Dokdo (Rosedale, North Shore City, New Zealand)

Recently, my daughter treated my wife and me to a delightful culinary experience at Dokdo, a hidden gem of a Korean restaurant nestled in the charming neighbourhood of Rosedale. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a cozy atmosphere that felt like a warm embrace, setting the stage for a truly remarkable dining adventure.

Dokdo may not boast an extravagant facade, but its unassuming charm and intimate ambiance immediately won us over. The limited seating arrangement creates an intimate setting, and I would highly recommend making a reservation to secure a spot. Throughout our visit, the staff provided exceptional service, attending to our every need with a genuine warmth and friendliness that made us feel like valued guests.

The menu at Dokdo offers a modest yet carefully curated selection of dishes, each one highlighting the authentic flavours of homestyle Korean cuisine. While the options may not be extensive, the quality and taste more than make up for it. What truly set Dokdo apart, however, was the banchan—the traditional side dishes that accompanied our meal. With each dish thoughtfully prepared and bursting with flavour, we were treated to a delightful array of tastes and textures. From the Myeolchi Bokkeum (Stir-Fried Anchovy) to the Maneuljjong Bokkeum (Stir-Fried Garlic Scapes), all banchan were a testament to the skill and expertise of the kitchen.

One standout dish that left a lasting impression was the Hog’s Backbone Stew (NZ$65.00). This hearty stew featured pork backbones which is very succulent and meaty, accompanied by an addictive broth that was rich in umami flavours from the Doenjang. The inclusion of generous chunks of potatoes added a satisfying heartiness to the dish, making it a substantial meal in itself.

Another highlight was the Korean Style Seafood Pancake (NZ$36.00). The pancake was a true masterpiece, expertly cooked to achieve a perfect balance of crispiness on the outside and a soft, flavourful interior. Bursting with an abundance of seafood, each bite was a delightful explosion of flavours that captured the essence of Korean cuisine.

As if the main dishes weren’t enough, Dokdo surprised us with a generous offering of complimentary banchan. The seven types of banchan, like the Myeolchi Bokkeum (Stir-Fried Anchovy Banchan), Saeng Seon Jeon (Korean Pan-fried Fish Fillets), Kongnamul-Muchim (Korean Bean Sprout Salad), Musaengchae (Korean Spicy Radish Salad), Eomuk Bokkeum (Stir-fried Fish Cake), Gamja-Bokkeum (Soy-Glazed Potatoes) and Maneuljjong Bokkeum (Stir-fried Garlic Scapes) elevated our dining experience to new heights. The combination of flavours, textures, and colours presented a true feast for the senses, highlighting the breadth and depth of Korean culinary traditions.

Dokdo is undeniably one of the best-kept secrets in Auckland’s culinary scene. Its unpretentious exterior belies the exceptional quality and authenticity found within. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed and embraced by the cozy atmosphere and outstanding service. The carefully crafted menu, complemented by the tantalizing banchan, transported us to the heart of Korean homestyle cooking. Our visit to Dokdo was not just a meal; it was a culinary journey that left an indelible mark on our taste buds and our hearts. If you’re seeking an unforgettable Korean dining experience in Auckland, look no further than Dokdo—a place where flavours come alive and traditional recipes are celebrated with every bite.

Dokdo
Address: 239 Rosedale Road, Albany, Auckland 0632, New Zealand
Phone: +649 415 0555