We got Kenaki for lunch! They had a lunch menu but we just went with stuff off of the regular menu. It wasn't too busy being a weekday, and they were really good about seating parties far apart. Service was really good, every time my water got a little low it got refilled, and when they forgot an ingredient in my friend's roll they grabbed her a new one right away.The food was really good too! I got edamame and a spicy crunchy salmon roll. The rolls were huge and packed with crunch (though it could have been spicier!). The flavors were great and the fish was really fresh. The edamame was weirdly squishy? But still tasty. Prices were average, comparable to most other places I've been. I would definitely go back again soon to try more sushi!
Had dinner here, and tried their bluefin chu-toro sashimi, ankimo nigiri (monk fish liver), bluefin akami sashimi, and Sake (salmon) sashimi. Kids had Osaki bowl, spicy Tekka bowl and teriyaki chicken bowl.. also had tempura and karaage appetizers. It was fresh and tasty, will come back again next time.
First time and very impressed. The food was excellent. We had 8 different sushi rolls all very good except did not care for the donkey kong (too many flavors going on). The tempura was cooked to perfection and the chicken teriyaki was surperb. Staff very friendly and proficient. Would definitley go again.
I love this place! Definitely my favorite sushi restaurant in Gaithersburg. It’s never disappointed me and the quality is always fresh! If you’re looking for a good sushi spot, then this is the place to come. I usually get salmon nigiri and spicy salmon crunchy roll. The miso soup is very tasty. The spicy tuna rolls are very good as well.
If you’re coming for fish quality, this is a decent spot. The tuna and salmon on our sashimi plate was definitely fresh-tasting.As for the rolls, my group got four: Black Magic, White Tiger, Green Monster, and J-Pop. The White Tiger was honestly the only one worth the price: it was smokey, umami, and had nice texture on top with the almonds and other goodies on top. The rest of the rolls didn’t really have distinct flavor and were mushy in the middle, even the shrimp tempura. The Black Magic roll tasted nice with the fried leeks on top, but it was still mushy in the middle.It’s quite pricey too. Our sashimi dish was $34. I would recommend trying to go during lunch time only. The service was great though.
Kenaki Sushi Counter offers one of the more authentic Japanese dining experiences that the Gaithersburg area has to offer. The Dinner Menu features small Japanese plates, Entrees, and of course Sushi. Call me basic if you want; I typically stick to sushi.All menu items are anchored in tradition but revised with a fresh modern twist. The modifications can be subtle; the results are relentlessly delicious. I appreciate the name of the sushi rolls as well, very creative and makes it feel fun.Keep in mind they only offer Japanese liquors. If you’re hip to Japanese whiskey and Saki then you know this is a plus, not a minus. Don’t even try to come here for a Tito’s martini though. It’s not happening!Very cool interior. I loved the printed wallpaper. Very well lit, for better or worse. Staff is always warm and inviting; Service is Knowledgeable and accommodating. I noticed Tupac and some other cool hip hop playing in the background.Please note: the ambiance is very casual. I would say no dress code at all. In the Kentlands location, I also noticed it is very family-oriented. Aside from my friend and myself, most diners comprised of parents and kids eating together. Didn’t seem to possess a date night vibe, if you’re looking to meet someone.This is not a knock to the operation- just a truth. Obviously hasn’t stopped me from going!
We've gotten takeout from Kenaki a bunch this year and it is always fantastic. They keep the menu interesting with delicious specials, the fish is high quality and the combination of flavors is fantastic. We have never been disappointed. Please do not miss the dessert of bread pudding made with croissants. It's crazy good!
Of the half dozen times I have come here, they have never disappointed me at all. It is hard to imagine that the casual atmosphere would present such a solid representation to the food served. In other words: the food is GOOD for what it is. Granted that the spectrum to rate food is so wide and of course with a LOT of credentials/reputation that goes along with tue reviewer. I appreciate the service as well. I really do like the on-going changes to the specials (daily so far that I have seen) and I'm so glad that the menu isn't so static. Fresh ingredients and the combinations of the fish, prepared with the toppings is what makes this place stand out than any other place within a 10 mile radius. If it wasn't for being in Kentlands, you can easily image this place downtown DC or any other major city and can make a (book)mark on anyone's Google maps to come back again again.Selection of the sake is always within its range of what they serve. It is good to see they don't mind getting their imported fish; serve what the chefs desire to show their love for the food (and customers).If you are a sushi buffet eater: please take your dollar per piece thought process and leave that at home. Enjoy Kenaki as grades above that, treat yourself and do yourself a favor by experiencing a finer selection of the Japanese cuisine, but without the pressure of the business affair and mindset of "was it worth it?" You will miss out the Kenaki's experience.
Very delicious. Had contemplated driving to DC for a special sushi dinner but Kenaki was right in our proverbial backyard, and excellent. Every part of our meal from the miso, to the tuna tartare and the rolls were delicious. The seared scallop topped rolls and crunchy, spicy tuna rolls were particularly noteworthy. Will definitely visit again.
Kenaki is a regular spot for us. Outstanding quality food, creative dishes and amazing service. It's a great neighborhood spot with a sophisticated vibe. There is something on the menu for everyone, even non sushi eaters. Highly recommend!