So, you’re looking for info about a restaurant called “Shiki”? That’s a great start! The name itself evokes images of beautiful seasons and fresh ingredients, a common theme in Japanese cuisine. But here’s the thing: “Shiki” isn’t just one restaurant. There are several, each with its own unique vibe and menu.
Japanese food is very popular, and a restaurant named “Shiki” is appealing.
The name “Shiki” refers to the seasons, and this is related to the usage of fresh ingredients.
Since multiple restaurants use the name “Shiki,” this review is intended to provide a general overview of what you might expect when dining at a restaurant named “Shiki,” based on information available from various locations and their offerings.
So, while we can’t pinpoint the definitive “Shiki” experience, we can explore the common threads and potential delights that await you at a restaurant Shiki.
Shiki Japanese Restaurant in Rochester, NY
If you’re looking for authentic Japanese cuisine in Rochester, NY, Shiki Japanese Restaurant is a great place to start. Here’s what you should know before you go:
Overview and History
Shiki first opened its doors in 2004. One of its defining characteristics is its dedication to using fresh ingredients. In fact, the restaurant is so committed to freshness that it may discontinue sushi items without notice if they run out of key ingredients. If you have your heart set on a particular dish, it’s probably a good idea to call ahead and confirm that it’s available.
Chef Tanaka: Experience and Philosophy
The heart and soul of Shiki is Chef Tanaka, who brings over 40 years of experience in Japanese cuisine to the restaurant. Chef Tanaka hails from Hokkaido, Japan, and his culinary journey has taken him from New York City to Rochester.
Before opening Shiki, Chef Tanaka honed his skills at a well-known restaurant in NYC and then contributed his expertise to another Rochester restaurant. He brings all of that experience and passion to Shiki.
When he’s not in the kitchen, Chef Tanaka enjoys some of the finer things in life, including Unagi (eel), Tamago (egg omelet), sake, Heineken, and a good round of golf.
Practical Information for Patrons
Here’s some practical information to help you plan your visit to Shiki:
- Restaurant Hours: (Insert typical restaurant hours here. If unavailable, remove this bullet point.)
- Takeout: Takeout options are available if you prefer to enjoy Shiki’s cuisine at home.
- Hiring: Shiki is currently hiring kitchen staff. If you’re interested in a position, you can email your application to [email protected].
- Reservations: To make a reservation, call 585-435-4710.
Shiki Japanese Restaurant in Orange County, CA
Shiki is a Japanese restaurant in Orange County, California with a long and storied history. But is it worth a visit?
History and Location
Shiki has been around since 1975, which is pretty impressive for any restaurant. What’s even more impressive is where it’s located. Shiki sits near the Katella exit off the 55 freeway, tucked away behind a Chevron gas station. You might not expect to find a decades-old, well-regarded Japanese restaurant in such a spot, and the location is definitely something people comment on. Some praise Shiki for thriving in such an unassuming spot, while others express concern about its visibility and how easy it is to get to.
Menu and Offerings
Shiki offers a wide variety of Japanese food, including sushi, teppanyaki, and traditional Japanese dishes. They also offer catering and to-go options, which is great if you want to enjoy their food at home. If you want to save a little money, Shiki has happy hour Monday through Thursday from 12-2pm and 5-7pm.
Here are some examples of what you can expect to pay:
- Bento Box Lunch Special: $8
- Sushi Combination Lunch Special: $8
- Dinner for two (2 combinations and some sushi): ~$60
- Yellowtail sashimi: 7 pieces for ~$15.50
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Customer reviews of Shiki are mixed. Many people praise the traditional Japanese food, especially the bento boxes and sushi combinations, and say the prices are very reasonable. Others have complained about the service, which some find to be inconsistent. The sushi quality can also vary. Some customers have also reported issues with reservations not being honored.
The teppanyaki experience seems to be particularly variable, with some people loving it and others finding it underwhelming.
Practical Advice for Diners
If you’re thinking of trying Shiki, here’s some advice based on customer feedback:
- Make a reservation, especially if you want a teppanyaki table. This will help you avoid a long wait.
- Call ahead to confirm your reservation and check on expected wait times.
- Be aware of the restaurant’s location and plan your route accordingly. It can be a little tricky to find.
- Be prepared for potentially inconsistent service. Hopefully, you’ll have a great experience, but it’s good to be aware of the possibility of issues.
Common Themes and Expectations at Shiki Restaurants
While each Shiki restaurant may have its own unique flair, there are a few common themes and expectations you can generally anticipate:
Freshness and Quality
Fresh ingredients are absolutely critical in Japanese cuisine. This is especially true for sushi, where the quality of the fish can make or break the entire dining experience. Like any restaurant that values quality, Shiki restaurants often rely on seasonal ingredients, which means that the menu may change depending on what’s available. For example, the Rochester location’s menu might shift based on the local availability of certain fish or produce.
Variety of Menu Options
You can expect to find a wide variety of traditional Japanese dishes at Shiki. Sushi is a mainstay, of course, but you’ll likely also find teppanyaki (dishes cooked on a large iron griddle right in front of you) and bento boxes (Japanese-style lunchboxes with a variety of small dishes). Shiki restaurants often offer a range of pricing options, from affordable lunch specials to more elaborate dinner combinations, so there’s usually something for every budget.
The Importance of Customer Service
Customer reviews sometimes highlight inconsistencies in service at Shiki restaurants. While many diners report excellent experiences, others mention occasional slow service or communication issues. To help ensure a positive experience, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation, especially for dinner or on weekends. If you have specific requests or dietary needs, it’s also a good idea to confirm those details in advance.
Authenticity and Tradition
Many Shiki restaurants demonstrate a commitment to authentic Japanese cuisine. You might find chefs like Tanaka, who bring years of experience and a deep understanding of Japanese culinary traditions to their work. The older Shiki restaurant in Orange County, for example, has a long history of serving traditional dishes, adding to its reputation for authenticity. While menus may vary slightly depending on location and chef, you can generally expect a focus on classic Japanese flavors and techniques.
In Closing
Shiki restaurants often offer a delightful experience focused on fresh ingredients and diverse menus. It’s important to remember that there are multiple restaurants using the name “Shiki,” and they may offer very different experiences. Each location has its own spin, so what you find at one Shiki might not match what you find at another.
Before you head out for a meal, it’s a good idea to do a little research into the specific Shiki restaurant you plan to visit. Reading recent reviews can give you a sense of what other diners have experienced. You might even want to call the restaurant directly to confirm their menu and hours.
Overall, Japanese cuisine is known for its artistry and flavor, and a meal at a well-regarded Shiki restaurant may be an experience you’ll remember for years to come. Enjoy!