Hello dear
Welcome To Daruma Umhlanga
Daruma Umhlanga, located in The Pearls Mall, offers an unforgettable dining experience with its unique teppanyaki format. Guests can enjoy meals prepared right in front of them, fostering an engaging atmosphere. Patrons rave about the freshness and quality of the dishes, with highlights like teriyaki chicken and expertly cooked salmon. The attentive service, exemplified by staff like Wandile and chef Philane, enhances the overall experience, making each visit memorable. Though it leans on the pricier side, the exceptional quality and vibrant ambiance make Daruma a must-visit spot in Umhlanga for anyone seeking a remarkable culinary adventure.
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About
Daruma Umhlanga
If you're in the mood for a culinary adventure that tantalizes the senses, make your way to Daruma Umhlanga. Nestled in the heart of The Pearls Mall at Umhlanga Rocks, this dynamic dining destination offers more than just a meal; it's an immersive experience. With chef stations bustling with energy, you can literally witness your food being prepared right before your eyes. The interactive teppanyaki experience captivates diners, making every meal feel special.
Customers rave about the lively ambiance, perfectly complementing the exquisite flavors on the plate. One delighted diner, Nadeen R, enjoyed the sizzling spectacle but noted a minor stumble with the lamb being overcooked. Yet, the overall enjoyment was enhanced by attentive service—something that echoed through multiple reviews.
The culinary prowess of chef Philane has gained significant praise, with many guests noting that dining at Daruma is a must when in KwaZulu-Natal. Highlights include the delectable teriyaki chicken served alongside fresh vegetables and egg fried rice, a combination that not only satisfies the palate but also excites the senses as it cooks right in front of you.
Wandile, a friendly waitress, has been recognized for her exceptional hospitality, ensuring diners feel welcomed. Alongside her, chef Melusi has been noted for his precision in cooking, consistently delivering dishes that are fresh, delicious, and visually stunning. Verushka Naidoo emphasized the importance of this consistent quality, stating that while Daruma may be on the pricier side, it promises an unforgettable experience—one that lingers long after the meal is over.
Overall, Daruma Umhlanga offers a unique blend of entertainment and quality dining. With rave reviews highlighting delicious offerings such as salmon that some claim to be the best they've ever tasted, it's clear that a visit here is not just about eating; it's about creating lasting memories around good food and outstanding service.
If you're looking for a special night out—complete with stellar dishes and a vibrant atmosphere—Daruma Umhlanga should be at the top of your list.
People talk
Our Guestbook
“ Lovely atmosphere and great experience to sit at the chef's table as they prepare your meal in front of you. The teppanyaki was really good but the lamb was overcooked. Service was very good. ”
“ Wow a must do experience if you in KzN.. good food lovely ambience... Great chef Philane ”
“ We had a great experience at Daruma in Umhlanga. Our waitress Wandile was friendly and helpful, and our teppanyaki chef Melusi cooked our food perfectly right in front of us. We ordered the teriyaki chicken with vegetables and egg fried rice, and everything was fresh, tasty, and cooked just right. The whole experience was fun and enjoyable. We’ll definitely be back. ”
“ Daruma consistently delivers a great experience. While it may be on the pricier side, the quality and unique dining experience are well worth it. The teppenyaki is our go-to order, and both the food and service are always top-notch. Highly recommended for those seeking something special. ”
“ I recently had dinner here and my girlfriend and I had a great night, I would recommend sitting at the teppanyaki station for the best experience. The food was delicious and my GF said the salmon was the best she has ever tasted. Will definitely return. ”
“ My partner has a shellfish allergy. We made them aware on arrival and to be fair they went above and beyond to ensure the grill and utensils were properly cleaned. We were well looked after and the food was fantastic. Great service can't wait to go back ”
“ We went here for mums bday, it was just the 4 of us, we booked in advance and requested to sit by the grill for the experience, it was definitely an experience. The food was good, and it was a great service. It was a bit pricey, considering that we shared a tapenyaki platter and starters. The platter, however, was enough for the 4 of us. Overall, it was a great experience if you wanted to try out the hibachi experience. ”
“ Sure! Here’s a review you could post: ⸻ Daruma Umhlanga – Superb Food, but Service Falls Short I recently dined at Daruma Umhlanga and have mixed feelings about the experience. The food was undoubtedly superb—every bite felt carefully crafted. I especially enjoyed the sushi; although a bit above average in price, the quality justified the splurge. The fried egg rice was slightly oily but packed with flavour and paired perfectly with the crispy chicken panko. However, the service left much to be desired. The staff seemed sluggish and lacked the warmth and attentiveness you’d expect at a restaurant of this calibre. Once our orders were placed, the menus were taken away, and it felt like we vanished off their radar. There was no follow-up, no chance to order anything further, and getting the bill was almost a mission in itself. To top it off, the usual visit or check-in from a manager—something you’d expect during a sit-down meal—never happened. All in all, if you’re going just for the food, it’s a win. But if you value a complete dining experience with attentive service, you might leave feeling a bit down. ”