This is a restaurant that a dear friend is a huge fan of due to the Teppanyaki chef and the fire show. He loves to come here for his birthday dinner annually. Unfortunately, that is the only time I go.
I LOVE sushi and Asian cuisine in general – but the food here is “meh” at best. It is edible, but I find it expensive for what you are actually getting on your plate. It is never crowded even during what should be a peak dinner time.
The chef that does the show is always wonderful. We have managed to get the same fellow three times running now. He is funny, entertaining and seems to really know his way around the grill. His show is the reason we keep going back.
Shogun has been around for forever and is in desperate need of a renovation. Even a fresh coat of paint in the restrooms would be a nice touch.
It was lovely to be invited to this event. Sushi is my favourite thing in the world of food.
There was a Japanese fusion tapas restaurant that was located in Oliver Square, here in Edmonton several years ago. That used to be the highlight of my week was to go for their incredible martinis and the tapas. The “small plates” give you the option to have several taste experiences in one sitting. I was very sad when they moved locations, and then disappeared.
When I was invited to a “Kaiten” sushi tasting, I admit I had to look it up:
“The term Mobile Sushi Bar refers to a mobile version of sushi conveyor belt. Food is prepared on site, in plain view of your guests by a skillful sushi chef to deliver the best quality sushi. Simply enough, you can either sit down or stand in front of the conveyor belt while different plates of sushi are whirled round and round. Take off a plate, eat the sushi, take another plate you like, and eat the sushi. You will never have to wait in line as the dishes taken are quickly replaced by new ones.
The mobile bar extends up to 16.5ft and can be installed quickly and conveniently without a large installation team congesting your premises. Rather a straightforward installation steps allow us to travel virtually anywhere you require our presence.”
When you get to Japonais Bistro there are cozy booths lining the walls. It is a nicely decorated environment with rustic brick walls and wood accents. Our host, Isaac, was friendly and welcoming as was the rest of the staff. The sushi bar was spinning, and the plates were beautifully presented. I was happy to see a couple of professional cameras there as I know my point-and-shoot will not do these plates justice.
Jalapeno Yellowtail – torched yellowtail with thin sliced jalapeño, cilantro, tobiko, yuzu kosho sauce and ponzu sauce
The thinly sliced jalapeno peppers were perfect with the Yellowtail, just the right amount of zing! Ponzu is a favourite of mine, I love the way it brings out the flavours of the fish without being salty like the regular soy sauce.
Sushi Pizza – Salmon, Avocado etc on a light tempura crust.
I can’t seem to find this one on the menu, possibly a new item. Delicious nonetheless.
Shrimp Wrap – Shrimp, tempura bits, fresh mango etc wrapped in a Soy Bean paper.
This one was also delicious. The tempura bits and the mango slivers both gave the whole experience a beautiful taste and texture. This was another item that was recommended but I could not find on the online menu.
Wild Salmon Carpaccio – wild sockeye salmon, red onion, arugula with wasabi cream sauce and citrus soy sprinkled with roasted garlic.
Again, delightful! All of the flavours blend well together. The salmon was fresh and firm. The ponzu and wasabi really brought out the flavour of the salmon.
Sushi Tortilla – Salmon and tuna on a crispy rice tortilla with avacado, red onion, tomato, cilantro, jalapeno and arugula.
This was another that Isaac recommended when he was describing the options. Packed with flavour per square inch with fresh ingredients making all the difference! A nice blend of salmon and tuna.
Matcha Creme Brulee
This is my new favourite dessert! The caramelized sugar crust was perfect. The matcha custard was smooth and not at all grainy. Perfectly sweetened.
Last, but certainly not least, the Cheese Tofu. The texture is smooth… literally silk on the tongue. Pairs well with the fresh strawberries. This one would be nice with mango as well.
Needless to say from my tasting experience, I have a new place to go for Japanese Tapas. They have a lot of my favourites on the menu and they are easily accessible located in Downtown Edmonton with free parking in front. They also have a patio if that is how you prefer to drink your Sake!
If you would like to have Kaiten at a private function, Japonais Bistro will happily discuss it with you and make your experience tailored just for you and your guests. Please give Kaiten Sushi’s website a look for more information.
