Shiki Japanese Cuisine

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jwong83

Joined 8 years ago

Authentic and traditional Japanese food but inconsistent service. I have been to this place twice. I highly enjoy the food, the variety, and the traditional Japanese choices. My husband and friends don't seem to be as impressed but the style really suits my tastes. The only bad thing is that service is really inconsistent. The first time we went we waited almost 3 full hours for all of our food and we kept getting ignored (there are only 2 waitresses). They also somehow managed to forget to bring out one of our orders. Nevertheless, I gave this place a second try and was much more pleased with the service. They seem to cater quite well to large parties, but if there is one the service becomes obviously imbalanced as they focus all their energy on the large tables rather than the 2-4 seating tables. I recommend going for early dinner to avoid the crowds (they have limited seating after all). I recommend tasting the tuna nagaimo tartar, age dofu, chawanmushi, onigri, and any of their daily specials. Sushi is an option too but don't expect it to be above average; it's similar to other good sushi restaurants such as Oishii. I think Shiki's strength is in the innovative daily specials and many of their authentic and traditional warm dishes.

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Qbert74

Joined 5 years ago

Best Japanese Restaurant in Boston !!!!!. At last a real legitimate Japanese restaurant in Boston! As a Japanese American, I have been living here for the last 10 years and have never come across one until now.

Lots of places in Boston serve sushi or "Japanese style" food, but look around inside and you will see why no Japanese people go to them. That's because true Japanese food is often very delicate with subtle flavors. Often there is one dominant flavor in the dish, and this is meant to stand alone if it is well prepared or fresh. This is what Shiki does so brilliantly and authentically. The dishes are beautiful to look at and are even better to eat, but they always maintain a certain level of simplicity that is so often lost in the other restaurants in Boston. This makes it hands down the finest Japanese restaurant in the area.

If you want to try some overpriced sushi topped with truffles, beluga caviar, lots of mayonaise on overcooked rice, then go to a place like Oishii or Fugakyu. If you want to have an authentic Japanese meal, then try Shiki. The small Japanese population in Boston has already discovered this place, but I hope that Non-Japanese people will try a place like this too. They would be in for a treat.

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Gerrish Lopez

Joined 6 years ago

Coolidge Corner hideaway serves fresh sushi and inventive Japanese fare in quiet, calming environs.. For those who know that there's far more to Japanese cuisine than sushi (and for those looking for a new dining experience), Shiki fits the bill. The warm colors and cheery decor of this basement-level restaurant create a welcoming environment. A large number of Japanese diners speaks to the authenticity of the dishes. Small plates dominate the lengthy menu, perfect for sharing and sampling intriguing dishes such as chawanmushi (a custard with seafood or vegetables), tuna-nagaimo tartare with quail egg, and "Poached Egg Chicken Jello Sauce." Sushi and noodle options are available as well, but with more than 60 items on the menu, there is plenty for the adventurous. The sake list is extensive, and a four-glass sampler makes a perfect complement.