My fiancé read good reviews of this place on Facebook. We checked the pictures of the dishes and they seemed great. We went on a Saturday at noon and the restaurant was almost empty. We asked for the menus and to our surprise, none of the dishes posted on their Facebook account could be found there. Either the choices were too much (like a $35 huge meal) or too small (appetizers). I felt disappointed (and a bit deceived) because I couldn't find anything I wanted to try, and I am a fan of Asian food.
I also forgot to mention we arrived with our 3-year-old. I could tell the owner (or manager, not sure) was NOT pleased with us because of it. She was constantly hovering over him despite me being on top of him. The worst was when she wiped his face just mere seconds after he had taken a bite.
We quickly finished our entrees (which were pretty unremarkable) and asked for the bill. Since parking is impossible in Portland (and given the fact that the nice weather meant TONS of tourists), my fiancé asked the same woman if we could leave our car in their parking lot for a short time (he was expecting even paying a small fee for that). Her response: "What car do you have?" "A red Camry"-we replied. "If I come out and your car is here, I'll have your car towed".
Now we know why this place was empty. Do yourself a favor a go someplace else. There are plenty of good Asian restaurants in Portland that have better...
Read moreEach dish here is meticulously prepared with the freshest ingredients and a meticulous attention to detail that shines through in every bite. The sushi, in particular, was a standout - fresh, melt-in-your-mouth fish served with perfectly seasoned rice that elevated the dining experience to new heights.
One of the highlights of my visit was sitting at the sushi bar and watching the skilled chefs work their magic. Their expertise and precision in crafting each piece of sushi was a sight to behold, and added an extra element of excitement to the meal.
The service at Benkay was exemplary, with attentive staff members who were knowledgeable about the menu and always willing to offer recommendations. The warm hospitality and genuine passion for Japanese cuisine were apparent in every interaction, further enhancing the overall dining experience.
In addition to the exceptional food and service, the ambiance at Benkay was sophisticated yet inviting, making it the perfect setting for a special night out. The subtle Japanese decor and tranquil atmosphere created a serene backdrop for a meal that was truly unforgettable.
Overall, my dining experience at Benkay Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar was nothing short of spectacular. The combination of exquisite cuisine, impeccable service, and elegant ambiance made it a dining destination that I can't wait...
Read moreMy family and I recently visited this Japanese restaurant for dinner, and it was an absolutely delightful experience. For our appetizers, we ordered miso soup and seafood soup, both of which were warm, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. Along with the soups, we selected a variety of dishes that you can see in the accompanying pictures, each beautifully presented and incredibly fresh.
For the main course, we indulged in a stunning spread of sashimi and sushi. The sashimi was expertly sliced, melt-in-your-mouth fresh, and paired wonderfully with the accompanying garnishes. The sushi rolls were equally impressive, with balanced flavors and immaculate presentation. Each bite was a testament to the quality of ingredients and the chef’s skill.
The ambiance of the restaurant added to the overall experience—it was cozy yet elegant, with a calm and inviting atmosphere. The staff was attentive and knowledgeable, making us feel welcome and ensuring our dining experience was seamless.
If you’re a fan of authentic Japanese cuisine or simply looking for a place to enjoy a delicious meal, I can’t recommend this restaurant enough. It’s definitely a spot we’ll be...
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