It's not bad, but it's also not great. The service at this place is attentive, but it's not overly surprising with the lack of patrons for a Friday evening. The starter soups were bland, but as they were included with the lunch, I wasn't surprised. The sushi was good, it's definitely above average. The spicy tuna was actually spicy and tasted fresh as did the other ingredients within the rolls I had. The hibachi was okay, it was overly salty, definitely filling, but I didn't find the value in what was given.
The ramen was the most disappointing part unfortunately, the broth didn't really have a cohesive flavor, nor did the ingredients that came with it, and the noodles were slightly overcooked.
Another thing to note is the vibe the restaurant gives off online is a complete 180 from the vibe you get when you are inside the restaurant. It's not very comfortable if you are looking to sit down and it's also kind of dark.
Overall, this restaurant has potential, but it really needs to invest further in things that make it unique, focusing more on Japanese cuisine and offering items that restaurants in the area don't already offer. The chef special items look promising, but I didn't see or hear about them until after I ate my meal. Offer things like Onigiri, chicken katsu with curry, Japanese inspired rice bowls, okonomiyaki, kare pan, gomae, and even bento boxes instead of lunch specials.
Having a diverse selection outside of just sushi and hibachi, will definitely drive a larger crowd (also offer more vegetarian options). Instead of just being looked at as another strip mall sushi and hibachi restaurant. I hope to come back in a few months and give this restaurant...
Read moreDisappointing experience. Food was absolutely lacking in freshness, presentation and taste. The food’s over the top decor felt like it was compensating for the lack of quality. Atmosphere felt sad, and every customer looked like they regretted their choice to dine at this Nagoya sushi. I came here because I was grieving the loss of the Nagoya sushi on Dr. Phillips, which had closed after 23 years, and was known for its made to order fresh sushi which felt like it came right from Japan. I thought this Nagoya was another location, or would at least be a good replacement. It was not. The waitress and service was friendly, but felt a little rushed, almost like they wanted me to order more because they knew I would not be coming back. The first appetizer sushi I got was from the happy hour, it was a crab and cream cheese sushi roll. It looked cold, and the rice was barely clinging on to the roll. The edamame I ordered was good, my mom liked it, but lacked passion in the seasoning. The crab Rangoons I ordered were also nothing like a freshly made one, but at least they were hot. My mother had ordered two happy hour sushi rolls, which were supposed to be fried. I had ordered the ramen. Her dish had way too much going on with the decor, and when I tried a roll it was like it was too much, but simultaneously lacking in substance. My ramen was the same, just okay, with some elements seeming suspiciously frozen. Afterward, I had wondered how this restaurant had the same score or better as many fine dining restaurants! I have no idea what the other customers who wrote 5 star reviews were eating that was so good, but I’d like some of that too. Overall...
Read moreAte here on a Wednesday night and appreciated that it wasn’t too busy, we were seated right away with a few open tables around. The restaurant itself has a warm, homey feel. It gave off “hidden gem” vibes when we walked in, which had me excited to try it.
We ordered the "party one" platter with the chef’s choice: 10 pieces of sushi, 20 pieces of sashimi, a spicy tuna roll, and a rainbow roll. It was presented beautifully, visually, a real standout. That said, the sashimi pieces were quite large, which made them a bit difficult to eat in one bite. Coming from San Diego, where I'm used to a different style and portion size when it comes to sushi, this might just be a regional difference or a house style.
My only other note is that the sushi was slightly warmer than I’m used to by the time it arrived at the table. I’m guessing the size of the platter meant it took a while to prepare, and that may have played a part, or it just isnt what I am accustomed to.
On the plus side, the service was truly excellent. The staff were kind, respectful, and incredibly attentive. They cleared dishes and checked in before we even realized we needed anything. That kind of hospitality really made the evening feel special.
Overall, a cozy spot with great service. The sushi style just wasn’t quite what I’m used to, but for those who enjoy more generous cuts, this place...
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