The Insider's Guide to New Zealand
Momiji
The Japanese city of Kyoto has a population of 1.5 million. Which is why Bizen Miyake and his wife, Tomoko, came to live in Whanganui. “We wanted somewhere small, less busy,” says Bizen. The couple opened Momiji, which means maple leaf, 2 years ago, after previously owning a restaurant in Japan for 10 years. The intimate restaurant serves izakaya-style meals that can be shared. There is a wide choice of bento boxes, tempura and bowl foods, plus sake and a selection of wine and beer. Closed Monday; licensed and BYO. 51 Victoria Street.
(06) 345 0444, on Facebook.