Newcastle Restaurant Review: Nagisa Japanese

by Natalie Bennett on July 23, 2011

Sometimes it seems like people fall into one of two groups - those who find comfort of the familiar ‘meat and three veg’ meal, & then there are those who thrive on the exhilaration of experiencing the unexplored, the uncommon or exotic culinary offerings. It’s a fortunate thing when you find a restaurant that caters to both… & Nagisa does just that.

If you belong to the first category, you’ll be pleased to hear that the off-putting smell of raw fish is non-existent, the rare Wagu beef tastes better than when it’s well-done, and the sake is of such a high quality it is served chilled! This is a great place to take up the challenge to change your spots and try something from the Orient in this beautiful, culturally enriched Japanese restaurant.

If you belong to the second category, if you haven’t already, go to Nagisa and experience Japanese food prepared by one of the best. Sushi, teppan, sashimi, tempura, sake and tofu served here will only make you fall in love with Japanese cuisine all over again!

Now, some of the main things people think of when Japanese cuisine is on the menu is raw fish and rice. Nagisa offers some of the freshest Unagi and California Roll, sushi & sashimi, as well as non-fish alternatives like Wagyu beef or the Tempura Soft-Shell Crab.

All this aside, if you like the idea of dinner and a show, then perhaps you could try Teppanyaki. Teppanyaki is a Japanese term which refers to ‘dishes that are cooked using an iron plate’. At Nagisa, Teppanyaki is available and provides a more interactive dining experience as guests sit around the ‘iron plate’ and watch as a chef cooks their meals.

Before Nagisa, whenever I heard Teppanyaki I would immediately shake my head NO! Previous experiences with Teppanyaki have resulted in raw eggs, rice, and entire meals being thrown directly at my head. Now I suppose I can see a little of the theatrical value in this show but I would rather just eat the food and drink the sake. That’s why Nagisa is for me, serving delicious food in a more respectful and traditional manner, by handing it to you.

Here are a few of my favourite things about Nagisa…

1. They make rare Wagu beef taste awesome.
2. They do NOT throw food.
3. Their sushi made me like sushi!
4. It is a beautiful atmosphere for any occasion!

Therefore, without the fear of spending the night with egg white oozing down your top, or that lingering fishy smell which comes with many sushi bars, and my word that their food is great, there seems to be nothing to worry about! Try Nagisa next time you’re feeling adventurous, no doubt you will keep going back!

Nagisa Japanese Restaurant is located at N2 The Boardwalk, 1 Honeysuckle Dr, Newcastle 2300

For Nagisa’s menus, restaurant history and events go to their website.