Ariake

The BEST sushi I have ever had - anywhere. Back when I still lived in SF, my Japanese friend Marna had tried to get me to go here for years. I should have trusted her long before I finally did, but she got me to go there 4 years ago. I've gone to maybe one other Sushi restaurant since, and I only went once. It was like sleeping with an army blanket after having a down comforter.

Now that I live in Walnut Creek, I will still save my sushi cravings until I'm going into the City. I have a sushi place a mile from my new home, and it's ok, but after Ariake, no way, not even close; I always leave disappointed. My best friend visits me from Montana at least once a year, and she only has one demand every time: we have to go to Ariake at least once.

The fish is the freshest I have ever had, Jin, the owner and sushi chef gets amazing special fishes all the time, in addition to the usual suspects on the menu. I've never had anything there that I didn't absolutely love. Jin has remembered my name from my first visit on (even my best friend's name, who he only sees once a year), and he always has a perfect idea for something new for us to try.

Jin's wife runs the kitchen in the back and makes some of the best tempura I've ever had. Whether you're craving hot or cold, cooked or raw, this is the place to go for Japanese food.…

Awesome Food and Nightlife. I went to his place on a guys night out. We were celebrating so we asked for the chefs special. It was awesome, however very pricey. We ordered anexpensive bottle of saki which was as good as I have ever tasted. go here it was fun!…

Excellent Excellent Excellent. Ariake has great sushi. Hands down. In regards to the prior reviewer?s reference to the owner?s nationality and faith, I don?t get it. If you happen to be a snob in need of high prices, a long wait to be seated, and pretentious ambience, then this won?t be the place for you. If however you love great sushi, in a comfortable setting, with good people, I strongly recommend Ariake. For example, the Toro is always in perfect balance, never tough or sinewy. The Hamachi? Like butter. And the Santa Barbra Uni is always fresh and firm. I also appreciate the fact they serve Otokoyama sake. A high quality, dry junmai from Hokkaido at only $8 a glass.…

Solid sushi and wallet-friendly prices distinguish this Richmond crowd pleaser.. In Short
This sushi bar embraces minimal decor, with blond-wood tables and paper lanterns. A warm, cozy ambience permeates the space, while neighborhood patrons chat with Jin, the sushi chef-proprietor who introduces himself to everyone. The restaurant is known for the quality of its traditional favorites, like soft-shell crab appetizers and shrimp tempura.
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