About
Since 1998, Genki Japanese & Sushi Restaurant has earned its reputation as the only authentic Japanese and sushi eatery in the Cape Fear region.
That legacy is carried on today by Chef Danny and his wife, Lana Ke, who took over in September 2014. Together, they're dedicated to honoring Genki's original spirit while adding their own passion and creativity.
Chef Danny has been making sushi since 1995 and learned his craft with traditional Japanese training. He's well known across the southeast for his skill and searching high and low for the freshest ingredients.
With Chef Danny's passion, training, and commitment to quality, it's no surprise the restaurant has racked up awards. These include the TripAdvisor Award of Excellence in 2019 and a spot in the top 10% of restaurants worldwide in 2020.
The restaurant's proximity to area landmarks and attractions makes it easy to grab a meal after a day of sightseeing. For instance, after exploring the Stanley Rehder Carnivorous Plant Garden at Piney Ridge Nature Preserve, you're only a short drive from fresh sushi. This scenario plays out alongside other activities, like playing 18 holes at Magnolia Greens Golf Course or spending the day in the surf at Wrightsville Beach.
When you crave cuisine that's not Calabash-style or Southern-inspired, experience a taste of Japan at Genki Japanese & Sushi Restaurant.
Vibe
Set in a strip mall, the exterior exemplifies American rather than Asian tastes. But don't let the facade fool you. Inside, the decor will make you feel like you've entered a Tokyo sushi house.
The interior balances classic Japanese design with a relaxed, Americana feel. The dining room is quaint, with pastel-colored walls, clean lines, warm lighting, and tasteful Japanese artwork.
The sushi bar is wrapped in bamboo, while cat statues (Maneki-neko) line the countertop, welcoming guests and offering fortune and prosperity.
Here, everyone is treated like part of the extended Genki family.
Regarding seating, there are comfortable tables and booths for groups and couples, while the 10-seat sushi bar is a popular spot.
Whether it's a relaxed dinner or a special night out, Genki's atmosphere adds another dimension to a Wilmington getaway.
Genki Japanese & Sushi Restaurant: Menu & Drinks
To better understand the quality of food, we need to dive into its name. "Genki" translates into "good health" and is often included in Japanese greetings.
With this principle as its baseline, Genki uses pi-water that supports living tissues, has anti-oxidants, and contains more oxygen than regular water. Additionally, Genki doesn't use MSG or chemicals, and everything is homemade, including the sauces. Now that you better understand this "Genki" style of cooking, let's explore the menu.
Start with the housemade Aji Fri. This appetizer features Panko-breaded Jackfish, lightly fried, with sweet tonkatsu sauce and mustard. Another starter that's always a hit is the homemade Spring Roll. This crispy staple comes with chicken or vegetables and a homemade dipping sauce.
The impressive sushi menu has too many top-picks to list! Rest assured that you have ample choices of Nigiri, Sashimi, and Maki sushi. You may order la carte or as dinners featuring the various sushis.
For those who aren't sushi fans, the dinner options will satisfy. These come with a special appetizer and two of the following: miso soup or eggdrop soup, house salad, kimchi, or pickles.
For a traditional Japanese meal, try the Udon Noodle Dinner. It features wheat noodles in a flavored broth with spinach, green onions, crabsticks, and a boiled egg. A side of steamed rice comes with it, and you may order it cold with a quail egg.
The box dinner is another Japanese tradition. The Obento showcases grilled salmon with your choice of teriyaki or fresh lemon, sashimi (raw tuna), shumai, croquettes, and tempura. Add steamed rice for an additional cost.
As for drinks, there's a wide selection of sake, beer, and wine, along with non-alcoholic options.
For an authentic taste of Japan, visit Genki Japanese & Sushi Restaurant on your Wilmington vacation. Visiting will be an epicurean and cultural highlight.
Local Tips
- Reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends.
- The homemade coconut cake is a must-try!
- Brown rice is available for an additional cost.
- Visit at lunchtime for a cost-saving dining experience.
