The food was good. My main complaints about this place are the extremely slow service. I have been here twice and both times it took forever to get started, even though the restaurant was not crowded.
(3)
R C.
I will use the two elements of a good restaurant, service and food quality. (Bonus- Hibachi). I went here with family from Ohio. Food Quality- Opening Miso soup had a bland flavor throughout, and tasted like soy sauce and water with no zest. The hibachi however was amazing. The shrimp was juicy and succulent, better than most hibachi. The chicken had a rubbery consistency. The veggies were juicy, and made well. The fried rice is to die for! (4/5 Stars) Service- Cook was very personable. He had a warm personality. (4.5/5 Stars) Bonus- Hibachi cook was very skilled +.5 Stars Average- 4.75 stars
(5)
Barry R.
Yamato is like a mine field in a disco. Disco's are fun. Mine field's are not. Make one wrong step, and boom, your dining experience has exploded into an eruption of mediocrity. All the specialty rolls we got were both creative, large and delicious, the "promenade" and "outstanding" rolls are particularly recommended! The tempura battered cheescake for desert was also decadent, inventive and beautifully presented. But I also got the sashimi dinner which I thought would be plenty. Unfortunately instead of having thick cut generous pieces of fish I'm used to, I just got a few sad slivers. They weren't very fresh, and the white rice they were served with tasted like it had been left in the steamer for a few hours too long and was dry and hard. The service was fast and friendly, and we also got a garden salad and side of fried rice which were good. So It's not that Yamato isn't worth going to. I would go back, you just have be careful what you get. They have some delicious choices (Specialty sushi rolls being at the top of that list) and they have some very unimpressive offerings as well. Like walking a mine field, if you go, consult the other reviews as your map, plan your attack ahead of time and choose wisely!
(3)
Muriel H.
It's been a while since I've been to this establishment but the 2x that I went here I thoroughly enjoyed myself. My husband and I took advantage of the "create your own" sushi roll option and made some delectable concoctions. I love the atmosphere, the regular rolls & special rolls are all superb and the staff is very professional & attentive. The next time we to to Pitt we will be paying a visit!
(5)
Mike N.
Use to be good, gone way down hill. Last time there (tonight) they didn't have heat, floor was filthy, my hibachi dinner came out before the sushi appetizers. This has exceeded it's life much like all hibachi do. Go else. where
(1)
Jacie L.
After trying 3 other hibachi places, this is the best hibachi around!!! Great food, great service, great show! The sushi chef is GREAT too!! He personally picks the fish used, will talks about what he's doing and where it's from. I will go back without a doubt!!
(5)
Melody P.
I wanted to like this place and have tried it several times but each time it has been disappointing. I can't speak for the hibachi side of the restaurant but the food on the other side could be greatly improved along with the service. The sushi is presented nicely and isn't bad, but it isn't anything exceptional considering all of the competition that's now around the area. The miso was bland and just ok and the bento box was a bit expensive for the quality and taste. I would not order either one again. Service is very slow and pretty poor, even when the restaurant is not busy. Unfortunately you will be saddled with an 18% gratuity that is automatically added to your bill whether you feel it is appropriate or not for the service quality. The pros of this place are the parking is easy, it is in a convenient location, and the ambiance inside is great! You can get a decent sushi roll here. High ceilings and modern looking, there is a nice sushi bar to sit at and a nice bar if you want to enjoy a night out with friends or alone.
(2)
E S.
I was impressed- fairly busy for a Wednesday, and great sushi discounts on Wednesdays. The fish was fresh, and there was a good selection. Definitely recommend.
(5)
Dave R.
Always get premium food here & bartenders/servers bend over backwards. Everyone that works here is friendly & engaging. Clientele are awesome...feels like everybody's friends and accepting. Always meet the best people here. Home away from home.
(5)
Carrie M.
Used to be a frequent guest at Yamato but this has changed recently. We usually go on Wednesday which is their sushi special day. The rolls were always delicious and a decent size. Recent times we've gone there, the rolls are significantly smaller and not filling. I think they skipped mixing up the ingredients for the spicy crab roll and just threw everything in and rolled it up. It did not taste good and we only ate one of two of the rolls. I hate complaining but we told our waitress that it didn't taste good and we didn't want it. She apologized and took it away but when we got our bill WE HAD TO PAY FOR IT!!! This is not the first time there has been a problem and we have never received any type of discount or even a coupon for our next visit. It's like they didn't want us to come back. On a positive note, their hibachi is the best around in my opinion and their ginger dressing is AMAZING (they even sell it in two different sizes at a reasonable price)! The hibachi chefs are friendly and really know what their doing. I will probably return on occasion, but not nearly as much as I used to.
(3)
John H.
I was looking for some good quality sushi and did not want to eat at a buffet, so why not try this place. Service: very friendly and proper. Attentive as well but I was the only one there at 3:30pm Food: I ordered Fried Calamari and the Angel Dragon roll. The roll consist of asparagus wrapped with seaweed and rice and tuna and eel. The fried calamari was thin and tasted like a tempura onion ring. You couldn't tell that it was calamari. The roll was small as well. Small pieces of fish and eel. I was disappointed because the was $14 and I got mall quality food. Overall, the food was extremely overpriced and small. Moving from CA May have caused me to be biased but I should have just gone to AYCE sushi. Bring your wallet if you're coming here.
(2)
John R.
So happy we came here this week. The place was pretty quiet, but we had the best hibachi chef in the world. no joke....i know the jokes are lame and everyone's seen the smoking onion stack, but this guy was amazing. It may have had something to do with the free sake he was squirting in our mouths from 5ft away, of course :) Next time I'm in Pitt, I'll be going back.
(5)
Michael O.
For a place that just opened, it certainly deserves more traffic that what was there on a Monday night. Perhaps they are going for a "soft opening". Everything is very clean and well decorated. Menu prices were compatible to other hibachi restaurants in the area. We started with sushi that was very fresh and impeccably designed on the plate. We both went for the basic chicken with fried rice and noodles. The accompanying miso soup and ginger dressing salad are traditional fares and also tasty. The chef was quite funny and not as old-school corny like we we expecting. He actually had some jokes and tricks that we hadn't sat through a hundred times before. We will certainly be returning but there is plenty of competition for them in the monroeville area.
(5)
Chuck W.
Toro, Toro, Toro. Yes lovers of Fatty Tuna, I have found it here. And it was very delicious. Fresh and melt in your mouth delicious. Just went there first time last night to try their sushi and found a real winner. Started with two orders of Fatty Tuna Sashimi and went on to other, sushi and Makis from there. All were exceedingly fresh and delivered in beautiful preparations. The tastes were fabulous and compare well with some of the best Sushi I have had in all my travels across the US. This review is really just for the Sushi at Yamato. This new restaurant is now in the former site of Buffalo Wild Wings in Penn Center East, between Churchill and Monroeville. This place has been beautifully designed and decorated. The lighting design in the bar area is awesome. There are really four components comprising the restaurants offerings and service. First they have a full service bar with bar stools, high tops and booths. Second, well obviously they have a Sushi menu with a Sushi counter. Third they have a regular 'kitchen' menu and seating. Fourthly they have Hibachi with eight tables I think and an interesting looking menu. I will be back to try the Hibachi and Kitchen someday. Back to Sushi..... After the Toro, I tried the Spicy Tuna, very nice and spicy as I like it. Next had the Eel with avocado Maki. This was some of the best Eel I have had in Pittsburgh, or could be tied with Umi's unagi. I followed with Dynamite (a complex maki with spicy yellowtail, asparagus with salmon, avocado, masago, wasabi mayo and sriracha sauce - YUM), Dragon (crab, avocado, cucumber, with eel and eel sauce) , and Spider (soft shell crab, masago lettuce, cucumber with eel sauce) rolls. If you are wondering, Masago is Capelin or Flying Fish roe and Sriracha sauce is a type of hot sauce of a Thai nature. Somewhere in between the rolls I had the Salmon Roe (ikura) with its wonderful moist explosion of flavor in your mouth. Hard to beat if you love roe. These were all of excellent quality and taste. Unfortunately I could not stuff anymore into my bod, or I would have kept working my way through the Sushi menu. So I am making a promise to myself to get back often. I now have favorites for repeats and many other options to try. For Sushi lovers in Pittsburgh, I strongly suggest this is a must try for you. But save some for me.
(5)
Ryan W.
I went here for lunch since I was looking for a place nearby that served japanese, but I dont think I'll go back. Im not a fan of hibachi so I decided to have sushi/sashimi instead. I ordered the 10 pc sashimi lunch and was disappointed that they did not serve egg (tomago) on their sushi menu, especially since its my favorite. Although they were out of mackerel also it wasn't a problem, so I ordered 10 pcs off of the menu. The salad that came with it was horrible with some type of mayonaise dressing on it instead of ginger. I didnt finish it. Then my sashimi came and besides the cuts being slightly undersized, I had to ask for some wasabi or ginger since it wasnt on my plate?! The sashimi itself didn't taste bad, but the whole experience made me feel as if sushi/sashimi was not really their thing. Nothing special. Hopefully the specialty rolls, entrees, and hibachi are better, but if im dissapointed by the basics I'm not interested in returning.
(2)
October R.
Disclaimer: My friends and I came and ordered from the hibachi menu so my review can only be based off of that. Our hostess/waitress was inviting and cheerful, I only wish that our hibachi chef had half of that enthusiasm. He just seemed so uncomfortable and forced, he didn't put on a show, which was disappointing to me because that's why i go to hibachi grills...the entertainment! The fun and theatrics! If you don't want that...well...go somewhere that doesn't boast about their hibachi chefs and grills. Aside from the lack of entertainment, my disappointment also stems from the portions. I have never left a hibachi joint hungry or without leftovers because when someone orders noodles and veggies, the chefs are usually very generous with the vegetables. Not this guy...there were leftover veggies from the saute that he gave to the three people with double proteins while he skipped right over me. Damn dude! Is it personal? Couldn't have been, i was the only person that acted slightly amused by his pathetic attempt at being entertaining. Anyway... there are much better hibachi grills around.
(2)
Miguel R.
The best spicy salmon hand roll I ever had. And the most representative tempura ice-cream I had in years. Must try.
(5)
Chad G.
Both Mummy roll and sweet potato tempura are amazing. One of your better atmospheres when it comes to sushi and hibachi restaurants. Service staff was friendly and had great attitudes..... I will be back!!!!
(5)
Ellen D.
I have no complaints about this place. The waiters have lots of personality, and they speak very clearly. They have a sushi special, half off some rolls, on Wednesdays. Great place!
(5)
Mary G.
This was my trip to Yamato. It's a little dark for lunch, but otherwise the atmosphere is great. I got a maki sushi combo of three rolls. I expected only two or three pieces of each and was surprised to get a total of 18 pieces for just $10! The spicy crab was my favorite and had a really fresh flavor to it that I can't put my finger on. The rolls have a good balance of rice to filling (?). I will definitely be back!
(4)
Jen L.
We took my stepson to Yamato (he loves hibachi), and it was a pretty good experience overall. It was totally dead on a Thursday night, but I think that was mostly because the Steeler preseason game was on - they had it on the TV though, so we could see it from our table. Everything was pretty typical - we all got hibachi dinners and my husband and I split an order of sushi (spicy crab). Nothing bad, but nothing great either. I just felt like there was no ambiance - again probably due to the lack of people and energy (we were literally the only people seated in the hibachi area for most of our dinner). Our chef was very nice, but it took a very long time to pay our bill (not sure why since virtually no one was there). They food also wasn't quite as good as Saga. I might go here again, but I'd probably choose Saga or Shogun (or Nakama of course) first. I just don't know how this place will last long with 2 other Japanese steakhouses very nearby.
(3)
Megan P.
I have been on a Pittsburgh sushi quest since I arrived year ago and had yet to find something I even wanted to just try (aside from Andy's in Wholly's). I made my way all the way from the city over to Monroeville just to try this. Definitely worth it. The sushi was delicious, and that toro was killa. I had two specialty rolls and the hamachi and toro sashimi. All were very tasty. The rolls are huge and difficult to get into one bite, which is awesome on a first date! My only complaint (and a big one) is that there is no sake list. The only way to even know they have sake is by asking. Then, they say "yes, see those bottles up there on the top shelf at the bar? Those are the ones we have." I asked if they had a specific sake and she didn't even know. So basically, I just picked the color of a bottle to pick out a sake. For the amount you pay for a bottle of sake, I want to know the name, price, and description of flavor. Come on, this is normal! I can't read japanese, can barely see the bottles up there, and have no clue what they taste like or if it's a $50 bottle. I felt pretty stupid doing this (on a first date). Anyway, I'll be back but I hope they fix this kink.
(4)
I.E. C.
Definitely better than Taipei Tokyo. New, clean and service was excellent. Had the spicy tuna, and a few other rolls which were good. 4 stars because there's nothing else this good as far as sushi goes in the Monroeville area.
(4)
Amanda G.
Sushi was great well prepared, I did not like my entry or my boyfriends. He got the mango chicken and I got the seafood noodles. The atmosphere was great and I would go back for sushi or maybe to check out the hibachi.
(1)
J D.
Multiple visits over the course of the last 2 months. I've done the hot noodle dishes like Pad Thai, ordered from the hibachi grill and had it brought to the table, had the various sushi and maki combinations along with a few appetizers (rock shrimp really does rock!!) and recently a hibachi table dinner with the entire family. Everything has been fantastic, really! Drinks are reasonably priced, as well. I can't get enough of this place--love it!
(5)
Alan S.
The Atmosphere is slightly above average, The service is very good, the entire staff is friendly and attentive. The Sushi is awesome (that is a main reason to go to a Japanese restaurant). The reason it does not get 5 stars is that the Hibachi is on the sweet side. This is due primarily to the fact that the Saki they use is sweet. Don't get me wrong, the Hibachi is still good and I have eaten hibachi more than once but I am looking more for savory than sweet in this type of meal. Savory is there but masked a little by the sweetness.
(4)
J K.
My husband and I celebrated our anniversary here after seeing some positive reviews and getting excited about Toro. The atmosphere was nice and impressive. The service was very slow, however. I'm not sure if it was because another party at our table arrived later and they wanted to take the orders all at the same time. We were there for almost two hours and there was a good bit of waiting. We were served Toro sushi instead of the sashimi ordered but kept it as is. It was a little thin but very good. We also ordered a volcano sushi, which was also good. The hibachi portion of the dinner was very entertaining...not all the same tricks and jokes and the chef had us laughing a lot! I was impressed with the size of the shrimp and also the Chilean sea bass was cooked very well. Fully cooked but not over cooked and nice. The steak had a nice flavor. It was all good and fine but we probably wouldn't return.
(2)
Cwart E.
I have been here two times so far. Their mixed drinks are the best I have had. I actually crave their drinks more than their food. The sushi and Pad Thai are very good and so far the best sushi I've had in Monroeville. There is just one thing that bothers me, why have a classy looking restaurant when your water cups and dishes are made of plastic? At least all the alcoholic beverages are served in glassware.
(4)
Joshua Z.
Came for dinner Saturday. Reservation was on time and setting is nice. 3 of us had hibachi, I had sushi. The hibachi people said is was OK, but preferred Shogun. The hibachi cook was Balinese, and was interesting to talk, too. Didn't put on the big knife and flame show, which I didn't miss. Sushi was good, but better can be found nearby at Taipei Tokyo.
(3)
Vic K.
Overall: Impressed by the quality for moderately-priced, suburban sushi. Service was friendly but inefficient, as described below. Sat at a regular table (not hibachi or sushi bar). We ordered a couple of appetizers, soup, a couple of specialty rolls, and a hot noodle dish. All the food was very good. Not fantastic by big city or West Coast standards, but definitely a place I would recommend and go to again. Specifically, the specialty rolls were good sized, and they included some standard combinations and some unusual ideas that sound good (rather than just eye-catching novelties). Seafood udon dish was very good but slightly soupier than ideal. I would have liked to see Japanese standards like ohitashi and perhaps grilled fish (e.g., hamachi kama) and grilled mushroom appetizers. The service was pleasant, but we were someone frustrated by the time we left. Despite there being many employees per customer while we were dining (early on a Tuesday), it took a long time after we were obviously done eating to get our check and an even longer time for the credit card to be picked up. With so many staff members walking around, it would be appropriate for someone other than our waitress to pick up and run the credit card.
(4)
Nicole B.
Gross! Our server greeted us at the front while smoking and talking with his friends. We wanted to sit at the sushi bar which was dirty and un-bussed, as well as the entire bar and 3 tables in the front half of the restaurant. They out of cold saki and we poured our own beers. Every specialty roll was fried and had some sort of mayo component. Not good!!!!!!!!! Will never go back.
(1)
Lori R.
My son and his friend went here and I wanted to pay for their dinner with my credit card over the phone. Somehow, like even any pizza shop in America can figure out, they can't figure out how to run a credit card over the phone. I'm not sure how intelligent the management and staff is at this place, but apparently they better never work at any place that has deliveries or take out, because they aren't smart enough to process a credit card payment over the phone. Further more, they aren't intelligent enough to work at any catalog company, either, as they take credit cards on the phone, too. It frightens me that any restaurant that can't figure out how to take a credit card over the phone can actually run a safe place to eat. Never, ever, again and I'll make sure everyone I know is told how they treated my child, especially in front of his friend. Maybe they should have let him operate the credit card machine as he seems to be smarter than anyone in the place.
(1)
A S.
I went with a group a few days ago. We got both hibachi and sushi, both were amazing. By far the best sushi I've had in a long time. Also, the prices were really reasonable, especially the lunch specials. We got one of the lunch specials as an appetizer, 3 sushi rolls and soup for only $10 and they were delicious. The servers were very nice and helpful. I will definitely be going back :)
(5)
Tan T.
Love the service and the food!
(5)
Liz E.
A friend and I stopped for a drink and apps because we discovered our original destination, Ray Azteca (Mexican) next door does not have a bar. Big mistake. After we ordered two martinis ($8.50 a piece during HAPPY HOUR?!) and two appetizers, the Pear martinis arrived and they were terrible. Cough syrup comes to mind. We asked the bartender to "tweak them" so they were drinkable, (mind you, we had to carry them back to the bar because at this point we were basically not important--there were obviously some big tippers at the bar and we were at a table.) I took my drink up to the bar a second time because it really was horrible. A that point both bartenders saw me waiting, and both walked away and acted as if they hadn't seen me. One of the bar patrons even noticed it. At that point the apps came; more disappointment. the shrimp was heavily breaded and chewy, and the spring rolls (normally a favorite) were greasy and doughy. The sauce with the shrimp was heavy on mayo. I truly believe the appetizers were frozen from a box, did not taste at all homemade. But really the bar service was terrible, unless you really enjoy blondes with lots of fake cleavage, then you may enjoy the female bartender. I never tip less than 15% but between the two of them they got a very small tip. This visit confirmed our attitude about food in suburbia--sub par for the masses. 42 bucks for this? I will stick to drinks and sushi in the city.
(1)
Jesse M.
Great food good prices, check it out when you want to have at out but don't have plans
(4)
Kathy D.
Went here on my husband's birthday and was really disappointed that this high-strung place offered zero birthday deals for it being a $$$ place. While it might be listed under $$, it was definitely in the $$$ price range. The waitress said we could pay $3 for a slice of birthday cake. Um, no thank you. Every sushi place I've been to (expensive or not) offers a soup AND salad for entrees. At Yamato, everything is an added charge. A sad salad will be $3 extra. Hubs got the Sushi and Sashimi Supreme and everything from the price, the presentation to the amount of food fell flat when compared to other Japanese establishments. Our local Azan Wok served up a gorgeous Sushi and Sashimi Supreme with many varieties of sushi and fish in a blue-lit martini glass. That entree was $30 and my simple beef entree was another $20. Yeesh! I do like that there's ample parking since it's located in a small shopping area. The location isn't the great though because it's still rather far from the middle of Monroeville and Murrysville. Service was okay; nothing spectacular. We were the only customers on Sunday afternoon and it still took a long time for food to come out. Tried and done. Not coming back here and not recommending.
(3)
Sammy B.
I love this place everybody is super nice and fun make all ur meals super yummy... YES this is the place to come too with a date or group of friends.. O.. One more the happy hour is GREAT
(5)
Nick M.
I order from here only out of convenience. The owner or who I presume is the owner confuses me. Rushed service and def has come take out order issues. It seems at times he does not want to take an order. It's confusing since he is in the restaurant business yet customers clearly seem to bother him. If this were not the closest sushi spot close to me I would never give them business again. The food is decent but the service is the worst.
(2)
Jeff P.
This is definitely one our favorite restaurants. The staff is so entertaining and friendly. They go out of their way to make sure that the guests are satisfied and happy. The food is really really fresh and tastes great. Always a great time at Yamato.
(5)
Lisa B.
The food was ok but the service was very slow and the music was too loud. It's a little over priced as well.
(2)
Annie Q.
It was just what I was expecting. The sushi was rolled really loose and that was tricky for a beginner. Wasn't bad, wasn't amazing. Nice decor. I just don't know how they are going to compete with the three or four other places that are EXACTLY like it around the corner. So.... nothing special. But not any different then the rest. So try it if that is what you are looking for.
(3)
Francine V.
Everyone in our party of 9 adults and 2 toddlers had a wonderful birthday celebration. The kids sushi was a beautiful & generous serving and the hibachi steaks, chicken and scallops were perfectly cooked. The prices are reasonable,making lunch an excellent value. The staff is friendly and the premises are super clean. The hibachi chefs definitely put on a great show and seem to genuinely enjoy interacting with the customers.
(5)
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Address :3450 William Penn Hwy
Pittsburgh, PA, 15235
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Trendy Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Roxy S.
The food was good. My main complaints about this place are the extremely slow service. I have been here twice and both times it took forever to get started, even though the restaurant was not crowded.
(3)R C.
I will use the two elements of a good restaurant, service and food quality. (Bonus- Hibachi). I went here with family from Ohio. Food Quality- Opening Miso soup had a bland flavor throughout, and tasted like soy sauce and water with no zest. The hibachi however was amazing. The shrimp was juicy and succulent, better than most hibachi. The chicken had a rubbery consistency. The veggies were juicy, and made well. The fried rice is to die for! (4/5 Stars) Service- Cook was very personable. He had a warm personality. (4.5/5 Stars) Bonus- Hibachi cook was very skilled +.5 Stars Average- 4.75 stars
(5)Barry R.
Yamato is like a mine field in a disco. Disco's are fun. Mine field's are not. Make one wrong step, and boom, your dining experience has exploded into an eruption of mediocrity. All the specialty rolls we got were both creative, large and delicious, the "promenade" and "outstanding" rolls are particularly recommended! The tempura battered cheescake for desert was also decadent, inventive and beautifully presented. But I also got the sashimi dinner which I thought would be plenty. Unfortunately instead of having thick cut generous pieces of fish I'm used to, I just got a few sad slivers. They weren't very fresh, and the white rice they were served with tasted like it had been left in the steamer for a few hours too long and was dry and hard. The service was fast and friendly, and we also got a garden salad and side of fried rice which were good. So It's not that Yamato isn't worth going to. I would go back, you just have be careful what you get. They have some delicious choices (Specialty sushi rolls being at the top of that list) and they have some very unimpressive offerings as well. Like walking a mine field, if you go, consult the other reviews as your map, plan your attack ahead of time and choose wisely!
(3)Muriel H.
It's been a while since I've been to this establishment but the 2x that I went here I thoroughly enjoyed myself. My husband and I took advantage of the "create your own" sushi roll option and made some delectable concoctions. I love the atmosphere, the regular rolls & special rolls are all superb and the staff is very professional & attentive. The next time we to to Pitt we will be paying a visit!
(5)Mike N.
Use to be good, gone way down hill. Last time there (tonight) they didn't have heat, floor was filthy, my hibachi dinner came out before the sushi appetizers. This has exceeded it's life much like all hibachi do. Go else. where
(1)Jacie L.
After trying 3 other hibachi places, this is the best hibachi around!!! Great food, great service, great show! The sushi chef is GREAT too!! He personally picks the fish used, will talks about what he's doing and where it's from. I will go back without a doubt!!
(5)Melody P.
I wanted to like this place and have tried it several times but each time it has been disappointing. I can't speak for the hibachi side of the restaurant but the food on the other side could be greatly improved along with the service. The sushi is presented nicely and isn't bad, but it isn't anything exceptional considering all of the competition that's now around the area. The miso was bland and just ok and the bento box was a bit expensive for the quality and taste. I would not order either one again. Service is very slow and pretty poor, even when the restaurant is not busy. Unfortunately you will be saddled with an 18% gratuity that is automatically added to your bill whether you feel it is appropriate or not for the service quality. The pros of this place are the parking is easy, it is in a convenient location, and the ambiance inside is great! You can get a decent sushi roll here. High ceilings and modern looking, there is a nice sushi bar to sit at and a nice bar if you want to enjoy a night out with friends or alone.
(2)E S.
I was impressed- fairly busy for a Wednesday, and great sushi discounts on Wednesdays. The fish was fresh, and there was a good selection. Definitely recommend.
(5)Dave R.
Always get premium food here & bartenders/servers bend over backwards. Everyone that works here is friendly & engaging. Clientele are awesome...feels like everybody's friends and accepting. Always meet the best people here. Home away from home.
(5)Carrie M.
Used to be a frequent guest at Yamato but this has changed recently. We usually go on Wednesday which is their sushi special day. The rolls were always delicious and a decent size. Recent times we've gone there, the rolls are significantly smaller and not filling. I think they skipped mixing up the ingredients for the spicy crab roll and just threw everything in and rolled it up. It did not taste good and we only ate one of two of the rolls. I hate complaining but we told our waitress that it didn't taste good and we didn't want it. She apologized and took it away but when we got our bill WE HAD TO PAY FOR IT!!! This is not the first time there has been a problem and we have never received any type of discount or even a coupon for our next visit. It's like they didn't want us to come back. On a positive note, their hibachi is the best around in my opinion and their ginger dressing is AMAZING (they even sell it in two different sizes at a reasonable price)! The hibachi chefs are friendly and really know what their doing. I will probably return on occasion, but not nearly as much as I used to.
(3)John H.
I was looking for some good quality sushi and did not want to eat at a buffet, so why not try this place. Service: very friendly and proper. Attentive as well but I was the only one there at 3:30pm Food: I ordered Fried Calamari and the Angel Dragon roll. The roll consist of asparagus wrapped with seaweed and rice and tuna and eel. The fried calamari was thin and tasted like a tempura onion ring. You couldn't tell that it was calamari. The roll was small as well. Small pieces of fish and eel. I was disappointed because the was $14 and I got mall quality food. Overall, the food was extremely overpriced and small. Moving from CA May have caused me to be biased but I should have just gone to AYCE sushi. Bring your wallet if you're coming here.
(2)John R.
So happy we came here this week. The place was pretty quiet, but we had the best hibachi chef in the world. no joke....i know the jokes are lame and everyone's seen the smoking onion stack, but this guy was amazing. It may have had something to do with the free sake he was squirting in our mouths from 5ft away, of course :) Next time I'm in Pitt, I'll be going back.
(5)Michael O.
For a place that just opened, it certainly deserves more traffic that what was there on a Monday night. Perhaps they are going for a "soft opening". Everything is very clean and well decorated. Menu prices were compatible to other hibachi restaurants in the area. We started with sushi that was very fresh and impeccably designed on the plate. We both went for the basic chicken with fried rice and noodles. The accompanying miso soup and ginger dressing salad are traditional fares and also tasty. The chef was quite funny and not as old-school corny like we we expecting. He actually had some jokes and tricks that we hadn't sat through a hundred times before. We will certainly be returning but there is plenty of competition for them in the monroeville area.
(5)Chuck W.
Toro, Toro, Toro. Yes lovers of Fatty Tuna, I have found it here. And it was very delicious. Fresh and melt in your mouth delicious. Just went there first time last night to try their sushi and found a real winner. Started with two orders of Fatty Tuna Sashimi and went on to other, sushi and Makis from there. All were exceedingly fresh and delivered in beautiful preparations. The tastes were fabulous and compare well with some of the best Sushi I have had in all my travels across the US. This review is really just for the Sushi at Yamato. This new restaurant is now in the former site of Buffalo Wild Wings in Penn Center East, between Churchill and Monroeville. This place has been beautifully designed and decorated. The lighting design in the bar area is awesome. There are really four components comprising the restaurants offerings and service. First they have a full service bar with bar stools, high tops and booths. Second, well obviously they have a Sushi menu with a Sushi counter. Third they have a regular 'kitchen' menu and seating. Fourthly they have Hibachi with eight tables I think and an interesting looking menu. I will be back to try the Hibachi and Kitchen someday. Back to Sushi..... After the Toro, I tried the Spicy Tuna, very nice and spicy as I like it. Next had the Eel with avocado Maki. This was some of the best Eel I have had in Pittsburgh, or could be tied with Umi's unagi. I followed with Dynamite (a complex maki with spicy yellowtail, asparagus with salmon, avocado, masago, wasabi mayo and sriracha sauce - YUM), Dragon (crab, avocado, cucumber, with eel and eel sauce) , and Spider (soft shell crab, masago lettuce, cucumber with eel sauce) rolls. If you are wondering, Masago is Capelin or Flying Fish roe and Sriracha sauce is a type of hot sauce of a Thai nature. Somewhere in between the rolls I had the Salmon Roe (ikura) with its wonderful moist explosion of flavor in your mouth. Hard to beat if you love roe. These were all of excellent quality and taste. Unfortunately I could not stuff anymore into my bod, or I would have kept working my way through the Sushi menu. So I am making a promise to myself to get back often. I now have favorites for repeats and many other options to try. For Sushi lovers in Pittsburgh, I strongly suggest this is a must try for you. But save some for me.
(5)Ryan W.
I went here for lunch since I was looking for a place nearby that served japanese, but I dont think I'll go back. Im not a fan of hibachi so I decided to have sushi/sashimi instead. I ordered the 10 pc sashimi lunch and was disappointed that they did not serve egg (tomago) on their sushi menu, especially since its my favorite. Although they were out of mackerel also it wasn't a problem, so I ordered 10 pcs off of the menu. The salad that came with it was horrible with some type of mayonaise dressing on it instead of ginger. I didnt finish it. Then my sashimi came and besides the cuts being slightly undersized, I had to ask for some wasabi or ginger since it wasnt on my plate?! The sashimi itself didn't taste bad, but the whole experience made me feel as if sushi/sashimi was not really their thing. Nothing special. Hopefully the specialty rolls, entrees, and hibachi are better, but if im dissapointed by the basics I'm not interested in returning.
(2)October R.
Disclaimer: My friends and I came and ordered from the hibachi menu so my review can only be based off of that. Our hostess/waitress was inviting and cheerful, I only wish that our hibachi chef had half of that enthusiasm. He just seemed so uncomfortable and forced, he didn't put on a show, which was disappointing to me because that's why i go to hibachi grills...the entertainment! The fun and theatrics! If you don't want that...well...go somewhere that doesn't boast about their hibachi chefs and grills. Aside from the lack of entertainment, my disappointment also stems from the portions. I have never left a hibachi joint hungry or without leftovers because when someone orders noodles and veggies, the chefs are usually very generous with the vegetables. Not this guy...there were leftover veggies from the saute that he gave to the three people with double proteins while he skipped right over me. Damn dude! Is it personal? Couldn't have been, i was the only person that acted slightly amused by his pathetic attempt at being entertaining. Anyway... there are much better hibachi grills around.
(2)Miguel R.
The best spicy salmon hand roll I ever had. And the most representative tempura ice-cream I had in years. Must try.
(5)Chad G.
Both Mummy roll and sweet potato tempura are amazing. One of your better atmospheres when it comes to sushi and hibachi restaurants. Service staff was friendly and had great attitudes..... I will be back!!!!
(5)Ellen D.
I have no complaints about this place. The waiters have lots of personality, and they speak very clearly. They have a sushi special, half off some rolls, on Wednesdays. Great place!
(5)Mary G.
This was my trip to Yamato. It's a little dark for lunch, but otherwise the atmosphere is great. I got a maki sushi combo of three rolls. I expected only two or three pieces of each and was surprised to get a total of 18 pieces for just $10! The spicy crab was my favorite and had a really fresh flavor to it that I can't put my finger on. The rolls have a good balance of rice to filling (?). I will definitely be back!
(4)Jen L.
We took my stepson to Yamato (he loves hibachi), and it was a pretty good experience overall. It was totally dead on a Thursday night, but I think that was mostly because the Steeler preseason game was on - they had it on the TV though, so we could see it from our table. Everything was pretty typical - we all got hibachi dinners and my husband and I split an order of sushi (spicy crab). Nothing bad, but nothing great either. I just felt like there was no ambiance - again probably due to the lack of people and energy (we were literally the only people seated in the hibachi area for most of our dinner). Our chef was very nice, but it took a very long time to pay our bill (not sure why since virtually no one was there). They food also wasn't quite as good as Saga. I might go here again, but I'd probably choose Saga or Shogun (or Nakama of course) first. I just don't know how this place will last long with 2 other Japanese steakhouses very nearby.
(3)Megan P.
I have been on a Pittsburgh sushi quest since I arrived year ago and had yet to find something I even wanted to just try (aside from Andy's in Wholly's). I made my way all the way from the city over to Monroeville just to try this. Definitely worth it. The sushi was delicious, and that toro was killa. I had two specialty rolls and the hamachi and toro sashimi. All were very tasty. The rolls are huge and difficult to get into one bite, which is awesome on a first date! My only complaint (and a big one) is that there is no sake list. The only way to even know they have sake is by asking. Then, they say "yes, see those bottles up there on the top shelf at the bar? Those are the ones we have." I asked if they had a specific sake and she didn't even know. So basically, I just picked the color of a bottle to pick out a sake. For the amount you pay for a bottle of sake, I want to know the name, price, and description of flavor. Come on, this is normal! I can't read japanese, can barely see the bottles up there, and have no clue what they taste like or if it's a $50 bottle. I felt pretty stupid doing this (on a first date). Anyway, I'll be back but I hope they fix this kink.
(4)I.E. C.
Definitely better than Taipei Tokyo. New, clean and service was excellent. Had the spicy tuna, and a few other rolls which were good. 4 stars because there's nothing else this good as far as sushi goes in the Monroeville area.
(4)Amanda G.
Sushi was great well prepared, I did not like my entry or my boyfriends. He got the mango chicken and I got the seafood noodles. The atmosphere was great and I would go back for sushi or maybe to check out the hibachi.
(1)J D.
Multiple visits over the course of the last 2 months. I've done the hot noodle dishes like Pad Thai, ordered from the hibachi grill and had it brought to the table, had the various sushi and maki combinations along with a few appetizers (rock shrimp really does rock!!) and recently a hibachi table dinner with the entire family. Everything has been fantastic, really! Drinks are reasonably priced, as well. I can't get enough of this place--love it!
(5)Alan S.
The Atmosphere is slightly above average, The service is very good, the entire staff is friendly and attentive. The Sushi is awesome (that is a main reason to go to a Japanese restaurant). The reason it does not get 5 stars is that the Hibachi is on the sweet side. This is due primarily to the fact that the Saki they use is sweet. Don't get me wrong, the Hibachi is still good and I have eaten hibachi more than once but I am looking more for savory than sweet in this type of meal. Savory is there but masked a little by the sweetness.
(4)J K.
My husband and I celebrated our anniversary here after seeing some positive reviews and getting excited about Toro. The atmosphere was nice and impressive. The service was very slow, however. I'm not sure if it was because another party at our table arrived later and they wanted to take the orders all at the same time. We were there for almost two hours and there was a good bit of waiting. We were served Toro sushi instead of the sashimi ordered but kept it as is. It was a little thin but very good. We also ordered a volcano sushi, which was also good. The hibachi portion of the dinner was very entertaining...not all the same tricks and jokes and the chef had us laughing a lot! I was impressed with the size of the shrimp and also the Chilean sea bass was cooked very well. Fully cooked but not over cooked and nice. The steak had a nice flavor. It was all good and fine but we probably wouldn't return.
(2)Cwart E.
I have been here two times so far. Their mixed drinks are the best I have had. I actually crave their drinks more than their food. The sushi and Pad Thai are very good and so far the best sushi I've had in Monroeville. There is just one thing that bothers me, why have a classy looking restaurant when your water cups and dishes are made of plastic? At least all the alcoholic beverages are served in glassware.
(4)Joshua Z.
Came for dinner Saturday. Reservation was on time and setting is nice. 3 of us had hibachi, I had sushi. The hibachi people said is was OK, but preferred Shogun. The hibachi cook was Balinese, and was interesting to talk, too. Didn't put on the big knife and flame show, which I didn't miss. Sushi was good, but better can be found nearby at Taipei Tokyo.
(3)Vic K.
Overall: Impressed by the quality for moderately-priced, suburban sushi. Service was friendly but inefficient, as described below. Sat at a regular table (not hibachi or sushi bar). We ordered a couple of appetizers, soup, a couple of specialty rolls, and a hot noodle dish. All the food was very good. Not fantastic by big city or West Coast standards, but definitely a place I would recommend and go to again. Specifically, the specialty rolls were good sized, and they included some standard combinations and some unusual ideas that sound good (rather than just eye-catching novelties). Seafood udon dish was very good but slightly soupier than ideal. I would have liked to see Japanese standards like ohitashi and perhaps grilled fish (e.g., hamachi kama) and grilled mushroom appetizers. The service was pleasant, but we were someone frustrated by the time we left. Despite there being many employees per customer while we were dining (early on a Tuesday), it took a long time after we were obviously done eating to get our check and an even longer time for the credit card to be picked up. With so many staff members walking around, it would be appropriate for someone other than our waitress to pick up and run the credit card.
(4)Nicole B.
Gross! Our server greeted us at the front while smoking and talking with his friends. We wanted to sit at the sushi bar which was dirty and un-bussed, as well as the entire bar and 3 tables in the front half of the restaurant. They out of cold saki and we poured our own beers. Every specialty roll was fried and had some sort of mayo component. Not good!!!!!!!!! Will never go back.
(1)Lori R.
My son and his friend went here and I wanted to pay for their dinner with my credit card over the phone. Somehow, like even any pizza shop in America can figure out, they can't figure out how to run a credit card over the phone. I'm not sure how intelligent the management and staff is at this place, but apparently they better never work at any place that has deliveries or take out, because they aren't smart enough to process a credit card payment over the phone. Further more, they aren't intelligent enough to work at any catalog company, either, as they take credit cards on the phone, too. It frightens me that any restaurant that can't figure out how to take a credit card over the phone can actually run a safe place to eat. Never, ever, again and I'll make sure everyone I know is told how they treated my child, especially in front of his friend. Maybe they should have let him operate the credit card machine as he seems to be smarter than anyone in the place.
(1)A S.
I went with a group a few days ago. We got both hibachi and sushi, both were amazing. By far the best sushi I've had in a long time. Also, the prices were really reasonable, especially the lunch specials. We got one of the lunch specials as an appetizer, 3 sushi rolls and soup for only $10 and they were delicious. The servers were very nice and helpful. I will definitely be going back :)
(5)Tan T.
Love the service and the food!
(5)Liz E.
A friend and I stopped for a drink and apps because we discovered our original destination, Ray Azteca (Mexican) next door does not have a bar. Big mistake. After we ordered two martinis ($8.50 a piece during HAPPY HOUR?!) and two appetizers, the Pear martinis arrived and they were terrible. Cough syrup comes to mind. We asked the bartender to "tweak them" so they were drinkable, (mind you, we had to carry them back to the bar because at this point we were basically not important--there were obviously some big tippers at the bar and we were at a table.) I took my drink up to the bar a second time because it really was horrible. A that point both bartenders saw me waiting, and both walked away and acted as if they hadn't seen me. One of the bar patrons even noticed it. At that point the apps came; more disappointment. the shrimp was heavily breaded and chewy, and the spring rolls (normally a favorite) were greasy and doughy. The sauce with the shrimp was heavy on mayo. I truly believe the appetizers were frozen from a box, did not taste at all homemade. But really the bar service was terrible, unless you really enjoy blondes with lots of fake cleavage, then you may enjoy the female bartender. I never tip less than 15% but between the two of them they got a very small tip. This visit confirmed our attitude about food in suburbia--sub par for the masses. 42 bucks for this? I will stick to drinks and sushi in the city.
(1)Jesse M.
Great food good prices, check it out when you want to have at out but don't have plans
(4)Kathy D.
Went here on my husband's birthday and was really disappointed that this high-strung place offered zero birthday deals for it being a $$$ place. While it might be listed under $$, it was definitely in the $$$ price range. The waitress said we could pay $3 for a slice of birthday cake. Um, no thank you. Every sushi place I've been to (expensive or not) offers a soup AND salad for entrees. At Yamato, everything is an added charge. A sad salad will be $3 extra. Hubs got the Sushi and Sashimi Supreme and everything from the price, the presentation to the amount of food fell flat when compared to other Japanese establishments. Our local Azan Wok served up a gorgeous Sushi and Sashimi Supreme with many varieties of sushi and fish in a blue-lit martini glass. That entree was $30 and my simple beef entree was another $20. Yeesh! I do like that there's ample parking since it's located in a small shopping area. The location isn't the great though because it's still rather far from the middle of Monroeville and Murrysville. Service was okay; nothing spectacular. We were the only customers on Sunday afternoon and it still took a long time for food to come out. Tried and done. Not coming back here and not recommending.
(3)Sammy B.
I love this place everybody is super nice and fun make all ur meals super yummy... YES this is the place to come too with a date or group of friends.. O.. One more the happy hour is GREAT
(5)Nick M.
I order from here only out of convenience. The owner or who I presume is the owner confuses me. Rushed service and def has come take out order issues. It seems at times he does not want to take an order. It's confusing since he is in the restaurant business yet customers clearly seem to bother him. If this were not the closest sushi spot close to me I would never give them business again. The food is decent but the service is the worst.
(2)Jeff P.
This is definitely one our favorite restaurants. The staff is so entertaining and friendly. They go out of their way to make sure that the guests are satisfied and happy. The food is really really fresh and tastes great. Always a great time at Yamato.
(5)Lisa B.
The food was ok but the service was very slow and the music was too loud. It's a little over priced as well.
(2)Annie Q.
It was just what I was expecting. The sushi was rolled really loose and that was tricky for a beginner. Wasn't bad, wasn't amazing. Nice decor. I just don't know how they are going to compete with the three or four other places that are EXACTLY like it around the corner. So.... nothing special. But not any different then the rest. So try it if that is what you are looking for.
(3)Francine V.
Everyone in our party of 9 adults and 2 toddlers had a wonderful birthday celebration. The kids sushi was a beautiful & generous serving and the hibachi steaks, chicken and scallops were perfectly cooked. The prices are reasonable,making lunch an excellent value. The staff is friendly and the premises are super clean. The hibachi chefs definitely put on a great show and seem to genuinely enjoy interacting with the customers.
(5)