Located at 88 Claypath in Durham, Ajiwai Japanese & Korean has quickly gained a reputation for its authentic cuisine and outstanding service. Guests rave about the restaurant’s genuine approach to Korean and Japanese dishes, with particular highlights being the gyu teppan and bang bang chicken. Reviewers consistently mention the flavorful marinade of the beef, served alongside generous portions of soft white rice and fresh, vibrant vegetables. Lucie Tang shared her delight with the diverse menu, noting the excellent value for the large portion sizes.
The service, led by the warm and welcoming Agnes, adds to the inviting atmosphere of Ajiwai. Her friendly demeanor makes diners feel at home, enhancing the overall dining experience. Jim Ryan and Lovely Joy Santillan both echoed this sentiment, expressing admiration for the staff’s attentiveness and the restaurant’s light vibe.
Through each dish, from the savory sauces to the crispy textures, Ajiwai captures the heart and essence of Japanese and Korean flavors. It is a perfect haven for those craving a taste of home, especially for Asian visitors. With enthusiastic reviews promising a return visit, Ajiwai is undoubtedly a must-try culinary gem in Durham.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
No wheelchair-accessible car park
Service options
Offers delivery
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
Highlights
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves healthy options
Serves late-night food
Serves small plates
Serves spirits
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy
Crowd
Good for groups
Popular with tourists
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
Photos
Reviews For Ajiwai Japanese & Korean
Jim Ryan
Jun 28,2025
Dropped in for early evening meal for 8. Ordered wide range of Korean and Japanese dishes, all very authentic and served promptly by very friendly staff. Beer and soju were superb also. Wish we could find something similar in our local area. We would be in there every day.
Lucie Tang
Jun 7,2025
I had the gyu teppan and the beef was marinated in a nice savoury sauce. It was served with soft white rice, lettuce, kimchi and 2 korean sauces. It was very flavourful and a large portion size, making it good value for money. I came back the day after and tried their bang bang chicken, which was sweet and spicy on top of a bed of soft white rice, and the almonds gave a nice texture. Apart from the excellent food, what topped my experience was the service. Agnes has a very warm, welcoming aura about her and she always has a smile on her face. She makes you feel at home and makes the atmosphere of the restaurant. 10/10. A favourite in Durham, especially when you're Asian and homesick. Definitely coming back and bringing my friends here!
Lovely Joy Santillan
Jun 7,2025
The restaurant staff is really accommodating and friendly. The vibe is really light. Food is genuine and close to perfection, I have been coming back for the 9th time now with my friends and husband.
Dexter Cases
May 28,2025
The best Japanese Korean restaurant in Durham. Everything we ordered were soo good and large portions. Staff are so friendly especially . I will definitely visit again next time I am back in Durham.
Lumiere
May 14,2025
Got Gyu Teppan and it was amazing!! Huge portion and the beef was marinated in a very savoury sauce. The vegetables given were also fresh, and it goes well with the beef. Service was also very good.
Malina Wyszynska
Apr 15,2025
My friends and I eat at Ajiwai every chance we get. The food and service are excellent!! Today we had cripsy gyoza, sriracha fries, bang bang chicken and tempura fries, everything was absolutely DELICIOUS :)) I also highly recommend their Chicken Ramen, it’s one of my all-time favorites!
Angie Frank
Apr 14,2025
Really enjoyed my dinner here. I had a spicy tuna roll, a glass of wine and chicken ramen. All delicious and the staff was very friendly as well. I’m visiting from the US. Thank you for the great meal!
Christina M Theophanides
Mar 17,2025
The food here is made fresh and is delicious and well worth trying. The portion sizes are fab, so it's definitely well worth taking someone to share with and try a few different menu items
Reviews For Ajiwai Japanese & Korean