When asking yourself about something to do near me in Raleigh with a group of friends or family, consider
Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi
Why Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi is a celebrated Japanese restaurant with a rich local heritage since 1972, boasting three convenient locations in the Triangle area: Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh, North Raleigh, and Durham. Renowned for its authentic teppanyaki experience, Kanki offers guests an immersive dining atmosphere where they can enjoy expertly prepared hibachi grills and specialty sushi crafted by skilled chefs. Each location provides a friendly and welcoming ambiance featuring large tables surrounding teppanyaki grills, perfect for groups of friends or family gatherings. The menu showcases a wide selection of Japanese cuisine, including steaks, fresh sushi, and vegetarian options, accommodating diverse dietary preferences. With attentive table service and a full bar, Kanki ensures a complete dining experience that caters to lunch and dinner patrons alike. The combination of vibrant flavors, theatrical cooking presentations, and a warm social environment makes Kanki an excellent spot to meet up with friends and enjoy both lively and intimate dining moments.
Here's what people think of Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi
As of recent, Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi holds a 4.2-star rating based on 2562 reviews.
User reviews for Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi generally reflect a positive dining experience, with the restaurant holding an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from over 2,500 reviews. Many patrons appreciate the engaging teppanyaki chef performances and consistently flavorful food, particularly noting the quality of sushi and hibachi steaks. Positive feedback often highlights the vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and the fun communal dining setup that is ideal for groups. Additionally, the availability of vegetarian-friendly and gluten-free options is mentioned as a strong plus. On the other hand, some of the negative reviews point out occasional wait times, variability in service speed, and inconsistency in food preparation across different visits or locations. A few customers mention the prices being on the higher side, though many feel the experience justifies the cost. Overall, while there are areas for improvement in service consistency, the majority of reviews endorse Kanki as a worthwhile and enjoyable dining destination for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts and social gatherings alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Wafaa Darwish
We recently tried this sushi spot inside the mall, and overall, it was a decent experience. The food was good—we started with calamari as an appetizer, and it was definitely a highlight. We also had soup, chicken, and a couple of sushi rolls, all of which were tasty and well-prepared. The service was okay. We seated ourselves, and our server didn’t talk much, just brought the food. Not bad, just not very engaging. The atmosphere was fine—it’s what you’d expect for a restaurant inside a mall. Convenient if you’re shopping and want to grab a bite. One downside was the pricing. For a mall restaurant, it felt a bit overpriced. The quality was good, but not quite enough to justify the cost. Overall, it was fine. Good food, decent service, and a convenient location, but a little on the expensive side for what it is.
Madhubhashini D
The service and atmosphere was very good. It was a bit crowded at the table. Food was good. However we felt the fried rice was too salty for our taste. The kids shrimp hibachi noodle was very good. Other than that they were good. The vegetables and shrimp tempura were really good. We liked the clear soup and salad with ginger dressing . Kids will enjoy the show!
Jonn Gore
Tried this place for the first time. Had sushi and the fish was fresh and I enjoyed it. Service was good. Restaurant was clean. We plan on going again when we shop at the mall in the future.
Jay
Only eat here if you want the tiniest lamb chops EVER. This is disrespectful to serve someone this. Management was no help. This was a Togo order and after getting home to discover I called and spoke to a manager, Vinny, who told me I have to bring it back for a refund. 30 minutes away. He told me to go ahead and leave the bad review he couldn’t do anything unless I brought the food back, even offered to send him a picture of it. As a long time kanki customer they will never get another dime from me because of Vinny and his poor customer service, no attempt to even try to make the situation right.
Alexis Amato
I was brought for my BDAY tradition! We requested Chef Ray Ray who is an EXCELLENT cook 🧑🏼🍳, he made it a very fun atmosphere, he has great jokes and conversation with the table, He even made our whole table! Chef cooked everything to perfection as per guest requests, and everything was nice and clean. My only wish is there was more Ray Rays ! The wait for him is always worth it! Thank you so much! We will be back soon!
How to reach Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi
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Why rally at Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi with your friends? Because it offers a vibrant and interactive dining experience that is perfect for groups looking to enjoy great food and memorable moments together. Whether you and your friends are sushi aficionados or steak lovers, Kanki caters to diverse tastes with its extensive menu featuring both delectable sushi and flawless Japanese-style steaks. The teppanyaki grills where chefs cook right before your eyes create an exciting atmosphere filled with anticipation and entertainment. This interactive approach transforms a simple dinner into a lively event that encourages conversation, shared enjoyment, and even laughter as skilled chefs perform precise and sometimes playful cooking techniques. The welcoming and spacious seating arrangements, often designed with large tables around grills, make it ideal for a party or gathering. With consistent positive reviews and a healthy rating, Kanki ensures that groups will have not just a meal but a memorable outing where the food, the ambiance, and the company all shine.
What activities does Kanki offer that make it perfect for group meetups? The standout feature is their teppanyaki experience, where chefs expertly prepare your meal on a hot grill right in front of you and your friends. This isn’t just dining; it’s a show. Watching skilled chefs toss shrimp, flip eggs, and create flames on the grill adds excitement and entertainment to your gathering. Beyond teppanyaki, the restaurant offers a vibrant sushi bar where guests can watch sushi chefs craft fresh and artistic rolls on the spot. This dual dynamic — teppanyaki and sushi preparation — caters to different preferences within any group and encourages interaction with the chefs, making the evening engaging. Additionally, Kanki provides a comfortable and spacious environment with various seating options. The combination of entertaining food preparation, diverse menu choices, and social ambiance makes it a space where friends and families can relax and celebrate any occasion.
How does Kanki’s menu support a great group dining experience? The menu is extensive and designed to accommodate varied tastes and dietary preferences, making it great for groups with different cravings. From classic Japanese steak dishes like Hibachi Beef and Chicken to specialty sushi rolls, sashimi, and tempura options, there is something for everyone. The quality and presentation of the food are key highlights — steaks are tender and cooked to perfection, sushi is fresh and artfully presented, and side dishes complement the main courses well. Groups can share appetizers, sample multiple sushi rolls, and enjoy an assortment of entrees, making the meal interactive and communal. The availability of salad and soup with many meals adds a traditional touch to the Japanese dining format, rounding out the experience. With moderate prices and generous portion sizes, Kanki ensures an enjoyable meal that won’t break the bank, further reinforcing its appeal for group outings.
What makes the ambiance at Kanki ideal for hosting meetups? Kanki’s environment strikes a nice balance between casual and festive, which is perfect for group gatherings. The restaurant has undergone renovations to improve cleanliness and aesthetics, featuring bright lighting, modern tiled floors, and granite table surfaces that surround the cooking grills. This clean and fresh appearance adds comfort and confidence for guests dining together. The layout encourages communal dining, particularly around the teppanyaki grills where the action is the focal point, naturally drawing groups into lively conversation and engagement. The friendly and attentive staff enhance the welcome, helping groups feel well looked after. Whether it’s a casual weekday lunch or a weekend dinner celebration, Kanki’s atmosphere supports both relaxed and special moments. The presence of multiple locations across the Triangle area also offers flexibility for groups looking for convenient meeting spots.
How does Kanki support special group occasions like birthdays or celebrations? Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi has a strong reputation for being an excellent spot to mark special occasions with friends and family. Many reviews mention memorable birthday celebrations where the combination of delicious food and engaging teppanyaki performances made the event stand out. The chefs often incorporate a bit of festive flair into their cooking show, which adds to the celebratory atmosphere. The spacious seating arrangements and group-friendly tables make it easy to accommodate large parties, creating an inclusive and comfortable environment. Moreover, the ability to pre-book reservations, especially for dinner, ensures that groups can plan their events without worrying about long wait times. The attentive service staff can help tailor the experience to make the gathering extra special. Whether it’s a milestone birthday, reunion, or casual get-together, Kanki has built a reputation as a go-to venue where the food, fun, and family and friends combine beautifully.
Why do reviews rate Kanki so highly for group dining experiences? With over 2500 reviews averaging a strong 4.2 stars, Kanki has clearly resonated with many diners who value its reliability and enjoyable offerings. Patrons consistently praise the quality of the food — especially the steaks and sushi — and the lively presentation of teppanyaki cooking. Many highlight the fun and social environment, noting how the chefs’ cooking shows turn meals into shared entertainment that helps break the ice and enhance group bonding. Of course, no place is perfect; some reviews mention occasional service delays or inconsistency, but these tend to be the exception rather than the norm. On balance, guests appreciate the blend of exceptional cuisine, interactive entertainment, and friendly ambiance that Kanki provides, all of which are important for group gatherings. The restaurant’s solid sanitation records and inviting decor further assure diners of a quality experience, making it a dependable choice when organizing meetups with friends or family.
How does Kanki accommodate dietary preferences in a group setting? Kanki’s diverse menu caters to the wide-ranging tastes and dietary needs typical of group dining. For those who prefer seafood, various fresh sushi rolls, sashimi, and tempura offer lighter, healthier choices. Steak lovers can delight in multiple grilled beef and chicken options prepared teppanyaki-style. Additionally, vegetarian options often include vegetable sides and specially prepared dishes that can accommodate gluten-sensitive or dairy-avoidant diners upon request. This flexibility ensures that everyone in a group can find something fitting and satisfying. The possibility to customize orders and interact directly with chefs during teppanyaki creates an opportunity to tailor meals to individual preferences, an advantage that many appreciate in group settings. This variety and adaptability contribute to Kanki’s status as a comfortable and inclusive venue for gatherings, where everyone leaves happy.
What additional conveniences does Kanki offer for groups planning a meetup? Beyond the excellent dining experience, Kanki provides several practical conveniences that make organizing a group outing easier. The availability of three Triangle locations—in Raleigh, North Raleigh, and Durham—gives groups options based on convenience or preference. Reservations are accepted and recommended for dinner hours, reducing wait times, especially for larger groups. The restaurant also offers online ordering for takeout and delivery, which is useful if your group prefers to start with dining out and carry on elsewhere later. Gift cards are available, which can be a thoughtful gesture for group gifts or celebrations. Furthermore, Kanki offers catering services, allowing groups to enjoy the restaurant’s specialties at private venues or offices for meetings and parties. These amenities complement the inviting atmosphere and quality food, enhancing Kanki's appeal as a versatile venue for friendly gatherings and celebrations.
Why is Kanki a smart choice for a diverse group wanting both food and fun? Kanki Japanese House of Steaks and Sushi is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination that blends culinary delight with social interaction. Its strength lies in combining traditional Japanese steakhouse fare with sushi artistry and the dynamic teppanyaki cooking show. This trio ensures there is continuous engagement alongside eating, helping the group feel connected through a shared experience. The environment is designed to foster communication and inclusion, with chefs acting as performers and hosts, inviting guests into the process. This makes it ideal for groups looking to bond and celebrate without the usual distractions of less interactive settings. Whether it’s friends catching up, families celebrating, or colleagues easing into social mode after work, Kanki’s balanced offering of excellent cuisine and entertainment makes it a top pick for meetups.