Let’s Get Some Okonomiyaki!

08/23/2019/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture, Japanese Food and Beverages /by Ben Kang

At first glance, okonomiyaki seems like a cross between a breakfast pancake and New York pizza with mayo sauce. A little strange, right? While the okonomiyaki seems out of the ordinary to first-timers, those that have tried okonomiyaki can all agree that this iconic Japanese street food is delicious. If you can get over the look, okonomiyaki may certainly become your favorite in Japanese cuisine.

young girl traveler enjoying delicious grilled yakitori chicken skewers on street market in Japan

Street Food is very popular in Japan, especially in Osaka.

There are two popular styles of okonomiyaki: Kansai-style and Hiroshima-style. The biggest difference between the two is the cooking procedure. With Kansai okonomiyaki, the batter and the ingredients are cooked together. The batter and ingredients are cooked separately with Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki. Both are very delicious and are worth trying!

The Okonomiyaki at Osaka Japansese Bistro is must try!

This iconic dish is widely popular in Japan, especially in Osaka where street food has a rich history. Of course, okonomiyaki is available at Osaka Japanese Bistro here in Las Vegas. Okonomiyaki is served in several different ways, but usually has toppings of seafood, veggies, and meat. Feel free to customize the dish however you desire!

If you’d like to taste okonomiyaki, come and try it at Osaka Japanese Bistro today!

A La Carte vs. All You Can Eat Sushi

08/09/2019/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture, Japanese Food and Beverages, Las Vegas Sushi /by Ben Kang

Today we’d like to discuss a topic that is commonly asked in the sushi community here in Las Vegas–A la carte vs. All you can eat sushi. Which is better?

“Better” can be quite subjective, so we can break this down into several categories. Let’s discuss each topic one by one:

View of ample parking at Osaka Japanese Bistro Henderson location

Osaka Japanese Bistro has been an a la carte restaurant since its inception.

Before we begin this discussion, let’s be clear that Osaka Japanese Bistro is not all you can eat (ayce for short). Osaka Japanese Bistro only serves a la carte sushi in both its Sahara and Green Valley location. With that being said, it’s ultimately up to you to decide whether you want to eat a la carte or all-you-can-eat, as both will have pros and cons. With that being said, let’s discuss our first topic.

Kai's special sushi roll at Osaka Japanese sushi restaurant

AYCE options tend to be more budget-friendly!

Value.

It is a common belief that ayce will provide better value for your meal for it’s “unlimited” nature. If you’re looking for a filling meal and prioritizing quantity over quality, ayce may be the choice for you. However, most restaurants enforce a time and order limit on certain dishes. The time limit usually ranges from 60 to 90 minutes. Certain dishes such as uni (sea urchin), amaebi (sweet shrimp), and more are limited to one order per person. It is important to understand that while a la carte can be more expensive than ayce, utilizing specials and happy hours is an excellent way to undercut the regular costs.

While a la carte selections are more expensive, they tend to be higher quality than those offered at ayce restaurants.

Quality.

If you are prioritizing quality over quantity, usually the a la carte restaurants will provide a better experience. The reason for this is the fish is sourced from different vendors that can be more fresh and catered. At Osaka Japanese Bistro, we ensure that all our sources are fresh and routinely inspected for quality. Because ayce restaurants tend to focus on quantity than quality, they may not have the same flexibility when ordering fish from vendors. However, some ayce restaurants offer excellent value and quality for their menu items. It is best to do your research when selecting a restaurant to dine at.

Okinomiyaki and other popular dishes are served at Osaka Japanese Bistro.

Diversity of Menu.

Because of the nature and popularity of ayce restaurants, the kitchen staff is primarily focused on serving ayce orders, even though it is very common to find that ayce restaurants offer an a la carte menu as well. The majority of customers that dine at ayce restaurants go for the ayce experience and not the a la carte. This, in turn, causes the kitchen staff to prioritize ayce dishes over its a la carte selections.

In comparison, a la carte restaurants are usually more diversified. A la carte restaurants such as Osaka Japanese Bistro only has one main menu. This not only simplifies the experience, but it allows the chef and kitchen staff to specialize the entire menu. For example, Osaka Japanese Bistro serves authentic cuisine such as noodles from soba to udon, donburi mono, sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and even teppanyaki. If you want a range of selections, a la carte is usually the better choice.

In conclusion, there are pros and cons when you are considering dining sushi. Ask yourself these questions before making a decision. Do I want quality over quantity? Do I want more than just sushi? What is my budget?

Conclusion

At Osaka Japanese Bistro, we want to offer you the highest quality of sushi. Osaka always offer special promotions and discounts, so please check our social media channels and website periodically. You are always welcomed to call us for any daily specials as well. Happy dining!

What is Umami? More Than Just “Delicious”!

05/24/2019/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Las Vegas Sushi, Tips /by Ben Kang

If you regularly eat Japanese cuisine, you may have heard this phrase, umami, in the past. It is a term that is commonly used to describe a delicious and savory sensation, such as biting into a juicy burger or taking a sip of piping hot meat broth.

Osaka Las Vegas el pollo loco sushi roll on a plate

Umami is rich in fish, meat, and soy sauce. Sushi is a natural source of umami-packed nutrients. (El Pollo Roll)

Is Umami just a word to describe something delicious?

Umami is more than just an adjective for delicious food, it is actually a food taste we can distinctively detect.

This is significant because, for many years, food taste was broken down into four categories: sweetness, saltiness, sourness, and bitterness. Everything we eat is either one or a combination of these food tastes.

Chemist Kikunae Ikeda discovered the fifth taste sensation, umami.

It wasn’t until the early 1900s when Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda discovered a fifth food taste, and coined it umami, after the Japanese term for delicious (Umai).

Umami sensation is triggered when the tongue detects a chemical compound called glutamate. You may be familiar with monosodium glutamates or MSG. Since the discovery, many restaurants choose to use MSG to trigger an umami sensation.

What type of food contains Umami?

Well, sushi and Japanese cuisine, in general, tend to be packed with umami-rich sources such as fish, broth, shrimp, shiitake mushrooms…Even soy sauce! You’ll be pleased to know that because Osaka’s menu items offer natural glutamates from foods without the need for MSG.

Osaka Japanese Bistro teppanyaki chefs at their grill portrait of three teppan expert chefs

Osaka chefs explain the sensation of umami.

The savory taste that you recognize and love from Osaka’s food are thanks to its abundance in umami and other delicious ingredients.

“Umami offers a distinct food taste,” Green Valley sushi chef says. “We are mindful of it and try to incorporate umami into our dishes.”

Does Osaka Japanese Bistro offer Umami-rich selections?

Choose from the following if you are looking for a delectable umami meal:

fresh sliced aji sashimi presented by Osaka Japanese Bistro

Fish is naturally packed with umami.

Sushi – Any nigiri or roll (with Soy Sauce for added umami)

Nabeyaki Udon

Miso Soup

Seaweed Salad

Green Tea

See Our Online Menu

These are some of the available options at Osaka where you can dine a highly nutritious and umami-filled experience. See all of Osaka Japanese Bistro’s umami-rich dishes on our online menu.

Host Lions Event was a Success! ROAR!

01/29/2019/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine /by Ben Kang

Thank you for those that came out to our Wine and Sake event, hosted by Las Vegas Host Lions and Osaka Japanse Bistro. We had a full house during the event, with multiple generous donations from club members and attendees. Osaka Japanese Bistro provided food and beverages such as nigiri, sushi rolls, salad, and more. The donations will be given to charities for the improvement within the Las Vegas community.

Wine and Sake Tasting at Osaka Japanese Bistro

Osaka Japanese Bistro is a spacious venue with a teppanyaki grill, a sushi bar, and drinking bar, along with an acoustic room for live music. The venue can seat over 50 people comfortably. Food and beverage will be provided by Osaka Japanese Bistro from our team of exceptional sushi and teppanyaki chefs. The Osaka Sahara location is also a great venue for private parties and events. If you are interested in hosting an event at Osaka Japanese Bistro, please call us at (702) 616-3788.

Once again, thank you for attending this event sponsored by the Las Vegas Host Lions and Osaka Japanese Bistro.

Las Vegas Host Lions Annual Charity Event – Wine & Sake Tasting at Osaka Henderson

01/21/2019/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine /by Ben Kang

The event will take place at Osaka Japanese Bistro at Henderson.

Come and join us for the annual charity event at Osaka Henderson, where we will host sushi, sake, and wine provided by Osaka Japanese Bistro. This annual event is for a great cause and all proceeds will be donated.

When is the event?

Saturday, January 26, 2019 from 2PM to 5PM. Please note that this event is at the Henderson location at 10920 South Eastern Avenue, Henderson, NV 89052.

Is there a fee to attend the event?

We ask that attendees make a $65 donation to attend the event when purchased prior through phone or at any Osaka location. This donation fee will be raised to $80 at the door. To purchase tickets prior to the event, please call Sharlene Lewis-McGinnis @ 702-498-4821.

Food and Beverages will be provided by Osaka Japanese Bistro.

What Type of Food and Beverage will be provided?

A variety of wine, sake, and sushi will be provided by Osaka Japanese Bistro. You can fully expect the delicious flavors of Osaka Japanese cuisine during this annual event. Alaskan Fish Fry and a select of Osaka sushi rolls or nigiri will be on the menu.

For more information, please refer to the official flyer below:

2019 Wine Flyer

Teppanyaki: Half Dinner, Half Entertainment in Las Vegas

01/03/2019/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture, Japanese Food and Beverages /by Ben Kang

Teppanyaki at Osaka is the best!

Hope everyone had a jolly good New Years! Today we want to discuss about Teppanyaki and why you should try it here in Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world.

Dinner, Entertainment. Why settle with just one when you can have both? Teppanyaki is gaining in popularity like never before! For those of you that are searching for a solid Teppanyaki choice in Las Vegas, you should be thrilled to know that both Osaka Japanese Bistro locations in the valley offer Teppanyaki. Here is why you should consider Teppanyaki for your next dinner or event:

Entertainment!

Teppanyaki is a combination of entertainment and dinner. We can guarantee that your dinner will be filled with juggling, fire from the grill, funny jokes, and that’s just the beginning. It all begins with our talented Teppanyaki chefs. They are highly experienced entertainers/chefs and they are trained to have you leaving with a smile.

Dinner is delicious.

Don’t forget that these entertainers are also certified chefs, and there is no doubt that the food you will eat will be very enjoyable. There are a variety of different meat and veggie choices offered during the meal, such as beef, shrimp, fried rice, eggs, and more. A single-person dinner is usually complete with fried rice or noodles and a main entree.

Family-Friendly Fun.

We highly encourage family outings! Teppanyaki dinners are open to people of all ages, so make sure to bring the whole family. Our Teppanyaki show will include juggling sticks on fire, egg spinning and tossing, and of course the iconic smoking onion tower. Feel free to take photos for social media and repost them for all your friends and family to see.

In conclusion, you can be sure to receive a filling dinner and tons of fun when you dine at Osaka. Please come and join us for our teppanyaki dinner tonight!

Top 3 Sushi Rolls You Need to Try in Las Vegas

12/18/2018/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture, Japanese Food and Beverages, Las Vegas Sushi, Sushi 101, Tips /by Ben Kang

Las Vegas is home to many unique attractions such as the iconic Las Vegas Strip, acrobatic Cirque De Soleil shows, exciting nightclubs, and more. Because Las Vegas is such a hot spot, you’re bound to find plenty of unique restaurants and eateries on and off the Strip. Naturally, restaurants strive to find new and creative ways to meet the expectations of the tourists and locals in the valley. Osaka Japanese Bistro is no exception. With the recent explosion of popularity in Japanese cuisine and primarily sushi, Osaka Japanese Bistro is always looking to improve its menu. Operational for over 50 years, Osaka Japanese Bistro has created award-winning sushi rolls over the years. Today, we want to share 3 sushi rolls that you need to try in Las Vegas.

3. Cajun Crunch Sushi Roll

A personal favorite of mine, the Cajun Crunch Sushi Roll is an explosion of irresistible flavor. The roll contains crispy shrimp tempura, cream cheese, and spicy crab topped with fresh albacore and Tataki & Banzai sauce. My first bite into the Cajun Crunch roll, I was met with the crunchy texture of the shrimp tempura. The oozy consistency of the cream cheese, however, was a nice contrast in comparison. The crab delivers just the right amount of spiciness to balance out the sweet and salty taste of the Tataki & Banzai sauce. The Cajun Crunch beautifully executes albacore, shrimp, and crab in one delicious roll.

2. Asakusa Sushi Roll

I had the pleasure of visiting Asakusa earlier this year during the Spring. While many temples are scattered throughout Japan, Asakusa is home to some of the most iconic temples in the bustling part of Tokyo. Though integrating modern buildings and roads without damaging the hundred-year-old temples were certainly a challenge, Asakusa is a clear example that old and new can seamlessly blend in today’s age. The Asakusa Sushi Roll does not exist in Asakusa, and sushi rolls, in general, are not nearly as popular in Japan compared to the United States. However, the Asakusa Sushi Roll served in Osaka Japanese Bistro is a perfect blend of Japanese-American sushi while containing the elegance and simplicity of Japanese sushi. It is served with spicy tuna, fresh albacore, and scallions topped with Tataki sauce. This fairly subtle but delicious roll is bound to impress you!

1. Roppongi Roll

This shouldn’t come as a surprise, as numerous celebrities, media, and Guy Fieri has raved about the Roppongi Roll. The Roppongi Hills in Japan is equivalent to that of Beverly Hills in the United States. If the prestigious class of these two neighborhoods is directly representative to the taste of this roll, then I cannot find a better name! The Roppongi Roll contains spicy tuna, shrimp topped with another serving of tuna, masago, scallions, and drizzled with Tataki and Yum Yum sauce. This beautiful combination of sauce and fish with a sprinkle of masago on the top of each roll is simply a masterpiece. If you haven’t tried the Roppongi Roll at Osaka Japanese Bistro yet, you should, especially if you are a constant sushi connoisseur.

In conclusion, these are the 3 sushi rolls I recommend trying in Las Vegas. You can find all three of rolls only at Osaka Japanese Bistro.

Osaka: The Ultimate Street Food Scene

12/04/2018/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture, Japanese Food and Beverages, Las Vegas Sushi /by Ben Kang

Japan is known for many things–Eye-popping scenery, cutting-edge technology, unique culture, and more. But many can argue that Japanese cuisine stands above all else. Any fan of Japanese sushi and ramen should pay a visit to Japan to experience the food for themselves. More importantly, if you are a self-acclaimed foodie, you need to visit the eating capital of Japan, which is Osaka.

image of Tokyo skyline during twilight in Japan.

Tokyo is impressive, but what about Osaka?

I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Japan earlier this year in the Spring. It was my second time visiting Japan in a span of six months. Prior to visiting Osaka, I had stayed in Tokyo. Near my hotel, I had probably the best beef tonkatsu I’ve ever had in my life. The tendons are so soft your brain may think you’re eating sashimi rather than beef, even for just a few seconds. Of course, no visit to Tokyo is complete until you visit the famed Tsukiji fish market, where you can find some of the best fish in the world. If you’re unfamiliar with the type of fish in sushi, you might want to check out our article about it here. Then I visited Kyoto and had Kyoto-style ramen. I’ve had many bowls of ramen in the United States and in Tokyo, specifically around Shinjuku where its ramen are popular. However, nothing compared to the ramen I had in Kyoto.

Dontonbori during the Spring, 2018.

I thought I had a pretty good idea of Japanese cuisine…until I visited Osaka. There was nothing that could’ve prepared me for what I experienced at Osaka. As soon as you get off the bullet train and enter Osaka, it’s almost like you’re visiting another country. There are ancient castles that pierce through the skies along with modern skyscrapers and the dazzling lights of Dotonbori will impress even those accustomed to the Las Vegas Strip. As you step inside the streets of Dotonbori, the allure of the city will absorb you.

There is no doubt that Osaka is known for its marvelous street food. Whether you are a fan of okonomiyaki, takoyaki, or yakitori, you will be in street food heaven. Everywhere you turn is a tent smoking with a scent you simply can’t resist.

Japanese Chicken Grill Yakitori set with Leeks

While Osaka Japanese Bistro here in Las Vegas is well known for its excellence in sushi, they boast a diverse menu that brings the elements of Osaka itself. If you can’t make a trip to Osaka in Japan anytime soon, that’s OK. You’ll find many common favorites such as takoyaki, kaarage (fried chicken), and gyoza from our late night menu. Are you a yakitori fan? Come and try our one of the dozen selections we offer at Osaka Japanese Bistro. Nothing will close to the food from Dotonbori for me, but Osaka Japanese Bistro is real close. But don’t just take my word for it, I urge you to come and try for yourself.

A Big Bowl of Udon Noodles

05/21/2018/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Food and Beverages /by Osaka Japanese Bistro

Enjoy Japanese Noodles in Las Vegas

What’s on the menu at Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas? A big bowl of Udon!

What is Udon?

Udon is a thick, elongated Japanese noodle made with wheat flour. Its neutral flavor lends itself well to flavorful additions, such as soy sauce, chili pepper, sesame, ginger and scallions. Sounds simple, but udon noodles are one of the most popular noodles in Japan for very good reason! When properly seasoned, udon noodles are deliciously satisfying!

Why Choose Udon?

There are so many delectable Japanese noodles, so why choose a big bowl of udon when you visit Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas? Like much Japanese cuisine, udon noodles provide an abundance of health benefits that make them a wonderful source of nutrients. For starters, udon noodles provide complex carbohydrates. These are the “good” kind, which are processed slowly by your metabolism. This means that you will feel satisfied longer, which helps prevent overeating. Complex carbohydrates like udon noodles also aid in digestion of other foods, which is good for your digestive health. Udon noodles are rich in Vitamin B, including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and folate. These vitamins help reduce stress and promote overall better health.

How Did Udon Noodles Originate?

Well, that depends upon whom you ask. One thing we know for sure is that the Japanese have been eating udon noodles for centuries, as part of their daily diet. Flour noodles probably originated in China and were introduced to Japan and were known as muginawa. One story claims that a Buddhist priest name Kukai introduced udon noodles in the Heian period. Another story claims that they were discovered by a Japanese envoy during the Nara era. Wherever they came from, we are proud and happy to serve them at Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas!

How are Udon Noodles Served?

Traditionally, udon noodles are served chilled in summer and warmed in winter. Either way, they are equally delicious! Because udon noodles absorb the flavors that surround them, they are commonly served with a warm seasoned broth mixture. First, the udon noodles are placed in the warmed bowl. Then a specially flavored broth is poured over them. To enjoy, you may use chopsticks or a fork to “capture” the noodles. Then tip the bowl to enjoy the flavored broth like a soup.

Japanese Noodles Served Hot or Cold at Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas

Udon noodles are perfect as a light lunch, or when you wish to have a healthy meal on the go. Udon noodles are not fast food in any sense, but at Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas we always have prepared udon noodles on hand for busy customers.

Are you ready to try udon noodles? We can’t wait to see you at Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas!

You will also find a huge selection of Japanese dishes that includes sushi, sashimi and teppanyaki specialties. Contact us today for a reservation or to order online!

What’s for Dessert at Osaka Japanese Bistro?

05/07/2018/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Food and Beverages /by Osaka Japanese Bistro

At Osaka Japanese Bistro, diners will not only enjoy our fresh and authentic lunch and dinner menu selections at each of our two Las Vegas locations, you will also discover many instant favorites from our hand-picked selection of traditional and Japanese -inspired desserts.

Top Off Great Japanese Cuisine With a Great Dessert

You’ve just enjoyed a great meal, selected from Osaka’s wide menu of mouth-watering authentic Japanese dishes, prepared fresh from the best ingredients by our award-winning chefs. But you’re not done yet!

From melt-in-your-mouth Banana Cheesecake to our signature Tempura Ice Cream, you will discover our dessert selections are rich in flavor and offer just the right amount of sweet reward to top off your lunch or dinner with us.

Among our carefully selected and prepared desserts, we invite you to try the following:

Signature Tempura Ice Cream

Imagine vanilla ice cream wrapped in pound cake, then lightly batter-fried tempura style, and topped with our delectable blueberry sauce. This specialty dessert is uniquely prepared and served – and has become an Osaka signature recipe you simply must experience.

Tempura Banana

Enjoy our palate-pleasing take on the traditional banana split, featuring lightly battered and fried slices of banana, served with caramel and chocolate sauces. The light and crispy tempura crust marries extremely well with the sweet and creamy banana and has become a popular dessert selection at Osaka’s.

Banana Cheesecake

Delight in our Osaka house recipe, a rich banana cheesecake drizzled with warm caramel sauce. Our Banana Cheesecake is an absolute customer favorite all year round because of the sensational balance of flavor and texture. If you have discerning taste buds when it comes to cheesecake, then you will absolutely fall in love with this house favorite.

Warm Chocolate Cake

When you want more than a humdrum chocolate cake, this warm and rich spin on an American favorite will satisfy any chocolate craving. We serve this delightful dessert freshly baked with a creamy chocolate center, and of course, a la mode. Make your request when you place your dinner order to allow for the 10-15 minute bake time.

Flavors of Japan Ice Cream Selections

For a cool and refreshing end to your authentic Japanese meal, choose from our various Japanese flavor-infused ice cream selections including Vanilla Bean, Green Tea, Red Bean, Ginger or Plum Wine. Or for a truly authentic experience, our Mochi Ice Cream has the subtle flavor and smooth texture of sweet, melt-in-your-mouth mochi dough filled with a premium ice cream center. For the perfect after-dinner chaser, our Mango Green Tea Ice Cream is not only palate-cleansing, but is also very refreshing.

Enjoy fine dining and explore our delicious dessert menu at Osaka Japanese Bistro. We offer fresh and authentic sushi, teppanyaki grill and an extensive selection of authentic Japanese dishes at our two locations in Henderson and Las Vegas – just off the Strip. Experience uniquely Japanese culinary fare from the restaurant voted ‘Best of Las Vegas’ twenty times by our customers.

Best Japanese Food in Henderson at Osaka Japanese Bistro

04/25/2018/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Las Vegas Sushi /by Osaka Japanese Bistro

Osaka Japanese Bistro has provided one of the finest dining experiences in Las Vegas since 1967. Thousands of tourists and locals know they can get the freshest and best selection of sushi in town at Osaka, along with a huge selection of great, authentic Japanese food in a great, classic Vegas setting and location. But a lot of locals don’t realize we also now have a Henderson restaurant, and it’s definitely got its own vibe and atmosphere that Osaka fans should not miss.

Authentic Japanese Cuisine Selections at Osaka Japanese Restaurant

Located on Eastern and Sunridge Heights Pkwy in Sunridge Village Plaza, the Henderson Osaka Japanese restaurant has a spacious and contemporary style. The suburban location means you’ll find easy access and ample space for parking. Inside, there’s a trendy and modern space, with a generously-sized sushi bar and plenty of table seating, as well as multiple teppan grill tables for your own exciting live action food preparation experience. And of course, the restaurant also features traditional private tatami room dining. Osaka Henderson serves the same great menu as the original location, along with a wonderful side of live piano and jazz on weekend evenings for your enjoyment. What could be nicer?

Fine Japanese Dining on your Doorstep

Osaka has always been known for serving the freshest, most authentic sushi in town, along with a huge menu of authentic, expertly prepared Japanese dishes. From slightly exotic appetizers, like tako wasabi (baby octopus in wasabi and sweet wine), to filling entrees, like shabu shabu (Japanese hot pot) and indulgent desserts, like tempura banana, our menu has something for every taste and appetite. We have so many choices we put them on five different menus:

Sushi – our famous, award-winning sushi, nigiri and sashimi selections, including seasonal and rare items, fresh daily with the the best cuts of native fish from Japan. Come in for some Osaka original creations like the Rock & Roll (tuna, salmon, yellowtail,crab in cucumber) or the Kamikaze (eel, spicy tuna and avocado).
Teppan Grill – our teppan master chefs will wow you by preparing your delicious hot meal before your eyes. Choose filet mignon, New York or rib steak, or enjoy grilled chicken. Our special selections include WAGYU beef, the very best Grade 5 beef from Japan, and tender Iberico pork from Spain. Enjoy your teppan grill meal with appetizer, soup, salad, fresh grilled vegetable and steamed rice. Reserve a teppan table for a memorable birthday or anniversary event, or just a fun evening out with friends or family.
Lunch Menu – just coming off the golf course, on a lunch break from work or heading out for a lazy afternoon paddling on Lake Las Vegas? Then stop by our Henderson restaurant for a delicious lunch that will fill you up and not weigh you down. Start with a sushi roll of your choice, then pick from a selection of bento box lunches that showcase our wide range of authentic Japanese dishes prepared fresh for you. Or enjoy a dish of tasty noodles or a filling bowl of ramen and be on your way.

Kitchen Menu – our kitchen menu is everything but the kitchen sink. Find everything your mom cooked for you (if you’re from Japan) or try something new. This is our biggest menu with old favorites, like oyako don (egg and chicken over rice) and, the new, including 14 flavors (who knew?) of yakitori, or chicken skewers.
Late Nite Menu – looking for a late night snack on your way home, or in between parties? Find appetizers, sushi and seafood dishes, as well as fried rice and yakitori specials. We have plenty of light meal choices at tempting prices during our late evening hours (after 10 pm).

Live Jazz in Henderson?

One of the best kept secrets in Henderson, our live jazz evenings add a musical spark to your dinner outing. Our owner Gene Nakanishi’s great love of classical and jazz orchestral music is showcased in our specially designed Henderson restaurant. The jazz corner is a cozy space for our live musicians to play their hearts out for your pleasure. Enjoy live piano and jazz performances every Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, accompanied, of course, by great dining and friendly service. Check out recordings some of our piano and jazz performances.

Convenient Location for Henderson and Las Vegas

Whether you’re already an Osaka Japanese Bistro fan, a Henderson local or a true-blue Las Vegan, what could be better than great food, good music and a lovely ambience? For those visiting Henderson area casinos such as the M Resort Spa Casino, the South Point Hotel Casino and Spa or the Green Valley Ranch Resort, or if you are on your way out to Lake Las Vegas, taking the Hoover Dam tour, or on a golf outing at one of our fine local golf courses, Osaka’s Henderson restaurant is conveniently located on your way, not far from the 215 Beltway. Make your way to Osaka Japanese Bistro in Henderson and taste a bit of old Japan in style.

Learn About Sashimi, the Fresh Japanese Delicacy

04/16/2018/in Japanese Cuisine, Las Vegas Sushi, Sushi 101 /by Osaka Japanese Bistro

Have you run across sashimi fans who tell you how much they love eating raw fish on a plate and wondered what was so special about it? If you’re a sushi fan, chances are you’ve encountered sashimi at a sushi bar. But what do you know about this distinctly Japanese and very special delicacy? We’d like to share some facts about sashimi so you’ll be able to really appreciate it next chance you get to sample it at your favorite Japanese sushi restaurant.

Sashimi is a traditional Japanese dish of carefully selected and sliced raw food. It is mostly served as thinly sliced fresh fish. However, other meats such as beef can also be served as sashimi, although this is rare in authentic Japanese restaurants. Some people confuse sashimi and sushi even though the difference is a simple one: sashimi is a piece of raw fish while sushi is sashimi (raw fish) accompanied by vinegared rice.

Origin of Sashimi

The eating of sashimi can be traced to the 14th century. The term means “pierced body.” (The more accurate term would have been Kirimi (“cut body”) but the Japanese avoided it so as not to use the word ‘Kiri,” meaning “cut” which is considered a bad word.) Sashimi eating became popular in the Tokyo region in the 17th century as fishing techniques became more advanced and the arrival of the use of soy sauce helped enhance its flavor and popularize it more widely. To properly prepare and enjoy sashimi, the fish must be completely fresh in order to retain its delicate flavor and for food safety.

How to eat Sashimi

Most Japanese people are introduced to sashimi at a very young age. Foreigners may, however, take a while to get accustomed to the taste and texture of raw fish. Because it can be an acquired taste, condiments are a common accompaniment to sashimi, even in Japan, enhancing the overall taste experience and reducing the fish taste to only its best and most delicate flavors.

Spearing the fish in the head and tail is a traditional way of identifying the fish that will be served.

A common garnish is called tsuma, which consists of pieces of perilla leaves, seaweed, and daikon radish. They are usually cut into pretty shapes though they are always eaten together with the sashimi. Other edible wild plants, vegetables, and flowers are also used as garnishes.

Some types of the sashimi are eaten with a bit if horseradish (wasabi) or ground ginger, plums and mustard paste (karashi). The dish is often seasoned with soy sauce in which the diner dips a piece of the meat before eating. It is good practice to take only as much sauce as needed as the flavor may overwhelm the taste of the fish.

Popular types of sashimi

The sashimi served in most Japanese restaurants is purely seafood. Meaning, it is either from fish, roe or other sea animals such as octopus, shrimp, and jellyfish. Some popular types of this delicious Japanese dish are:

Maguro

Maguro is sashimi prepared from tuna. It is on the menu of nearly all restaurants that serve sashimi. The whole fish is edible, but the price of the sashimi dish varies depending on the fat content of each part. The lean, firm, and fleshy red flanks or akami are the cheapest. The most expensive part is the meat from tuna’s fatty belly, toro. It is available in two grades based on the fat content, chutoro, which is the medium grade and otoro, the premium grade.

Sake or shake

Shake is salmon-based sashimi and is common in many Japanese restaurants. The delicious bright orange fatty belly is also called salmon toro in many menus.

Tai Sashimi

Sea bream or tai, is the best white-fleshed fish in Japan. In sashimi cuisine, tai is often served during celebrations such as New Year’s and weddings. To the Japanese, it is symbolic of new beginnings.

Other Popular Types of Sashimi

Other fish that are served as sashimi include mackerel (saba), skipjack tuna or bonito (katsuo), and amberjack (kanpachi). Sashimi is also prepared form squid (ika), shrimp (amaebi), and octopus (tako). The highly prized jellyfish, kurage. is also served as sashimi.

Another option is caviar or salmon roe (ikura).

Uni Sashimi: A Rare Delicacy

The most expensive roe-based sashimi is the uni (sea urchin roe). It has a creamy, buttery texture and a sweet, briny flavor. Uni is the edible part of the sea urchin and has to be carefully harvested as the meat tends to fall apart. It is also a seasonal item and so is only available for part of the year, generally late fall and winter.

Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas for Authentic Japanese Sashimi

With our award-winning staff and authentic, traditional recipes and preparation method, Osaka Japanese Bistro offers the best fresh sashimi outside Japan. As the oldest Japanese restaurant in Las Vegas, we specialize in offering a broad menu as well as carefully selected and hard to find fresh fish from Japan to create authentic tastes and textures hard to find anywhere else. We even offer uni sashimi when it is in season and of the high quality we demand. Our sushi is enjoyed not only in our restaurants, but is the preferred catered sushi at many top Las Vegas casino buffets and restaurants who we supply daily with top quality fresh sushi, as well as sashimi and nigiri selections. For the very best in Japanese cuisine, stop in next time you’re in Las Vegas for a plate of fresh sashimi or nigiri and delicious sushi rolls.

What is Yakitori?

03/20/2018/in Blog, Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture, Japanese Food and Beverages /by Osaka Japanese Bistro

Yakitori: Japan’s Favorite “Fast Food”?

Think: grilled chicken on a skewer. Whether it’s early morning or late evening or some time in between, it’s the craving you did not know you had. Until now. Yakitori, which basically is the Japanese term for “grilled chicken,” is Japan’s version of mouth-watering barbecued chicken. Secured on a wooden skewer prior to cooking, the chicken is grilled to perfection a variety of forms.

But this gastronomic delight is not just about taste, but also culture.

Yakitori and Japanese Culture

Chicken was once a luxury in Japan, going back to the Meiji Restoration period, starting around 1868. The Meiji era brought huge change, including change to the Japanese diet – the addition of meat. Chicken meat was regarded as a luxury, and greatly prized.

At the same time, small stalls selling skewered fish and vegetables outside temples were already popular. Capitalizing on the demand for chicken, the first chicken kebab shop was installed outside temples. But chicken was still expensive, and the owners of these small stalls could not afford chicken meat, so they used chicken carcass or gristle they found dumped outside higher-end restaurants. This cheap but tasty version of chicken made via the popular skewering methods became a favorite. The rest is history as they say, and yakitori was cultivated to become a diverse variety of tastes and textures, becoming one of Japan’s favorite snacks.

Yakitori in Japan

Yakitori in Japan is prepared and enjoyed in various ways today. The kind of yakitori is generally named after the part of the chicken used, from thighs and breast meat to gristle and cartilage to hearts and liver. Some popular types include:

Negima. Pieces of chicken thigh meat skewered and adorned with pieces of leek in between each piece of chicken. Negima is one of the most popular types of yakitori in Japan today.
Momo. This is simply pieces of skewered chicken thigh meat.

Tsukune. Tsukune is a type of yakitori least reminiscent of yakitori’s history, but is popular today in Japan. It is a mix of minced chicken, egg, vegetables and spices skewered on a stick as several small meatballs.

Torikawa. Maybe the most reminiscent of the first grilled chicken in the small stalls outside temples, torikawa are strips of fatty chicken skin grilled until crispy.
Nankotsu. Also reminiscent of the first chicken kebab stalls, nankotsu is skewered, crunchy cartilage with minimal chicken.

Japanese restaurants and their chefs enjoy experimenting with this traditional food with different spices and sauces. But different meats can also be used, like seafood, beef, and pork. In addition to some of these tasty yakitori snacks are other kebabs that complement these chicken kebabs, like asparagus bacon, green onion, shitake mushroom, green peppers, eggplant, and shrimp. Beer and sake are often enjoyed and paired with specific types of yakitori. Traditionally, these kebabs are gilled on a rectangular clay box, only two feet long and a few inches wide. As such, the kebabs are small and delightful, and thus: snack-ish foods. But they can also be grilled using a tabletop hibachi or a teppanyaki grill – those hot steel plates forming the center of a table at many Japanese restaurants.

Enjoy Yakitori at Osaka Japanese Bistro

At Osaka Japanese Bistro in Las Vegas we prepare authentic Japanese dishes, using recipes from Japan. Osaka Japanese Bistro provides a Teppan grill menu of all the famous Japanese dishes you could imagine, from sushi to tempura to soba to teriyaki to yakitori. Of course we have an extensive variety of yakitori dishes to tempt your palate. At our teppanyaki grill and on our kitchen menu, you will find a variety of yakitori flavors:

Mi, which is thigh meat… that juicy, meaty part of the chicken.
Shiro Me, which is white meat… that healthier, tastier part of the chicken.
Suna Gimo, which is gizzards… that twisted, chewy part of the chicken.
Reba or kimo, which is the liver… that deep, sumptuous part of the chicken.
Sinzo, which is the heart… that rich and hearty part of the chicken.
Torikawa, which is the skin… that crispy part of the chicken.
Tebasaki, which is the wing… a favorite part among chicken-lovers.

If you are in the mood for something tasty and fun, something that can be either a snack or turned into a meal, then try yakitori. There’s nothing quite like it, and it’s available close to you at Osaka Japanese Bistro, just off the Strip in Las Vegas and in nearby Henderson, NV. Come in and enjoy today.

What Do Japanese Eat for Breakfast?

03/13/2018/in Japanese Cuisine, Japanese Culture /by Osaka Japanese Bistro

We can all agree that breakfast is an essential meal in all cultures. Most people look for energy-packed nutrition that’s quick and easy to fix so they can get on with the day’s work. That’s why a warm, filling bowl of oatmeal is a common breakfast dish in Western culture. The Japanese take a wise and practical approach to breakfast. A look at Japanese breakfast traditions reveals a people who ensure that the day’s first meal has all the nutrients the body needs.

Japanese Breakfasts Packed with Nutrition

Here is a look into some traditional Japanese breakfast dishes and how they contribute to a nutritious start to the day.

Fortify with Carbohydrates

The main carbohydrate source in Japanese cuisine is white rice (hakumai) or brown rice (genmai), and that includes for breakfast. The rice is steamed for a simple breakfast meal, gohan. Sometimes the rice is used to prepare okayu, a rice porridge, a favorite of kids and adults alike. It is usually served with pickled plums prepared with vegetables (tsukemono) or shiso leaves (umeboshi). Other additions to the porridge might be dried bonito or skipjack tuna shavings (katsuobushi) and seasoned kelp or seafood (tsukudani).

Protein for Sustained Energy

Unadulterated, high-quality proteins, rich in omega 3 and 6, are of primary importance to Japanese diners. As an island culture, the traditional source of protein in the Japanese culture is fish (yakizana). For a protein-rich breakfast dish, boiled or pan-cooked freshly caught fish is often seasoned with salt only.

Poultry proteins also play a central part in traditional Japanese breakfast. One popular dish is the tamagoyaki, which is an expertly prepared, rolled and presented egg omelette.

The Japanese are also known for their preference for plant-based dishes. Miso soup (misoshiru) and fermented soybeans (natto) are some of the traditional bean-based breakfast dishes that have withstood the test of time.

Nutritious Fruits and Vegetables

Carbs and proteins form a large part of the Japanese breakfast. However, it also has a significant share of vegetables and fruits. Traditional breakfast in the Japanese culture was served with ajitsuke nori, which is seasoned and dried seaweed. Other vegetables (kobachi) and fruits such as bananas also are part of the breakfast plan.

Four Everyday Japanese Breakfasts

1. Gohan

Plain, steamed rice is the core of the traditional breakfast meal. It can be white or brown rice, and usually accompanies the protein servings. It comes together with some other side dishes and salads to make a complete breakfast.

2. Miso Shiru

This common traditional Japanese soup is prepared from a paste of fermented soybeans, miso together with a dashi broth. It comprises of ingredients such as chopped green onions, tofu, wakame seaweed, Japanese mushrooms and deep fried tofu (aburaage).

Most Japanese households prepare miso soup from scratch, starting with the soy and dashi broth. However, there are instant miso soup packets, and dashi infused soy paste that only requires addition of water.

3. Natto

The fermented soybeans are a staple Japanese breakfast food. The protein-rich food is an acquired taste as it is very aromatic and stringy. Spicy mustard (karashi), dried bonito shavings, seasoned seaweed (kizami nori) and chopped green onions are some of the ingredients that can be used to prepare natto. Natto can also be purchased ready to eat in many Asian and Japanese food stores.

4. Tamago Kake Gohan

It is a special breakfast meal that delivers both protein and carbohydrate in the same bowl. The steamed rice is topped with a raw egg and soy sauce seasoning together with salt. It is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

Popular Western Breakfast Foods

The Japanese breakfast table has evolved to incorporate western breakfast options such as bread, toasts, tea, and coffee. Nevertheless, they still opt for a high-energy option such as a thick Shokupan toast with jam. Shokupan is fluffy white bread with a soft texture.

Enjoy Traditional Japanese Breakfast Dishes at Osaka Japanese Bistro

Traditionally prepared, the Japanese breakfast is a delicious and well-balanced meal that supports the old saying that “breakfast is the most important meal of the day”. For the Japanese, the goal is not to have a full plate, but rather a nutritious and healthy meal before facing the day’s hard knocks.

Osaka Japanese Bistro, Las Vegas has always offered a huge menu of traditional Japanese dishes, including popular dishes also enjoyed at breakfast like premium cut broiled fresh fish, ika natto, miso soup and tamagoyaki egg omelette. Visit us anytime for lunch, dinner or a late night meal and enjoy our extensive menu of authentic Japanese dishes, the best and freshest fish, flown in fresh from Japan for our award-winning sushi and our lively, sizzling hot and expertly prepared teppanyaki grill experience, in Las Vegas just off the Strip and in Green Valley, Henderson. Come see us when you are in town!