Rantei Japanese Cuisine

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Rantei has genuinely captured my heart and soul lately, I just can’t seem to stay away from this restaurant! Whether it’s a catch-up dinner with a close friend or a larger group on a Friday night, you can’t go wrong coming to Rantei.

The employees here are so sweet and given COVID-19, businesses can struggle to get back in the swing of things. I really appreciate the sincerity of every person I have met here. On top of the kind service, the food is amazing! I’ve been here so many times, but honestly still have not experienced the entire menu yet. The notable items I enjoy:

Yakitori:

  • Shishito Peppers with Bonito Flakes: The bonito flakes here are next level! They are thicker than what you typically find at a Japanese grocery store, and they are generous with the shavings. It pairs so well with salted shishitos! It’s that savory satisfaction that smacks you in the face in the best way!

  • Shitaki Mushrooms: Grilled mushrooms are never ever a bad decision

  • Chicken and Scallon Skewers: I think I have a bias towards chicken skewers. Chicken and scallions, with a special house sauce, are arguably the most comforting and satisfying skewer by default!

  • Fried Chicken Skin: ITS FRIED CHICKEN. IT’S LIKE A FRIED CHICKEN CHIP! THIS SHOULD NOT REQUIRE CONVINCING.

  • Rib Eye Beef Skewers: these are gigantic skewers, my eyes widened quite a bit upon receiving! In addition to the impressive size, the internal temperature and seasonings didn’t disappoint either!

  • Ebi Bacon: Grilled shrimp wrapped in bacon? Order it.

Appetizers:

  • Hamachi Carpaccio: Fresh hamachi, covered in thinly sliced onions and ponzu sauce. Perfection.

  • Hamachi and Salmon Kama: I genuinely loved both the salmon and hamachi kama. They really do their kama well here, frying it to the perfect temperature and serving a generous portion too.

Rolls:

The rolls here are the epitome of all great things because Rantei takes your standard roll and adds just a slight twist. This is GENIUS because it allows their rolls to be unique while still hitting that comfort spot we all rely on. Don’t worry, they have the classics too! My favorites lately:

  • Sakura: Tamago, Eel, Avocado, Seared Salmon, Black Tobiko

  • White Dragon: Shrimp Tempura, Cucumber, Spicy Tuna, Seared Albacore, Fried Garlic, Green Onion

Specials:

  • Omakase Sushi: the best $50 you will ever spend. Quality fish, generously portioned, leaving you so damn satisfied you will happily skip to your car!

As I continue to eat here, my notes on this restaurant will begin to just mirror the entire menu! Do yourself a favor, and have a meal at Rantei. No matter what your preferences are, I guarantee there is something on the menu that will blow your mind!