Wasabi Japanese Restaurant

For locals in North Carolina with a discerning palate for exceptional Japanese cuisine, Wasabi Japanese Restaurant in Asheville stands out as a true "little gem." This highly-rated establishment has garnered a reputation for delivering "best sushi in North Carolina away from the beach," a bold claim that many satisfied customers heartily endorse. Whether you're a long-time resident or just passing through, Wasabi promises a culinary experience that is "big on flavor!"

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant offers a comprehensive journey through Japanese culinary traditions, from meticulously crafted sushi and sashimi to sizzling hibachi and flavorful teriyaki dishes. Patrons consistently rave about the freshness of the ingredients and the quality of preparation, noting that "every single one of them were great" when referring to the sushi rolls. Beyond the main courses, even the small details shine, with customers "pleasantly surprised" by the addition of seaweed to their miso soup and captivated by unique offerings like the "oyster shooter special," described as "absolutely amazing!"

The inviting atmosphere at Wasabi further enhances the dining experience. While the "restaurant isn’t big," it makes up for its size with its charm and the warm hospitality of its staff, who are "very friendly and answered any questions that we had." With options for seating at the bar, at tables, and even outside during pleasant weather, it's a versatile spot perfect for a casual dinner, a special occasion, or simply satisfying a sushi craving. For many, Wasabi isn't just a place to eat; it's a "must have in Asheville if you eat sushi," embodying the very best of Japanese dining in the heart of North Carolina.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant is conveniently located at 19 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801. This address places it firmly within the vibrant and highly popular downtown Asheville area, making it an exceptionally accessible dining destination for locals and visitors alike. Broadway Street is a well-known thoroughfare in Asheville's city center, ensuring that the restaurant is easy to find and reach.

Being in downtown Asheville, Wasabi benefits from excellent walkability. For those traveling by car, parking options include street parking (metered, enforced Monday-Saturday) and several nearby public parking garages. Options like the 37 N Market St Lot or the various city-managed parking garages (e.g., Biltmore Avenue Garage, Harrah's Cherokee Center – Asheville Garage, Wall Street Garage) are typically within a short walking distance. These garages often offer the first hour free or charge hourly rates, providing convenient solutions for parking in the bustling downtown area.

The central location also means that Wasabi is well-served by Asheville's public transportation network, making it accessible even without a private vehicle. The availability of "table seating and seating outside" further enhances the restaurant's appeal, providing comfortable options for different dining preferences and allowing patrons to enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown Asheville, especially "outside in the summer." This prime, accessible location makes Wasabi Japanese Restaurant a practical and appealing choice for anyone in the North Carolina region seeking an exceptional Japanese meal.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant offers a diverse and extensive menu that caters to a wide range of tastes within Japanese cuisine, from traditional sushi to hearty hibachi and beyond. Their services are designed to provide a comprehensive and satisfying dining experience.

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy your meal in a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Whether you choose to sit at the sushi bar, a table, or outside on their patio, the staff are dedicated to providing friendly and attentive service.
• Extensive Sushi and Sashimi Selection: A core offering, featuring a wide variety of fresh sushi and sashimi options. This includes classic rolls, chef's special rolls (like Ebi Tempura Roll, Spider Roll, Godzilla Roll, Dragon Roll, Rainbow Roll, and more unique creations like the Sweetheart Roll and Wasabi Roll), and sushi/sashimi combo platters.
• Unique Appetizers and Specials: Beyond standard fare, Wasabi offers distinctive appetizers such as the acclaimed "oyster shooter special" and other creative options like Wasabi Shrimp and Takoyaki, ensuring a diverse start to your meal.
• Traditional Japanese Hot Entrees: The menu includes a variety of cooked dishes such as Teriyaki (Vegetable & Tofu, Chicken, Salmon, Shrimp, Filet Mignon, Rib-Eye Steak, Tilapia, Scallop) and Hibachi dinners (Vegetable, Chicken, Rib-Eye Steak, Shrimp, Salmon, Tilapia, Scallop, Twin Lobster Tail, Filet Mignon, and various combinations). These are served with your choice of rice and soup or salad.
• Tempura and Katsu Dishes: Enjoy lightly battered and fried options like Shrimp & Vegetable Tempura, or crispy breaded dishes such as Chicken Katsu and Tilapia Katsu.
• Noodle Entrees: A selection of noodle dishes including Ramen, Udon, and Soba, available in various preparations like soup or pan-fried.
• Desserts: Don't miss their highly praised "fried cheesecake," which is "so delicious," along with other dessert options like fried banana or various ice cream flavors.
• Full Bar Service: Wasabi offers a selection of beverages, including hot sake, beers, and potentially other alcoholic drinks to complement your meal.
• Takeout and Online Ordering: For added convenience, Wasabi allows customers to place orders for takeout, and they are typically available through third-party delivery services like Takeout Central and Beyond Menu.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant in Asheville, NC, is consistently highlighted by locals for a variety of outstanding features that set it apart and contribute to its reputation as a top-tier Japanese dining spot. These attributes are central to its appeal and why it's considered a "must have" experience.

• Exceptional Sushi Quality: Often lauded as the "best sushi in North Carolina away from the beach," Wasabi delivers on its promise of fresh and delicious sushi. Reviewers confirm that their "three different rolls and every single one of them were great," emphasizing the consistent quality of their sushi offerings.
• Big on Flavor: Despite its potentially "not big" size, the restaurant is "big on flavor!" This speaks to the intense and satisfying taste of their dishes, from the sushi to the unique appetizers and desserts.
• Unique and Creative Menu Items: Wasabi goes beyond standard Japanese fare with exciting options like the "oyster shooter special" (described as "absolutely amazing," with sake, a raw oyster, and a quail egg) and a variety of "Chef's Special Rolls" that offer innovative flavor combinations.
• Delicious Desserts: The "fried cheesecake" is a standout highlight, with customers exclaiming, "Oh my gosh, it was so delicious." This makes for a perfect end to an already fantastic meal.
• Friendly and Attentive Staff: The staff are consistently praised for being "very friendly and answered any questions that we had." This welcoming and helpful service contributes significantly to the pleasant dining experience.
• Versatile Seating Options: With "bar and there was also table seating and seating outside," Wasabi offers diverse environments suitable for different preferences, from an intimate bar experience to a lively outdoor summer meal.
• Consistent Quality Across the Board: The general sentiment is that "The entire meal was so very good," indicating a high level of consistency not just in one dish, but across their extensive menu of appetizers, sushi, and main courses.
• Strong Local Recommendation: The strong endorsement of being a "must have in Asheville if you eat sushi" and a place customers "plan to go back next time in Asheville" speaks volumes about its local acclaim and strong repeat business.

While Wasabi Japanese Restaurant is widely celebrated for its consistent quality and overall dining experience, information regarding specific, ongoing promotions or special offers is not extensively detailed in the provided customer reviews or easily found in public summaries. However, it's common for Japanese restaurants, especially those in bustling downtown areas like Asheville, to have certain implicit value propositions or occasional specials.

Wasabi does offer "Lunch Specials" during weekdays, typically from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM (and slightly later on weekends). These lunch options often include Bento Boxes, Sushi Lunch Specials (e.g., Two or Three Roll Specials, or Chef's Choice Sushi/Sashimi combos), Hibachi Lunch portions, and Noodle Dishes, all at more accessible price points than their dinner counterparts. This consistent lunch offering serves as a significant value proposition for locals looking for a delicious and affordable midday meal.

The high "quality to price point ratio" for their overall menu, as inferred from customer satisfaction with the cost of a full meal, also acts as a continuous "promotion" in the sense that patrons feel they are getting excellent value for their money. While no explicit "happy hour" or daily discounts are mentioned in the immediate feedback, many restaurants in a vibrant culinary scene like Asheville might offer rotating seasonal specials or unique chef creations, such as the "oyster shooter special" which was a hit with one reviewer. It is always recommended for locals to check Wasabi's official website or inquire directly when dining for any current limited-time offers or unique menu additions.

For those in North Carolina eager to experience the exceptional Japanese cuisine and welcoming atmosphere of Wasabi Japanese Restaurant in Asheville, here's how you can easily connect with them:

• Address: 19 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA
• Phone: (828) 225-2551
• Mobile Phone: +1 828-225-2551

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant generally operates with consistent hours for both lunch and dinner. Lunch is typically served Monday through Friday from 11:30 AM to 3:00 PM, and on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Dinner hours usually run from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM on Monday through Thursday, and extend to 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, with Sunday dinner typically concluding at 9:00 PM. It is always a good idea to call ahead, especially during peak dining times or on holidays, to confirm their current hours and to inquire about seating availability, as the restaurant "isn't big." For takeout orders or any specific menu questions, a direct phone call is the most efficient way to get assistance from their friendly staff. Whether you're planning a casual meal or a special occasion, Wasabi Japanese Restaurant is ready to provide a delightful dining experience.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant is an outstanding choice for locals in North Carolina, particularly those residing in Asheville, and is poised to become a fast favorite for anyone seeking high-quality Japanese cuisine. Its strong reputation as having the "best sushi in North Carolina away from the beach" speaks volumes about its commitment to freshness and flavor, a critical factor for discerning sushi enthusiasts. The consistent praise for the food being "absolutely amazing" and "so very good" across their menu ensures that locals can rely on a consistently delicious meal every time they visit.

Beyond the exceptional food, Wasabi's welcoming atmosphere, despite its "not big" size, creates a cozy and comfortable dining environment. The "very friendly" staff who readily answer questions contribute significantly to a pleasant and personal experience, making diners feel valued and at home. The availability of diverse seating options, including outdoor seating for pleasant weather, adds to its versatility for local diners looking for various dining ambiances.

Furthermore, the menu's breadth, offering not just sushi but also flavorful appetizers like the oyster shooter, various hibachi and teriyaki dishes, and irresistible desserts like the fried cheesecake, means there's something for every craving. The overall excellent quality and memorable dining experience make it clear why Wasabi Japanese Restaurant is considered "a must have in Asheville if you eat sushi" and why locals will "plan to go back again and again." It truly embodies a local gem that enriches Asheville's vibrant culinary scene.

Wasabi Japanese Restaurant

19 Broadway St, Asheville, NC 28801, USA