Really a hidden gem in Champaign! It's basically a very tiny kitchen run by a Japanese couple. There are only 8 seats, and they only take walk-ins on Sunday, so you'd better arrive by 11:45am. Every bite is exquisite and authentic, you can tell the chef/owner really cares about his cuisine and customers. The menu is very limited, though, totally depending on what they have that day. When we were there today they didn't have omakase, and there were only 2 bakery items, but everything was so delicious.
Ishi has best nigiri in town. The seafood was so fresh and flavorful. The bakery items were incredible. We sat at the counter and talked to the owners. They’re very knowledgeable about what they make and super fun to talk to. Overall it was a wonderful restaurant experience.
Best nigiri & sushi place in town. The fish is very fresh, fantastic taste. But I would only give 4 stars because the Okonomiyaki is too salty and the beef steak is a little hard to chew. They provides omakase on Friday & Saturday, which I would highly recommend!
Ishi is the best restaurant experience I have ever had. Ken the sushi chef and his wife Kaori have created such a warm and unique atmosphere. They have been able to create a family business with a fine dining experience. Ken has such a talent and passion as a sushi chef, he curates the tasting menu with fresh in season ingredients and executes them so well each bite was incredible. This is the best sushi in town by far! Everything is made in house, house soy sauce, miso, and rice seasoning. He fosters great conversation and is able to provide fantastic information on the ingredients he is preparing, it was so great seeing how passionate he is of his craft. The Omakase is so incredibly worth it and the desserts that Kaori prepares in the bakery are amazing! We will be booking our next dinner asap. Anyone that loves sushi and has an appreciation for Japanese cuisine needs to come here! My new favourite restaurant in town!
Had an AMAZING first time experience at ISHI sushi & Kaori’s Oven! We experienced their omakase for dinner (something that can’t be found in the Urbana-Champaign area). The quality of fish can’t be beat and the restaurant environment is warm and welcoming. Chef Ken is extremely friendly and does a great job conversing with customers. He specified how important it is to prioritize the quality of the fish for his customers - he did not fail to prove his point. Kaori’s baked goods are absolutely delicious and adds a great touch to the end of the meal. Please consider checking this place out! I’m sure I’ll be coming again soon!
Absolutely had an amazing dinner time here at ISHI. I’m so glad now they are taking reservations for omakase! The owners were really welcoming. I was surprised how fresh everything tasted. The chef admitted that it’s ready hard to find seafood here in Champaign, but he manages to source one of highest quality ingredients that provides an authentic Japanese food experience in town. I will definitely come visit again!
We went again recently. Watch for the owners posting about reservations as this week we were able to reserve a spot through Google business message and they were so pleasant. The sushi was delicious as always and this time there was salmon miso soup with cauliflower. A couple of the sushi pieces were the same as last time, (toro and otoro), but we got some new ones including a bass and scallop onigiri, charred shrimp, and a couple others. I love how you can come and something different will be included in the meal. It's a nice mix up. This week was pricier than last time we came ($30 vs $25) but we honestly expected it if there are different items on the menu and it's still very well priced for the quality and service you get. We also had a chance to finally try something from the bakery. The cheesecake was so moist and fluffy. We can't wait to come back for more sushi and for more bakery item!
My friend from Japan and I are so glad that we finally have an authentic Sushi place to go during weekend! The quality of the fish is beyond our expectations, and actually proves that you only need very little seasoning to make a good dish if your ingredients are fresh! And Kudos to Kaori and her cream pastries. Love them! Please offer online reservation in future!
Finally, I got a chance to enjoy this omakase. The first few times I came with seats full and door closed. I had a great time here with my friend. The price is reasonable and the foods are great. I’ll recommend people to dine in here. But remember to CoMe EaRly.
The most incredible experience we have had outside of Japan. Great food, great people…. Such a wonderful experience. Cannot wait to go back again. Really wish I could give 10 stars! Ken & Kaori see you again soon!