Oyaji Japanese Cuisine

Oyaji is a must-visit for any sushi lover visiting or living here in Orlando. This family-owned and operated establishment is tucked out of the way off of International Drive, just a few minutes from the Kirkman and I-Drive intersection, on Municipal Dr next to the Cheers bar. From what I can tell, it's one of the few local japanese hang out spots. It's not rare that I am the only non-asian customer in the place. It's a smaller restaurant with only one sushi chef and one kitchen chef, so on busier nights (weekends) you may have to wait a bit for your main meal, especially if your dinner party is 6 or more. If you do go with a larger group, I suggest going to Oyaji on a non-weekend night, unless you don't mind waiting. Good things come to those who wait and believe me, it is worth it. You can enjoy many of their delicious appetizers while your main meal is being prepared. Their Miso and Clear soups are perfect and their Ginger salad always tastes very fresh. I've had many items on their extensive menu and I've never been dissappointed. I usually end up ordering sushi rolls though. My personal favorites are: Kamikazi roll (mix of chopped tuna, whitefish, and salmon with a special white sauce), Fire roll (spicy tuna with an extra chili kick), and the Shrimp Tempura roll (the best version in town). Also, I suggest calling ahead of time before travelling to the restaurant, they sometimes randomly close during the week to take care of other family business. Don't waste your time and money going to O-town's fancier and trendier sushi restaurants: Oyaji is THE BEST! Pros: Delicious and authentic menu, great value, cosy ambiance Cons: Sometimes a long wait for food if it's a busy night more

I will have to agree with the previous review of Oyaji. They stay very true and authentic. The guy behind the bar making the sushi would fit perfectly into any movie role in need of a Sushi Chef. The waitresses are very patient and helpful. I have been going here for years and I have no complaint to date. Everything on the menu is great. The sushi, the dishes, and even the soups. more

There are so many people out there who think they are in to sushi, but I've worked in and around it my whole life. Oyaji is about as close to the "real deal" as you can get in Orlando. The sushi is fresh, made to order and of great quality. The staff is also great, being friendly, fast and having infinite patience. You will sacrifice a lot by coming here. The restaurant is very small, only about 5 tables with no bar. There roller is also very slow, getting backed up very easily. Next door to Oyaji is a pool hall and bar; so although the restaurant is open until 2 A.M., it is almost intolerable after 11 P.M. For those that make it during slow hours, on a quiet day, manage to get seated and know what to order...Oyaji will make you realize what you have been missing. more