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Akira Japanese Restaurant
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Akira Japanese Restaurant
8.0
Comfortable, chef-led sashimi and nigiri with a tight hot menu in a polished neighborhood space. Consistent execution and warm service make it a reliable sit-down sushi choice.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase sashimi, Black cod miso, Hamachi kama
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
Akira Japanese Restaurant
8.0
Comfort-leaning neighborhood Japanese with balanced nigiri, hot apps, and welcoming service. Portions and pricing make it a popular weeknight choice near Polk.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi deluxe, Hamachi kama, Dragon roll
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Balanced menu that treats sushi and cooked dishes with equal care.
Who should go: Families and neighborhood regulars
When to visit: Weeknights before 7pm for quicker seating
What to order: Chirashi; hamachi kama; dragon roll
Insider tip: Ask about half-rice nigiri if you prefer lighter portions.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking with meters; spaces can be competitive after 6pm. No valet service available.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans and sweaters are common, though some diners dress up for evening outings.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is possible at most tables, though larger groups can raise the volume on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; easy to walk in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple vegetarian sushi rolls, tempura vegetables, and tofu dishes are available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few rolls and hot sides can be made vegan, but menu is not designed around it.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free soy sauce available upon request, and several nigiri and sashimi items are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re looking for a relaxed, unpretentious setting with dependable food. It’s not overly intimate, so it works best for casual or early-stage dates.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but waits are common at peak dinner hours. Reservations are recommended on weekends; weeknights before 7pm are usually fine for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families are regulars here. The menu includes approachable items like teriyaki and udon, and the staff is accommodating with younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Balanced menus where both sushi and hot Japanese dishes are equally reliable, making it great for mixed groups.
Skip if: You’re seeking a fine-dining omakase or a trendy, cocktail-driven Japanese spot — this is more about comfort and consistency than luxury or scene.