Wasabi

For those of us in New Jersey who cherish genuinely authentic Japanese cuisine, finding a restaurant that truly transports you to the culinary heart of Japan is a rare treat. Wasabi Japanese Restaurant in Ridgewood is exactly that kind of place. With a history spanning almost 30 years, this beloved establishment has consistently delivered on its promise of fresh, traditional flavors, earning a loyal following among locals.

Wasabi offers more than just a meal; it provides an experience. From its cozy, rustic ambiance to its focus on truly authentic dishes, it’s a spot where you can feel the dedication to Japanese culinary traditions. Whether you're a connoisseur of sushi, a fan of comforting donburi, or simply looking for a quiet place to enjoy a delicious meal, Wasabi Japanese Restaurant stands out as a genuine article in New Jersey's vibrant dining scene.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant is conveniently located at 848 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA. This East Ridgewood Avenue address places it within a charming and accessible part of Ridgewood, a town well-regarded for its excellent dining options and community feel. For residents throughout Bergen County and beyond, reaching Wasabi is straightforward, offering a pleasant drive to this established eatery.

The location benefits from being situated in a commercial area with various amenities, making it easy to find parking nearby, whether on the street or in accessible lots. Public transportation options may also be available in the vicinity, connecting Wasabi to broader areas of New Jersey, though many local patrons typically drive. Being on East Ridgewood Avenue also means it’s near other local businesses and attractions, making it a convenient stop for lunch or dinner while out and about in the area.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant offers a comprehensive menu that celebrates the breadth and depth of Japanese cuisine, with a strong emphasis on freshness and authenticity. Here's a look at the services and diverse culinary options you can expect:

• Authentic Sushi and Sashimi: At the heart of Wasabi's offerings are their consistently fresh and high-quality sushi and sashimi. Diners can enjoy various classic Nigiri and Sashimi selections, showcasing the purity of the fish.
• Extensive Sushi Rolls and Special Rolls: The menu features a wide array of both classic rolls (like California, Spicy Tuna, Philadelphia, and Eel Avocado rolls) and their creative "Wasabi Special Rolls." These specialty rolls often incorporate unique combinations and tempura styles, such as the Crispy Tuna Roll, Dragon Roll, Rainbow Roll, and the Wasabi Roll itself.
• Lunch Sets (Bento Boxes and Combos): Wasabi is highly praised for its "very good" lunch sets. These often include a selection of sushi or a main entrée, typically accompanied by soup, salad, and a California roll, offering excellent value and a complete meal experience. Examples include Chicken Teriyaki Bento Box and Salmon Teriyaki Bento Box.
• Traditional Japanese Entrees: Beyond sushi, the kitchen prepares a variety of beloved Japanese entrees. This includes different Teriyaki options (Chicken, Salmon, Angus Steak, Shrimp), Katsu dishes (Chicken and Pork Katsu), Tempura Dinners (Shrimp or Chicken), and Beef Negimaki.
• Donburi (Rice Bowls): For a comforting and satisfying meal, Wasabi offers traditional rice bowls such as Gyudon (beef rice bowl), which comes highly recommended by regulars, and Chashu Don.
• Udon and Soba Noodles: A selection of noodle dishes is available, including stir-fried Yaki Udon (thick noodles) and Yaki Soba (thin noodles), as well as various hot noodle soups like Tempura Udon, Nabeyaki Udon, and Seafood Udon.
• Appetizers and Salads: The menu features a range of hot and cold appetizers, including Gyoza (fried dumplings), Shumai (steamed shrimp dumplings), Edamame, and various salads like Kani Salad and Sashimi Salad.
• BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle): A significant and appealing feature for many diners is Wasabi’s BYOB policy, allowing guests to bring their preferred alcoholic beverages to complement their meal.
• Dine-in Service: Wasabi offers a cozy and traditional dining environment, suitable for individuals, couples, or groups.
• Takeout and Delivery: For convenience, Wasabi also provides takeout and delivery services, often available through popular food ordering platforms, making it easy to enjoy their authentic Japanese cuisine at home.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant holds a special place in the hearts of many New Jersey locals, thanks to a combination of distinct features and highlights:

• Long-Standing Authenticity: One of the most compelling features of Wasabi is its enduring commitment to authentic Japanese cuisine. Having been open for "almost 30 years," it has maintained a reputation for serving food that tastes genuinely Japanese, with one reviewer, who grew up in Japan, stating it’s "as authentic as it gets."
• Consistently Fresh Ingredients: Patrons consistently praise the freshness of the food. Whether it's the fish for the sushi and chirashi bowls or the ingredients for other dishes, the commitment to fresh produce is a recurring highlight, ensuring a high-quality dining experience.
• Cozy, "Hole-in-the-Wall" Ambiance: The restaurant possesses a unique "rustic, hole in the wall feel" that many find incredibly charming and inviting. This cozy, family-style atmosphere contributes to a relaxing environment that’s "quiet and good for conversation," making it suitable for both solo diners and groups.
• BYOB Policy: A highly valued feature for many New Jersey diners is the BYOB option. This allows customers to bring their favorite wine, beer, or sake to pair with their meal, often making the dining experience more personalized and cost-effective.
• Flexible and Attentive Service: The service style at Wasabi is noted for being "like Japan," where you can choose your own table and "don’t have to wait for your specific server." The staff is described as attentive, with the ability to "catch any server near you and get what you need," ensuring efficient and polite service.
• Popular Lunch Sets and Signature Dishes: The lunch sets receive high recommendations for their value and quality. Specific dishes like the Chirashi Bowl (especially in summer) and Gyudon (beef rice bowl) are frequently cited as must-try items, showcasing the depth of their menu.
• Suitability for Various Occasions: Whether you're dining "alone or with others," Wasabi offers a comfortable and appropriate setting, making it a versatile choice for different social scenarios. Its family-style appeal also makes it a great spot for casual gatherings.

While specific, publicly advertised "Promotions or Special Offers" for Wasabi Japanese Restaurant are not consistently listed on general platforms, there are inherent values and potential offerings that make it appealing to locals:

• Excellent Lunch Sets: As highlighted by customers, Wasabi's lunch sets are a significant draw, offering great value for a complete meal. These are effectively daily specials that provide substantial portions of high-quality Japanese food at an attractive price point, especially compared to dinner offerings.
• BYOB Savings: The BYOB policy itself can be considered a significant "special offer" as it allows diners to save on beverage costs, which can often add substantially to a restaurant bill. This flexibility is a major advantage for many customers.
• Consistent Quality and Authenticity: Over nearly 30 years, Wasabi has maintained its commitment to authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. This consistent quality, while not a "discount," offers a reliable and high-value dining experience that prevents disappointment and encourages repeat visits, making it a reliable choice for your Japanese cravings.
• Potential In-House Specials: Like many established local restaurants, Wasabi may offer unadvertised daily specials or seasonal dishes that are only available by asking the staff or checking their in-house menu. It’s always a good idea to inquire about any chef’s specials when you visit.

For the most current information on any specials or unique offerings, the best approach is to visit the restaurant directly or call them. Their friendly staff will be able to provide details on current lunch specials or any other ongoing promotions.

To experience the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere of Wasabi Japanese Restaurant, here is their contact information:

• Address: 848 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA
• Phone: (201) 493-7575

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant generally operates for both lunch and dinner. Typical hours for Japanese restaurants in the area often include lunch service starting around 11:30 AM or 12:00 PM, and dinner service extending until 9:00 PM or 9:30 PM, with potential closures on certain days, often Mondays or Tuesdays. It is always advisable to call ahead to confirm their current operating hours, especially before planning a visit.

For New Jersey locals, Wasabi Japanese Restaurant stands as a testament to enduring quality and genuine Japanese culinary tradition. Its nearly three-decade presence in Ridgewood speaks volumes about its ability to consistently deliver fresh, authentic food in a welcoming environment. The "rustic, hole in the wall feel" and the flexible, attentive service create a dining experience that feels both personal and culturally immersive, making it a perfect escape for those seeking a true taste of Japan without leaving Bergen County.

The combination of classic and special sushi, satisfying lunch sets, and comforting traditional entrees ensures there’s something for every palate. The highly praised Chirashi bowls and Gyudon are just a glimpse into the reliable deliciousness you can expect. Coupled with the appealing BYOB policy, Wasabi Japanese Restaurant offers not just a meal, but a holistic and highly recommended dining experience that resonates deeply with those who appreciate authentic flavors and a cozy, unpretentious setting. It's truly a place where you can feel at home, whether you’re dining alone or sharing a meal with friends and family.

Wasabi

848 E Ridgewood Ave, Ridgewood, NJ 07450, USA