Maybe you’re craving authentic ramen but don’t want the full sit-down experience. We understand. We spoke with chefs who prefer letting their food speak for itself. But there’s a specific Japanese dining approach thriving across Columbia that deserves attention: the intimate counter-service spot.
Tokyo Grill Hardscrabble
$ | (803) 851-5383 | WEBSITE
You could probably start a Columbia-specific argument with someone based solely on the next statement: Tokyo Grill Hardscrabble is the best Japanese spot in the city. Come here and order the hibachi, some perfectly modified dishes, and very generous portions, and you can join in on the debate.
In addition to their nice atmosphere and timely service, Tokyo Grill Hardscrabble has one of the most accommodating approaches to dining we’ve seen: the staff is known to be helpful and ensures a pleasant experience despite some finding the food lacking in flavor. We didn’t mind this because bland food gives us culinary disappointment, but if anyone out there loves it, please write us a note.
Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse And Sushi Bar
$$ | (803) 407-1264 | WEBSITE
Grabbing a seat at Miyabi Japanese Steakhouse And Sushi Bar for a birthday celebration is a quintessential Columbia, SC night out. There’s the funny and entertaining Chef Sam cooking incredible meals right in front of you, generous portions that mean you’ll take leftovers home, and that huge ceiling with its space-like vibe adding to the stunning atmosphere.
The filet mignon with chicken and rice is cooked perfectly, and the attentive staff keep drink orders coming, though sometimes you might wait a bit for a refill. It’s a lively dining experience that makes for a memorable evening, even if there’s room for improvement here and there.
FuruSato Bento
$ | (803) 758-3115 | WEBSITE
FuruSato Bento is where we like to grab gyoza, onigiri, and ramen – and we feel confident you’ll like to grab those things here too. They recently started takeout service seven days a week (Monday through Sunday from 11am to 8pm). You can order ahead of time online or stop by and exclaim, “I’ll take one bento box, please” through the friendly owner’s smile.
Hang out at one of their limited tables for twenty minutes, take your gyudon and shumai to the nearby park for a picnic, or go home so you can be alone with your sushi.
Sarku Japan
$ | (803) 407-1089 | WEBSITE
If you’ve ever wandered through a mall food court, you’ve probably seen the long lines at Sarku Japan and thought, “Busy.” But if you don’t want to wait for a table at a sit-down restaurant, grab a Bento box or their popular chicken teriyaki from the counter and find a spot at one of the nearby food court tables. The employees are friendly and skilled, sometimes even drumming with their utensils while they cook—a fun touch that makes the wait more entertaining.
While the California rolls are decent if you’re craving sushi, the real star is the Chicken, Shrimp, White Rice, and Veggies meal, which delivers on taste and quality. Just be aware that the rice can sometimes be a bit dry, and there’s a chance of cross-contamination with utensils, so it might not be ideal for those with serious allergies. Overall, for an affordable, fast, and satisfying Asian-inspired meal in a mall setting, Sarku Japan hits the spot.
Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi
$$ | (803) 740-3238 | WEBSITE
Hanabi Hibachi & Sushi in Columbia offers something called Hibachi Express, which features a focused menu of teppanyaki classics for around $20, indoor counter seating, and full table service throughout. You can find the complete offerings and operating hours on their website.
Sakura Japanese Restaurant
$ | (803) 776-4747 | WEBSITE
At Sakura Japanese Restaurant in Columbia, you walk into a cozy space that immediately transports you to Japan with its simple, authentic decor. In our experience at this Japanese spot, it’s essential to start with the tuna and salmon sushi. The fish is incredibly fresh and beautifully presented—almost like edible art—and tasting it will likely make you want to order another round right away.
The service remains friendly and efficient even when the place gets busy, and ending with the exceptional mochi is a must. It’s a hidden gem perfect for a special occasion or a casual meal, with convenient parking making it easy to visit.
Menkoi Ramen House Gervais
$ | (803) 708-1569 | WEBSITE
At Menkoi Ramen House Gervais, you order your ramen and sides at the counter, find a seat in their cozy dining area, and they’ll bring out your steaming bowls when they’re ready. In addition to things like rich, creamy Tonkotsu ramen, Menkoi is also serving delicious sides like gyoza and an awesome onigiri rice ball. They’re open for dinner service with a dark, intimate atmosphere that feels like something you’d find in New York.
Camon Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (803) 254-5400 | WEBSITE
Camon Japanese Restaurant offers an authentic Japanese dining experience, and if we learned one thing from their traditional nigiri, it’s that simplicity packs a flavorful punch. This cozy Columbia spot has a sliding door entrance and warm lighting that creates a calm, peaceful atmosphere perfect for a quiet meal.
Their menu features some standout items that are always available (like the expertly crafted Lifesaver roll and vegetable tempura that’s so delicious we’ve told everyone about it), but don’t worry, the chicken curry and cold soba are forever. Check out their location for details on their current offerings, especially as they work on updating their alcohol license.
Suishaya Asian Restaurant & Bar
$ | (803) 888-6850 | WEBSITE
After settling into their cozy spot in Columbia, Suishaya is now serving up delicious Japanese fare and strong drinks for both dine-in and takeout. The menu has a bunch of things you’ll want to try, including their famous Out of Control Maki and some comforting dishes like fish chili hot pot and udon noodle soup.
Suishaya is open daily with friendly service, and they’re fully equipped with small tables where you can sit, enjoy a sweetened special drink, and appreciate the welcoming atmosphere that makes gatherings here a 10/10 experience.
Red Sake Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (803) 888-7938 | WEBSITE
Red Sake Japanese Restaurant is where we first realized the appeal of all-you-can-eat sushi. We sat there enjoying some delicious tuna nigiri and fresh rolls and thought to ourselves, “Huh, why aren’t more places offering this kind of value with such consistently fresh ingredients? This is really satisfying.” And, thus, our regular visits began.
This Columbia spot has classics from their sushi menu – as well as some refreshing green tea you can sip while admiring the beautiful interior from one of their comfortable booths.
Menkoi Ramen House in the Village at Sandhill
$ | (803) 828-3908 | WEBSITE
This consistently-popular ramen house is serving delicious Japanese dishes from a clean and neat space in the Village at Sandhill daily. Even if you’re not a ramen enthusiast, you’ll probably develop strong feelings for their beautifully-presented chicken ramen, tasty shrimp dumplings, and perfectly-stuffed salmon rice ball. The food comes out in large portions, and there’s wheelchair-accessible seating in a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy your meal without a long wait.
While parking close to the restaurant may be tight, it’s not a far walk from available spots, making it a nice place for special occasions with reasonable prices.
Boku Kitchen and Saloon
$$ | (803) 708-8577 | WEBSITE
In addition to doubling as a lively neighborhood saloon, this welcoming sit-down restaurant serves a wide range of Asian fusion dishes, like Korean ribs, Pad Thai, Siu Bao, and Szechuan green beans. They have a terrific ambiance inside their Columbia spot where you can celebrate special occasions like birthdays after you get your table. Order the Peach Cobbler – it’s delectable and sweet, and comes with enough warmth to be confused with the comfort food classics they’re paired with.
Hibachi House
$ | (803) 728-0616 | WEBSITE
This Columbia Japanese spot has popular hibachi dishes like shrimp fried rice that they prepare fresh on the grill. Their friendly staff ensures fast service whether you’re dining in or ordering online for quick pickup. If you’re in a rush, you can always visit their website to place your takeout order so it’ll be ready when you arrive.
Lotus Thai Dining
$ | (803) 995-7039 | WEBSITE
Lotus Thai Dining opened in a shopping center in Columbia, SC. They’re now serving Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese dishes like Pla Lad Prik Red Snapper, Beef Red Curry, and the Garners Ferry Sushi roll from their family-friendly dining room. Also, in case you need more incentive than well-presented sushi and perfectly spiced green curry, Lotus Thai Dining offers attentive service with the owner often checking on tables. Follow their social media for updates on hours and specials.
Magnolia Buffet
$ | (803) 851-5908 | WEBSITE
We would normally advise you to settle in at this Columbia buffet all afternoon and be a very satisfied diner. But, right now, you should probably limit yourself to an hour at one of their slightly cramped tables. The Japanese-inspired food from their extensive buffet is better than what you’ll find at most all-you-can-eat spots, like consistently excellent sushi from their popular bar, and Mongolian-style BBQ that will restore your faith in South Carolina’s Asian cuisine scene.
Inakaya Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (803) 699-2626 | WEBSITE
Right now, grabbing a quick bite at a Japanese restaurant usually means settling for some generic California roll. But, at this spacious Japanese spot in Columbia, that’s simply not the case. Inakaya serves exceptional dishes like the Phoenix roll and Firecracker, and a standout seafood ramen they highlight in their display case. If you’re looking for a spot to meet up with someone for authentic Japanese cuisine in the area, this is it.
Sato Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (803) 782-1064 | WEBSITE
At Sato Japanese Restaurant in Columbia, you watch their hibachi and teppanyaki chefs work their magic from your table and then enjoy the show with your meal. They’re running a Thursday night special of steak, chicken, and shrimp for $25.99, which easily makes two meals. Check their front and side parking areas when you visit, though spots can fill up when it gets busy.
Edo Hibachi
$ | (803) 462-1500 | WEBSITE
A while back, Edo Hibachi shifted to focus on fast food to-go service, offering a variety of delicious options and catering for events. They now operate with a streamlined setup where you can grab items like the highly recommended shrimp and steak with white and ginger sauce, the perfectly drizzled Godzilla sushi roll, and spring rolls that practically melt in your mouth. Check out their offerings or place an order for pickup through their service.
Tokyo Grill
$ | (803) 862-1668 | WEBSITE
This place has been around for a while, and the teriyaki chicken and shrimp plate is the reason you’re here. It comes with a bed of rice, some vegetables, and a creamy white sauce that ties everything together. You can also order ahead for pickup – and you should if you want to skip the wait. The tables at Tokyo Grill are first come, first served, or you could always take your meal home and eat there.