealand sun can be strong; sunglasses and sunblock are wise if dining outside midday. Inside, seats away from the kitchen are slightly cozier, while bar seats offer entertainment watching cooks. The venue has smokers-friendly ventilation, but smoking is only allowed in the designated outdoor bayfair smoking area, not at the tables.
Food and Diets: Izakai’s menu is very accommodating. Many items are vegetarian-friendly (as noted on reviews), and they can mark dishes that are dairy-free or gluten-friendly. If you have severe allergies or diet restrictions, mention it when ordering – the kitchen seems happy to adjust levels of spice or remove ingredients. Portions are share-style, so even picky eaters can mix small plates. Most dishes use local ingredients, so menu items rotate seasonally – feel free to ask the waiting staff about daily specials. Nothing can be brought in: outside food/drink is not allowed (all alcohol/desserts must come from Izakai).
Dress Code: Smart-casual attire is appropriate most nights. Kiwis tend to dress up over casual; think nice jeans or dresses. Because it’s not a formal restaurant, you won’t see tuxedos or cocktail dresses, but many guests treat it as a special night out. On busy weekends the restaurant can get warm (from cooking and a full house), so lightweight clothes are nice. Conversely, on calmer weekday evenings it might be a bit cooler – a light jacket is fine.
Avoiding Surprises: Arrive ready to pay by card (Neozelanders rarely carry much cash). There is no coat check, so if you bring a large backpack or luggage, be prepared to keep it by your feet or leave it in the car. If you plan to have drinks at the bar only (no dinner), you don’t need a table reservation – you can walk up to the bar counter as space allows. Note the license will require you to show ID (NZ driver’s license, passport) if ordering spirits. Tipping is not customary in NZ (service charges are included), though positive feedback is always appreciated on feedback cards or review sites.
General Tips: Many customers mention “Izakai feels like a local secret,” so it’s fine to chat with neighboring diners or staff if you’re curious about the menu. If you love a dish, ask how it’s made – the chefs are proud of their fusion techniques. And finally, plan some extra time after your meal for the rest of Bayfair – grab dessert, a movie, or browse the shops. Arriving an hour before your reservation can give you a lap of the center without rush.
How do I make a reservation at Izakai Bar & Eatery?
You can reserve a table online via the Izakai website’s booking link or by phoning the restaurant during business hours. It’s open 7 days, 11:30am onwards . Walk-ins are sometimes welcome if space allows, but reservations (especially for dinner or larger groups) ensure you won’t have to wait. For parties of 10 or more, best to call ahead at (07) 572-0484 .
Is parking available at Bayfair when attending Izakai?
Yes. Bayfair has nearly 2,000 parking spaces, free for the first four hours . You’ll find the closest parking entrance on Girven Road right next to the dining precinct. There is a covered multi-story carpark as well as surface parking. Mobility-accessible parking spots are available near every entrance . After four hours you may need to register with customer service for extended parking. Rideshare drop offs and taxis can use the entrance lane by Girven Road.
What are the public transport options to reach Izakai Bar & Eatery?
Several Tauranga bus routes service Bayfair Shopping Centre. The main bus stop is on Farm Street, adjacent to the centre entrance . You can check the local AT Metlink schedule for routes that stop at Bayfair. Once off the bus, it’s an easy flat walk to Izakai through the dining lane. There is no local train service in Tauranga. For late-night or direct drop-offs, taxis and rideshares can let you out at the Girven Road entrance to Bayfair, which is just steps from Izakai.
Are any special seating areas available at Izakai (e.g. VIP or booths)?
Izakai’s layout is pretty straightforward: a bar with counter seating and tables for two to four around it. There are no private or upstairs booths – it’s one open room. The closest thing to “VIP” is the bar counter itself, where you can watch the chefs cook. For groups, tables can sometimes be pushed together to accommodate more people, and parties of ten may get a row of tables along the wall. There is an outdoor patio section for warm-weather dining. All seating is on the same level, and requests (like sitting near the bar or outdoors) can be made when booking or on arrival if available.
Does Izakai Bar & Eatery offer vegetarian or gluten-free options?
Yes. The menu is designed for sharing and includes vegetarian-friendly items (as noted by reviewers) . Many dishes feature seasonal produce and seafood, but the chefs will accommodate dietary needs where possible. Vegetarian and gluten-free guests should notify staff when ordering. The restaurant emphasizes local NZ ingredients, and items like gyoza or ramen broth can often be made to suit dietary restrictions. It’s a good idea to double-check specific ingredients with your waiter on the day, as the menu can change with seasons.
What payment methods are accepted at Izakai Bar & Eatery?
Izakai accepts standard methods: credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, EFTPOS) and cash (New Zealand dollars). As of current information, they may also accept digital wallets if you pay via smartphone. Gift vouchers (purchased on their site) are redeemable here. It’s not common in NZ to pay by check or foreign currency. There is no automatic service charge (tipping is optional and up to your discretion).
Are children or infants allowed at Izakai, and are there facilities for them?
Yes, children are welcome. Izakai isn’t exclusively a bar – many families dine there. High chairs are available for toddlers, and staff are accustomed to kids sharing plates. That said, the atmosphere is more adult-leaning in the evenings (it’s an izakaya bar after all), so families with kids might prefer earlier dinner times. There is no special kids’ menu, but portioning and sharing typical to izakayas works well for young appetites. If bringing a stroller, note the space is compact but flat. The mall restrooms nearby have baby changing facilities for infants.
Does Izakai Bar & Eatery have an outdoor seating area?
Yes. There is a covered outdoor patio space just outside the main dining room. It is sheltered (with a roof/awning and heaters) so you can sit outside even in light rain. The patio seats around 15-20 people and offers a pleasant “al fresco” vibe on nice evenings. In Tauranga’s sunny climate, this section is popular when weather permits. If you prefer outdoor seating, request it when booking or on arrival (first-come basis).
What is the dress code at Izakai Bar & Eatery?
The dress code is casual-smart. Most patrons wear nice jeans, dresses, or polo shirts. Being in a surf town, attire is relaxed – you won’t need a suit or tie. Avoid beach gear or bare feet. As with many upmarket casual restaurants in NZ, smart jeans or casual dresses are perfect. In cooler months, you might also see people in light knitwear or scarves since the kitchen is quite warm. No official uniforms or formal wear are required.
Is Wi-Fi available at Izakai Bar & Eatery?
Izakai does not prominently advertise its own Wi-Fi network, but Bayfair Shopping Centre offers free public Wi-Fi in common areas. You may pick up a signal in the outdoor dining lanes or from inside the restaurant, although it can be weak. Don’t count on this for streaming; it’s best to enjoy the in-person experience. If you need reliable internet, you might step outside to test Bayfair’s free Wi-Fi or use personal mobile data. (Bathrooms inside Bayfair have decent signal if you duck out for a moment.)
Why is the restaurant named “Izakai”?
The name “Izakai” is a blend of “izakaya” and “kai”. An izakaya is a casual Japanese bar that serves food, and “kai” means food in Māori (the indigenous language of New Zealand). The founders wanted to signal the fusion of Japanese tavern dining with Kiwi culture. As owner Liam Millard explains, combining those words creates a connection between Japanese and New Zealand (Kiwi) cuisine . In practice, the restaurant celebrates that blend – serving izakaya-style fare infused with local NZ/Māori ingredients and traditions.
Does Izakai offer any special events or live music nights?
Regularly, Izakai operates as a dining venue rather than a live-music venue. It does not have a standing calendar of music acts. Occasionally, they may host special one-off evenings (for example, wine pairing dinners or holiday parties) which sometimes include live acoustic music or a DJ. Historically, they’ve run events like wine nights and New Year’s Eve parties . Check their social media or ask staff when you book if any special event is planned; otherwise plan for a normal dinner and see if there’s ambient background music.
Does Izakai Bar & Eatery have gift vouchers or loyalty programs?
Yes, you can purchase gift vouchers for Izakai. These vouchers can be bought online through the restaurant’s website (there’s an option to “buy a voucher” on the booking page) . Vouchers are available in set dollar amounts and can be given as gifts or used for a future meal. There is no formal loyalty card program mentioned, but sometimes they may run special package deals via their newsletter or social media. If you’re interested, ask when dining whether any promotions or gift-packages are available.
