Pocha image

Pocha

Restaurant Bar Chicken restaurant Chicken wings restaurant Korean restaurant

One of the Top rated Chicken restaurants in Auckland


Address

50 Kitchener Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand

Website

pocha.co.nz

Contact

+64 9 309 2342

Price rating

$$ $$

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Friday: 5 pm to 2 am
  • Saturday: 5 pm to 2 am
  • Sunday: 5 pm to 12 am
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 5 pm to 12 am
  • Wednesday: 5 pm to 12 am
  • Thursday: 5 pm to 12 am

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: chicken (26) Korean (20) fried (13) dishes (12) sauce (10) service (10) Pocha (9) dish (8) restaurant (7) great (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Johnny P. 1 year ago on Google
    Pocha is known to be one of the most Iconic Korean restaurant in Auckland CBD and for good reason. Recommend this spot if you are coming with a large group of friends and are craving Korean food. I tried a bunch of dishes from here and everything was pretty solid. Ordered items: - Almond krunch fried chicken - Corn krunch fried chicken - Soy chilli fried chicken - beef brisket soybean stew 👍 8/10 - spicy rice cakes 👍8.5/10 - beef tartare Beef brisket soybean stew: Super flavourful broth, flavour profile is umami and like creamy. Loved the meats and vegetables that were in the broth. All worked really well together. It's just really comforting to eat. Spicy rice cakes: Loved everything about this dish. The dish had some ramen noodles, cabbage, carrots, fish cakes, stretchy cheese and nice chewy tteokbokki. But the star of the dish was the sauce. The sauce itself was not really spicy. However, it was creamy, sweet and savoury. Honestly, the sauce was drinkably good.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chris “BostonGreekGeek” V. 2 months ago on Google • 489 reviews New
    We came here for dinner the other day. As soon as we sat down they came by and brought us water. I love any place that brings water first thing. After that we scanned the qr code for our order and as soon as we pressed submit, some one came by with our drinks. Later when I pressed a button we had on the table, to call someone to ask how to pay, the person was there in seconds. So as far as service goes, they are amazing. The food was great, with the only complaint being, that the dishes are all to share with a minimum of 2 people. The problem with that is as my wife said, you can't get 100% of what you want.. and if everyone wants the same thing, you won't realize that it's an issue, but I wanted the maple coated fried chicken, whereas my wife does not want anything with sweet flavors when eating main dishes. Now it's not a big issue, but I couldn't try the maple chicken I wanted. I still enjoyed what we got, but there is that limitation. The other thing I liked, is that even for their outdoor seating they have a glass ceiling to protect you from rain and they even have side covering if needed. They even have heaters for cold nights. So I would recommend it, just keep in mind to check the menu too make sure you can agree on everything before you go ;/
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raven G. 2 years ago on Google
    If you are craving for Korean food, look no further because Pocha is simply one of the best! Such a delight tasting one of their signature dish Almond Krunch chicken which you can enjoy on its own, or with the dipping sauce, or with salad on the side. The Ramdon which is a noodle with vege & boneless beef ribs inspired from the movie "Parasite"-- is slurp-worthy because the sauce is flavourful and beef so tender. The The Honey butter chips was a treat. The Yukhoe' (beef tartare) is to die for (garlicky, nutty, little sweetness because of the apple slices, and meaty!). All in all, the food are delicious! The cleanliness is great too, the vibe is awesome, and the staff are friendly. So what are you waiting for? Next time you are going to town for a drink, or just want to enjoy a great meal with some treats, Pocha is no doubt the place to be! ❤💯⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jeanie M. 9 months ago on Google • 66 reviews
    I'm a big Korean BBQ lover so it was a sign from Big Man G to tell my Usos to surprise me with dinner here. Absolutely beautiful food. Big fat beautiful portions at a reasonable price. Great service and chill atmosphere x highly recommend 😍
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David H. 1 year ago on Google
    Big menu literally. Great food and atmosphere. Price looks high but they are big servings meant for 2-3 people so definitely I would consider them reasonably priced. Very popular price to dine in the city. The only thing I dislike is smoking is allowed outside? Unfortunately my eating pleasure was affected by a bunch of young smokers sitting close to us.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Khurram A. 1 year ago on Google
    The Almond coated fried chicken was quite average and dry. Had to order extra sauce for it. The fried rice are better but way over priced. Overall the place is average food at high price. The only benefit is its open till late night.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 B F. 5 months ago on Google • 135 reviews
    Good batter (fry) but I was actually surprised by the lack of seasoning. To clarify, without sauce the chicken was fairly bland. My favorite item was actually the kimchi pancake although I had went for the chicken. If I return I would not likely try the KFC again, there is a lot to chose from on the menu.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 William W. Perez R. 8 months ago on Google • 75 reviews
    I recently dined at the Korean restaurant, Pocha, and I must say it was an exceptional experience. The food was absolutely delicious, offering a wide range of authentic Korean dishes that truly satisfied my taste buds. The flavors were rich and authentic, showcasing the depth of Korean cuisine. What impressed me equally was the impeccable customer service. The staff at Pocha were attentive and friendly, ensuring that every aspect of our dining experience was top-notch. They were knowledgeable about the menu and even provided recommendations based on our preferences. The ambiance of the restaurant was cozy and inviting, adding to the overall enjoyment of the meal. From the moment I entered to the moment I left, I felt welcomed and valued as a guest. In conclusion, Pocha is a gem of a Korean restaurant that not only serves excellent food but also provides outstanding customer service. It's a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic and delightful Korean dining experience.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Grace M. 2 years ago on Google
    Food is outstanding and so is the service. I have a peanut allergy and Pocha was very accommodating. They let me know which dishes contained peanuts and made sure there was no cross contamination involved. The garlic butter chicken was my favourite 🤩
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Duncan T. 8 months ago on Google
    Pocha is the go to spot! Definitely a great spot thats pumping in the evenings. not only do the provide good vibes they also provide really good food. Yes dishes can be a tad pricey but it was all worth it. I had Yukhue there for the first time and can definitely say its blew my mind. too bad all the chicken was sold out on the night but i will 100% be back.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 KJ 8 months ago on Google
    We had an unforgettable experience last night with ?owner/manager. At first, we were disappointed when we realised that they didn't pack the main sauce for crunchy chicken, on the way home (we were already on highway). I called him to prepare it so that we can quickly pick it up. We were very impressed with how the owner reacted and handled his mistake - very apologetic and willing to come meet us for the single sauce!! It was not a complimentary drink and food, but his attitude that made us feel respected. We sincerely appreciate your courtesy and kindness. If we visit Auckland next time, we will sit and enjoy more Korean cuisine:) The almond crunchy chicken with Jalapeño mayo sauce and corn cheese were excellent as well!! Would recommend to all my friends!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 D V. 1 year ago on Google
    Very happy to see the restaurant to survive through COVID. Generous portions, especially delicious dishes, especially the Almond Krunch. Can’t wait to go back again!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 2/5 Jean L. 1 year ago on Google
    This is not a place for two people. The food quality is between average and poor. Most meals are a bit pricey but considering the massive portion of the meal, it is understandable. More importantly, I hated the environment allowing people to smoke at the outside table and it was not informed at all. The sweet and spicy chicken has only a little piece of chicken and is covered with lots of sources with unbalanced flavours. I barely ate. The Spicy Korean Army Soup was fine, but the taste is not something that I used to have as 부대찌개.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ryan M. 2 years ago on Google
    The spicy almond fried chicken was great. So were the other 2 fried dishes I tried. Don't come here looking for healthy choices! The only thing missing was the beer!? The fried food is screaming out for it as a compliment. Their water pitchers even advertise Korean Hite beer, which isn't even on the menu. Suggest to install a keg/tap and serve beer jugs and towers, and have some imported korean beer too.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Chloe D. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is suitable for drinking on weekends with loud music. We came here on a Friday night, the restaurant was busy. Tables and chairs arranged very close together, not convenient in and out. You should consider when ordering. It's a big serving. Ambience: 6/10. Service: 8/10. Food: 8/10.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Chris 2 years ago on Google
    My go to Korean drinking & fried chicken place. Fried chicken is awesome, however other dishes could do some work - very pricey with an average taste. General vibe and atmosphere is great for drinking. Well trained and attentive service is also a bonus.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Rung -Sammy -. 3 months ago on Google • 104 reviews New
    The food was nice and yum. The fride chicken were amazing, a bit over prices. The shop is always busy.

  • 4/5 Sefa P. 5 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    The almond fried chicken looks and sounds better than it tastes. It's not bad, just not as flavourful as I expected. Other options probably have more flavour. However, the staff are wonderful and they kept insisting on NZ info hababa Also, it's overall kinda expensive. Not much cheap solo options. It's more for large groups that wanna share plates.

  • 5/5 Larry K. 4 months ago on Google • 12 reviews
    It was the best Korean food ever. Living in NZ over 9 years, this place is the greatest Korean restaurant. All the food was quick and tasty!! All of front house staff look like very moody, but they are friendly every single time when I ask them something. Thanks for the great experience! (I'm Korean anyway)

  • 3/5 Vignesh A. 1 year ago on Google
    Great customer service. It was first time trying Pocha. Ordered their special rice dish and almond fried spicy chicken. Not the best Korean I ever tried or maybe not worth the hype. Maybe I ordered the wrong dish ! But still, should have tasted like the other flavour full Korean dishes. ( Strictly my opinion)

  • 5/5 Sarah C. 1 year ago on Google
    We got the sweet and sour chicken dish here for take away and it was MASSIVE! It says it feeds two but it could easily feed four. It was so good we ate it cold for breakfast on our way back to Tauranga the next day!

  • 5/5 Jesse T. 9 months ago on Google
    Some of the best most well known Korean fried chicken in Auckland. Great outdoor seating. Can't recommend enough.

  • 4/5 IsH 1 year ago on Google
    Delicious food, reasonable price, cheaper if eat with group. Big portion. Almost always crowded, better to make a reservation. The service could be better though - smiling more?

  • 5/5 Renee S. 1 year ago on Google
    The most mouthwatering chicken I have ever come across in Auckland CBD, let alone NZ! Pocha's succulent and flavorful dishes leave you with straight facts that they've spent plenty of time on really refining their secret recipe to perfection. Not only is the quality of each dish super on point, but they're also certainly not stingy with their portion size... their XL chicken and soup/stew dishes are HUGE. When awaiting your meal, with everyone else's orders passing by from the kitchen, it really makes you want to order one of everything off the menu, so be warned... dangerously delicious aromas on-premises. Also I have to mention that the staff there are super friendly and helpful!! 10/10 no doubt!

  • 5/5 Ingrid M. 6 months ago on Google
    We came from Australia for family holiday and we had dinner after Hobbiton tour and it was a rainy/cold day. We ordered honey butter fries, ugly cheese ball, grilled pork belly and popcorn chicken. The food was good, quick service and despite sitting outside it wasn’t too cold. I had a lovely chat with Song when paying our bill. He’s used to live at Hornsby (Sydney). Thank you so much for lovely food, service and chat. It warmed our heart in rainy and cold day after such tiring trip of Matamata.

  • 5/5 Jon P. 3 months ago on Google • 1 review New
    Amazing Korean food in the heart of Auckland. Staff are super friendly and the food was delicious. Would definitely recommend. Should definitely make a reservation beforehand.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍


Call +64 9 309 2342 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Payments
    • ✓️ Debit cards
    • ✓️ Credit cards
    • ✓️ NFC mobile payments
  • Offerings
    • ✓️ Beer
    • ✓️ Wine
    • ✓️ Alcohol
    • ✓️ Spirits
    • ✓️ Cocktails
    • ✓️ Small plates
    • ✓️ Late-night food
    • ✓️ Vegetarian options
  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible seating
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance
  • Dining options
    • ✓️ Lunch
    • ✓️ Dinner
    • ✓️ Dessert
    • ✓️ Seating
  • Service options
    • ✓️ Dine-in
    • ✓️ Delivery
    • ✓️ Takeaway
    • ✓️ Outdoor seating

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