Akari Japanese Restaurant (ILLAWARRA)

The food here is absolutely incredible—some of the best Japanese I’ve ever had! From the perfectly seared aburi salmon rolls to the fresh and flavourful mixed sashimi, every bite was a delight. The kingfish jalapeño was a standout dish, with its balance of spice and citrus adding a vibrant kick. The pork gyoza were perfectly cooked with a delicate crispy edge and a juicy filling. Not only was the food impeccable, but the service was also incredibly quick and efficient. The staff were lovely, attentive and ensured that everything was served at just the right time. This place is a must-visit for Japanese food lovers. I can’t wait to come back and try more of the menu. Highly recommend!

Tantalising fresh, tuna, nit the belly, but the soft back, on sushi rice with a heft of wasabi, fine balance and four pueces eith a smal slab of tuna on the side. This nigiri sushi is worth your cisit. The kingfish wasn't as soft and perhaps a little tired. But still fresh and a great taste. The seaweed salad was a treat, edamame beans, two types of seaweed, a smidge of carrot, finely cut white cabbage, tomato, capsicum, oak leaf lettuce, and a drizzle of mayonnaise dressing. It's fresh, bright and delivers some hefty tastesthis is fresh. Tasty, unadulterated Japanese in Wollongong's CBD. I'm going back. From my last visit: Fresh eggplant in a miso and hoisin sauces are nicely grilled and soft. Fresh tuna, kingfish, prawn and salmon are laid out, little soldiers, on a wonderful dish, and make a tantalising nigiri sushi. We added two miso soups, with the crispy pieces of tempura batter, and a stacked plate of prawn tempura and vegetables. All three were delicious and just what we needed after a movie. This restaurant offers a simple version of many popular dishes. And it works. Tasty, and easy on the wallet. From my last visit: Fresh sushi, nicely cooked eggplant with a thick miso sauce. And lightly fried agedashi (tofu) and nigiri sushi. Shame about the rice, it was too glutinous. Otherwise a nicely balanced and tasty dinner.

We loved the atmosphere but the sushi rice was a little too thick and you are not allowed to bring your own soft drinks.The service was a bit slow.