Address: 3150 Navarre Ave, Oregon, OH 43616

Phone: +1 419 697 2669

Price Range: $$$$

Website: http://osakasushisteak.com/

Osaka Sushi & Hibachi

If you're passing through Oregon, Ohio, or just a local in search of some quality Japanese cuisine, Osaka Sushi & Hibachi is a spot worth checking out. It's a family-friendly joint that offers a mix of sushi, teppanyaki, and other Japanese dishes. However, don’t be fooled by its modest and somewhat run-down exterior.

The restaurant's interior leaves much to be desired—it lacks the flair and ambiance one might expect from a typical hibachi grill. However, it's the food that speaks volumes here. The menu is extensive, offering a variety of sushi (both cooked and raw), stir-fried dishes, soups, udon noodles, bento boxes, and tempura.

Let's talk sushi. The Osaka special sushi for two is a standout, featuring a beautifully arranged assortment of fresh sushi. It comes with miso soup and a salad for each person. The miso soup is hot and laden with umami goodness, while the salads are crisp and fresh, albeit served in less-than-elegant Styrofoam containers. For sushi lovers, the California Roll and Sushi Deluxe are popular choices, and the freshness of the seafood is consistently praised.

Moving on to the classics, the hibachi offerings—though not prepared table-side—are another hit. The Hibachi Chicken is juicy and well-seasoned, paired with a serving of mixed vegetables that maintain a pleasant crunch. Portions here are generous, but if you're not up for hibachi, the Bento boxes are a fantastic alternative. They come with a mix of protein, rice, and vegetables, offering a balanced meal that’s both satisfying and diverse in flavor.

I cannot overlook the appetizers. The gyoza dumplings are a must-try; they're crispy on the outside and flavorful on the inside. The crab 'spider' appetizer is another favorite, bringing a delightful crunch that preps your palate for the main course.

If noodles are your thing, the Teriyaki Beef Udon is a dish to consider. It’s a hearty bowl filled with tender beef and udon noodles mingling in a flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting meal. While the fried rice and lo mein noodles might be hit or miss depending on your preference for texture, it’s the fresh and quality ingredients that make these dishes stand out.

On the downside, the tempura dishes received mixed reviews. While some enjoyed the crispy batter, others felt it was too thick, particularly on the vegetables, masking the natural flavors. It's a reminder that Osaka Sushi & Hibachi excels more in their sushi and hibachi options rather than tempura.

Service is another strong point here. The staff is friendly and accommodating, even for larger parties. While the attire might feel a bit too casual for some, it doesn’t detract from the overall friendly and attentive service. Special shoutout to the spotless restrooms, which is usually a good indicator of the overall cleanliness of the restaurant.

Reservations are accepted and recommended if you’re heading in with a larger group. For ambiance, some might find the constant TV distraction bothersome, so perhaps request a seat away from it. The restaurant does a great volume of takeout orders, which is a testament to the food's quality despite the less-than-perfect dine-in experience.