Japanese Village in Ottawa

170 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K1P 5V5, Canada

★★★★☆
(633 reviews)
Categories: Japanese restaurant

About

Upbeat Japanese eatery offering traditional sushi & tableside hibachi with performing chefs.

Address
170 Laurier Ave W, Ottawa, ON K1P 5V5, Canada
Plus Code
C8C4+35 Somerset, Ottawa, ON, Canada
Time Zone
America/Toronto

Business Hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
5–9:30 PM
Thursday
5–9:30 PM
Friday
5–9:30 PM
Saturday
5–9:30 PM
Sunday
5–9:30 PM

Services

Service options
Takeaway Dine-in
Highlights
Great tea selection
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Cocktails Coffee Healthy options Spirits Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Dessert
Amenities
Bar on site Toilets
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Groups
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Kids' menu
Parking
Free of charge street parking Paid parking lot Paid street parking

Photos

Reviews

4.1
★★★★☆
633 reviews

Most Mentioned

chef (63) entertaining (20) filet mignon (13) liquor license (12) smell (8) basement (8) tip (7) bathrooms (7) sesame sauce (6) teriyaki chicken (5)
5 stars
354
4 stars
142
3 stars
52
2 stars
32
1 stars
53
★★
September 1, 2024

It used to be so good, and so much fun. They give less and less, but charge more and more. The shrimps that come with every meal, they only give two now. They don't sing happy birthday in Japanese anymore, don't serve alcohol anymore (I don't drink, but a lot of people do and are very disappointed) No air conditioning, very, very hot place. Old ice cream for dessert that tasted like freezer burn. Smallest salad I've ever seen. It was my favorite, but will not be returning.

★★★
August 5, 2024

Food was delicious, but portions were a bit small for the price. No liquor license, which is fine but the soda's were $6 and no free refills. We didn't realize this and had two soda's per person and the cost for 4 people was the price of a meal. The cooking was entertaining and our cook was very funny and nice. Would we go back? Unsure at this time, even if the experience was unique.

★★
July 26, 2024

This used to be one of our favorite family spots however the menu options have since been reduced, prices have shot up dramatically, they no longer serve alcohol, and the bathrooms are filthy. The food and sauces are still delicious but it's unlikely we'll be returning unless there are significant changes.

★★★★★
January 1, 2024

For me and my family was one of the best experiences ever. They are friendly and educated. It took a little time for us to get our dinner but waiting was worth every minute. It’s a dinner show. It’s a truly wonderful experience with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and delightful food 🍱.

★★
October 14, 2023

I was surprised how expensive the food was for the quality and portion size. For that price it should be all you can eat or at least bigger portions/better quality food. The food was quite bland. My friends got steak and my boyfriend and I got chicken. My boyfriend was still hungry when we left.

★★★★★
October 6, 2023

I have lived in Ottawa for 13years and known about this place for only 4years. I come here often and I just don't understand why people bring their bad experiences to put the place down. Why don't you simply speak to the staff they are so friendly and generous. Ask for help it's not that hard. If you are not satisfied with something, it's a matter of conversation. Google reviews are not the place to complain about a service you received a week ago. My honest review about this place is: Staff 10/10 Starting with hostesses and chefs, they treat you like family. Food 10/10 Many people complaining about price raise we are seeing that literally everywhere. Anything cost more than what it did a year ago.... Atmosphere 10/10 It is always a blast when I dine here. Plus they getting the liquor license back. Come on, people, give this place what it deserves

August 12, 2023

This is going to be a bit of a difficult review to write. On one hand, this is a staple and they’ve been here since 1972 and I remember it being “awesome” in 2000s. For starters, this place is as Japanese as Taco Bell is Mexican. If you’re looking for asian food that tastes like your neighbour hood “Chinese take out” at 5x the price, that’s over seasoned w soy sauce, you’ve come to the right place. The fact that a “Japanese” restaurant doesn’t even have chopsticks laid out, should’ve been our first red flag. If you’re looking for something a little bit more elevated, a little bit more than approachable “chain” style restaurant, steer clear. I’ll give them that the chef was nice and the brief “show” of your food cooked in front of you was neat for 20 seconds but thats literally about it. For two adults and a child, we spent $186 on some veggies stir-fried in strong soy sauce, fairly basic “asian salad” and “good enough” steak for 2 of them. I personally wouldn’t go back; it’s neither a good Japanese restaurant nor an adequate steak house that warrants such price points. The staff were trying, I feel like they were a little short staffed but we waited longer than we should’ve unattended. I completely lost my appetite when I walked by the open sewage pump room, with the completely open view of the sewage pit on my way of the bathrooms. The lack of parking and difficulty of even a drop off due to the bike lane will be a deterrent for me.

★★
October 19, 2022

Salad, squid was disappointing , lobster tempura was good, shrimp, sushi and scallops were okay. I've had better lobster and steak at other places. Overall, pretty underwhelming for the price. Don't expect a show either. Service was nice but at times a bit slow. If you've ever been to a great Teppanyaki place and go here then you will understand.

Local Guide
November 23, 2024

Ive been going to this place for approximately 10 years now and I just keep seeing it on the decline they lose their liquor license with an excuse the owner never renewed come on lets face it thats bull and yes like everything else the prices have gone up with meats and whatever but the portions are still getting smaller onions zucchini and mushrooms are the cheapest vegetables out there for you to have so theres no excuse why you cant give more of that along with the meats and to charge $6 for a pop with absolutely no refills thats a load of BS in short I do not recommend you waste your money or time to go there

★★★★★
November 23, 2024

Great experience, staff was excellent. The food was delicious!

November 23, 2024

I forgot my purse there after an OK dinner but be ready to spend $250+ for 2 people anyways forgot my purse and called 20 mins before they close and the lady answered the phone and said my purse was there and it will stay until the next day at 4pm when they open!! Because she doesn t want to stay back for me to pick it up in the matter of 20 mins and she wouldn t stay back to let me get my purse with my kids health cards that I needed and had no sympathy for me and I regret tipping her, terrible person. The place was still open for a little bit. Rushing out of there when you have someone s identity and belongings. They basically withheld it from me. Because of that I won t go back.

★★★★★
September 23, 2024

Delicious! They put on such a great show and went above and beyond. The staff is friendly and hospitable. We will be back again soon!

★★★
Local Guide
August 23, 2024

An unusual cooking process - fire right on your table! Its really WOW! However, I cant say it was very tasty.

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

One of the best places in town. A little bit pricey to go too often, but the experience is worth it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
July 23, 2024

Different from the usual. Enjoyed with the family!

★★★★★
June 23, 2024

The people who wrote reviews saying its to expensive go to McDonalds

★★★★★
Local Guide
June 23, 2024

super cool and very welcoming, the service is a real spectacle

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Really nice place.. the Japanese chefs cook in front of you with even some acrobatics. Really good meat, I recommend trying the Wagyu!

★★
Local Guide
May 23, 2024

Our reservation was for 19:00 everyone was in the restaurant at 18:50. We waited until 19:45 to be brought to a table (I had to ask them what was going on). Once we got to the table we sat there and watched as groups that showed up after us got served drinks and food. At 20:33 (an HOUR AND A HALF pat our reservation) I had to get up and ask again, when will we be served? Finally 10 minutes later we got served. The food was good but the portions were tiny for the price you paid. I guess youre paying for a mediocre hibachi theatrical display. My meal cost me 100$ with tip (I dont know why I tipped). We still felt hungry afterwards so we went to get some fast food afterwards.

★★
May 23, 2024

The restaurant had a moldy smell or wet carpet ish. We got no show,he cooked and walked off when we told him we wanted a big fire like the other tables, he put 6 shrimps the the plate threw some oil and lite a match and then said ok go hurry take your picture and THAT was my mothers day its cost 550$ for my family of 6 . Oh and they lost theyre liquor license

★★★★
Local Guide
April 23, 2024

Other than the lack of liquor license, which meant no sake with dinner , it was just as pleasant and delicious dinner experience as always. Very welcoming, courteous staff. Great food, even if what you get for the money is a little on the small side (youre paying for the experience). This particular evening had very few patrons. We were the first of only three tables active by the time we were done. At least the hosts had been extra careful to let us know that they could not serve any alcohol when we reserved, and even called back the next day to double check that they had told us that. I guess some people had been caught off guard by that, so theyre making sure people know it clearly. It could be part of the reason for the low number of diners, since everything else was as good as I remembered it.

Local Guide
April 23, 2024

Edit: made reservations for my bachelorette and they were closed didn t even call to let me know. Having gone to the Japanese Village many times before my experience was just okay this time. Price has gone up significantly, 70 dollars with just water as my beverage. Food was only so-so. No drink menu anymore which would have been nice to know ahead of time.

March 23, 2024

We were there last night.the portions are way to small for the price they charged not to much of a show and it took a while until they came and cooked..we paid $210 for 4 people.. we got 2 shrimp each a bowl of plain rice and few veggies shared with two other people on the table plus other meat we ordered.. I will not recommend this place was my second time and last time.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Restaurant that is worth a detour, the chef will put on a show right in front of you, the products are fresh and the flavors are there! It is located in the basement of a building but once inside you will be in the atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
March 23, 2024

Great place, they food and portions were very fair and made a great birthday experience. Maybe a bit of ventilation wouldve been good since I felt bad for the workers there. But other than that great show and amazing food and service from the staff, would definitely recommend visiting.

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 23, 2024

Amazing food and service. This was one of the best meals I have had in a few years. Dietary restrictions: They checked and were able to make some accommodations. They offered to cook my food before the rest of the tables to avoid contamination. The food is cooked at the table and you may be seated with others outside of your party so if you have airborne allergies it may be difficult to eat here. That said, the fan worked really well and I didnt really smell the onions cooking (my allergy).

★★★★★
February 23, 2024

I absolutely love coming to this place. Arrive is always good and the chefs talented. Food is always fresh and expertly cooked.

★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Food is fantastic. Restaurant needs to be cleaned a little better

★★★★★
Local Guide
January 23, 2024

Fantastic service. Very friendly and prompt. Food was great with generous portion sizes. We will be back! Dietary restrictions: Very accommodating of food allergies

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

This establishment has gone way downhill over the years. Prices have gone to extreme levels, no more entertainment, and they have no tolerance for you staying for any length after you ve finished. We ve stopped going.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Experience is not like on the video and far from it. There were 7 of us. Yes, the chef made a little show with the fire and pretended that his lighter didnt work but thats it. Also the fans above the tables dont seem to be working either. A lot of contamination crosses between meals of seafood and meats. For $230 for 2 people...My partner tried the waguu beef hot pot really but really ordinary we dont recommend it. Calmare was ok I got something hard and gray inside I dont know it wasnt and I like at the time not knowing it. The filet migon and the lobster tail, on the other hand, are really tender and the sticky white rice is super good. Really disappointed with my experience, I expected more for $230 for 2 people. Our tables in general were totally disappointed for the price we spent. Didnt even offer us coffee/tea or dessert... Well see if someone will call us back or not take our comments seriously. Every good restaurateur follows up!!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The prices are through the roof, they dont seem to have a liquor license anymore and the quality is meh at best. $52 for a steak main resulting in a $400 bill without drinks for 5 of us - with three kids. Food was fine, service fine. But the price is so far above the quality. We wont return. The cleanliness of the walls and ceilings is gross, I dont think the vent hoods work. Everything is coated in grease and sticky dust. The bathrooms dont seem like theyve been cleaned in a decade. Unsure whats happened to this one fun place. Avoid at all cost.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I was excited about this place because it was close to our hotel, The Metcalfe Hotel. It was such a disappointment. It was the worst teppanyaki I ve ever had. First off it s in the basement and it was 100 degrees. The place was super old. Second, they had an extensive alcohol list, but told us there was no alcohol. Their sushi menu was so limited to a few rolls and sashimi. The service was also so slow. The food was worse. My daughter s spicy salmon roll was warm and falling apart. The roll was so loose and shouldn t be warm. The rest of the food was bad too. There was no soup, only salad. The chef did no tricks at all. Crazy enough the food was bland. At other places, you have to tell them to stop with the shakers!! They also did not have or make fried rice. The sauces were even so bland. One sesame and one ginger. There was no fresh ginger in it. The steak and lobster plus veggies were cooked nicely, but again bland. I follow a ketogenic lifestyle and was excited to try another teppanyaki place. Do not come here! Find other better places in Ottawa.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I adore this place, we try to go once a year. We love the chefs here, and the food is great! Their sesame sauce is the best Ive ever had. I get the filet mignon and its so beautifully cooked, and so are the shrimp and veggies. You get a salad and bowl of rice with a main. Their California Roll is also tasty as an appetizer. Its down on the lower level of a highrise so fair warning, there are stairs. We usually go with a larger group, its so entertaining to watch them make the food in front of you.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

The quality of the food was spectacular!!! The show the chef puts on while cooking was unreal. I 100% recommend this restaurant. Food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

One of my favorite restaurants. I would highly recommend this spot for any family function, date or event! Quality service and staff.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

This past sunday 4 of us went downstairs to the Japanese Village. I swear little if anything has changed since my last visit 20 years ago. I am so glad it hasnt because that was the allure then, as it is now. Our chef was skilled and engaged. As the other ratings mention, no liquor license - but we didnt miss it one bit. For apps we had spicy salmon rolls, california rolls and spring rolls. They were 4/5 but that was around the expectation since it is not a sushi specialty spot. We had the shrimp, filet, chicken and steak as our mains. Everyone was very happy with their choice.... cooked to perfection and seasoned exactly right. The shrimp that comes with each main, in their special sauce - was the standard to try and measure the rest of the meal against. It was perfect. Id re-order just that if I could. We are all glad we started our night off at Japanese Village before seeing an amazing show @vancejoy and Jack Botts.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

It was incredible

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

The food was amazing. Great quality, very fresh and tasty. Not much of a show, but a wonderful meal anyway. I will return for sure. Food : 5/5

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Wow. Great experience. If you are in Ottawa, you have to try it, for sure you won t regret it. Vegetarian options: Delicious vegetarian choice Kid-friendliness: Great for 7! Entertaining chef!

★★★★
December 23, 2023

Enjoyed our visit, fun to have food cooked right in front of us. It tasted great and portions were good.

December 23, 2023

Was very Dissapointed with the lack of Gluten Free sauces. They also had no liquor license at the time and charged me 6$ for a fountain drink and 6$ for a refill. We had 7 pops and it cost me $42. Outrageous. Dave Ross

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

I loved it

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

It was Sunday evening at 5.30pm. i was waiting at the sofa. I ordered a cocktail because I was thirsty. the cocktail making indigedients was bought from grocery store. server was okay, but you have to wait several minutes everytime. Background led a traditional dim lights and cult pics. give me a sense of cheap. But this place isnt what I feel is best for tappanneki food if thats what u looking for.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Really nice and clean place! Love the atmosphere and good service. Only thing that I hope it can improve on is the tricks the Teppanyaki chefs can do. Overall, the flame trick was pretty cool.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Yum, yum!!! An unforgettable experience.

December 23, 2023

Bad service and demand tips over priced will never go back

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

We had an awesome experience. Our server was great and the food excellent. The chef put on a great show.

December 23, 2023

20 YEAR CUSTOMER, NEVER AGAIN. I normally do not write reviews but I am in disbelief of my experience. As someone who has faithfully frequented this restaurant for the past two decades, it pains me to admit that I will never set foot inside its doors again. What was once a cherished dining spot has now become a source of disappointment and frustration. During my most recent visit, I was appalled when the waiter attempted to charge me double the regular price for a simple addition of extra shrimp (35$ extra )to my meal (therefore 70$ a person for some chicken, rice and shrimp). It was an outrageous attempt to exploit loyal customers for a few extra dollars, and it left a bitter taste in my mouth. Adding insult to injury, the restaurant staff went as far as trying to force a tip upon me. Tips are meant to be earned, not demanded, and this behavior only further tarnished my perception of their service When I requested a review of the bill, they twisted my words and attempted to shift the blame onto me. As I expressed my disappointment, our waitress responded with laughter and engaged in a heated back-and-forth, refusing to acknowledge that I had consistently ordered the same item for the past 20 years without any price difference. If you want to get scammed come here!

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

Whenever I come to Ottawa, dinner at Japanese Village is a must do! Ive easily been going for more than 30 years. The food was as tasty as I remember. My children came for the first time and they both loved it as much as I do. The ginger and sesame sauces are the best part! The show this time was just good, not great. I felt like it was lacking some of the enthusiasm that I remember as a younger person. No knife act, little interaction with guests. Otherwise, it was great and I will certainly come again

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Awesome place to dine with family and friends. Staff were very friendly and professional. First time I tried Japanese cuisine, and I like it. The price was a little high, but justifying the food and venue. Vegetarian options: Dont order tempura separately, it comes with veg option.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Good food. The place would need to be revamped.

December 23, 2023

Definitely I would not go back again, nor recommend it to anyone. Waitresses were very friendly, but the chef delievered bad service. I have to give 1 start for the overall service! We brought our kids to this place for the excitement of hibachi last Saturday night. The chef was the one who brought us the worst experience of this place!! We ordered 5 dished for 6 of us and were going to share. Here are the bad experience we had: 1) the chef was not happy about food sharing, too little to share, what? 2) We ordered 3 steaks, and he did not brother to divide them for us. We asked him to put the steak on a plate instead of leaving on the grill. At first, he said No loudly. Then he almost put the cooked meat on the tray which held the raw steak previously. We had to stop doing so. Come on, food safety!!! 3) Zero performance. I dont think kids find hibachi dining exciting at all! 4) We are Cantonese speakers and the adults speak in Cantonese the whole time. The chef just spoke English with us. We had no problem with that. But this chef spoke Cantonese with the waitresses while he was cooking. Just kinda odd!! He is not friendly for sure and does not care about food safety!!

December 23, 2023

Been coming here for 20 years and this will be my last. Prices have more than doubled and food quality has gone downhill. The ginger sauce that i once craved every year now taste like watered down soy sauce. No more garlic butter on shrimp, no liquor license and for the first time in my life i saw my dad spit out a piece of beef because it was so bad. Very sad that it has turned into this.

★★★
December 23, 2023

shrimp and tempura were good. But its too expensive.Other food was normal.

★★★★
December 23, 2023

Asked to have my food NOT mixed or cooked with mushrooms but he did anyway, not an allergy but just the same. Otherwise everything was great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Everything is fresh, good and cooked in front of you. Restaurant located in the city center. There is access to the restaurant located in the basement. Cozy, clean, charming and super quiet. Excellent service, great welcome. Delicious food.

Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Very expensive $52 for a steak and shrimp. A starter of 4 shrimp for $10

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

Food was good, a bit of a long wait to get seated as we were a group of 12. Unfortunately they didnt have their liquor license so no cold beer or sake for me. Food

★★★
December 23, 2023

Very good food except no possibility of having fried rice which is a must for Japanese hibachi..the rice comes in a bowl. Within 3 minutes of arrival she asks us for the order and waits! Another disappointment for us and for your information No alcoholic beverage (beer, sake wine) is available. $190 for 2 without alcohol is quite expensive

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

It was a very good restaurant experience the staff were really nice and welcoming - we had an awesome family time

★★★
December 23, 2023

Very dark and limited menu after order see other table with different options no on the menu

December 23, 2023

Overpriced food and was chased out of the restaurant by the owner begging me to tip. I ve been to hibachi restaurants that offer far nicer atmospheres and cooking shows and cost $50 less than my dinner tonight 2. Once the bill arrived for a staggering $153 I decided to just pay that with no tip since I didn t feel the service nor the show was deserving of one. As we were leaving some waitress came chasing after us asking us to leave a tip, most people leave 10% . I gave her $10 from my wallet and we left disappointed in the food and disgusted by the behaviour of the staff begging for tips. It is not my job to pay your staffs salary and tips should not be a given in a restaurant especially when you are charging an arm and a leg for some steak and chicken. The restaurant was completely empty when we arrived and remained empty for our entire dinner and it s not hard to see why after our experience. We will definitely never be coming back or recommending this to anyone.

★★★★★
December 23, 2023

I was so hungry and our chef went above and beyond. Food served perfectly. Highly recommended.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2023

First time eating there, enjoyed the chef cooking and mingling with us. Great food

★★★
December 23, 2022

My family and I have been coming here for over 20 years, and I have no complaints except for how reservations are being handled right now. We called a few days in advance to make a reservation for a birthday. On the day of the reservation, we ubered from the west end there and back, only to find out that their liquor license had expired, and they didn t mention this on the phone when we called to reserve. This felt very dishonest and sketchy, if we had known, we either would have driven or went somewhere else. It was a birthday and wanted to celebrate with some wine at the restaurant and they never disclosed this. Don t get me wrong, great food, but I m not impressed with how this was handled.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

So delicious! All time favourite!

★★★
December 23, 2022

Closed since the convoy

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

One of the most luxurious and well-known Japanese restaurants

Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Very over priced for nothing special. Worst service and just OK food. Fire table is the only thing you are paying for.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Just visited today for dinner. Food was great and fresh. We have a group of seven and just did reservation the same day earlier. It is not a busy place at the moment

December 23, 2022

Don t recommend. Poor service. Creepy staff. Tried to lick my friend. Wouldn t bring us water.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Five of us went there to celebrate Mothers s Day after a long Covid winter. It was delicious as always. Our chef was the best. They went over an above and gave each mother a carnation as they were leaving. We are glad you are back up and running!

December 23, 2022

First time I came to this place was 10 years ago, and it really was the best in the city. I made a visit last week for the first time in a while and cannot begin to explain how hard this place fell off. What I used to order for 50$ is now about 130$ and the service is the worst it s as if it s they re hiding from you in the back. Also the food was way over cooked and dry. How do you keep increasing prices when your standard is dropping I really don t know. In conclusion, this place is past it s time you should honestly just go to Gyubee where the quality is legit 10x better.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great food and atmosphere. A must try in the Ottawa area if youre looking for a Japanese classic style of cooking and a show. Highly recommend!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Positive: the food was good and the chef was friendly. 10/10 for the chef. Negative: extremely expensive for the quantity of food (two dishes and two glasses of wine $119 and we were still hungry afterwards). The waitress was absent and offered no service. No refilling of water glass, which were all empty at our table. The only dessert they have is ice cream. The waitress brought us the bill without offering us dessert. We feel rushed. Eat and leave. Tip: go in a group. It was just my partner and I and we were seated with a group of six people, since there are 8 places around the plates. For the romantic side, we ll come back!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Wonderful experience for kids and adults alike.

December 23, 2022

Worst service ever. Servers literally do not want to provide ANY service. They pretend to not understand your request and not able to provide the service. Sighing and frowning in front of the customer. Not worth your time and energy going there unless if you enjoy being treated like a garbage. Chef No told my friend not beautiful in front of everyone and humiliated my friend.

December 23, 2022

The food was great, the service was the worst I have ever seen. We had a very tactless server. So my friend and I went there for dinner. Since we were not very hungry we just ordered sushi and one teriyaki chicken to share. The waitress was literally bullying us to order more stuff like is that all you re getting?? You re not hungry?? as I understand she probably meant that the portions were small but her way of expressing that was soo condescending. She made it sound like we shouldn t have come if we are not ordering more food. She went on to repeatedly approach us and say that we can t order again once the food is made (in front of us) we said that we understand that and just ordered extra rice she turns saying but you have to pay for it we are like yes, we realize that it s not our first time at a restaurant and obviously if you are ordering extra you are paying extra. When we got the bill, we paid and left the receipt inside the little folder, she yelled at us saying wait I didn t get my receipt!!! We told her it is inside the little book and she opened it and looked at the receipt and had to audacity to say you didn t tip me?? Never had such a tactless server ever in my life. The management has to pay attention to who they are hiring. The lady with the glasses was our server and she had no manners whatsoever. Bullying us, condescending and then her entitlement to get a tip. For what? We are both very generous tippers but that lady was never going to get an extra dollar from me.

★★
December 23, 2022

The food was excellent, we had steak cooked to our liking. Decor, has not been touched since it first opened. The chair that my partner sat in had foot prints on it. It was noticed by yours truly before he sat down. Bathrooms had dust hanging down from cobwebs on the sealing. The toilet stalls were covered with black hand prints. I have seen gas stations washrooms cleaner than what I expected. This is not recommended a go to place to really enjoy a dinner out at all.

December 23, 2022

We were very disappointed with Japanese village. It has been a few years since we had gone. We came here to celebrate my Birthday with my friends and so much has changed. NO SHOW, no soup, and no fried rice. The shrimp was limited too.They prices went up which I understand because of economy but their food is sparse. We came here to have fun and it was quite the opposite! It was a Saturday night and the restaurant was half full. The place used to be packed on a Saturday night and now I know why. I even mentioned it to the server why there wasn t any show and she pretended she didn t understand me. The way they served you was odd too. Especially when they re cooking it . It was confusing. We ll not be going back unless changes are done which I m not holding my breath.

★★
December 23, 2022

Really disappointed. For the price and what you get, not worth it. We ordered drinks but then asked for water, the waitress acknowledged me and then never brought water, the salad has to be packaged from a dole, lol not kidding. Had to go up to the front to pay our bill because it was slow. Food was cooked really well, that s about it.

Local Guide
December 23, 2022

No fried rice??? Very small portions, service didn t ask me if I wanted refills, overpriced. Won t be back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

We have been going to Japanese Village for the last 20 years. Has the prices risen - yes. Is it still delicious - absolutely. With rice ask your chef for a side of steak sesame sauce and pour it all over your rice. YOU WILL NOT BE DISAPPOINTED. Its the best combo ! I love this place and always will. Its fun and delicious everytime.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Good show good food

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Overall it was good but for the price should be way better. Edokos has same concept but they carry quality shrimp, this place had those cheap shrimps, we ordered from kids menu for the kids, kids wanted beef, waitress comes back after putting our order through that there s no more beef, thought that was annoying, portions are small

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

This was our first visit to this place and I highly recommend it, we enjoyed it, our chef was amazing, smiling and listening to each of us. Dont trust the negative review

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Great restaurant and great atmosphere. Food is excellent and well priced. The only negative point is that you have to eat quickly to keep up with the chefs speed and eat hot. I recommend it

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Awesome! Excellent food and service!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

The service and chefs make the show here and some chefs are more enthusiastic than others. Maybe it s the end of the night but ours didn t seem that energized and didn t care for it when a group of us wanted to share different items. (For the 5 adults we ordered 4 mains and 4 apples. ) At least crack a smile if you re in the service and putting on a show

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

When is this place anything LESS than five stars!???

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Delicious!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

So much fun to watch the food being prepared by chefs who know their routine so well its all muscle memory. Delicious every time and very entertaining. Been a couple times, always a fantastic evening.

★★★★★
December 23, 2022

Always a great time and the food is fantastic. The price is very reasonable for the quality of the food. Absolutely worth every penny. Kid-friendliness: Make the kids feel special and important.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Nice place , nice food! It s an experience you have to live.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Very friendly and inviting. Food is delicious, very filling and not heavy. Good price, and nice ambiance.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Enjoy a nice Japanese grill!!! Nice experience and funny chefs!

★★★★
December 23, 2022

Super great place, very busy, fun atmosphere, amazing food. Removing one star, we were offered to have a cocktail at the bar while we wait. Waited 30 min (along with 15 other people) and we were finally told wed be served at our table only.

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2022

Ive been coming here a couple times a year for 20 years. Expecting prices to have gone up, so not surprised there but for $52 for a steak, I expected some entertainment. The cook did nothing other than light a fire. No theatrics whatsoever. The striploin was about 1/4 thick and very fatty. Waitress was quick to take drink orders but never saw her again. Overall a very disappointing visit.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Thanks yes, we were a group of 12. I had filet mignon with shrimp dish it was beautiful, a nice Japanese salad with a scoop of icecream. My family brought me out for my 60th Birthday.. our server was No He was great. Thanks for the memories.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Food is very tasty , super fillet mignon, but little bit over price.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

First time ever experience last night and what an AMAZING experience we had! The staff were fantastic and super friendly. Always making sure we were happy. Food was so good!! So much flavour and variety. I highly recommend this place!! Can t wait to return

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Been going here for over 15yrs.. absolutely love it, meals are always amazing . Never disappointed.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Absolutely amazing place to be! Always going there for good food and good times

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Excellent food and veri professional and nice service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

I loved my experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Amazing food and staff

★★★★
December 23, 2021

First time going there and I have to say the food was really good. It was a heck of an experience and I d for sure recommend to friends and family. I d love to go again. I had shrimp tempura, Fillet mignon, and other sides. Red wine was amazing too. Great atmosphere and food.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

AMAZING service and ambiance!!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Big bill, not that extraordinary of an experience.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Always good food and good taste, limited beer choice but good wine card. And their cook are always good entertainers.

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Wow

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

been going since i was 10 years old favorite restaurant. always have filet mignon and shrimp plus habashi shrimps. excelent

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Well oiled flavor delivery machine. Personal attention makes a great experience!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Enjoyable atmosphere, talented cooking

December 23, 2021

Went with family for the first time we had an awesome chef at our table amazing food and tricks, but our server was absolutely pathetic, the worst service I have ever seen in my life this women demanded we tip her atleast $10 per person and forced the debit machine down our throats. The women serving us should be fired for this.

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

When a Japanese grill is ran and operated by Chinese, the end result is Japanese Village. The only two points given is for being the only Japanese grill in town. The staff were ill prepared, no discipline, chefs lacked skill and manners, even a simple gesture of respect to the guests lacks its presence. The place is very warm because it is located in the basement, wear light clothes, or better; as the guest who sat across from our table, a spaghetti strap. They will overcook the steak, shrimps are good, the meat taste is reasonably good. Veggies are nothing to drool for. Prices are expensive, be prepared for $60 or more per person at the time of this writing and no, there are no shares.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Amazing Filet and Veggies! Best of all everything is nice and .

December 23, 2021

Worst service ever

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great food, the chef was excellent and made good conversation

★★★★★
December 23, 2021

Food is great. I am never disapointed.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great food, respectful employees and great menu options with food prepared right in front of you! This is a great place to visit

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Amazing experience

December 23, 2021

Worst place ever. I asked for steak to be cooked rare and the chef name, Nori, gave medium. So Nori cooked beef again and told me, with an angry tone, that i should ve asked for blue rare. The attitude was horrible and he treated customers as if we dont know what rare is. Such a rude chef. I won t visit here again!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

WOW...superb dinner...unforgettable spectacle...

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Ive probably been to this restaurant 30 times in the better part of the last 15 years. They have recently changed a few things like the tables and a bit of the decor. The only reason I dont give this place a 5 star is the what seems to be a downsizing in food/ pricing. The miso soup used to be included with the combo meals and the salad actually had 2 pieces of tomatoes (seriously who takes out pieces of tomato). On our most recent outing we realized the prices have changed, jumping from $36 to $44 for the same plate. That is quite a jump. While I love the food I wouldnt consider $150 bill acceptable in this dining experience (2 people). We will definitely be coming less often. Update: Decided to go back (Nov19th, 2021), prices are now $52 per plate. No alchohol 2 adults + 2 kids (under 12). $210 --- HELL NO!.... NOPE.... NO MORE.... ITS DONE! Thanks for the memories but I will not be back.

★★★★
December 23, 2021

Good sushi

December 23, 2021

I ve always had positive experiences in the past at Japanese Village. That was not the case today. First, they didn t seem to be checking for vaccination proof. Second, they have lost their liquor license, so no sake, wine or beer with your meal. More importantly, it has lost whatever Japanese vibe it had with the curt attitudes of the staff and the mediocre performance of the chef. This typically happens when a Japanese restaurant isn t run by Japanese people. Although the food was tasty, it was expensive for what you get even if you factor in the entertainment value of having the food cooked in front of you. Overall a disappointing experience.

★★★★
December 23, 2021

Why do you often visit Japanese restaurants when you come to Canada? At least cost-effective Food part-time job is okay

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Great food and super friendly staff

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Amazing food and friendly staff - would recommend!

★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Too overpriced !! Service and quality went down in the last 2 years and price went up Not going back

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2021

Definitely an experience to try again! The food is cooked right in front of you, and it is delicious! Staff is super friendly. Sauce is to die for!

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Sadly, the overall experience has slipped. Much of the showmanship is gone now, on account of safety concerns. Meat was okay, but could have done far better for way less money.

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

First time there, food is nothing short of exceptional and the chef was quite entertaining. Will definitely go back.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

We have dined here on a number of occasions and, as always, the service is excellent. The staff is very friendly and the food is superb. I recommend this restaurant to all my friends.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Great food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Love it my girlfriend took me there we ate filet mignon shrimp and it was an amazing experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Food is fantastic!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Awesome rib eye, fun entertainment

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Well worth the price of the meal. Food is simple but amazing.

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Delicious and entertaining!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

consistently great food! love the sauces

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

It was delicious, however very pricy, minimal showmanship, bathroom still looks like it is stuck in the 80s, the interior of the restaurant is very dated, atmosphere was good.

Local Guide
December 23, 2020

False advertising. They dont do onion volcanoes. Its the only reason Im there. Also the food is horrible in comparison with Edoko nearby. Avoid at all costs.

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Such an amazing experience. Amazing food and friendly staff ! 5 star

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Pretty cool place. Kind of hot. But what do you expect? Food was OK

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Nice food made in front of you

★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

A teppenyaki restaurant. Food was good. Nothing above and beyond any other teppenyaki. Seems to be a very popular spot as there was a lot of foot traffic in and out of the restaurant.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Unique concept, great food

★★★★
December 23, 2020

Great food and service. Not quite as good as their Victoria location, but pretty close.

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Ate here last summer and I can say it is in my top 3 favourite places to eat in Ottawa. Great memorable experience and delicious food!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Always such a fun, amazing and delicious experience. Highly recommend. Best bet is to make a reservation to make sure your whole party is together in front of the same chef and grill. Small parties are easily accordâtes also if you chose to just walk in.

★★★★★
December 23, 2020

Good atmosphere

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Impeccable service. Excellent food. Welcoming and available staff. A must for us I would drive without hesitation just to go back

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Expensive but a unique experience. Its a kitchy place. Been exactly the same for who knows how long. Food is delicious. Must like meat/chicken/ seafood because I dont know what you would eat otherwise. Mostly full multi course meals on hibachi are served. Get ready for the fire .

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Delicious food. No doubt about that. Neat atmosphere and authentic. On the pricey side as it was a bit of an effort to keep it under $100 per person with appetizers, mains and a drink and not the fastest service. Id definitely go back if I had some money to blow or someone to spend a couple hours with and wanted to share impressive food. Ive been to other places like this, where they cook at the table, and had a more impressive demonstration of knives, balance and cooktop skill but maybe they had to tone down for covid? Regardless, this is a tasty, no rush place to enjoy. The salmon is a less expensive option at $26 for the main and it is delicious but you can also get lobster tail and steak for $48. You will likely still want an appetizer going for at least $10 and a drink for another $10 but everything is really good. If you just want to try things but dont want to break the bank or over do it, you can also split meals with people. Good spot for an occasion, maybe pricey to ask friends to spend money a must try for foodies.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Great food and experience

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

I always get the filet mignon with a few extra salads to start. This is by far one of my favourite little places to show people in Ottawa, highly recommend

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Very good, but the show is not wow. They really are the basis of the show like fire. Otherwise the food is good! A beautiful evening! To try!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Excellent service

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

My favourite restaurant in Ottawa. Always great, and I m always looking forward to my next visit.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Always an amazing time going here, the experience of being cooked and served tableside is always worth it ESPECIALLY here. It would be a five star rating if they still had the soup and yakitori chicken they used to serve but alas with changing times come changing menus. The filet mignon and shrimp however are like they always have been, to DIE for.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Super experience and great ambiance. Food choices is the only thing that is missing for the fifth star.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2020

Restaurant is actually closed and doesnt open until 5 for dinner.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Warm, cozy atmosphere. Excellent food.

★★★★
December 23, 2019

great experience for the kids. service a little on the slow side, but nice to try once.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

Excellent food and show. Best ginger sauce and sesame sauce in town. Pair up with a excellent Chianti.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 23, 2019

It was pretty cool, not somewhere Id go all the time but you have to see it once atleast!

★★★★
December 23, 2019

Lively and entertaining, oh and the food was awesome.

★★★★
December 23, 2019

Delicious! Great service and very engaging!