My experience at Kokiyo Teriyaki in Central Eastside, Portland, was an absolute treat, and I can’t recommend this hidden gem at 1234 SE 7th Ave enough for anyone craving authentic, flavorful Japanese comfort food! Nestled in the vibrant Industrial District near OMSI, this family owned spot delivers a cozy, welcoming vibe paired with mouthwatering dishes that keep you coming back.
I ordered the Chicken Teriyaki with Gyoza combo, and it was a revelation. The chicken was perfectly charbroiled, tender, and coated in their signature homemade teriyaki sauce that strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory: truly some of the best teriyaki I’ve had in Portland! The gyoza were crispy yet juicy, and the steamed rice and fresh veggies rounded out a generous, satisfying plate.
I also tried the Honey Chicken, recommended by a loyal patron, and its subtle sweetness was addictive. The menu offers variety, from yakisoba to spicy pork bulgogi and even a unique burger special, all at wallet friendly prices.
The service is a standout: warm, genuine, and attentive. The staff, led by new ownership that has elevated the quality while preserving beloved recipes, greeted me with smiles and made me feel like a regular, even on my first visit. The restaurant is impeccably clean, with a charming, no frills atmosphere that feels like a true neighborhood spot. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or takeout, and they even offer delivery for those cozy nights in.
Located in the heart of Central Eastside, Kokiyo Teriyaki is a must visit for its delicious food, stellar service, and unbeatable value. Whether you’re a teriyaki purist or just exploring the area, this spot will leave you full and happy. I’m already looking forward to my next visit to try the Hot and Spicy...
Read moreToday, I stumbled upon the hidden gem that is Kokiyo, an old Teriyaki spot, and was pleasantly surprised by the experience. Upon entering, I was warmly greeted by one of the co-owners with a genuine smile and a friendly inquiry about my day. She recommended I try their 50/50 marinated beef and chicken, a suggestion that turned out to be exceptional. Compared to numerous other Teriyaki spots, Kokiyo exceeded all my expectations. The establishment was impeccably clean, the service was genuinely friendly, and the portions were incredibly generous. Every aspect of the meal was meticulously prepared, with the proteins cooked to perfection and the rice steaming and delicious. The vegetables were fresh, sautéed to crisp perfection, and the chicken and beef were expertly marinated, reflecting care and attention to detail. What truly impressed me was their homemade teriyaki and sweet gochujang condiments, proudly displayed on each table. Unlike other places where you have to plead for extra condiments, Kokiyo provides them generously, reflecting their commitment to customer satisfaction. I highly recommend giving this spot a try. It's a hidden gem in Portland, perfectly suited for the blue-collar lunch crowd seeking a fast, fresh, and value-packed meal. With generous portions and dishes freshly prepared by the chef and co-owner, Kokiyo has quickly become my new favorite teriyaki joint. The owners are clearly not amatures and obviously "get-it"... don't miss out on this friendly...
Read moreI have been going here since it opened and have loved it from the start. It was purchased by a new owner recently and now my favorite dishes are ruined even though the new owner personally promised me they were the same. The hot and spicy pork plate is my go to dish and now it's ruined. Prepared drastically differently with new ingredients that shouldn't be there. It should be hot and spicy pork over rice with steamed cabbage and broccoli on the side. Now the vegetables are cooked WITH the meat and they dumped a ton of mushrooms, carrots, onions and sesame seeds in it while there is almost no cabbage and broccoli what so ever. There is an inch deep layer of water in the bottom of the food because of this causing the vegetables to become mushy. I now have to spend 20 minutes picking mushrooms out of my teriyaki before I can eat it. My mother ordered the hot and spicy chicken bento wich has been fer go to dish for 20+ years and while it tasted ok it was extremely oily. Something that was never the case before. If you're going to buy an established business with an established clientele who come in expecting to find what they love, don't lie to them and tell them the food is the same...
Read more