Sozai Banzai - Arlington Heights

It was my first time at this quaint Japanese restaurant and I wasn’t disappointed. The service was friendly and we were pleased with the menu options as well. We ordered a couple of different ramen bowls and all 3 of them were delicious. Fresh, flavorful, and well combined ingredients! We were able to control the spice level as they provided the sauce on the side. We’ll surely try some other options on the next visit. It’s a little tucked away in a small strip center so be sure not to pass it up and stop in for for a delicious meal.

Authentic Japanese restaurant with no pretension. Place is small and doesn't have the restaurant name outside. Inside is a walk-in counter with all the menu where you order and pay for your food. I ordered the salmon deluxe size bento for $15 which I say a very good portion for the price. I also tried the octopus karage which I like and for dessert a mochi rice with red bean paste inside wrapped on bamboo a leaves. Definitely will be going back to try other items on the menu.

This is a definitely a hidden gem in this area. I would recommend the mackerel with the bento. That’s what my boyfriend ordered and I was jealous of his meal. I got teriyaki chicken and the ginger pork, but I thought both the chicken and pork were dry and flavorless. The mackerel was bussin’ tho. The takoyaki was delicious too!

I was recommended by a friend who told me it's a hidden jewel that no one knows about! It truly was! The place itself was small and had very little seating, but the menu had plenty to offer! The decor is simple, but the Japanese salary-men (in their Y-shirt and tie) who were eating there gave me the impression that this place probably had authentic Japanese dishes. I ordered the karaage-don which reminded me of my Japanese mom's home cooked food. It was quite filling and came with a side of miso soup that I didn't expect. I'm looking forward to try their ramen the next time I go.

Incredible value for the money, great food. I am a huge fan of Japanese cuisine and I am so happy to have a local place I can get the staples at for a reasonable price. Unpretentious, comfortable, friendly, excellent!