I have been meaning to stop into Kyoto Sushi for some time, since it is right next door to my…read morefavourite Latin market.
I finally found that opportunity.
I rolled up at about 6:30PM, and the parking lot was jammed, but apparently for another restaurant in the same strip.
When I walked in, I was warmly greeted by a nice lady in a kimono and shown to a table, walking past a group at a large table, the only other patrons.
The decor is a bit dated, but warm and nicely laid out.
The menu is varied, with a large selection of sushi on offer, but I wished to get a broader view, and ordered a Dinner Bento Box to get a wider sampling of the dishes.
First came my Asahi beer, then a bowl of a very nice Miso Soup, which I had just finished when my Bento hit the table.
You can look at my attached photos to see it.
This box is larger, and better filled than most I have had in Edmonton, and nicely laid out.
The main was Teriyaki Chicken. It was generous portion, and very tasty. Much more subtle in flavour and not overwhelmed by the sauce, as often happens.
There were deep fried Gyoza, which were crunchy and delicious.
Assorted Tempura included Yam, Potato a lovely Shrimp, all beautifully cooked. Delicious and crisp, not greasy.
There was a salad of fresh greens with a wonderful house dressing, which I enjoyed very much.
The Sushi box was taken up by 2 Nigiri (1 Salmon, 1 Tuna) and 3 generous pieces of California Roll.
This is not pretty, elegant Sushi. This is comfort food.
A little rough around the edges, but it's what is inside that counts.
I am not a big fan of California Rolls, but these had great flavour and texture.
They could have been rolled a bit tighter, but I enjoyed them no less.
The Nigiri pieces were also rough in presentation, but clean and delicious, the fish cut thick and fresh.
The service was excellent, though I spent most of my visit as the only person in the restaurant.
That said, the hostess was friendly and just as attentive as was required.
This is very obviously a small family operation, and they seem to be doing well, if only on the evidence of the number of Skip and Uber drivers that came through the door in the hour or so I was there.
These are nice people making tasty food.
Restaurant: Dated decor, but warm and comfortable.
Food: Sushi as Comfort Food. Rough, but delicious.
Value: My meal was $20.00, my imported Japanese beer was $7.50.
I found the prices on par with other places in town, but this was a lot
of food. Bigger portions than I have had in other Bento Boxes. I left
stuffed.
Service: Very good. Friendly and efficient.
To sum up... is this the best sushi restaurant in town?
Nope.
But I really enjoyed my meal, and the experience. I will be back.