Hands down the best teryaki in the world. i'm really not exagerating. this place is awesome. i have been going to blue fin off an on for the past 20 years. i remember as a child going to florance crittenden after getting a teriyaki bowl with half a salad. every chance i get i drop by this place. the teriyaki bowls are serious. not skimping on portions at all. and if you seriously off a diet, they have double meat portions. :D i like the dark meat chicken version. drop on a heavy sprinkling of the hot powder and some black sesame seeds. OMG!!! the best in the world. the Panko chicken is my second favorite dish. the egg rolls are great. the owners are always great, cheerful and ready to chat you up. i was so glad to hear this place was spared the wreaking ball. i would have chained myself to the door if it came to it. inside is cute and hasn't changed..in forever. i am serious. ever. getting to it is tricky now. and parking is just as tricky. but its worth it. SOOOO WORTH IT read more

Blue Fin - regular chicken bowl (dark meat) - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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A staple in the area that has been here a long time. Great place to go for lunch that doesn't break the bank. If you love teriyaki bowls, this is the place for you. I love to come here for lunch. They have a great drive-through, which makes it so convenient. read more

I went for chicken fried rice bowl which is made with dark meat so she suggested teriyaki vegetable bowl white is supposed to made with with white meat but it looks like dark meat with that teriyaki sauce all over it and too much fat which is why I hate dark meat. The veggies are alright, they're only steamed any way! The veggies are good but I don't like Teriyaki at all, why do people like it! Next time I'll just get steamed veggies and 2 pieces of shrimp! read more

I'm so glad we have this Asian fast food place on Central Avenue, and near a light rail stop at that. Satisfying, generous fare (love their sicky rice and the panko dishes!) served by friendly folk; a good number of dishes to choose from; good prices, very informal atmosphere, even a patio for alfresco dining. I feel happy supporting a local independent business establishment, and even happier that this establishment serves tasty, very filling meals that are not a strain on the budget. read more

Blue Fin - Panko fish platter - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great service. Great food. Great pricing. Fast yet great quality. Fresh tasting food. Many choices

The Blue Fin is my favorite Teriyaki stop in the valley. To begin, the service here is awesome! For such a casual restaurant, they really know how to make you feel welcome. I absolutely love the food here too. Great appetizers, spring rolls, inari, sunomono, etc. Being vegetarian, I always order the same...Steamed Vegetable Bowl. For the money, you get a TON of food here. The teriyaki sauce is perfect, not too sweet like some of those chain places. Did I mention that the service here is the best? The only thing wrong with The Blue FIn; they are not opened on the weekends, Monday through Friday only. read more

Blue Fin - GIANT Veggie Bowl, with extra veggies - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I dig going to the Blue Fin for lunch to satisfy my occasional teriyaki fix. The service is friendly and prompt, and the location allows for some people watching, since it is across the street from a light rail station. Last time I ate here I upgraded from the teriyaki chicken and vegetable bowl to the platter. This means that it comes with salad, which is fairly simple shredded iceberg lettuce and house dressing. Unfortunately, when it's "to go", everything gets packed in the same styrofoam container, so the lettuce gets warmed up on top of the entree and isn't all that palatable. I've said it before in other reviews, warm salad = bad, chilled salad = good. Despite my salad woes, I really like the food here and have never failed to enjoy what I've ordered. And since it's always been reasonably priced, the Blue Fin is a cool little Japanese lunch spot where you can get your Teriyaki on! read more

I have to say I am quite surprised by all the great reviews for this restaurant. And, I also hate leaving negative reviews. That being said, I only tried the chicken teriyaki bowl. The chicken was shaved and was so dry it was hard to swallow. The teriyaki sauce was so watered down it turned my rice into soup. I was very disappointed with the quality of the chicken teriyaki bowl. I don't think they understand that it is possible to completely dry out chicken when over cooked. I don't think I will be back to try anything else based on this experience. read more

Blue Fin - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Shame on me for walking by on numerous occasions and not taking notice. If this keeps up people are going to think I'm some type of dunce who thinks Asian food is found at food courts in the local mall! I finally strolled in and decided to try them out. Upon walking in you won't find any fancy decor, but you will find staff that is friendly, courteous, and more than happy to explain anything on the menu. I finally decided to grab the Japanese chicken curry bowl which was a little over $5 and definitely not lacking in size or flavor. The owner is a lovely lady who has told me about living in Arizona all of her life and a few other details. She's an absolute gem and I am looking forward to trying out more of the food here. read more

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A local treasure! I've came to this place multiple times and it's always great! I come here for lunch when I get off work and it hits the spot. Teriyaki bowl is 10/10 with rice or vegetables. Service is also a 10/10. read more

Prices were great for food you get. Taste was on par and overall got a few items and still was less for two people than any fast food place. Customer service is good and very helpful if you are not sure what you want. They are friendly and always a smile on their face. read more

What a great place the food the SERVICE are wonderful I've been eating hete for 20 + years and always look forward to eating there Unassuming from the outside but a large selection to choose from Swing by for lunch My favorites are the Teriyaki chicken combo...chicken rice and salad Or the panko fish Always quality food and friendly faces read more

Blue Fin - LOTS of yummy stuff - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I went to this little place for the first time today. I can only say positive things about going there. It was clean, the service friendly and efficient, the food was good. I was impressed when Betsy, one of the owners came by to see if we were happy with our dinners. I liked the idea of wheat noodles. Finding out that they use only beta carotene veggies-no fillers like bean sprouts-and no oil in preparing them was even better news. My fellow dinner had chicken a chicken curry which having sampled, I have to say I am going to try next time we go the Blu Fin. My biggest surprise eating at the Blue Fin is the cheese cake they serve. I don't profess to be a lover of cheese cake. It never really impresses me. It was light and the flavor was great. Worth having for a birthday binge I am happy to report. read more

The employees are nice and friendly. The food does not like me, I have been there twice and gotten the runs both times. My guess is the food is full of MSG. It could also be that the building building looks like it needs some work. The roof is leaks, the floor is coming up and it does not look very clean inside. Today was the last time I will go there. read more

Best teriyaki chicken I have ever had! I have fallen in love with this place and the people that own it! Every customer that came in was greeted with a smile and looked like they were regulars. ALSO, I don't have to go all the way to Oahu for Aloha Maid drinks! read more

Blue Fin - Aloha Fruit Drinks - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I really enjoyed this place. I've seen it a hundred times when going to the library and I finally was in the area right about lunch time. I got the coconut shrimp plate which has the shrimp, salad, and white rice. Add a massively large drink (with free refills) and the total was just over $10. More than filling. If you don't want the drink and get a smaller rice bowl instead of a plate then you can probably grab a fresh lunch for under $7. Everything just kind of works together. I saw the salad on top of warm rice and my mind wasn't too excited, but there is something about the way they make it where it just mixes together well. The dressing really makes it all come together. The shrimp is hot, fresh, and isn't overly greasy; no oil splotches on the plate. The dipping sauce is, like the dressing, a really good compliment to the shrimp. Everything on the plate was good and a nice change of pace. Really friendly workers, nice mix of guests, very convenient parking. It looks small but it can handle a lot of people and there is even a drive-thru window. One minor negative, and this is kind of strange, but it's the fork size. It's a small plastic fork and you can't really get rice and lettuce on it. I asked for a spoon after a few minutes of trying to balance everything. read more

Blue Fin - Coconut shrimp plate, massive drink, $10.50. - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

I've always seen Blue Fin at the Matsuri festival but never tried their food because of lines and time constraints. Finally made it to their brick and mortar and I can't believe I've never been in before. The teriyaki chicken looks a bit one-note from pictures, but there's a nice grilled flavor to the chicken that caught me by surprise. The value here is great, I got a super filling meal with a nice mix of protein and salad on my plate for less than $10, including even the veggie spring rolls that I added on. The family that runs this place was so nice as well. I'll definitely be back to try out the beef and the fish that everybody talks about. read more

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This is one of the best lunch spots for fast convenient great tasting Japanese food in uptown Phoenix. With a plethora of fresh menu items, their authentic style of cooking and presenting, their hospitable "everyone is family" environment - it's just the go-to-place when burgers and/or fried chicken is no longer an option. Albeit the facility is somewhat tight but the meals certainly aren't. There's always plenty of great seating on the outside and great for takeout. You won't go wrong visiting Mrs. Betty and her team at Blue Fin! read more

Blue Fin - Tenured waitstaff member Olga (serving up Teriyaki Beef Bowl, Orange Chicken and Salad plate and Sweet and Sour Chicken. - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

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I do find it ironic for a place named the blue fin to not have blue fin on the menu. I went here today with my co worker for lunch. We found a spot in back with no issue, just make sure you head north on central to get here as the light rail makes entry from south bound impossible. I ordered the vegetable yaki soba with tofu, and then took a seat at the front patio. Our food was borough to us only a few minutes later. I tried a bit or two with out the addition of condiments, it was a bit bland and the tofu was much softer than I like. After adding copious amounts of black sesame seeds and red pepper the dish took on new life. The texture contrast of the seeds with the tofu worked and the spices stuck well to the noodles. The vegetables them self were plain, sliced carrots, cabbage, broccoli and celery. My co worker had the panco chicken, which was just sliced fried chicken on rice, they were nice and gave him every sauce to try. The food was decent, not the best, not the worst, the value was acceptable as well and the staff was friendly. I will be back, no huge rush however. read more

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Great lunch options for such a small place! Very quick service and always friendly! Recommend to my friends

Japanese cuisine is one of my favorites, so I was quite geeked that this place was on my side of town. It came recommended by a few co-workers, as they frequent the joint often. However for me, I will be "waving bye" as I frequently drive past Blue Fin. The menu has some of my favorite common Japanese dishes (Teriyaki Chicken, Tonkatsu, etc.). I decided to roll with the White Chicken Katsu (Panko Breaded Chicken) and some Shrimp Tempura - relatively common, easy to make, usually tasty Japanese dishes. Well, I did not know they would use Arizona sand as the breading. The chicken was so over cooked and bland that it dried my mouth. Luckily there was enough grease to squeeze into my mouth from the Shrimp Tempura to combat the dryness. The saving grace for Blue Fin are the portions and price point. One can chow down for a small price, but you will be sacrificing quality. Be sure to ask for extra water if ordering anything breaded! read more

Blue Fin - Shrimp Tempura and White Chicken Katsu. - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Great food and a nice little spot on Central. The teriyaki chicken bowl was delicious. Outside seating and there is a metro stop right there. Cool little place!! read more

Not only is the food above reproach, this family is the most courteous nicest, giving family. I have been dining here for close to twenty years, and hopefully I will be for the next twenty. Thank you so much for being the Christian servants that you are, you walk the talk.. S. Cherry read more

This is the best place in the valley for teriyaki chicken. I stop by when ever I am close by!

I am sad to share my thoughts as the person that took our order was so helpful but, honestly, probably one of our worst Japanese food experiences in Phoenix so far. The Japanese vegetable yellow curry with tofu...barely any curry scent let alone flavor. Chicken yakisoba? If it were not for the teriyaki chicken thrown in..no flavor. Honestly seemed like spaghetti subbed in. Egg rolls ok but, we had requested mustard. None included. Honestly...the mustard would have really helped. Neither of us feeling good after eating so, it appears from reviews that they excel at Teriyaki chicken. Go with that. Sadly, still looking for good Asian food in Phoenix...having moved here a month ago. read more

I live nearby so I was curious and stopped by for a California roll as a snack. Big mistake, the roll was mainly rice with a tiny piece of imitation crab in each. Will never be back. read more

Meh... No to the Yakisoba Those were some weak noodles The Teriyaki Chicken was tastey but can't stand up to Grilled Avenue's Chicken read more

Fresh, healthy, fast, so convenient. My new favorite place!!!! Love all the vegetarian options, green tea, and kindness of the staff. Favorite place in Phoenix! read more

Some of the best japanese food in all of phoenix. The chicken teriyaki bowl has been solid. Time after time year after year. For a lunch spot in downtown you really cant do better. read more

LOVE LOVE LOVE this place!!! Everything about this place is amazing, the workers, the food, the location! The workers are so friendly and always so welcoming, sometimes they even remember your order :) the food here is exceptional. It's fresh, the portions are very generous. Definitely one of my favorite lunch spots in Phoenix! They also have a drive thru where you can order food or pick up your call in order which is great for those in a rush! read more

Absolutely the best fast paced little Japanese restaurant/take out! I. First time ever walking in was busy so they had people standing on the side giving pre orders which was amazing. Their menu is so hard to choose from because they have so many great delicious selections. I tried their lunch special as a suggestion by the order taker which was the white panko chicken with a spring roll and rice. When the food came out (not even 10 min.) My plate was overly full with chicken and rice. It was soo good. I couldn't even finish it all so I gladly took it home. I was greeted not only when I walked in but also when I left! Since then I have always gone here as one of my weekly meals. Give it a try! You'll love it. read more

This place is amazing! I go almost daily with my roommates. I get the same order every time, Panko chicken, a California roll and gyoza. Mmmm, fantastic. The owners are super friendly too! I cannot recommend this place enough. read more

Three words: Panko Chicken Bowl. It was easily the best cheap lunch I've had since I've starting working downtown. The chicken was tasty and the rice was perfect. It is a small location, but they have seating outside for nice days or nice evenings. read more

Love this place. No nonsense food I think, easy to order and never had to wait long even when I usually come in during lunch rush hour. Teriyaki, curry, katsu are all good. Service is pretty attentive. read more

This is my favorite restaurant in the whole city! Always delicious & the staff is always friendly. It's the kind of place where they remember your name & order. My go-to is the panko chicken bowl. read more

After matinee dinner, 6Pm reservation with early arrival, seated promptly. Gentlemen that seated us pretty much grunted at us and left a stack of hard cover menus. Young lady arrived shortly, gave her name and asked if we were ready to order. No information of various menus, suggestions etc. - place was EMPTY yet we felt rushed. Cocktails were ordered and took easily 20 minutes to arrive, again place was empty with server and staff huddled around bar area. When drinks arrived we now had a new server (male), no name given or sense of caring. Food order was placed (fixed show menu + 3 add'l appetizers). arrived too promptly, no sense of timing or staggering... appetizers, soup/salad etc, dirty soup bowls still on table, as we had to make room for appetizers, I was still eating salad when someone from kitchen stated our entree's were ready. Food arrived, dishes cleared, not once did anyone check on us. No chance to order another drink, only when plates were cleared did the original server (young lady) appear and ask if everything was ok. After sitting a long time, I caught our waiter and asked if we could order dessert (included) and get the check. When the check arrived, we were handed a card with his name and the website with explanation they are trying to better their reviews on yelp and to mention servers name (notice the pattern on other reviews). I actually laughed. As we left a gentleman in suit who was there the whole time, hanging at bar with staff, Thanked us for coming. I SHOULD have spoken to him but was disappointed and irritated. Let me be clear, this was a $300.+ meal, I still gave 20% tip because I know it's a difficult industry but this management needs to step up their game, train staff on proper service and lead your team. I have not mentioned the food, which tasted good but whole experience left a bad taste in our mouths. You can do better. read more

Blue fin never disappoints! Top quality food & recipes prepared with both taste & health in mind. What more could you ask for?

I've actually dined in with the Blue Fin crew a number of times in the past. Though tonight was the first time in awhile. I remember generally liking the food at Blue Fin, but that it just wasn't memorable. Admittedly I've dined at Asian fast food spots a bunch in my life so I guess after awhile some of them sort of blend together in my mind and on my palette. I was actually on my way to the grocery store on this Friday evening. But with traffic snarled thanks to rain (the thing that turns Phoenix drivers into horror movie co-conspirators), I pulled off and decided to grab a quick meal at Blue Fin. Blue Fin is easy to spot on Central Avenue (just north of the main public library on Culver Street, two blocks south of McDowell). A small relatively nondescript building with a small number of outside seats surrounded by nothing but asphalt for a whole block. It quite literally sticks out. The inside is equally free of fanciness with seating for maybe 20 and the menus are taped to different points all over the restaurant. I was actually looking for the entree menu, but I failed to look around the corner to see the entree menu taped to the back of the soda machine. Coming for the first time? Keep your eyes open for the menu items taped to the back wall and elsewhere. So I instead went with an item I could find on the menu in front of me. I went with the White Chicken Panko plate. White chicken fried in Japanese bread crumbs, with white rice and a salad and a side of tonkatsu sauce (basically a Japanese version of BBQ sauce). Total cost for the plate including drink and tax came to about $9. Came out in about 5 minutes. The plate portion will definitely fill you up as there was plenty of meat and sides to satisfy pretty much any appetite. The chicken itself was pretty solid and I liked the slightly sweet notes of the tonkatsu sauce. The white rice was, well, white rice. Though for me the big downer of this dish was the salad. I'm not sure what type of dressing they put on, but they put on a ton (too much I thought). The onion notes on the dressing were far too overpowering for me and ruined the texture of the lettuce for my taste. I tried pairing the salad with the rice and chicken to make it more palatable, but no luck. I've had other dishes here before without salad such as the teriyaki bowl and the sweet and sour chicken bowl and they're perfectly respectable. Even after tonight though I have to say the food reminds me a great deal of other Japanese fast food standouts of yore such as Yoshi's and Shogun Express. If you love that sort of food, Blue Fin will be right up your alley. If I were in a lunch rush and needed some quick takeout, I'd certainly consider Blue Fin for that purpose. But as a sit down option I'd take a friend or for a dinner stop, Blue Fin wouldn't be among my top choices. But hey, judge for yourself. The staff here is friendly, the prices are cheap and the food comes out quick. Maybe you'll love this place moreso than I have, maybe you won't. Might want to tell them to hold the salad dressing just to be on the safe side. read more

Blue Fin - White Chicken Panko plate w/Tonkatsu sauce. $8 - Japanese Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

Yay for me, they open at 10:30am. Service quick and helpful. Owner (I think) was present and seemed to know quite a few of the regulars. I had the panko chicken with an egg roll. Both were simple, yet above average. Quite a selection for such a small place. All of the items I saw were pretty big or almost too big for a single serving. Prices are a buck or two more than you might pay for at your average rice bowl shop, but it's worth it. I'll be back. Soon. read more

Sounds of stirring, lunch nears and my appetite waits my neighbor enters. Quick we drive to it A simple place but look-busy! Still no wait to sit. Varied menu greets us I choose the daily special Food like its home-made. Service is friendly. Order comes quickly to you, Owners always smile. Soon it's time to go my thoughts turn food away, but look my wallet not empty. read more