Inakaya Japanese Restaurant

Superb sushi. Excellent cost to value. I highly recommend and will be back. Back rooms are well worth the extra $50 but you need a party over 10. If you do, be sure and get a couple boats for the group. You'll get hero status to them

I have been here several times over the last year. The food is always on point, service is great and food is delicious!! I go often enough that they know me and my usual order as soon as I walk in. I get there right when it opens and sit at the sushi counter. The chefs are great to interact with. Love this place!!

First time here and hopefully not the last. I came to Columbia after a day at the Congaree NP and 3 days of golf at Hilton Head. I ordered the Sashimi Teishoku (for less than $20) and sat at the Sushi Bar. The food was outstanding, the conversation with the sushi chefs amazing and the other patrons were friendly. We all talked about visiting Japan especially with one of the senior chefs. Sorry, I didn’t get his name but he is so very friendly and from Osaka. Great conversation and excellent sashimi! I live in another state and wish we could drop this place back home.

Inakaya Japanese Restaurant in Columbia, SC, is a local favorite for good reason. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a spacious, Japanese-inspired interior featuring traditional decor and even a display case of antiques. Whether you choose to sit at the sushi bar and watch the chefs in action or relax at a cozy table, the ambiance strikes a balance between authenticity and comfort. Service here consistently earns high marks—staff are friendly, attentive, and quick to offer helpful recommendations, making both first-timers and regulars feel right at home. Spicy Tuna Rolls Start your meal with the spicy tuna rolls, a menu staple that showcases Inakaya’s commitment to freshness. The rolls are generously filled with high-quality tuna, and the spice level is just right—enough to deliver a kick without overwhelming the delicate flavor of the fish. The rice is well-seasoned, and the construction of the roll is tidy, though some diners have noted the rice can be a bit chewy at times. Still, the overall freshness and flavor make this a must-try for sushi enthusiasts. Seafood Ramen Inakaya’s seafood ramen is a comforting bowl that highlights the kitchen’s skill with both broth and seafood. Expect a savory, well-balanced broth brimming with shrimp, crab, and other fresh seafood, complemented by springy noodles and crisp vegetables. The portion size is satisfying, making it a great choice for a hearty lunch or dinner. The dish is a testament to the restaurant’s ability to deliver more than just sushi—ramen lovers will appreciate the depth of flavor and generous seafood portions. Fried Tempura Vegetables For a lighter, crispy option, order the fried tempura vegetables. Inakaya’s tempura batter achieves the ideal texture: airy, crisp, and not overly oily. Common vegetables include sweet potato, kabocha squash, mushrooms, and bell peppers, all fried to golden perfection. The tempura is served with a classic dipping sauce that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for sharing or as a starter to your meal. Tips for the Best Experience • If you enjoy watching your food being prepared, opt for a seat at the sushi bar. • Ask your server for recommendations—they’re knowledgeable and happy to guide you, even steering you toward house specialties or away from less popular items. • For dessert, consider skipping the mochi ice cream in favor of the fried cheesecake, which comes highly recommended by staff and diners alike. • The menu is extensive, so don’t hesitate to try something new—special rolls and sashimi platters are particularly popular. Final Thoughts Inakaya Japanese Restaurant stands out for its consistently fresh ingredients, attentive service, and inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re craving classic sushi rolls, a warming bowl of ramen, or perfectly fried tempura, you’ll find something to love. Prices are reasonable, portions are generous, and the overall experience is one that keeps guests coming back. For anyone seeking authentic Japanese cuisine in Columbia, Inakaya is a top choice.

Great dining experience at authentic Japanese restaurant as recommended by a coworker. Great, attentive service. Pictured: miso soup with seaweed salad, shrimp tempura and sushi rolls. Also, felt it was a great value. Will definitely return.

First time here my neice brought me to her favorite place on my birthday I loved it.

Great place! Food was amazing! Service was great! Couldn't ask for a better place! They have early bird specials so go between 5 and 6 pm if you like sushi and the rest of the menu has proved good so far. Highly recommend and will be back again for sure!