Akaihana

For Phoenix, Arizona residents who have a longstanding love affair with authentic and fresh Japanese cuisine, Akaihana Sushi & Grill is a name that often comes to mind. Located conveniently on Black Canyon Highway, Akaihana has been serving the community since 1986, establishing itself as a reliable "go-to spot" for those seeking quality sushi, flavorful Japanese entrees, and a welcoming atmosphere. It's a place where the "sushi is always fresh, the presentation is beautiful, the people are nice, and the whole vibe just feels welcoming and laidback for those who are hanging out with family and friends."

Akaihana Sushi & Grill prides itself on offering genuine Japanese flavors, with a commitment to fresh ingredients and artistic presentation. While every dining experience can vary, many patrons consistently highlight the excellent value for the quality provided, making it a highly recommended choice for a casual meal or a celebratory gathering. With a history spanning decades, Akaihana continues to be a trusted name for delicious and affordable Japanese fare in the Valley.

Akaihana Sushi & Grill is strategically located at 8041 N Black Cyn Hwy #112, Phoenix, AZ 85021, USA. This address places it directly on the Black Canyon Highway (I-17 frontage road), offering exceptional accessibility for residents throughout Central and North Phoenix. The location is particularly convenient for those living or working near the I-17 corridor, making it an easy stop whether you're coming from home or passing through after work.

The accessibility of Akaihana is a significant advantage for local patrons. Being situated in a commercial center along a major highway provides ample parking, which is always a plus in a busy city like Phoenix. This ease of access ensures that diners can comfortably visit for lunch, dinner, or their popular happy hour without the common frustrations of navigating congested areas or searching for parking. Its long-standing presence at this location also means many locals are already familiar with finding this trusted Japanese restaurant.

Akaihana Sushi & Grill provides a comprehensive range of services designed to offer a flexible and satisfying dining experience for the Phoenix community:

• Dine-In Service: The restaurant offers a welcoming and laid-back atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal with family and friends. It's noted for its "welcoming and laidback" vibe, making it a comfortable spot for various occasions. Reservations are also accepted, which can be useful for planning.

• Takeout: For customers who prefer to enjoy their Japanese favorites at home or on the go, Akaihana offers convenient takeout services. Orders can be placed over the phone for quick pickup.

• Delivery: Akaihana Sushi & Grill partners with major third-party delivery platforms such as Grubhub and DoorDash. This allows Phoenix residents to easily order their favorite sushi, teriyaki, and other Japanese dishes for delivery directly to their home or office, offering maximum convenience. Grubhub+ and DashPass members may also benefit from free delivery options.

• Online Ordering: Customers can often place orders directly through the restaurant's website or via various delivery apps, streamlining the ordering process and reducing wait times.

• Extensive Japanese Menu: The menu is broad, offering a wide array of authentic Japanese cuisine, including:

  • Sushi & Sashimi: A vast selection of fresh sushi and sashimi, including classic rolls (California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll), a variety of special rolls (Akaihana Roll, Dbacks Roll, American Dream, Aloha), and Nigiri and Sashimi assortments.

  • Appetizers: Popular hot and cold appetizers like Edamame (including Garlic Edamame and Spicy Edamame), Gyoza, various Tempura options (Shrimp, Mixed, Vegetable), Jalapeño Poppers, Agedashi Tofu, and unique items like Fried Baby Squid and Salmon Puff.

  • Teriyaki Entrees: Charbroiled options including Chicken, Beef, and Salmon Teriyaki, served as standalone entrees or as part of lunch combinations.

  • Noodle Dishes: A selection of Udon noodle soups with various protein options, as well as Yakisoba.

  • Katsu Dishes: Deep-fried cutlets such as Chicken Katsu and Pork Katsu.

  • Lunch Specials & Boxes: Dedicated lunch menus featuring popular combinations of sushi rolls and entrees, as well as comprehensive lunch boxes like the "Akaihana Lunch Box" that includes sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, gyoza, and more.

• Beer & Wine: Akaihana offers a selection of beer and wine to complement meals, enhancing the dining experience.

Akaihana Sushi & Grill is known for several key features and highlights that make it a favorite among Phoenix locals:

• Consistently Fresh Sushi: A primary highlight frequently mentioned by long-time patrons is that the "sushi is always fresh." This commitment to quality ingredients is crucial for a sushi restaurant and is a significant draw for discerning diners.

• Beautiful Presentation: The aesthetic appeal of the dishes is often praised, with customers noting the "beautiful presentation" of the sushi and other plates. This attention to detail enhances the overall dining experience.

• Welcoming and Laid-Back Vibe: The restaurant offers a comfortable and casual atmosphere, making it a great spot for "hanging out with family and friends." This inviting environment contributes to its status as a "go-to spot" for many.

• Affordable Pricing: Despite the quality, many customers find the pricing to be very reasonable, leading to high recommendations for its value. One reviewer even gave it a "10/10 recommend it" based on the price.

• Diverse and Extensive Menu: Akaihana provides a wide variety of Japanese dishes, from numerous sushi and sashimi options (including unique special rolls like the "Akaihana Roll" and "Dbacks Roll") to cooked entrees like teriyaki, tempura, and noodles. This ensures there's something for every taste.

• Long-Standing Reputation: Having been in business since 1986 (formerly Mr. Sushi), Akaihana has a well-established reputation in the Phoenix area for offering "fresh, genuine Japanese" cuisine, which builds trust and attracts repeat customers.

• Happy Hour Specials: The restaurant offers a daily happy hour from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (and up to 7:00 PM at its Goodyear location, which may indicate similar offerings in Phoenix), with discounted appetizers and select sushi rolls, making it an attractive option for early diners or those looking for a deal.

Akaihana Sushi & Grill provides several ways for Phoenix locals to enjoy great value on their dining experience:

• Daily Happy Hour: Akaihana offers a consistent Happy Hour at its Phoenix location every day, Monday through Sunday, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. This popular special includes discounted prices on a wide array of appetizers and select sushi rolls, such as the Akaihana Roll, California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, and various other popular choices. It also features deals on beverages like small hot/cold sake, small beers, and wine by the glass, making it an ideal time for an early dinner or after-work treat.

• Lunch Specials & Combinations: Akaihana has an extensive lunch menu with various specials and bento box-style combinations, available on weekdays (e.g., 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM). These combinations often pair popular sushi rolls (like the California Roll) with teriyaki (Chicken, Beef, Salmon), or tempura, offering a complete and affordable meal that includes soup and salad.

• Specialty Lunch Boxes: Beyond standard combos, they offer unique lunch boxes like the "Akaihana Lunch Box," which provides a more comprehensive sampling of their offerings, including sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, gyoza, and more, all at a set price.

• Delivery Platform Promotions: Akaihana partners with major delivery services such as Grubhub and DoorDash. These platforms frequently offer various promotions that can apply to Akaihana orders. This might include:

  • $0 Delivery Fees: Often available for subscribers of their premium services (e.g., Grubhub+ or DashPass) or as limited-time offers for new users.

  • Percentage-Off or Dollar-Off Discounts: Occasionally, the platforms or Akaihana itself will run general discounts that appear directly on the app.

To get the most up-to-date information on their happy hour menu, lunch specials, and any other promotions, Phoenix residents are encouraged to:

• Visit the "Happy Hour" and "Lunch" sections on Akaihana's official website.

• Check their listings on Grubhub or DoorDash, where active delivery and pickup promotions are usually highlighted.

• Call the Phoenix location directly at (602) 864-9202.

These consistent offers make Akaihana a reliable spot for value-conscious diners in Phoenix.

To experience the fresh and authentic Japanese cuisine at Akaihana Sushi & Grill, here's how you can get in touch:

Address: 8041 N Black Cyn Hwy #112, Phoenix, AZ 85021, USA

Phone: (602) 864-9202

Feel free to call them for reservations, to place a takeout order, or to inquire about their extensive menu and happy hour specials.

Akaihana Sushi & Grill is an exceptional choice for locals in Phoenix, particularly those in the central and northern areas, cementing its status as a true community favorite. Its prime location on Black Canyon Highway offers unbeatable accessibility and convenient parking, making it a hassle-free destination for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or a vibrant happy hour. The diverse service options—including comfortable dine-in, efficient takeout, and comprehensive delivery through popular apps—seamlessly integrate into the busy lifestyles of Phoenix residents.

The core of Akaihana's appeal lies in its unwavering commitment to quality and value. Patrons consistently praise the "always fresh" sushi and the "beautiful presentation," which elevates the dining experience beyond just a meal. The extensive menu, featuring everything from classic and specialty sushi rolls (like the beloved Akaihana Roll and Dbacks Roll) to hearty teriyaki and tempura dishes, ensures that every visit can offer a new culinary adventure, catering to a wide array of tastes within the community.

Furthermore, the welcoming and "laid-back" vibe, coupled with a history of positive interactions with "nice people," creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. The highly attractive daily happy hour and diverse lunch specials provide excellent value, making high-quality Japanese dining an accessible luxury for budget-conscious locals. For Phoenix residents seeking a reliable, delicious, and friendly spot that offers both tradition and variety, Akaihana Sushi & Grill stands out as a long-standing and highly recommended destination that truly understands and caters to its local clientele.

Akaihana

8041 N Black Cyn Hwy #112, Phoenix, AZ 85021, USA