Jiko vs Narcoossee

[IMGONNABE40!]

I have an ADR at Jiko for my husband and I to have a late dinner--just the two of us--for our upcoming stay. We are a group of 10, and all other TS are for groups of 10.

I have long wanted to eat at Jiko. However, due to the construction at AKL we have been moved from AKL to GF. So, now I am wondering whether I should switch our romantic dinner for 2 over to Narcoossee. I have never seen the place. I have been in Jiko during the culinary tour and like the atmosphere there. I have looked at menus for both, and have know we would enjoy both menus. So, I guess it is really the atmosphere.

What do you guys think?

 

[Kata]

I can't really comment on the romance factor (because I travel alone)but I had the best meal of my life at Jiko.I am actullaly staying at AKL 3 nights and plan an eating there 2 nights. The chicken flatbread,tenderloin ,mac and cheese,and chocolate pistachio creme brulee were awesome. I haven't heard that the construction has tampered anyone's dining experience,I think they are done earlier in the day. I have also eaten at Narcoosse's and it was good I would never choose it over Jiko.If you have always wanted to try Jiko I think you should go and enjoy it.I am sure the romance will be there where ever you go.Have fun whatever you decide!!!!!

 

[Twigs]

I have eaten at both places and liked both very much. As for the romance factor, I would have to say Jiko. Narcoosee's is a lot brighter and nosier. Not that it is a noisy restaurant, it isn't, just not what I would call a romantic atmosphere. I would make the trip to AKL.

 

[chamonix]

I would also say that although I really like both restaurants, for romance, Jiko wins--if for no other reason, the walk into the lodge through the lobby is very romantic, and you said you liked the atmosphere there. You could also take a walk out to view the animals as well, or sit by the fireplace......very romantic.....

 

[deej696]

I have not dined at Jiko, however I had dinner at Narcoossee's last night. Fantistic table next to the window with a great view across the lake to MK and CR. Food and service were both great. I cant wait to go back!

 

[Ron from Michigan]

I would stick with Jiko. The food and service are excellent. It is the one restaurant we eat at on every trip.

 

[pilferk]

I have an ADR at Jiko for my husband and I to have a late dinner--just the two of us--for our upcoming stay. We are a group of 10, and all other TS are for groups of 10.

I have long wanted to eat at Jiko. However, due to the construction at AKL we have been moved from AKL to GF. So, now I am wondering whether I should switch our romantic dinner for 2 over to Narcoossee. I have never seen the place. I have been in Jiko during the culinary tour and like the atmosphere there. I have looked at menus for both, and have know we would enjoy both menus. So, I guess it is really the atmosphere.

What do you guys think?

Might I ask when your trip is?

I would normally have said, 100% of the time, stick with Jiko's.

But reportedly Chef Annette is leaving Jiko's in mid-July. I'm not sure what that will mean for them, but I'd almost be hesitant to recommend eating there until the impact of her departure plays out. She was a VERY strong influence in Jiko's menu. I'm not sure who is replacing her, but any head chef is likely to institute changes, and I think I'd rather wait to see what the impact of those is first. Probably minimal, but who knows....

That said, if it's any time before mid-July (or even late July, since I'd assume any changes would be gradual), I'd say stick with Jiko's. It's worth the trek.

 

[ElizabethB]

Jiko has better food. They're about the same on ambience -- neither is terribly romantic due to lots of kids running, crying, etc. We've actually found Narcoosee's to be a little quieter than Jiko.

You can see the fireworks at Narcoosee's. You can view the animals if you walk out back after dinner.

 

[kritter]

Narcoosees' is awesome!!!!!!!

 

[DisBride2007]

JIKO! JIKO! JIKO!

Jiko is one of our must-do's every trip. It is very quiet and romantic, and it's very rare to see children there (and they're usually very well-behaved, when you do see them).

Narcoosee's was just okay for us. Okay menu... okay atmosphere... I'm not saying we'd never go back, but we're not rushing back.

Plus, this will get you out of the GF and to the AKL to check out the animals!