Address: 3324 Secor Road, Toledo, Ohio, United States, 43606

Phone: +1 419 517 8283

Price Range: $$$$

Website: https://www.kiratoledo.com

Kira Japanese Steakhouse

The unassuming strip mall location of Kira Japanese Steakhouse in Toledo surprises with a delightful experience that effectively combines authentic Japanese cuisine with lively entertainment. Stepping into Kira, you're greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere where you can opt for the thrilling hibachi grill experience or choose to dine in a more traditional booth setting next to the bar.

Start your meal with some of their commendable appetizers. The Crazy Maki and Spider Maki are standout options, each artfully combining fresh ingredients like shrimp tempura, cucumber, and deep-fried softshell crab. The freshness of the sushi is immediately evident, offering a perfect balance of flavors.

As for hibachi, it’s an absolute must-try at Kira. Watching the chefs skillfully prepare your meal in front of you is captivating. The Kira Special Hibachi, which includes steak, chicken, and shrimp, is highly recommended and provides a generous portion of tender and juicy meats cooked to perfection. The hibachi also includes fried rice and soba noodles, setting Kira apart from similar establishments that typically offer only one. While the shrimp and chicken hibachi takeout was noted to be rice-heavy by some, the in-house experience offers a more balanced portion.

On the sushi front, Kira excels with a diverse selection. The Kira Roll, a deep-fried concoction of shrimp, avocado, crabstick, and cream cheese, hits all the right notes with its crunch and rich flavors. Another must-try is the Volcano Maki, featuring spicy tuna, cucumber, and crabstick, all deep-fried to achieve that perfect texture.

The bar area offers a pleasant waiting spot if you visit during peak hours, which can get quite busy, especially on weekends around 6 PM. Despite the bustling environment, the staff manages to stay friendly and efficient, with only a brief 10-minute wait for a table. It’s a good idea to plan ahead or make reservations to secure a spot without much delay.

While most dishes hit the mark, a few options like the basil fried rice fell short, missing the aromatic punch often expected from using proper jasmine rice and the right basil. However, despite these minor hiccups, the overall dining experience remains largely positive, supported by excellent service and an accommodating atmosphere.

Kira also offers several signature rolls that shouldn’t be missed. The Mango Tango Maki is a fresh and unique choice, combining salmon, avocado, mango, and masago for a delightful blend of sweet and savory. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the Spicy Scallop Maki with deep-fried scallop topped with yellowtail and jalapeno is a flavorful adventure. The intricate layers and perfectly balanced spicy kick make it a customer favorite.