Small, cute Japanese restaurant . Very polite . The sushi was excellent! The owners are really friendly and accommodating. Been too there cute restaurant many times. read more

The food is very expensive for what we got and the fish didn't seem super fresh. We have been wanting to go here for a year and we were very disappointed. The place is cute, but felt rushed since they were on a time line of the next reservation. Overall very disappointed, very expensive and won't be going back read more

Best omakase deal ever! What an incredible meal. Here are the 8 dishes we got from the omakase: Mustard greens with ponzu - best ponzu ever!!! We were drinking it at the end. Loved the flavors of the mustard greens, katsuo and nori flakes. 5 stars! Agedashi tofu - nice light crispy battered soft tofu pieces in a slightly sweet dashi. We ordered a larger serving for our kiddo and he smashed it. 5 stars. Miso soup - wonderful katsuo flavor in the soup highlighted by the mitsuba. So tasty. 5 stars. Tempura - perfect pieces of asparagus, carrot, eggplant mushroom, and shrimp. Not super oily and perfectly cooked. 5 stars! Sashimi - we dove into this so quick I didn't get a pic, but there were 2-3 pieces each of hamachi, mackerel, kanpachi and tuna. I usually don't like mackerel but I scarfed up this one! Absolutely perfect. 5++ stars. Hand roll - missed the pic here too since we were so excited to have ootoro in a hand roll!!! It had the makings of a spicy tuna but with the extra special ootoro. Fish was all the way to the bottom of the roll too! Sushi excellence. 5++++ stars!!! Sushi - this was a WOWWWWW dish!! Two pieces of hamachi, ootoro, seared hotate and uni (from Japan) nigiri. We couldn't believe we were getting ootoro and uni. Everything was so fresh and unbelievably good. 5+++++ stars!!!! Dessert -This wasn't mentioned in the menu for the omakase so I think it was just a kind complimentary item. It was interesting since it was the strawberry part of a ice cream sandwich with some whipped cream and strawberries. Kiddo loved it! It's rare when you can get quality food at a good price. The online omakase menu description did not do justice to what was served. I wish I had made multiple reservations here! Chef Seiji and his wife are absolutely wonderful and you can tell everything is made with love. It's such a small place with 4 tables but they've got to be the best sushi on the island! I'm guessing they're going to want to retire at some point so get here fast!!! read more

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We stumbled on this place just walking around town. We called and made a reservation for later in the week. We arrived a few minutes late (it was quite busy in the area, plan ahead). After a short wait we were seated in this 3 table restaurant. The rest was kind a dream state. One of the best Japanese meals I've ever had, including some amazing meals in Japan. We ordered the omakase with the same flight. Every dish was special and the attention to detail brought it over the top. Service is so attentive and warm. read more

Seiji's Sushi - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

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Get the omikase. Seiji chooses the freshest and most seasonal ingredients. A wonderful eating experience!!

Saiko desu!!! Seiji and Chie prepare, plate, and serve authentic Japanese meals in an incredibly small kitchen and intimate dining area with traditional Japanese hospitality and a healthy dose of Big Island Aloha. The fish was from Toyosu, as well as locally sourced, and the buttery uni from Hokkaido. Their dishes are on par with the finest restaurants in Ginza, Akasaka, and Nihonbashi where we've dined. You cannot go wrong with this fine husband and wife run establishment where you and your guests can actually hear each other talk without raising your voice. Sugoi oishii. Ittadakimasu. read more

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Without a question Seiji's Sushi is the absolute best sushi restaurant on the Big Island. I have no idea how Seiji and Chie do what they do. They are artists with a dedicated flow of excellence! Every time we eat there Seiji's sushi brings tears to my eyes. 7 Stars! BRAVO! read more

For my birthday dinner, we made a reservation for Seiji's. I love sushi and I could eat it several times a week, given the chance. I had fairly high hopes going in, so was ecstatic when my expectations were exceeded. Best sushi I've had in ages! The perfect amount of food, good diversity between the courses and the freshest fish ever. It's a small operation, only about 4 tables so MAKE A RESERVATION. They do not seat you without one and several people were turned away throughout the 90 minutes we were there. Fantastic service, affordable (almost to a fault), and a nice atmosphere. The sushi chef feeds this little cat outside every night and it was so cute to watch this kitten dutifully wait for his dinner. 10/10 recommend. read more

Wow really great place and very unique as they only have 3 tables and it is husband and wife running the whole place. You cannot walk in and you must call their phone during business hours or there about to get a reservation. No walk ins and they will not interrupt dinner by taking a reservation during the service. So at first I was thinking this must be like a soup nazi as they phone machine answers the phone and informs you that they only take reservations and you cannot leave a phone message. Called laster and go reservation and got 3 text messages confirming. We got there and then understood why, there are literally 3 tables so a no-show would be huge for them. So this is for sure an amazing place and highly recommend you try it if you're in Kona town. We had miso soup (very good) a seafood salad that was very fresh fish on romaine lettuce leaf the fish was great but would have taken the tempura shrimp instead (we saw the next table had that). Then we had 4 nigiri that were great, not amazing. Then volcano roll and specials Seiji roll that were outstanding, for sure you should order a volcano. We had a few drinks waiting for your reservation while at the hotel so we skipped the saki (not cheap) so out the door with tip it was $125 which was good considering how small the place was and how fresh everything was and the real pride that they served it with. read more

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I've been to Japan many times and am pleased to share that the service, quality, and attention to detail here were on par with many of the omakase meals I've had there. We were a party of three and all of us pre-ordered the omakase dinner. We were impressed with every course. The restaurant is small and cozy with only a few tables, creating an intimate atmosphere hosted by the chef/owner and his wife. Check out the photos of the different course from our meal. Each one was beautifully presented and thoughtfully prepared. The cold premium sake was excellent as was the house green tea and beer. We were still talking about how wonderful the experience was the next day and plan to return. read more

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HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! Dinner at Seiji Sushi is an intimate dining experience where you get to talk to and get served from the Chef himself (chef and owner) and his lovely wife. It was so nice to have the flexibility of ordering a bit at a time, not being rushed, and baking able to relax and enjoy our dinner. We started with 3 kinds of sashimi (six pieces of each) ... tuna (mix of regular and Toro), hamachi, ono (mix of and seared). Then we moved on to the Tempura appetizer which was a combination of shrimp and vegetables. The Edamame was the best we ever had with the special spices! Moving on to the rolls ... YUM! Seiji Special Roll: this changes on a daily basis and today it was a spicy tuna on the inside with cucumber and on top layered with fresh tuna, avocado and roe. Spider roll, which is a soft crab roll: When you have this the flavors, just keep going and going and going and going and going... Stop saver and enjoy! We opted for one more roll, which was the Salmon Skin Roll and it was absolutely to die for. Chef's Recommendation. We dug into it too quickly to take a picture, but snapped one a little bit later and it's the last photo. Oh my God so happy we got this. In all of the rolls, the sushi rice is done to perfection! Usually we go broke on a sushi night but not here! The least expensive yet the best quality sushi we've ever had!! Ultimate Kudos to these owners and establishment!! read more

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My 1,000th Yelp Review! Friends dined here last year and said it was their best meal on the Big Island, so I called a month in advance to make a reservation here for my birthday. They only have three tables, and they space out the reservations perfectly to be able to time everything nicely. My husband and I got the omakase, and got a sushi special for my kiddo. We ended up with the following courses: local greens with dashi - I don't know what I ate but it was good! miso soup for all three of us - adults got some local mushrooms in ours (delicious!) agedashi tofu - crispy and creamy and the broth I could've slurped up from the bowl! tempura course with one shrimp and several veggies - the mushroom was my favorite! The batter was so light and crisp. sashimi platter - I'm mad that I didn't write all of these down, but some were local and some were flown in from Japan. All were delicious! my son's sushi plate came out at this time - five pieces of nigiri plus four pieces of california roll. The shrimp nigiri presentation was unique with the tail curled up and then the adults' sushi platter with one uni and one eel (he asked us which we preferred so we asked for one of each) - the scallop was perfection and one of the nigiri had shiso underneath which made it exquisite. Finally, they brought us all scoops of ice cream with a candle and serenade for my birthday. ;) Overall, it was fantastic. Service was perfection - it's just the owners there: the husband makes the sushi and the wife is the server and I think she makes a course or two as well. They were so kind and welcoming. It seemed like the other diners who came through during our visit were all repeat customers - I know we will certainly be back during our next visit! read more

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A tiny place ( 3 tables) run by a husband and wife. The omakase dinner , at $90, was very good. The best sushi. My only criticism is that the dishes came too fast to fully savor them. read more

This place and the owners are very special. There are only three tables in this restaurant. Each item is handcrafted for you. Although I am not a sushi aficionado, we both felt that this sushi was extremely fresh and of high quality. We tried the three-year aged cold sake from Japan that is aged in ice caves. It was absolutely delicious. The two of us shared the assortment of sushi with and a small tasting of tempura. The tempura was light and crispy and was very flavorful. We also had the Unagi dragon roll, which is eel, and it was absolutely delicious. We had the Hamachi pairing of sashimi. And we tried a very fresh tuna, which was just so creamy and nothing like I've had before. I believe it was the belly. This place is very special with two different sakes and about four different sushi rolls and tastings. We were very full and the price was so reasonable. For what we got and the quality. But what I really liked about this place was the fact that they had only three tables and it was very cozy. The owners look like they were a husband and wife team and they were so friendly and very personable. They were clearly proud of the sushi they prepared and served. No drop-ins; reservation required. read more

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This small restaurant was a little slice of Japan. A unique and meaningful experience with the Chef and his wife. The Omakase was filling and hit the spot for a couple of sushi lovers. Service was amazing. Not to mention the accommodation for my Gluten Free wife was next level of detail and compassion. read more

Seiji's is the best Sushi place around. I have been many times and it has always been very special. Just two people, a couple of tables, and limited menu but the quality is outstanding. Udon, Chirashi, sashimi, sake, it's all exceptional. Go Omakase, leave it to them. So just a few tables, so only reservations. It's sad that so many people complain about this but it's posted all over their front door and mentioned in every internet review. read more

The freshness, the food, AND the service is a 5 !!! If you like sushi, you HAVE to make sure you make a reservation and order the Omakase with the sake pairing!!! A definite must do when in Kona!!! read more

I just tried to walk in at 7 on a Monday night for dinner and was wordlessly shooed out by both owners. Definitely a first for me. I checked the website beforehand and didn't see anything about reservations being required...it's not near closing time...there appeared to be empty seats at the bar...I didn't even get a chance to say anything as I walked inside. Not sure where I went wrong. I'd avoid if you're a solo female traveler, really wrecked my night :( Update: I did go back and look at the restaurant and see the signage on the door saying reservations only now; I'm including a screenshot from the website, which is what I'd looked at beforehand. Maybe the language could be clearer there for first time visitors to Kona? I get that it was my mistake, but a simple, "sorry we're reservations only" would've left me with a totally different impression. read more

Seiji's Sushi - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

We came here for omakase for a special occasion and it felt like such a warm atmosphere with Seiji and his partner coming out to explain the dishes, serve some sake from their hometown, and present some truly wonderful bites. My favorites included the sea urchin, agedashi tofu, and fatty tuna. It's reservation only but that allows them to give the best service possible! read more

Seiji's Sushi - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

When my daughter was in town to visit we had a date nite at Seiji's Sushi. Ordered the omakase. Wonderful! Each course carefully prepared and presented. Reservations are required at this four table restaurant. The pace between courses allows for connection, conversation along with very good sake. read more

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Came back for vacation 2 years later and it's just as good as we remembered. We called a few weeks in advance (still reservation only, around 12 seats total and it's just the 2 of them working). Seiji and Chie are so sweet and their cooking is just amazing! we had the omakase- even their bok choy and tofu appetizers were incredible not to mention the sushi. Definitely worth the drive to Kona! read more

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Hey Anthony Hope your Saturday is going well. Seiji Sushi is like a mom and pop sushi place one would fine in a corner somewhere in Tokyo or Yokohama. Food is authentic and yummy. Good selection of sakes. No sushi counter. Chef Seiji and his wife is so sweet. We got slightly lost and Seiji San came out to look for us. Enjoyed the experience. I would say the cost is $$$ 3 dollar mark. And that's your full report read more

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Attentive service, very intimate atmosphere, superior sushi. We did the omakase, and it was plenty of food for an excellent price relative to the quality. You'll need to make a reservation. read more

This is a small restaurant that seats only about ten people. As a result reservations are mandatory. The atmosphere inside is intimate and charming, the food is exceptional, and the curated sake was fun. The sushi was the highest quality fish I have ever had full stop. Service was great and we thoroughly enjoyed our experience here. Five stars. read more

Seiji's Sushi - Sushi special - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

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Special treat. 5 star, Michelin star, family, so many good things to say. Please try it. You will not regret it. Reservations required. read more

Seiji's Sushi - Philadelphia roll - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

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Very small place in downtown Kona. Make sure to make reservations as the sushi is top notch. The sashimi pieces were beautifully cut and melted in your mouth. The unagi nigiri was probably the best I've had! The couple who run the restaurant were so sweet and took time to explain the plating along with the saki pairings. Can't wait to try more items on their menu. read more

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Seiji's is amazing. Food is more authentic than some of the Omakase I had in Tokyo and Osaka. So fresh and Chef really knows their food. Make sure you put down a reservation No walk-in. I respect and believe that's a great idea for small restaurants who's so fresh. The hospitality is so warm and kind. Best food I had on big island. Ready for authentic Sushi and culture! Sending my love to the cute couple who run the restaurant. ‍‍‍‍ read more

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Chef Seiji San is a living legend. One of the best Omakase sushi experience I've ever had. Rumor has it chef Seiji was the personal sushi chef for the Prime Minister of Japan for a number of years. Need reservation and best for small parties. An unforgettable experience; chef Seiji and his wife are amazingly hospitable and create an authentic omakase dining experience. read more

This place mentions nothing about making a reservation online. It's not until you reach their front door when they give you a special number to call because there are no walking nor are there any takeouts! read more

Hands down the BEST service & Sushi I've had to date! I could feel the passion and love in each bite. Seiji served each dish with care and intention. I enjoyed my meal in a small, intimate setting, by reservation only. read more

This is our go to for sushi. My hubby called the owner/chief ahead of time for reservations. The owner is wonderdul, very personable and accomodating. The sushi is always good. It melts in your mouth. Never had such a fresh sushi anywhere but here. Toro sushi was sooo good, buttery and melts in your mouth. The lady server is attentive at all times. And she remembers us every time we come. We always come back here every time we come to Kona. read more

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When I saw that place only takes reservations, I simply had to try it. I came in with high expectations because it is RSVP only. All of my expectations were met. This place was amazing! The food was amazing and the owners are just as amazing as well. My wife and I tried the Omakase. Words cannot describe what the flavor was like. It was simply fantastic! It was so good in fact, we came a second time. We again had the Omakase. We were also honored by the Chef to try his house special curry rice. It was to die for. On top of that, we got to know the chef and his wife. They are great people! Friendly with lots of stories to tell. Great personalities go a long way. My wife and I were happy to have met them. I can't wait to come back to Kona, to see them, and eat here again. It's worth every penny! A 10 out of to. あなたと奥様にお会いできて光栄でした。 read more

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Wonderful, small ( only three tables) hidden in old downtown Kailua Kona. Run by the chef his wife this intimate Japanese restaurant offers first class Japanese food, including sushi, tempura and other delicacies. Extensive sake list and surprisingly very reasonable prices. Reservations required, no takeout. read more

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I'm sure it's great but my wife and I would't know because after spending time driving and parking and walking we learned from the sign on the door they only accept reservations. No takeout orders as well. This needs to be more clear on Yelp! Place was empty except for 1 table and it was an hour before closing. read more

Seiji's Sushi - Must have a reservation. Cannot drop in. - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

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Hands down one of the best sushi I have ever had. Always fresh. Love the intimate setting. Seiji and his wife are great hosts! read more

Seiji's Sushi - Tempura Volcano my favorite - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

Very warm welcoming couple that owns and run this and have been here 40 years. It was very personal and they explained each dish and its ingredients and where it came from. The sashimi was excellent, I ordered the omakase. Make sure to make a reservation as it's a 3 table small place. It's worth the wait. I will be back. If you like a personal experience directly with with an owner like I do then you may want to try this read more

Such a special experience! This restaurant only has 3 tables in it. It is a perfect small, very intimate restaurant and simply an honor to eat here! The food is an absolute masterpiece! Seiji and Chie are amazing, welcoming, and their food and service is spectacular! For starters we had Miso Soup, Agedashi Tofu, and Tempura. Each of them exquisite and packed full of flavor! After our starters we moved onto the Dragon, Tempura, and Spider rolls. Each initial bite we took, we announced it was the best we have ever tried (seriously, every single time). They we both beautiful and full of flavor. Like the food Gods blessed each dish before they were dropped off. OOHHH MY GOODNESS!! To add to our well rounded tasting experience, we also tried the Oyako - Don and Unagi - Don. They were both amazing. They were both so awesome, I don't have adequate words to possibly even explain but I will say I could eat the Oyako - Don (braised chicken) every meal, every day and not be the least bit sad. Also, for the Unagi - Don, I love eel and it was hands down the most tender and perfectly cooked eel I've ever had! Make the reservation, it is so worth it!! We will definitely be back and are so thankful for this experience! read more

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We came here for our daughter's 18th birthday while visiting the BI. Cannot recommend more! Amazing fish, welcoming owners, quaint ambiance. This is the place to come for a memberable dinner. read more

Fish was fresh and tasty but the amount of rice they use for the nigiri was too much. Would've been better with 1/2 the amount of rice.

Don't come here if you're looking for a trendy sushi place with sexy names and lots of sauces on your sushi. This is the real deal sushi place-- if you had an uncle from Japan and he invited you to his house. Seiji is a master chef and has taught hundreds of sushi chefs around the world-- including NY, etc. He even served Neil Armstrong on his welcome back return. Super small place in the back of a strip mall on Ali'i Street. Seats about 10 people. I texted a week before to make reservations for my mom's birthday. Seiji was great to communicate with and very helpful. What a special evening! He prepared cooked fish for my parents, and my husband and I ordered the $85 omakase sushi meal. What a deal! The real deal! Seriously the best quality sushi we've ever had. Super fresh fish, seasoned rice (good sushi is judged by rice quality), even fresh grated wasabi. If this were LA or NYC, or even Waikiki, the same omakase would go for $350/person, or more. Huge pieces of sushi fish and sashimi, and super fresh! Go in with an open mind. Don't tell the chef what you don't like, and be willing to try everything ;). I didn't think I liked octopus, but since it's rude to not finish something, we polished everything off... and I liked the fresh octopus ;). The freshness of the fish leaves a clean, umami taste that lingers on your tongue and brain! So good!! Seiji and his wife Chie work in a super small kitchen, but are personable and master chefs. Such a special evening. If you enjoy quality sushi and want an intimate experience, come here. No frills, but delicious, authentic sushi and sashimi from a master chef! read more

Seiji's Sushi - Fresh sashimi platter for omakase - Japanese Near Me - Kailua Kona, Hawaii

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