Sekisui East

For many in Memphis, Tennessee, Sekisui East isn't just another Japanese restaurant; it's a cherished institution, a consistent favorite, and for some, quite simply their "favorite restaurant!" Located on Poplar Avenue, this establishment has built a stellar reputation over the years for its unwavering commitment to authentic flavors, fresh ingredients, and truly outstanding service. It's the kind of place where repeat customers, like one couple who visits "on average twice a month for date night," feel genuinely at home, praising the "great hosts" like Marjory and Yuseff who make every visit special.

Sekisui East stands out in the bustling Memphis dining scene for its dedication to quality and a welcoming atmosphere that is "not too fancy or trendy." This balance creates an inviting space where the focus remains firmly on delivering "fantastic" food and "great service." While many regulars rave about the exceptional sushi, which is often described as "the best by far" after scouring "the surrounding areas," the restaurant also boasts a "great hot menu," ensuring there's something to delight every palate, even for those who typically stick to raw fish.

What truly resonates with locals is the feeling of consistent excellence and a menu that keeps things exciting with "rotating weekly specials." Whether you're a seasoned sushi connoisseur or looking to explore the depths of authentic Japanese cuisine, Sekisui East provides a reliable and deeply satisfying experience. It's a place that's difficult to pass up, leading many to confess they "probably go more often than I should," a true testament to its undeniable appeal and delicious offerings.

Location and Accessibility

Sekisui East is conveniently located at 6696 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38138, USA. This prime spot on Poplar Avenue positions it within a vibrant and easily accessible commercial corridor in East Memphis. Poplar Avenue is one of the main arteries running through the city, making Sekisui East readily reachable for residents from various neighborhoods across Memphis and even from nearby suburbs like Germantown.

Being situated in a shopping center or plaza along Poplar Avenue, Sekisui East benefits from ample parking. This convenience is a significant advantage for diners in a busy area, allowing for stress-free arrival and departure, whether you're coming for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. The restaurant's presence in a well-known commercial district means it’s a visible and familiar landmark, simplifying navigation for new and returning guests alike.

For those who prefer to enjoy Sekisui East's delectable dishes from the comfort of their home, the restaurant also offers robust takeout and delivery options. They partner with popular third-party delivery services like Uber Eats and Postmates, extending their reach to a broader customer base in Memphis and surrounding areas. This multi-faceted approach to accessibility ensures that enjoying "the best by far" Japanese food is always convenient for the local community.

Services Offered

• Dine-In Service: Sekisui East provides a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a casual meal or a special "date night." The interior is known for its inviting ambiance that is "not too fancy or trendy."
• Award-Winning Sushi and Sashimi: Renowned for its "authentic Japanese cuisine," Sekisui East specializes in fresh, high-quality sushi and sashimi. They are known for sourcing superb imported fish, including rare finds like Nodoguro (blackthroat sea perch) and Itoyori (yellowtail), making them a top choice for sushi purists. Popular options include Nigiri and Sashimi assortments, along with a wide array of rolls like the California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Philly Roll, and specialty rolls such as the Redbirds Roll, 40 Kel Roll, and Jacksonville Roll.
• Extensive Hot Menu: While celebrated for sushi, Sekisui East also features a "great hot menu." This includes various cooked Japanese dishes such as:
• Teriyaki: Options like Chicken, Steak, Shrimp, Salmon, Lamb Chops, and Tofu Teriyaki, served with sautéed vegetables and rice.
• Tempura: Lightly battered and fried dishes, including Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, Seafood and Vegetable Tempura, and Vegetable Tempura.
• Katsu: Breaded and deep-fried cutlets such as Chicken Katsu and Pork Katsu.
• Noodle Dishes: Including stir-fried Yaki Udon/Soba with various proteins, and noodle soups like Tempura Udon/Soba and Creamy Curry Noodles.
• Specialty Kitchen Entrees: Such as Garlic Duck, Lobster with Mushrooms, Tuna Tataki, and Sea Bass Zosui.
• Appetizers and Soups/Salads: A broad selection of starters, including Edamame, Gyoza (pan-seared pork dumplings), Shumai (steamed shrimp dumplings), various tempura appetizers, and diverse salads (House Salad with ginger vinaigrette, Seaweed Salad, Sashimi Ceviche), and traditional soups (Miso Soup, Clear Soup, Miso Crawfish Bisque).
• Lunch Specials: Sekisui East offers a variety of lunch specials, including Bento Box options, Sushi Bar Entrees, and Sushi Roll Combos, providing excellent value for daytime diners.
• Takeout & Delivery: For ultimate convenience, customers can place orders for pickup directly by calling, or utilize third-party delivery services like Uber Eats and Postmates to have their food delivered.
• Rotating Weekly Specials: The menu is dynamic, featuring "rotating weekly specials" that keep the dining experience fresh and exciting for regular patrons.

Features / Highlights

• Unmatched Sushi Quality: Consistently praised as the "best by far" for sushi in the surrounding areas, with fresh fish flown in multiple times a week, including "rare finds" like Nodoguro and Itoyori. Chef Hiro is specifically celebrated for sourcing superb imported Japanese fish.
• Exceptional Service and Hosts: Customers frequently highlight the "great service" and commend specific hosts like "Marjory and Yuseff," creating a welcoming and personalized dining experience.
• Balance of Authenticity and Approachability: While offering traditional and high-quality Japanese cuisine, the atmosphere is "not too fancy or trendy," making it accessible and comfortable for all diners.
• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: Despite its strong sushi reputation, Sekisui East also has a "great hot menu" with a wide range of teriyaki, tempura, noodle, and katsu dishes, appealing to non-sushi eaters.
• Consistently Fantastic Food: The recurring theme in reviews is the consistently "fantastic food," indicating a high standard of quality across the entire menu.
• Ideal for Date Nights: Many customers specifically recommend Sekisui East for "date night," speaking to its enjoyable ambiance and quality offerings for couples.
• Rotating Weekly Specials: The presence of "rotating weekly specials" ensures a dynamic menu, providing new culinary experiences for regular patrons and encouraging repeat visits.

Promotions or Special Offers

Sekisui East, as a well-established and popular Japanese restaurant, occasionally features special offers, particularly through third-party platforms or during specific dining periods. While there aren't widely advertised daily specials, the restaurant does provide value through its Lunch Box and Lunch Sushi Bar Entrees, which offer combination meals at more accessible price points than their dinner counterparts. For example, a Lunch Box might include Chicken Teriyaki, Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, and a California Roll, while Lunch Sushi Bar Entrees feature various nigiri and rolls combinations.

Additionally, for those looking for potential discounts, some of the Sekisui locations (though specifically Sekisui Pacific Rim and Sekisui Midtown were mentioned in search results) have offered deals through Restaurant.com, such as a "$25 Off Deal" with a minimum purchase. While this specific offer was linked to other Sekisui branches, it indicates a possibility of similar promotions or gift certificate availability for Sekisui East. It is always recommended for patrons to check the Sekisui USA official website, their social media channels, or popular delivery apps like Uber Eats and Postmates directly, as these platforms often feature exclusive discounts, free delivery promotions, or limited-time offers. Inquiring directly with the restaurant staff is also a great way to learn about any current in-house specials.

Contact Information

To experience the exceptional Japanese cuisine and service at Sekisui East, here is their contact information:

• Address: 6696 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38138, USA
• Phone: (901) 747-0001

Typical Operating Hours:

• Wednesday - Friday: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM (Lunch)
• Tuesday - Sunday: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM (Dinner)
• Monday: Closed

It is always recommended to call ahead or check their official website for the most current operating hours, especially around holidays or for large party reservations.

Conclusion: Why Sekisui East is Suitable for Locals

Sekisui East stands as a truly exceptional and highly suitable dining destination for locals throughout Memphis, Tennessee, and the surrounding communities. Its consistent praise for "fantastic food" and "great service" isn't just marketing; it's a genuine reflection of its long-standing commitment to quality. For many, it has become a cherished tradition, a place they return to "on average twice a month for date night," highlighting its ability to foster deep loyalty through reliable excellence.

What truly sets Sekisui East apart for Tennessee residents is its unwavering dedication to fresh, authentic Japanese cuisine, particularly its sushi. With fish flown in multiple times a week, including rare varieties not found elsewhere in Memphis, sushi enthusiasts can expect an unparalleled experience. Yet, the restaurant wisely offers an equally "great hot menu," ensuring that those who prefer cooked dishes, from savory teriyaki to crispy tempura, are just as delighted. This diverse culinary offering means there's truly something for every member of the family or group, eliminating the need to compromise on tastes.

The inviting atmosphere, described as "not too fancy or trendy," strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort, making it suitable for various occasions, from a casual weeknight meal to a special celebration. The warm hospitality provided by hosts like Marjory and Yuseff elevates the dining experience, transforming a meal into a memorable event. Furthermore, its convenient location on Poplar Avenue with ample parking, combined with accessible takeout and delivery options, makes Sekisui East an effortless choice for integrating delicious Japanese food into any Memphis lifestyle.

In summary, Sekisui East isn't merely a restaurant; it's a culinary cornerstone that consistently delivers on its promise of quality, authenticity, and exceptional service. For any Tennessean seeking the best in Japanese dining, whether it's award-winning sushi or a comforting hot entree, Sekisui East remains an undeniable top choice.

Sekisui East

6696 Poplar Ave, Memphis, TN 38138, USA