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Araki's Japon
Category: Restaurants Japanese Japanese [Edit]
26612 Town Centre DrSte E
Foothill Ranch, CA 92610
(949) 837-2088
- Hours:
Mon-Thu 11 am - 9 pm
Fri 11 am - 10 pm
Sat 5 pm - 10 pm
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Takes Reservations:
- Yes
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Caters:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
90 reviews for Araki's Japon
Review Highlights
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"You must try the OMAKASE here if it's your first time." In 27 reviews -
"The fruit infused sake is delicious and refreshing." In 3 reviews -
"The red bean ice cream with custard and green tea sauce is..." In 2 reviews
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90 reviews in English
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Review from Kelley U.
So sad to report that Araki's Japon has closed. Chef Hisashi Araki's talents were underappreciated and will be greatly missed.
He was very kind to us when we were at the restaurant. Hope he will be back somewhere again soon!Listed in: I Heart Sushi
2 Previous Reviews: Show all »
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11/17/2011
Sat down for dinner on at Tuesday night and was handed the menu. I looked at my BF confused,… Read more »
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Review from Courtney C.
Trabuco Canyon, CA
3/24/2012 1 Check-in Here
This business is now closed. There is a sign on the door stating they have gone out of business. Too bad, their food was excellent.
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Review from Christina S.
FOOTHILL RNCH, CA
3/26/2012
This is my husbands and my favorite sushi places!!!! Unfortunately the poor economy has forced them to reduce their menu size. The owner is a World class chef, and the quality of taste proves this. Sadly I just heard it closed :(
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Review from Angela C.
11/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
Came here based on all the great reviews, but left pretty disappointed. Here's why...
1) Poor ambiance. We came for date night so when we walked in we were pretty surprised that it was located in a food court next to a movie theater and a bunch of fast food places. There is a limited amount of seating inside and the layout is just really strange.
2) The owner/head sushi chef is soo mean and condescending to his servers. We sat at the "bar" and he was shouting commands left and right. He was constantly distracted - like he would be in the middle of cutting fish, but then see his server do something he didn't like so he'd go over and rebuke him. It was soo unprofessional and made for an unpleasant, anxiety-inducing dining experience. If you have a problem with your workers, pull them aside and talk to them quietly without humiliating them in public... OR train them better so they don't make mistakes. This guy is worse than the soup nazi.
3) The fish was good quality, but there were so many things we asked for that he didn't have. Really lacking in variety here. He was also soo proud of his sashimi salad and this other dish, but I've had better at cheaper prices.
4) Service was sooo slow. It's only one chef making everyone's dishes so it took forever for us to get each dish we ordered. Then it took forever to get the bill. Geez.
We came here with a http://restaurant.com coupon and even if I had another, I wouldn't come here again. Good dining is not just about the food, it's about the whole experience... and the one I had left a very unpleasant taste in my mouth.Listed in: Hole in the Wall Sushi
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Review from Homer S.
Lake Forest, CA
11/21/2011
Stopped in over the weekend and brought several hungry persons. Ordered several appetizers, a teryaki bowl and five cut rolls. Each food dish was served individually; even the appetizers. After the fourth roll, the fifth did not arrive. We had to ask for the fifth to be served. Refreshments were served at a very casual pace as well. In keeping with our food order, we had to ask for refreshments to be refilled.
The seating in this location does not favor larger groups. The layout is best for parties of two diners/couples.
We all enjoyed the food for flavor and quality. So, we would say that we are fans of the food. However, we would not be fans of the service extended this night. -
Review from Diandra M.
Irvine, CA
9/12/2011 1 Check-in Here
What a little hidden gem!
Home on a weekday, my sister's better half decided to treat me to a sushi lunch and he found Araki's on Yelp. We originally planned on going elsewhere but they were closed on Monday, their loss and our gain!
I ordered the Sake Kama (roasted salmon cheek), which was delicious, the ponzu is awesome! It came with a bowl of rice and miso soup, both of which I enjoyed. I also ordered 2 pieces of maguro and hamachi (I was feeling a little gluttonous) and was surprised at the quality and freshness of the fish. The maguro in particular was unbelievably smooth, but after this meal, I would recommend you try ANYTHING on the menu.
The service wasn't amazing, but not terrible. There was only one server to cover all of the tables, so I'd cut her some slack. I don't know if she's the owner's wife, but the Japanese woman that served us was friendly, warm and did a good job considering she was alone.
I would come here again (and plan on it), and even if you have sushi-phobic friends in your dining party, bring them anyway. There's plenty of grilled/cooked/non-seafood items on the menu to satisfy most. -
Review from Braydon T.
Laguna Hills, CA
8/5/2011
Araki Japon...where to begin....
First of all if you like sushi, enjoy eating high quality FRESH fish or delicious and delicately crafted deserts I would definitely check out what I think is probably one of the most under rated sushi places in orange county. Despite the fact this place happens to be hidden in a food court in foothill ranch don't let that put you off. The quality of fish and skill of the chef are well worth the drive from the freeway. My recommendation is to just make the night sushi and a movie as regal cinemas is right next door to make the drive worth while.
First timers should definitely get the omakase, yes its expensive but you will get to sample a wide variety of the best the house has to offer based on whats fresh that day. Plus its a good chance to try something new you probably wouldn't have ordered in the first place and end up loving it.
As far as the negative reviews go im both surprised and entertained. Very clearly the people complaining about rice and chicken teriyaki did not come for sushi let alone authentic japanese food. I can't comment on the seated table service as I have only sat at the sushi bar the 3 times I have been here. But seeing as there is only one chef I could see how things could get busy and end up taking longer than some people may like but that's the price you pay for quality.
Bottom line, if you want some really good SUSHI check out araki! sit at the bar and order the omakase your first time.
remember order sushi, not chicken... and I doubt you will leave disappointed. Don't forget dessert I have tried a new dessert each time I have gone and they are all amazing! -
Review from Gee J.
Laguna Beach, CA
Updated - 8/18/2011
Friday: My BF purchased a Groupon for $30 for Araki-Style Sashimi Platter and Five-Glass Flight of House Fruit-Infused Sake (Up to $64 Value). We made reservations and were seated promptly. The fruit infused sake was tasty. We both thought the raspberry was the best. The Sashimi platter came out about 15 mins after we arrived, it all of the plates were served at once, on a long board. To no surprise, the fish was fresh and the toppings accented each one beautifully. We then ordered some cut rolls to finish off the dinner.
Again, the only flaw on the evening was the quality of service. Simple things were over looked. We both asked for water, and only got 1. Three people tried to take our order repeatedly even after putting our order in. I'm aware that they are trying to be attentive. And it certainly isn't something that would keep me from coming back. There are only 5 or 6 booths, I would think that the staff would be able to keep track. When the sashimi platter came out - the waitress told my BF "you need to move your stuff" which was weird considering the only "stuff" on the table was dishes she had set down. Again, simple things that I'd expect from an AYCE or a lesser grade place. I guess I just expect the service to match the caliber of the food.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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8/15/2011
I visit a few times a month for lunch. And I've never been disappointed with the food. Whether I get… Read more »
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Review from woo k.
Tustin, CA
6/25/2011
"Chef, it was an honor dining here." were my last words before I stepped out after staying for 2 hours of glorious orgasmic pure authentic Japanese food with my grandmother.
Alright. Time to school these kids with all these negative reviews.
All you pathetic reviewers who are complaining about the price and whining about quality, FALL ON SOMETHING SHARP. You go to a sushi authentic sushi place complain about lunch boxes and chicken teriyaki? Go to places that have sushi buffets. I'm sure you tasteless not knowing what quality means people will be very impressed with Walmart sushi. I apologize for the rage but it's so pathetic when I see people like this. YOU ARE AT A SUSHI PLACE. SIT AT THE DAMN BAR AND LET THE CHEF TAKE OVER.
Done.
I've eaten fish and sushi as I was growing up. The only place I gave good sushi rating to was a place in Colorado who flew their fish from Japan EVERY morning. It was pricey, but it was one of the best. I'm VERY picky.
I saw the "mixed" reviews but I went anyways because I knew from lunch meal that this place was run by Japanese people. Those Korean owned sushi places are pretty pathetic and pretentious (I'm Korean). So that's good!
Went in, the bar was full so we waited. Best place to eat sushi is at the bar where the chef suggest the fresh and the specialty to you personally.
Food: LIVE Amaebi? WTF? Hell yes! LIVE Konchi? HELL YES! After devouring these two I trusted the chef and let him take over. Each dish was or~~gasmic (I'm not gay). Dish after dish it was a new experience. AMAZING quality fish and the cuts were just pure beauty. Yellowtail, octopus, unagi,etc were all so amazing. Top notch stuff and wow... trust me, it was an experience sitting there. I wish I coulda had some sake too. Go there and try out their sushi. Trust me, it's amazing. That's quality. Oh and the deserts... yeah... my grandmother doesn't eat much ice cream... she ate the whole thing.
Service: Had to wait for the bar but what can they do? Kick people out? The servers were very friendly and attentive. The Chef had such a positive vibe and taught me about sushi. The salt, the 3 different stages of tasting fish, how to eat the sushi, etc. You could tell this guy was passionate about his food. Great service. If you're worried about bad service, come at a time when it's not packed and busy. The place was half filled and I got great service.
Price: Trust me, I know it's not cheap, but hey, like I said, if you want cheap half assed sushi? don't come here. Fill your belly out at some buffet. If want an sushi extravaganza experience? Pay up and you won't be sorry. Compared to other authentic places, it's basically the same price.
Conclusion: If you're a authentic Japanese sushi lover, you'll love this place. Even if you're not that familiar with sushi, this place would be the one to go for the proper experience. This place is a diamond in the rough people! Like others say, don't be fooled by it's outside appearance next to fast food places. Inside there's a amazing chef that'll make you fall in love with authentic Japanese sushi. -
Review from Kelly H.
Lake Forest, CA
8/5/2011 2 photos
Araki's is awesome! What a gem to find this place in a strip mall. He used to be a chef at Nobu.
Fresh fish and Chef Araki is great. Spends time telling you stories and educating you. He makes his own soy sauce!
The yellowtail jalapeño roll is so yummy, I've never seen it before. With cilantro and this lemon sauce.
We also like the huge house special rollm flounder appetizer, sashimi tacos, noodles, all kinds of stuff.
Tons of choices for great sake and beer.
Amazing desserts. Creme brulee trio and berry dish are so good.
We come here all the time and love it!!!
(I have no idea why one poster would say "mystery fish, its all laid out in front of you and if you've even had sushi its not too difficult to figure out. Or ask...whatever) -
Review from Lily L.
Orange County, CA
1/20/2012 2 Check-ins Here
Absolutely disappointed this place closed down. Wanted to have fresh sashimi for lunch one day and the place was empty! It would be nice to know if this place is planning to open elsewhere. I would definitely trek a hundred miles for the food!
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Review from Jen M.
Orange County, CA
5/16/2011
Are you kidding me?!! Amazing omakase in Foothill Ranch? How? when? whaaa?? OC got lucky, very lucky to have master chef Hisashi Araki amongst us creating some of the most delectable dishes you could feast on.
So yeah, this review is for the omakase. Had the $50 omakase this time, getting $75 next.
In a word: EXCELLENT. Truly excellent, from the food to the service. The food is delicious and served beautifully. The server was very attentive, kind and helpful.
Chef Araki deserves all the praises in the world. What an experience! The man has a gift and it's making extraordinary Japanese dishes. By the time I was finished, I realized this was the BEST MEAL I've ever had in my life. Trust me when I say, from one foodie to another, that you will not be disappointed with the omakase he serves. Out of this world!!
Every one of my taste buds was lit up and I couldn't stop smiling, I was actually blushing from how happy I looked eating everything. Araki takes great pride in his work and you can tell. It's very interesting how he mixes all the flavors and leaves you guessing what's next. He's great to talk to as well, very sociable and a pleasant demeanor. His English is wonderful for only being in the U.S. for 2 years!
The dessert is also incredible as everyone is mentioning. And try the sake sampler, it's house-made and won't disappoint.
I feel a little bad for the chef. He has upscale 5-star dishes in a town where not many of the people can appreciate it. I could see him being very successful in Laguna Beach or Newport one day. I believe anyone who is posting a lower review either has not tried the omakase or ordering things like teriyaki chicken at a sushi restaurant and expecting heaven on earth. And someone is complaining about the aesthetics of the restaurant? Really? It's in a food court, dude, not the Taj Mahal. Gotta keep in mind the place is relatively new, having been there only about a year or so. Given enough time and customers, I believe this place is going to turn out even better.
May we keep Chef Araki here as long as we can. OMAKASE FOR THE WIN!! -
Review from Emily L.
Irvine, CA
8/24/2011
Best meal I've had in a long time. I went here for date night with my hubby...
The service was great, and the food was fantastic. We had the three course meal. My cold menu option was a raw fish carpaccio, which was incredible. The hubby had a warm mushroom salad, which I gladly would have stolen from him if he hadn't eaten all of it. I had the black cod, and he had the sea bass...both equally wonderful. Deserts were great, too.
I'll be going back here again, for sushi next time! -
Review from Steve T.
Coto De Caza, CA
4/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
After reading the reviews here on Yelp I was excited to try this place since it's close to where I live. Unfortunately it didn't measure up and I won't be going back.
Too many better alternatives and all of which are half the price.
Had the Omakazi. It was good but nothing special. For the price I don't think it was worth it.
They had a number of daily fresh items listed on the board which sounded interesting. We ordered two of them (live scallops, live urchin) but were told they were out. Given that we were the first table of the evening they clearly never had any to begin with.
Desserts were good. -
Review from Yosuke S.
Glendale, CA
5/15/2011
I visited this place for a business mixer.
This place is located inside of shopping mall kind of like food court set up next to the movie theater. Usually, you don't expect something great from this kind of set up.
But the food is great here! I think their quality of food and location do not quite fit. But if you trust yelp review and go in, you would know what I mean.
It is a fusion style Japanese restaurant, and their food is really tasty, But honestly, I enjoyed their dessert the most! I don't mean dessert is better than food. I just feel their have not received the spotlight which should get more to promote their business. And quite honestly I felt Mr Araki's passion to the dessert as well!
If you have a chance to come here, you should definitely try some their sweets! -
Review from Anne M.
Tustin, CA
6/2/2011
What a surprise...an authentic Japanese restaurant in the heart of a strip mall food court, really? Yup! The menu here is ridiculous. I wish I was a little more adventurous because I'm sure the Foie Gras with Mango is quite an experience.
I've actually gotten used to Korean style Japanese food since that seems to be most common in my neighborhood so it is really nice to find a Japanese chef serving traditional (and non-traditional) items. Don't let the location fool you, this place is the real deal! -
Review from Michael S.
Orange County, CA
6/19/2011
Went there for a quick lunch during the week.
A (ambiance): in the middle of a food court area flanked by Rubio's and some other fast food restaurants.
B (where's the beef): wife had the lunch bento special with mackerel, shrimp tempura and other trimmings. The price/taste/quality were pretty much in line with most decent Japanese restaurants. I thought it was a good value. I had the Japanese pizza, forgot the Japanese name for it. I had better elsewhere. Wife thought it was mediocre, too. Will try something else next time.
C (check please): mid-twenties with tip and tax.
D (Definitely): would try it again if happen to be in the area. Otherwise would probably not make the effort to drive out to Foothill Ranch. Service was very attentive and friendly. The food at Wazen in Lake Forest is way better. -
Review from Darren I.
Orange County, CA
12/27/2010 1 Check-in Here
Are you kidding me? 4.5 stars Yelp!??? You are beginning to make me wonder about you. Alright, it is a Monday night and we come here armed and ready for a great meal based on all the reviews here. We invite some friends along for the ride expecting a really great meal but wait! What do we encounter? The waitress telling us that it takes 15 minute for a roll??? WTF???
So we order some food and some rolls and the rolls take over an hour to come! The food took over an hour to come as well! Unacceptable! I feel that we were deceived by yelp and the reviews for this place. Our guest even stopped off at Burger King after the meal and got chicken fingers and fries because he was hungry. This was very unacceptable after eating a meal that cost over $140 for 4 people!
R-I-D-I-C-U-L-O-U-S!!!
The waitress was nice but that did not make up for the slow service and the slow food coming out of the kitchen.
I doubt the previous reviewers ate here or came to the same restaurant as I did. I would not come here or recommend it to anyone else! -
Review from Akiko M.
Irvine, CA
1/17/2011 4 photos
There are only a handful of places (outside of Japan) I know my mom and dad love to go to get genuine Japanese food, and Araki's Japon is one of them.
I went with my family and we each got the 7 course Omakase ($50). Every dish was thoughtful and delicious. After licking each plate clean I was totally stuffed. And the DESSERTS! AMAZING. The head chef studied pasty and dessert making in France for a few years and it shows.
He also makes this tasty fruit infused sake sampler. For the person who doesn't always love hard alcohols and liquors this is perfect.
The only warning I would give is, for the best omakase experience, keep your group small (no more than 5 people). Preparing each course to come out at the same time can get time consuming.
But other than that, for a genuine and tasty Japanese experience, go here. -
Review from Robert P.
Foothill Ranch, CA
1/8/2011
Ignoring the 'Closed' status for a previous Araki's japon iteration in Lake Forest, the lady and I went to the location in the food court in Foothill Ranch on Towne Center.
Without getting into inane amounts of who did what to whom and how it was done, I will just say that the sushi is some of the BEST I have come across here in Southern California.
The chef/owner is talented beyond compare. His driving sensation is texture, as opposed to the pedestrian statement of so many Asian chefs, "all flavors in balance." At this point, many western diners are familiar with the refrain, and hearing how someone's dish is both sweet and savory is not nouveau or even very interesting.
Instead, Araki's masters the tactile sensations of eating. Whether it be via a broil-at-the-table salmon dish, or a carpaccio of the most delicate flounder, this is serious stuff. The palate is constantly courted, seduced, and fulfilled. The fresh lobster dish was especially noteworthy.
Araki's is a place for lovers on a night out, a family to reconnect, or for businessmen to ink a deal.
Araki's Japon rates the highest I can provide it. And frankly, anything more I can say will just be hyperbole. Go and dine and fall in love with sushi again.
And yes, I did just copy this review from another site. The bottom line is, Chef Hisashi brings his game. To an idiot who thinks a 15 minute wait for a roll is too long, go hit Koo Koo Roo. This is food made for people who love to eat by someone who loves to prepare it. -
Review from Sara C.
Los Angeles, CA
6/25/2011 1 photo
Some friends were taking us here, so I didn't really know what we really what I was getting myself into. On the outside, it looked like any typical Japanese restaurant in a food court... franchise, americanized, average.
On the other hand, I didn't know how pleasantly surprised I would be with this restaurant.
When we sat down, a waiter with hispster-esque glasses came to take our order, but since we all speak Japanese and since the waiter looked like the typical American waiter, we nearly jumped when he started speaking Japanese.
The menu is that of a typical, good Japanese restaurant, and I decided to get the tenzaru udon set while others around me ordered the bento box, tenzaru soba set, and tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet).
It didn't take very long for the food to come out, and I was happy to find that the food was VERY authentic. The udon was just what I hoped it would be, and the tempura was definitely above average. From what I heard, everything else that was ordered was also very good.
Overall, do not be fooled by the outer appearance of Araki's Japon. The food is authentic, and the service is exceptional... the waiter was very personable and he was happy to have conversations with us in Japanese! A very fun and delicious experience indeed. -
Review from Cathy M.
Rancho Santa Margarita, CA
2/17/2011 1 Check-in Here
This has got to be the worst sushi restaurant in OC. Where do I start?
The service is horrendous... takes at least a half an hour to get any food and the waitresses don't know the menu (ask a question and two of them will huddle over the menu at the counter to try and figure it out). Prices are too high for the quality -- my daughter ordered a teriyaki chicken entrée only to find it doesn't come with rice, that's $3 extra. Miso soup and salad, which often come with an entrée at a Japanese restaurant were also an additional $3... each. So that totals $23 for chicken teriyaki, which wasn't even very good.
I've given this place a couple of tries... it's near the movie theater that we go to often and would be a healthy alternative to the fast food in the food court, but every time has been a huge disappointment. I won't go again. -
Review from Phil M.
Irvine, CA
5/9/2011
Good sushi, good sake, what more could you want. The people here are increadibly nice, the service was excellent and ohh man is the sushi good. They also make home made sake with a variety of flavors to choose from
Granted I have only been here once and it is possible for a place to have an off day, The reviews of this place should be higher. Anyone who has ever gone out for real sushi knows it takes a little while to make, so you have to come when you have a little more time on your hands.
I will update my review after I return to this place to see how consistent they are. -
Review from David v.
10/12/2010 1 Check-in Here
This was my first time to Araki's and I came here based on a recommendation from a friend saying I have to try this place. My friend has been insisting I try this place because he knows I am all into the food. So on Saturday night, I did and... it was pretty freaking good. How good? I didn't expect to see this level of food in Foothill Ranch and Araki's seems waaay out of place because they are on a completely different level.
First off, you should know this isn't a sushi joint despite having a sushi bar and also having some sushi on their menu. In fact, we came here looking to get some sushi, but was more or less told to skip it and get the omakase. Now when I say omakase, I am not talking about getting the sushi chefs picks/recommendations on the best and freshest of sushi, it is actually a set number of courses that they serve which consists mostly of non-sushi.
The food was the best non-sushi Japanese food I have had in a very long time. The staff is attentive on refills for drinks, clearing out plates, and very friendly to talk to. Some of highlights of the evening:
* Yellow Tail Carpaccio with Cilantro and Serrano Chili, Yuzu Soy Sauce
* Sashimi Salad
* Blackened Chilean Sea Bass with a Miso Glaze - this was my favorite. I have had it before, but it was so simple and yet executed perfectly.
I will admit, I was a little hesitant and suspicious of Araki's because there are so many filtered reviews, my friend doesn't strike me as the foodie type, and I haven't had any Yelp friends who have been here before. You should definitely know that the food here is mostly modern Japanese cuisine and not traditional. So your going to get food that is different and yet so very good. I would definitely recommend without a doubt you get the $50 omakase special for your first time as it was a lot of food even for me (in the end, I was just stuffed). Araki's gets an easy 5 star.Listed in: Japanese Food of the NON-Sushi…
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Review from Kimberly W.
Orange County, CA
8/9/2011 1 Check-in Here
Mainly my review is over the service I received here. It got to the point where I couldn't even talk to the servers anymore because they were so rude and overbearing. They need to train their service staff a little more on how to speak to customers.
Excited to try this place I got a http://restaurant.com vouture. I wanted to make sure it would be okay to use it so I asked the hostess/waitress and she said she would ask the manager but he was busy talking to the customers. They asked if I wanted to sit and wait... "sure" go to walk in... oh well let me clean off a table... great you do that... and walked back out in the waiting area. Sit down. New person comes up to take the order... give the explanation and oh btw the certificate is on the counter... second person feels the need to walk back up and stand over with a less than lovely attitude about how the manager won't talk to her right now because he's talking to someone and he'll just ignore her... waay more explanation than needed since i was just fyi getting the other server up to speed. Finally we get an answer... so we order... not sure if they were brewing the beer in the back but that's how long it took. Oh my the water was brought out by the OTHER waiter who was also sweeping the floors and all I could think was... are his hands clean? Took minutes to check the date on the ID for the beer as well... if you need help with math just ask please. Then they went back again to take a boat ride out to the ocean to catch the fish for the sushi, it's the only explanation I can come up with for the wait. With every interaction I was less impressed. Wasn't worth the hassle of not cooking at home, that's for sure.
Food was fine and reasonably priced, regardless there is nothing they could do so that I would subject myself to those 2 servers ever again! This is quite unfortunate since it would be so convenient to go here.
*** One could only imagine that I've received an email from this review. Can only hope that I'm mistaken as it seems to take away from the whole idea of Yelp:
Email received from: Hinano H.
"you should change your attitude!! Who do you think you are. Probably you weren'nt special enough bye" -
Review from Ms. M.
Orange County, CA
Updated - 2/20/2011
We just returned last night for dinner again. This time, we opted for the $50 omakase menu, and we were still extremely pleased with the 7-course offering of scallops, salmon skin salad, seared tuna, sea bass, lamb, sushi, and dessert-of-our-choice (we picked the sesame custard we loved from last time and tried the spiced nashi -- both amazing).
Even though the restaurant was super busy, the service was still attentive and incredibly friendly.
We are glad to see that Araki's hasn't lost its "rough around the edges" charm, which as I said in my last review, only makes the place more endearing to me. I like that it's not super polished, and that it's located in a space that obviously was meant for fast/counter-service food, but yet it is able to produce interestingly creative, beautifully crafted, and delicious tasting dishes. We will definitely be back!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/19/2010
The food here is satisfyingly delicious and beautifully presented. Every course of our $75/person… Read more »
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Review from Michele M.
Ladera Ranch, CA
2/3/2011
A hidden gem in Foothill Ranch! Don't let the decor fool you.
Get the omakase, any of the live seafood (if they have live uni, GET IT, it 's a sweet/ briney orgasm in the mouth), pork belly, seared salmon, miso cod and the tacos. LOVED ALL OF IT. -
Review from James M.
Irvine, CA
12/5/2011
Was there yesterday, and a sign on the door signed by the owner indicates they are no longer in business.
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Review from Kelly B.
Lake Forest, CA
10/22/2011
We were ripped off. We came in with a http://restaurant.com gift certificate. The server actually asked us if we had a certificate and then informed us that she wouldn't give us the happy hour price because we were using a certificate (that we had paid for). One person didn't receive their soup and salad until the others in the group had finished theirs. The main course was served over the course of fifteen minutes. The first person in our party was nearly finished before the final person was served. The food was decent, but he price seemed steep for a restaurant with zero ambiance in a food court. That, combined with being ripped off and the poor service, makes it a restaurant that I'd recommend staying away from. There are plenty of sushi restaurants within five miles of this place that are equally good, cost the same or less, and have a more pleasant environment and better service.
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Review from Jon K.
Foothill Ranch, CA
10/26/2010
I've put off writing this review for the longest time because I've been wanting a LEGIT japanese food place close to home (by close, i mean 2 mins away). I'm used to driving 20-40 miles for good Japanese food (Tustin, Torrance, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley).
I went in with a friend on a random Thursday weekday and boy, this place was so dead. After reading the reviews of Araki's from the other patrons, I was nothing but excited to see what he had to offer. My friend and I had a few beers and ordered the Omakase menu. I believe at the time they were upgrading the Omakase to the larger menu for free.
Needless to say, the food was alright, not bad by any means, but I remembered the profound use of yuzu in almost everything. I also remember one of the courses having beef, which was a first for me on any omakase style course I've had elsewhere. Seemed a bit out of place, but even that was "meeeeeeh".
We spent a good 2 hours there slowly eating, chatting with Araki, (who is a REALLY nice guy!) and during that time, I think maybe 2 patrons came in to get "to go" orders. At the end of the course, my friend and I shared the dessert sampler, which was delicious. I think we had 3 different items (there was so much food, forgive me! haha!). But nope, we weren't done. We saw the live amaebi in the tank and had an order (which apparently only counts as ONE @ $9/ea).
We walked out with a frickin' painfully split tab @ $9x.xx each after all was said and done.... DAHHH..
But it doesn't end there.. I decided to give it another shot. So a few weeks later I went in with my sister on Saturday around lunch time and again, we were the only patrons in there (how does he survive?). I love Oyakodon so I ordered it along w/ a cold soba entree (I was being a fatty). The Oyakodon was terrible. It was overcooked, too salty, and the rice was hard and falling apart. The cold soba, which I didn't think you could really mess up too badly was undercooked to a sort of "Al Dente" fashion, which doesn't really work with a whole wheat or buckwheat noodle like soba since it leaves hard uncooked clumps of noodle in your teeth. Not a great dining experience.
If enough people write a stellar review of something other than his Omakase special, I'd definitely go back to try it. I'm really looking to add this place to my "GO TO" for grubbin' -
Review from Norm L.
Irvine, CA
9/3/2010
I've come here twice, the first time I tried the chicken teriyaki, my usual litmus test for a new Japanese restaurant. I was disappointed, although my dinner companions had an interesting beef dish cooked on a ceramic dish that looked better. Turns out the master chef, Hisashi-san, typically does not prepare the standard fare.
After reading his bio, I decided to come back to celebrate my wife's birthday, and this time did it the right way, ordered omakase style (opting for the $75/head menu). Wow, was that a treat. Live oysters from Japan, sweet shrimp sushi, rack of lamb cooked in a leaf, the freshest sashimi I've had in a long time, poached sea bass with special dried miso, all cooked with a Japanese-European flair that Hisashi-san has mastered during his stints in Europe and the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas, including head chef at Nobu's restaurant (yes, that Nobu) in the Bahamas. Amazing stuff.
Needless to say, my rating is for the omakase; if you came in for your average Japanese fare, I'd probably rate it a 3. But if you're willing to splurge, you'll get a meal you won't soon forget! -
Review from Jone H.
Foothill Ranch, CA
6/28/2010 4 photos
Omakase at Araki's - It was not just dinner, it was a life experience.
I had no idea what I was in for when we sat down, only that I've heard that such dining experiences existed in cities like NYC or LA. I couldn't believe that this was in my own back yard! I walked in with friends one day and said, what the heck, we decided to splurge and indulge ourselves.
Ordering Omakase was easy...you don't. I was at the mercy of Hisashi-san, as he created artistically each plate as if it was an edible work of art. I was nervous at first, but soon learned to trust Hisashi, and couldn't wait for the next course. It was a thrilling ride from the first dish all the way to the main course, and on to dessert. I thought I've had fresh fish before, but the sashimi at Araki's was absolutely, out-of-this-world, delicious. The whole experience was just as good, if not better than my dining experience at Morimoto's in Philadelphia, owned by Iron Chef Morimoto.
The Foothill Ranch/Lake Forest communities are extremely lucky to have an award winning chef who is the caliber of Hisashi Araki. -
Review from Chris R.
Trabuco Canyon, CA
9/11/2010 13 Check-ins Here
WOW! Talk about amazing.
First off don't get the bento boxes, the teri chicken, the "don's" . They taste good, large portions, and are a great value but, it's a red herring. You do that and you will end up missing the secret of this place. Get the Omakase or get something off the special menu. You go for the "regular" stuff and you will miss the magic of this place.
Let me reiterate - get the the OMAKASE.
If you let him take you on a culinary trip, you will not be disappointed. I've done omakase at many Japanese restaurants and usually end up with nigiri, nigiri, nigiri. Chef Araki actually puts together a sensible progression of dishes based on your likes and dislikes. From the appetizer to the desert - each is thoughtfully and artistically crafted.
A couple of tips:
1 - Chef Araki's style is Euro-Japanese. There are some very interesting dishes on the menu in addition to standards like Gindara.
2 - Omakase at lunch is a great way to try him out, being $30
3 - The staff is very knowledgable, the chef is approachable, ask for their guidance
4 - The Kid's meal is awesome. These folks must really love the kids.
5 - They have live seafood here - ebi, uni, conch, selection varies.
6 - Desert - Some awesome deserts here. Don't be surprised if your plum wine oranges are missing ;) -
Review from Cindy C.
Irvine, CA
11/20/2010 3 photos
Japanese is my favorite cuisine - and i'm very particular about sushi. Araki's is in located in an area you would not expect this caliber of a chef or food. Hisashi (the owner and chef) cooks up an amazing variety of food for his omakase. I've been there quite a few times and know my favorite things (live shrimp, live scallop, live uni etc) Tonight I had the pleasure of trying the live lobster salad that was cooked just perfectly! The food is fresh, tasty and presentation is beautiful! The chef never disappoints.
Things to try when you go there: Aji, uni, yellowtail belly. And at the end, make sure you save room for his AMAZING desserts!!! -
Review from Kathy A.
Foothill Ranch, CA
6/29/2010
Araki's Japon captured my heart last Saturday....
Chef Hisashi-san made WONDERFUL omakase that blew me away. It was amazing and absolutely the BEST meal I have ever eaten. Hisashi-san took great care in personalizing each course and making it a one-of-a-kind 5-star experience at a GREAT price. He made me feel like a special guest, especially with the artistic beauty with which each meal was executed. Additionally, Hasashi-san's culinary talent shined through every course he made, including the dessert, which was also DELICIOUS and was also his own artistic creation (Japanese-Italian fusion).
Even with the generous amount of food provided, each course was appropriately planned so as to not make me feel like the buttons on my pants were going to pop. In other words, Chef Hasashi was strategic in the courses he selected to make and in the ordered each would come out to the table for me to devour. (Each course was also healthy so there was no guilt in the gluttony...)
In addition, the manager made this experience unforgettable, as he was very attentive, caring, and patient in answering my questions about menu items. Service was expedient. It was a really special dining experience that I have not had anywhere else.
Araki's Japon provides a menu that no other restaurant in Foothill Ranch offers, and is now included on my list of favorite restaurants. I highly recommend Araki's and cannot wait to get back for some more yumminess. Yummy, yummy for my tummy! -
Review from Thomas N.
Bronx, NY
I have read a few reviews from the previous. This place have a new owner, cooks are real japanese people. Unlike, many other places I've been to majority of the food are made by Chinese or Koreans. Don't get me wrong, Korean sushi are pretty decent, but Chinese?!!...did you know that back in history Chinese and Japanese are like "fire and water"? This place just change owner recently, the owner is the main chef...seem like all the cook here are Japanese except the cleaners ofcourse.
Used to be call "Teri Ya", which was suck. -
Review from Martial B.
Irvine, CA
10/3/2011
Overpriced. I had a groupon so that made it more palatable! Food is good and quality but very small portions. Would not go back.
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Review from Jenny G.
Long Beach, CA
7/28/2011
This is the best sushi in all of orange co. The chef is incredible he makes everything fresh there. If you can appreciate authentic Japanese food you will be amazed with his creations.
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Review from Ashley O.
Foothill Ranch, CA
3/16/2011
This place was deeeeeelicious! ^_^
We sat at the bar and watched our food be created. It was great! And the strawberry sake went well with it. :)
The chef came over to talk to us a bit as well. Everyone there is so kind.
I will definitely be back and bring more of my friends! -
Review from mia o.
Costa Mesa, CA
4/28/2011
Such a disappointment, and one word for this restaurant for me...Boring~
All of the items on the menu are just simple and light, similar taste, which might be good for some people who like that type of taste, but I and my husband, or most of my friends who spend good amount of money on eating out, we like variety as well as quality and the look. Those who rated 4 stars and up here, try Ikko or Masa sushi in Costa Mesa if you have not tried yet. They have quality food in light and rich, and variety of tasty items.
Also, this place does not even have toro or uni by the way.
Overall, I had hard time finding what I should be crazy about and reason to spend over one hundred dollars for dinner here. Oh, the waitress was very nice. But the chef, the owner was busy talking about how much experience he has in French....which I did not see any contribution in his current items.
