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Maneki Restaurant

4.5 star rating
based on 236 reviews

Category: Japanese  [Edit]

Neighborhood: International District
304 6th Ave S
(between Jackson St & Jefferson St)
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 622-2631
Hours:

Tue-Sun. 5:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m.

Good for Groups:
Yes
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Attire:
Casual
Price Range:
$$
Good for Kids:
Yes
Takes Reservations:
Yes
Delivery:
No
Take-out:
Yes
Waiter Service:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
No
Outdoor Seating:
No
Good for:
Dinner
Alcohol:
Full Bar

236 reviews for Maneki Restaurant

Review Highlights   

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"The miso marinated broiled black cod was fantastic." (in 35 reviews)
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"One of my two favorite sushi places in Seattle." (in 136 reviews)
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"Reserving a tatami room is a great way to dine." (in 18 reviews)
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Sort by: Yelp Sort | Date | Rating | Elites'
Photo of Erin B.

 

0

2

Erin B.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
11/19/2009

Every time I come here, I get the same thing... and I love it.

The beef sukiyaki is super tasty. The tempura is perfect. The gyoza is fantastic. Every time.

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Photo of Dan L.

Elite '09

12

150

Dan L.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
11/18/2009

We reserved one of the tatami rooms for my sisters birthday.  It was my first time visiting this gem.  

My wife and I arrived a little early and while we were waiting for them to get our room ready we sat in the waiting area.  It was a Wed night, but we saw 3 different couples get turned away because they didn't have reservations.  The sweet old lady hostess would try to fit them in later but most of the time it was 1-2 hours away.  All three couples asked if they could sit at the sushi bar, and she told them all that the sushi chef was too backed up to allow people to sit at the bar.  Moral of the story: Make reservations!

I had a moment of sheer panic when I saw the table in our private room without chairs, I thought we were going to have to sit Indian style, and my legs don't do that comfortably.  But luckily that wasn't the case. I am a big guy so it was a bit awkward, but manageable to get in an out of the built in table.  Don't forget to take off your shoes!

The food was outstanding.  Literally everything we had was fantastic.  The blue fin tuna is a piece of art and you must get it if you like tuna.  We ordered so much sake and sushi!  I couldn't believe the bill when we got it, very reasonable!

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0

8

Lauren P.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
11/17/2009

I have been coming here for as long as I have been able to eat solid foods, and I can not recall one negative experience.

The food is always great, and the service is always friendly.
Worth the wait (even though it's sometimes up to two hours).

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Elite '09

5

92

Richard U.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
11/15/2009

It seems crazy that I haven't reviewed this place yet.  Probably one of the first Seattle restaurants I was recommended to go even before I lived here.  Maneki is a Seattle staple that has been around for what seems like forever.  It is pretty old school w/o a lot of the slickness of newer modern sushi bars but this place always has a special place in my heart.  

First off, it is ALWAYS crowded.  Don't even think about walking into this place during the dinner rush w/o a reservation unless you don't mind sitting at the bar which I have done on several occasions or if you don't mind waiting for a very long time.  I there tonight and already the reservation list had all the tables filled for 5:30 pm when they open up.  

The fish is very fresh and of great quality.  I heard a rumor that they have some sort of 'in' with the Uwajimaya market to ensure freshness.  The fish/rice ratio in their rolls and nigiri is generous (more fish than rice).  Also, their rolls are very reasonable considering quality and freshness.  Their excellent spicy tuna roll will run you $4.50.  Also recommend blue fin sashimi which is $14.00.

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Photo of ACG C.

 

1

4

ACG C.

Everett, WA

4 star rating
11/13/2009

I had heard about this place by word of mouth, told others about and they had been hear before and raved about it, I agree, very good sushi, fairly priced, and the casual vibe was something that I liked best about it.

The nigiri portions were massive, the overall quality of anything I've ordered there has been very good. Aside from the older, very uninterested lady that tends the bar. She is clearly a relative of whom ever owns the place, or the owner herself, seems to be very irritated but tolerant since we are keeping her in business or with job at the fact that we (non-asians) are eating and drinking in her establishment. Sorry that we don't wear a kimono, don't speak the language, but we love your food, your restaurant, and many bring dates there for the nice quite atmosphere, lighten up old lady!(-1)

I've eaten there three times and ordered to-go twice. Two times eating in makes me want to warn everyone, "don't eat in the bar if there's an old unsociable woman in there".

I like as you walk back to the bathroom at see the seating booths that have the traditional seating arrangements with pillows to sit on. There were two groups in two of the booths, one with the drapes closed for extra privacy. I thought that was extremely private and I liked the idea of it.

Sorry Maneki, the crabby old lady cost you the 5-stars.

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Photo of Marimo A.

 

3

71

Marimo A.

Tacoma, WA

5 star rating
11/2/2009

This is, by far, the best izakaya joint in this area.  Food is authentic and everything I had was good.  No complaints except one elderly Japanese lady who works there screwed up our reservation.  And she was rude when we got there (we're a group of Japanese.  When I went there with American friends, I must say her attitude was different - a lot nicer).  But oh well, forget that.  It's still worth going.  And the rest of the service was just fine.

Reservation is a must.

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15

120

Carla R.

Portland, OR

4 star rating
10/30/2009

This is definitely one of the first Japanese restaurants that has a wide variety of authentic choices on the menu - both omni and vegetarian. Besides the high quality of the food that's carefully and thoughtfully prepared, this is the one of few Japanese/Sushi restaurants that WONT break the bank. The two times we've been there, the service was accommodating and when its really busy, you may have to catch one of the servers walking by. With that said, they have always been gracious about it.

Even on a weeknight, you should make reservations and give yourself time for parking and walking.

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Photo of Randall F.

 

120

99

Randall F.

Millbrae, CA

5 star rating
10/31/2009

Recommended by a Seattle based Yelp couple.
Maneki Neko is the name of the lucky charm cat that you see in many Japanese establishments and homes.http://www.onmarkprodu...

I have to give Maneki 5 stars for authenticity in every aspect from the Japanese lady who manages the reservations to the helpful, friendly servers but especially the extensive menu and food. I would almost say tapas Japanese style.
We loved the Miso Black Cod Cheeks, Avocado Salad, Clams cooked in Sake. They do have sushi rolls too.
We are told this is the oldest Sushi restaurant in Seattle and you should make a reservation, especially if you want a tatami room.

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Photo of Linda C.

Elite '09

81

343

Linda C.

San Leandro, CA

4 star rating
10/18/2009

Yes, it's true that I eat a lot, and frequently eat too much. Combined with the incessant need to travel, the Favorite Yelper and I found our way to beautiful Seattle, and were pleasantly welcomed for our first "real" meal in Seattle by Mankei Restaurant.

Pulling up to the place, I noticed no neon lights, no snooty-looking patrons, nor any "bling bling" decor as some places have. I noticed the pictures on the walls and all the awards they've received, and immediately thought to myself that this might be a very happy meal.

I was pleasantly surprised by the menu due to the many items that were available, including Geoduck Nigiri! ;) We had to mull over the menu for a bit and decided on the following items to combat our earlier heavy meal:

Takoyaki - DROOL. I tell you. I drools for takoyaki. It is not the best I've had, but a higher than standard taste. Loved the texture, and it wasn't too doughy.

Hiya-Yakko - Served on ice with ponzu, this was a harder tofu compared to the homemade tofu I've had in Gyanjumaru in NY. I suppose I prefer the softer type, but it was a winner with the lemon ponzu and was very refreshing.

Ankimo - I love ankimo, and this did not disappoint. Hearty servings of the stuff was soft and creamy and bursting with flavor. Love to the maxxxx!

Salmon Skin Roll - Alright. The skin was not crunchy enough, and the eat to skin ratio was not as I liked it. The skin was also a bit chewy...
.
Nabeyaki Udon - Perfect item to warm up our cold bodies from the Seattle chilliness. I have nothing bad to say against this except that the udon was a bit soggy....

Geoduck Nigiri - An experience, I would say, since I had never had geoduck prior to my visit to Seattle. I knew it was a mollusk but was expecting something with the texture of a mussell - soft and ooey, but was surprised by the very refreshing crunch of the geoduck. Also learned how to say it correctly, so I won't be chastised by you Seattlites! :)

Overall, the service was good and the waiters and waitresses accommodating. Four stars for simple home-style food with good quality and fabulous price. No worries, Maneki, keep doin' your biz and you'll last another 100 years! Be back soon! :)

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Photo of Andrea B.

 

0

5

Andrea B.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
11/16/2009

The best in town in my book....  nothing fancy inside, but nice and clean (as expected).  You can enjoy an amazing meal with sake for less than $50 for a party of two.

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Elite '09

13

77

Jen B.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
10/22/2009

I went with 2 girlfriends and had some of the best dishes here. The black cod was perfectly cooked and soft and buttery if that's possible. The avocado ponzu was a nice mixture of greens with pine nuts and little nibblettes of fruit...mmmm, hijiki was tasty, but my favorite was the salmon namban. I seriously ate the whole thing and would have gladly ordered more but I didn't want to look selfishly like a pig. There's always next time though!
Top it all off with the  Otokoyama sake that was crisp & clean (thanks
Richan!) and it was a success..not too full..or buzzed..just satisfied.

The prices can't be beat either ! Can't wait to go back!

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Elite '09

21

136

Mike T.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
10/4/2009

My goodness, I can't believe it's taken me so long to get to this place!

For value and quality, this is by far one of the best sushi joints around.  We wandered in on early Friday evening and their dining room was taken up by reservations, so we sat at the tiny bar.  It reminded me of a basement bar that you would find at an uncle's house.

The cuts of fish were fresh and generous and I still can't get over how affordable it is.  $3-4 avg for above average sashimi?  They also have a nice selection of cooked entrees, soups, and dinner combos.  

Our udon was  large enough to share and mighty tasty.  I was a bit overwhelmed with the new experience so I opted for a combination dinner with sashimi, teriyaki,  tempura, salad, and miso ($12!).

The old school decor little private dining rooms are a nice touch.  It seems as if this place hasn't changed since the 60's.  Love it!  Total bill for the night including beer and sake about $60.  Not bad for Japanese.

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Elite '09

20

140

Andrew T.

Aurora, IL

4 star rating
10/16/2009

There's been a lot said about this place, given the crazy high rating on a huge number of reviews, but to focus on the highlight - this is a great meal for not a lot of money - some of the better sushi I've had in a long time, not that I would consider myself a connoisseur. Comments on poor service were (in our experience) totally unwarranted.

If you need a quick fix and you're in the Seattle area, this is the place for you. And, FWIW, the seaweed salad is toe-curlingly good. Fresh kelp and cucumbers in a light vinegar dressing. I order seaweed salad after seaweed salad, hoping for some of the same from other places...and I know I'm just setting myself up for heartbreak.

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Photo of Jennifer Y.

 

10

81

Jennifer Y.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
11/8/2009

Never have I had such fresh sushi.  Udon is good, bentos are good, and the tempura & karaage are very very good.  The owner is lovely and very nice to us.  Always good to call ahead for a table and plan to spend some time and money, although this place isn't expensive as most, it is delicious so you'll want more than just one dish. ;]

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Photo of Jeff F.

 

2

31

Jeff F.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
9/25/2009

This restaurant has some great elements going for it: low prices, casual+friendly atmosphere, and an old-school environment with tatami rooms that provides character.

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Environment = Casual & Old-School
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There is a lot of history behind Maneki, over a hundred years worth.  Maneki's current location is quite old, and that "old building air" hits me inside the main entry.

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Sushi = Low Price at Medium Quality
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* Most of the Maki sushi are around $5.
* The options are very standard (nothing fancy).
* The Sea Urchin is creamy and popular.
* The JoJo Roll (eel) and the Smoked Salmon Roll are tasty.
* I was disappointed by the Spider Roll & Ikura, they seemed feeble.
* The Scallop Nigiri is a very nice addition to any spread.
* I wasn't impressed with the very typical tuna and "sassy salmon" rolls, but they were under $5.
* There isn't any dazzle to the presentation; they come out on simple plates as soon as they are ready.

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Customer Service = Attentive & Friendly
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* I've seen this place really busy and the staff has done a fantastic job keeping up.

Right now this is just a sushi review; and Maneki has so much more to offer.  The menu revolves around traditional Japanese food.  

If you want cheap sushi, don't do the conveyor belt option...  go here.  I look forward to trying the main entrees in the future.

BTW: The Black Cod Collar Miso is very very tasty.  Not as amazing as the Black Cod from Canlis or Palisade, but Maneki's version can't be beat for $7.

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Photo of Caitlin K.

 

14

10

Caitlin K.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
11/9/2009

Popular, so I definitely recommend getting a reservation.  Sometimes you can get neat little private rooms for tables of 4, which are awesome and classy.  The food is unbeatable.

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Photo of Steve M.

 

2

63

Steve M.

Bothell, WA

5 star rating
10/5/2009

Wow.

You'll see people talking about the black cod collars for a reason.  Yes, they are that good.  Maybe better.  

The hijiki (kelp salad) is wonderful, highly recommended if you like seaweed.

Gyoza are homemade and good.  The udon is tasty and you get a lot of it.  

If you like fresh sardines, they are on the menu - simple, whole sardines with a wedge of lemon.  Terrific.

Finally, the takoyaki - octopus + dough + tasty sweet sauce = recipe for goodness.

We never got around to the sushi, but that's what follow-up visits are for :)

My Japanese is fading, but I believe "totemo oishii desu yo" is the right phrase.

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0

9

Daniel M.

Los Angeles, CA

5 star rating
10/8/2009

Maneki has been around for over 100 years. It's not hip, or trendy. There are no neon lights and no page-long list of rolls that somebody named while playing Scrabble.

Maneki is a casual and classic staple of authentic Japanese cuisine in Seattle. The staff cares about their patrons. The portions are generous and the quality is consistent.

Expect a little wait once you get there. Luckily, there is a great tea house right around the corner. Your patience will be rewarded.

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Elite '09

299

329

clint w.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
Updated - 9/5/2009

Whoa, I wasn't sure what I was in the mood for, but I hadn't been here in awhile.  (Note to self: What the hell is wrong with you for these large gaps in time when you don't frequent your favorite places?  Are you trying to put them out of business?)

Being a huge shabu dude, I ordered that and a few choices of sushi.  That and a Sapporo would hold me.

I must admit that I didn't love the shabu.  The broth wasn't very flavorful and I wished I had gone with the sukiyaki.  On the plus side, it was all of $8 for the shabu.  Really?  Wow.

Service was improved too and was the only reason why I only gave 4 stars in the first place.  Staff came and checked on me several times during my short stay.  

Gotta hit it.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    10/21/2007

    Food is great!  This place is always packed, which is a spectacular sign.  I was here and even saw… Read more »

Photo of Chivahn W.

Elite '09

19

125

Chivahn W.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
9/27/2009

Went here tonight for a friends birthday party. The food was tasty, and came quickly. One of the girls in our group knew everyone there and has been going monthly for 10+ years so we may have gotten some special treatment.

The fish on the nigiri were big cuts which was great. I wasn't thrilled about the ginger on the salmon though - I couldn't taste the fish at all!

Price was about what I would've spent at Blue C.

If I find myself in the ID again I'd definitely go back :)

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Photo of Jason A.

 

0

35

Jason A.

Redmond, WA

5 star rating
11/7/2009

The best izakaya restaurant I've been to in America.  There wasn't a single dish we ordered that was anything other than exquisite.  Prices are very reasonable, and the restaurant has a marvelous atmosphere accurately recreating the Japanese experience.  Definitely a great place to go in a group, and would certainly suggest making reservations.

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Photo of Wendy L.

Elite '09

13

62

Wendy L.

Renton, WA

5 star rating
10/28/2009

This is the most authentic japanese restaurant I have been to The food was awesome food and I was stuffed, which is hardly the case when eating sushi/japanese for me without breaking the bank.  The miso marinated broiled black cod was fantastic!  I could just eat that and rice.  I would definitely go again, but heard you need reservations for a tatami room at least 2 weeks in advance, but well worth it.

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Photo of Lisa G.

 

6

42

Lisa G.

San Jose, CA

4 star rating
9/15/2009

I was wondering what all the rave was about, so I decided to check it out myself.

Salmon sashimi was good, so was the tofu, but agree with everyone else that the black cod collar is to die for.

Amazing that the place was established in 1904. The place is a little hard to spot as it looks tiny, but once you walk inside its much bigger.

The service was great as well, all workers spoke Japanese so I was able to practice a little. ^_^

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Photo of Nicole E.

 

1

42

Nicole E.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
11/12/2009

The menu items here are super affordable and, more importantly, amazingly fresh.  Make a reservation though, it gets packed.  We went in a group of 9 and sat in one of the rooms where you take off your shoes, fun!  The service was great.  Can't wait to go back.

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0

11

Ashley L.

Bay Area

1 star rating
11/5/2009

The food was overwhelmingly salty. They brought out two dishes, and then brought out the rest at least 20 minutes later. Not to mention the rolls were warm when they arrived at our table. The fish didn't taste fresh as everyone else described in their reviews. My stomach has been upset ever since we got back, and that was last night! The place was packed so if you do go, make reservations.

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Photo of Justin P.

Elite '09

20

50

Justin P.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
9/9/2009

This was the first sushi restaurant I experienced in Seattle......about 15 years ago that is.   To this day, Maneki is the Seattle benchmark for authentic, traditional Japanese fare (I know, strong words).  

So lets talk food.   The sushi and sashimi is great, but the real treats are all the other dishes they offer.   Black cod collar?  AMAZING!  and only $6!
I dragged my Japanese chef buddy with me and even he was amazed.

I could go on and on but instead, do yourself a favor and check this restaurant out.   It's unpretentious and all about traditional Japanese cuisine.

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0

2

Lakk L.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
9/30/2009

I love Maneki. It is my favorite Japanese restaurant. My girlfriend always asks me to have some sushis there. The price is great, I think, when compare with other Japanese restaurants in Seattle, especially in downtown.  The portion is great (for me) too. About the taste I have to borrow my girlfriend words, cos she's an expert, that this is a real sushi restaurant. She said sushis here are real sushis. How's that!!!  I think that's sound so cool for me.
Feeling proud that I've known this restaurant.
For me, I personally like the fried ice cream. I always have it when  I visit the restaurant. It's soft, sweat, hot and cold.  Alright. That's it for now. I'd love to read rather than to write but after reading many reviews I know there I have to share some of my experiences here.  Thank you y'all for those reviews I have read.

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Photo of NANCY L.

 

0

176

NANCY L.

Seattle, WA

3 star rating
Updated - 9/20/2009

Tonight, the salmon and uni sushi are only okay.
Deep fried oysters are as food as it has been.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 4 star rating
    5/24/2009

    I loved everything at this restaurant.  Just make sure, you have a reservation before you go.… Read more »

Photo of Jason C.

 

5

48

Jason C.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
9/15/2009

Did you know that this place is over 100 years old??? How many restaurants have THAT kind of staying power??

OK, part of the reason was b/c it was closed down and reopened many years later, but that's besides the fact. This place is a solid place to go for a good variety of japanese food. I wouldn't say all of the food is necessarily top notch... but there are a few items that are good. The aforementioned-a-million-times black cod is good. Strangely I find myself eating the sukiyaki a lot here even though it's not that special. Surprisingly I have yet to order sushi from here, but I've seen a friend order the Chirashi bowl, and it looks utterly delectable....

There aren't too many negatives about this place. It's a local favorite and doesn't disappoint many. Seating may be a little cramp and it's probably hard to get a table during the prime dinner times. Some people would say that the food is a tad on the salty side however. Eater discretion advised.

All in all, this is a solid establishment of the japanese kind, and will satisfy many hungry souls, craving that japanese flavor. I'd recommend it to any diners, local or guests!

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Photo of K H.

 

30

580

K H.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
Updated - 9/5/2009 7 photos

Yup. It's the best Japanese joint in town.

I've made a point of yelping as many Japanese joints as possible and this one is by far the best.

It's like being served by my aunties in their dark old kitchens. Crammed seating. Old decor. Awesome food. Lots of choices, from takoyaki to onigiri to sukiyaki to nabemono. The menu could be a little intimidating if you're not familiar with Japanese food.

There's a little sushi bar in the back, a few tatami rooms, a bar and regular restaurant area. A great place for a big party. But make a reservation because the wait could be long otherwise. And parking can be a problem sometimes.

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating
    4/10/2009

    There are a lot of quality modern Japanese restaurants in Seattle, but if you're looking for quality… Read more »

Photo of Jason S.

Elite '09

33

111

Jason S.

Olympia, WA

5 star rating
7/27/2009 1 photo

Next time I go to Maneki I am bringing a tent because I am moving in. No I am serious. Stop by and say hi I will be in the Tatami room to the left. This is the best Japanese food I have ever had and I am in need of it daily.

My first time here, which was this past weekend, will be the first of many, many trips back. The place was packed so I recommend making reservations. The walls are covered with cool Japanese art and the whole restaurant was clean and the staff extremely welcoming. I felt like I was coming home from a long distant journey in a far away land and they hadn't seen me for years.

Upon being seated my friend and I were brought out hot towels. After using said hot towel to wash up I immediately felt refreshed and I wished I could have ordered more. A hot towel appetizer or something.

Next we ordered a Sapporo to share and stared perusing the menu. We settled on the Black Cod collar miso ($6.95) to start. We were brought out three beautiful pieces of buttery decadence and a side of sticky rice. Seriously this stuff should be illegal. The flesh was soft like bunnies and melted in my mouth. A little salty and a little sweet. It is most definitely habit forming because I have been itching ever since and can't stop thinking about it. I am pretty sure the DEA is going to bust in on them at anytime, confiscate their cod collar and shut them down.

Course number two was Blue Fin Sashimi ($14). Sure you could go with a roll, or maybe you are more of a Nigiri person, but you know what I say?  Take off your rice training wheels and go with the Sashimi. The marbling on this fish was such a thing of beauty that it didn't need a rice handbag to accessorize with. It was a work of art even better than the Mona Lisa. Can you eat the Mona Lisa? No I didn't think so. So fresh tasting it can only be compared to a commercial for mouth wash. Eat it love it.

In between courses the drink menu beckoned me again as we were getting low on Sapporo. They have a few Japanese Vodkas and I highly recommend the sweet potato and rice one on the rocks. A hint of sweetness reminiscent of Korean Soju. Tasty and potent without the throat burn.  

The third course we chose was Yakiudon with chicken ($8). I have had some seriously atrocious Udon in my life. Worse than Keanu Reeves acting WHOA! This Yakiudon on the other hand was cooked to perfection brought to us sizzling with a plume of smoke billowing from it like Mt. Saint Helens. I began to waft and huff the steam shooting forth from it. I think I may have got a contact high. The chicken was perfectly seasoned and moist, the noodles were not greasy and held together, and the vegetables crunchy. We put it away and debated seconds.

Finally, and regretfully, it was time to leave. After paying with tears of joy in my eyes and fish in my belly I came extremely close to hugging everyone, including patrons, on my way out. I was that happy and just as equally full. Awesome experience.

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Photo of Tina C.

 

6

31

Tina C.

San Francisco, CA

5 star rating
8/19/2009 1 photo

They have TAKOYAKI. 5 stars!! Yes, they serve it with real squid, unlike the takoyaki stand in San Francisco's Cherry Blossom Festival. It's been tough trying to find a place that serves this and I found it in Seattle. Too bad I don't live there, though.

Black cod collar: I can see why people are raving about it. It is amazing; the marinated meat just falls off the bone. So good... Go there just to try this. For $6.95, it's hard to beat!

Great service, great food! Remember to call ahead for reservations! We were here on a Thursday night and it was packed. I would have loved to try the Tatami room but our party of 2 was too small. Would've been a unique experience, though!

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Elite '09

25

136

Nina H.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
8/21/2009

Gosh, I must be really terrible at ordering food... but nevertheless, I really enjoyed most of the dishes that we had. Specifically, the black cod collar (that everyone has raved about, totally rave-worthy), soft-shell crab tempura (absolutely tasty and fresh) and the avocado salad wasn't bad either.

My bf and I came here to celebrate his early birthday and unfortunately, most of the dishes were covered in vegetables and my strange bf hates veggies. I think the avocado salad could've just been a half-portion and would've satisfied me... the sauce was a little tangy but it tasted really well with the spinach and avocado.

The yakiudon was just AIITE. I personally LOVE udon, fried or in the broth but the yakiudon was a bit tasteless... but the beef was very tender so that was good.

We also ordered a $15 plate of sashimi, which I must say, I regretted. I should've asked for just salmon and tuna, but I believe it was the yellowtail or the hamachi tuna that tasted just splendid!!! There was also this one silver scaly sashimi... DO NOT WANT EVER AGAIN. It tasted really bad and the fish smell was so pungent. Not cool.

And the black cod collar was just the best miso fish I've had in awhile. It was my bf's favorite, he basically ate everything down to the bone, burnt fish skin and all.

I'm a little disappointed because I had such high hopes for Maneki but the service wasn't too bad and three out of five dishes were legit so that's good enough for me!

I'll definitely come back to try the other dishes but I'll pass on the yakiudon and maybe opt for the sukiyaki or something next time.

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Photo of Katarina T.

Elite '09

52

217

Katarina T.

Seattle, WA

5 star rating
Updated - 7/27/2009

Made a last minute dinner reservation for 4 at 9:30pm on a weeknight. Who knew they were even open that late? We arrived a little early and the table was ready for us.

The service was excellent and not rushed at all. As always, the food was great! We decided to do it family style and share a bunch of items. The katsu portion was HUGE with 2 big pieces. With 3 entrees + the black cod, we were stuffed. I would probably skip the chicken teriyaki next time though. The sauce was okay, but the chicken didn't seem like it was grilled and it was the least favorite dish of the night. We ordered 3 extra bowls of rice and the total came to $37 including tax. Sweet!

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1 Previous Review: Show all »

  • 5 star rating
    6/20/2009

    I came here for my birthday dinner since I love trying new places and like the appeal of this being… Read more »

Photo of Gi A.

Elite '09

17

86

Gi A.

Washington, DC

5 star rating
7/13/2009

I bow to whatever higher being that blessed with sushi and curse those who deprive us on the East Coast of bluefin tuna of this quality (especially for less than $15).

That bluefin is a life-altering experience.  The avocado salad: the most delightful symphony of greens.  The black cod, unlike the same at many other joints, isn't drowning in miso but just delicately punctuated with it.  I would have applied to be their dishwasher so they'd feed me, except my parents would have been very disappointed.

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Photo of Darshan R.

Elite '09

26

84

Darshan R.

La Mirada, CA

5 star rating
7/8/2009

Not only was the food amazing, 'Mom' treated us like we were her kids.

We visited this small, but welcoming, restaurant after a Mariners Game. En route from the game, we yelped 'late night dining' and from the reviews we could see that we would be fools to pass up the opportunity.

When we entered we were greeted by 'Mom,' who was happy to help us but explained that it might be awhile, which was understandable (a 99 person capacity placard was displayed on the sidewall as you enter and our visit was very close to closing time. While we waited we sat reading about the history of the establishment  through the new articles which were displayed. As we sat and ate our food, we took in the decorations on the walls and spoke to the busy, yet friendly, employees.

In the end, the reviews were correct: the food was excellent, we were treated like family and the wait was worth it.

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Photo of K Y.

 

0

15

K Y.

Newcastle, WA

5 star rating
8/20/2009

Good food...mean old lady.

I love the food here, but I hate waiting, even if you have reservations.  The mamasan is not very nice either, but I guess she doesn't have to be given that they are always busy.

The sushi here is decent (pretty fresh and priced well).  I also like Tsukushinbo, but they are also busy.  Fuji Sushi is horrible.  That's just a Korean run japanese restaurant (no better than the conveyor belt sushi - and more expensive).  

Also, parking sucks.  Don't bother going to Maneki during a Sounder or Mariners game.

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Photo of Pachi C.

Elite '09

46

192

Pachi C.

San Jose, CA

5 star rating
6/8/2009

Food: Best sushi place I've had in Seattle
Service: Excellent. Friendly and hip
Price: The best value sushi place you will find in Seattle

The flavors are authentic and they focus on quality. No penny-pinching on the portions, either.

Highlights:
1. Black Cod Collar: Two collar pieces at $6.95. That is a steal. They broil it in what tastes like soy/sake. So delicious we had to order two.
2. Tempura: We ordered veggie and soft shell crab. Generous on portions. Perfectly cooked.
3. Sashimi combo plate: we special ordered this. Blue Fin Tuna is exceptional. Yellowtail is fresh. No complaints. Melt in your mouth fish.
4. Agadeshi Tofu: Soft and well seasoned
5. Sushi Rolls: Spider roll is great

All this Japanese goodness for $130 for 6 people. I wish I knew about this place when I lived in Seattle!

Tip: Make reservations!

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Photo of Deana I.

Elite '09

69

132

Deana I.

Walnut Creek, CA

4 star rating
7/24/2009

Great food and great service makes the experience memorable.

When my boyfriend and I celebrated our 1 yr. anniversary in Seattle, we met up with a couple of his friends for a Mariners game.  The game was over so late that we couldn't find any place to eat.  Luckily, we stumbled into this place in the I-District and we were not disappointed at all.  Whatever you order, it taste home-made and authentic.  Plus, the staff is absolutely wonderful.  This is one place I will come back to whenever I'm back in Seattle.

TIP:  The restaurant is pretty small so be prepared to wait to be seated.

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Photo of Ronnie M.

 

0

16

Ronnie M.

Seattle, WA

4 star rating
9/28/2009 1 photo

I love Maneki.  I just don't love waiting an hour...sometimes an hour and a half for a table.  To avoid this, I always arrive right when it opens or if it's after 5:30, I'll call the restaurant and put my name on their list!  It's worth the wait!  I always order their excellent nigiri sushi (excellent value too) and rolls.  Sometimes I'll throw in a side of horenso, edamame...maybe a small plate of chicken karage.  For non-sushi lovers, they offer traditional japanese dishes which sound pretty delish!   Just a FYI...they do not take orders to go.

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