Kai Japanese Restaurant — Restaurant in Port Coquitlam

Let me preface this by saying that I don’t usually write reviews- in fact, this is my first one. The service was so subpar that I felt compelled to write one.

Absolutely terrible service- the worst I’ve ever seen. I wouldn’t have as much as a problem if their terrible behaviour was consistent with every guest- however, they seem to treat some people better than others.

When we first walked in, we were ignored by all the servers. Many were leisurely walking around, yet none of them had the courtesy to greet us while we stood there, waiting to talk to one of them. I understand that there were many people, since it was the weekend- however, it appeared that there were some servers available, evident by their aimless wandering. They had many opportunities to acknowledge us, yet they did not. Despite this initial behaviour, we decided to be patient by taking a seat until one of them would take the time to check in with those waiting. However, none of them approached us even after several minutes. As we waited, a group of people entered and they were immediately seated- apparently they had enough time to immediately greet the new guests, but not those who had been waiting for a while. Obviously, we asked them what was going on. They explained that the group was let in because they had reservations already- alright, but where was that communication earlier when we entered? While they treated those with the reservation with adequate respect and kindness, we were not spoken to in the same manner. We were in no way acknowledged when we entered, nor were we informed of the waiting time and that there were reservations already that would increase the waiting time. In fact, WE had to ask them for clarification- not once did they acknowledge even our presence before that. The server did not elaborate on what was going on, despite our obvious annoyance- no basic courtesy was shown throughout the entire interaction. When we asked how long it would take for us to be seated, they nonchalantly brushed us off and only showed remote interest when we stood up, ready to leave. Apparently their common sense only returns when they see the immediate risk of losing a customer.

Clearly, they prioritize certain people over others, and also lack basic respect towards their guests. Will never be coming back- the quality of the food in no way justifies this difference in behaviour.

P.S. the last time we visited, the service wasn’t excellent either, but in no way was it as bad as tonight. Regardless of what we experienced today, the restaurant in general seems to have trouble hiring courteous...

I may have to try it again, I was pretty disappointed with the food my first time there. We went after my girlfriend had great take-away sushi from the place. Apologies in advance, this is a long one since I really want to like the place!

First things first, the staff and service were incredible, especially for a new spot. They had the perfect mix of attentiveness and leaving you to your meal. 5 stars to them for that!

Ordered the usuals for a causal Japanese joint. The gyoza was definitely just heated up from frozen. Karaage was kind of a grey colour and had the texture of cheap calamari, very strange for what should be fried chicken. The takoyaki wasn't awful by any means but quite expensive for only four pieces.

Mains were a poke bowl for my girlfriend, it was just sashimi and rice, no marinade. The ingredients were really fresh but not tied together with a sauce of any sort like you'd expect in the dish. I had the pork katsu curry, once again almost no curry to speak of and it was very dry. The ingredients were also really fresh in this dish though.

With 2 beers and the tip, we paid north of $60. Overall I found it pretty unacceptable. The fact that there is cold beer on tap and good sushi may bring me back, but I'll avoid the cooked food...

First experience at this restaurant. Went with my wife for a date day lunch. Absolutely gorgeous interior. At the time we went (just after 1) it was near full capacity. COVID protocols very well done. I would guess half capacity for tables, mask when not seated, arrows on floor, separate entrance/exit. Staff was a wee bit on the slow side in seating us and taking our order. There was another table having a birthday and a further table with three small children so the atmosphere wasn't as serene as it could have been. Not necessarily the fault of the restaurant but having 3 children bombing around a restaurant is not cool, moreso during these times. The menu was typical fare, great variety, good lunch specials. We ended up ordering a Bento box, a volcano roll, spicy agedashi tofu, some kind of tuna roll, and miso soup. Overall food quality was great. I know timing for sushi can be off but we thought it odd to bring one person miso soup, agedashi tofu, and a roll before any shared rolls or soup for the other. Price was a bit more expensive than comparable but not bank breaking. Total for us with tip was just shy of $70. In closing, this place is still a reccomend but we'll keep to our regular sushi joint on...