Bonjapan 86

People say slow. It's got two people running the place apparently but here's the catch: The food is amazing. By amazing I mean I almost wanted to cry at how good the food was. I ordered grilled mackerel. A simple dish, but what I got came right out of a studio ghibli film. Perfectly crispy skin, still bubbling as it hit the table. The fish was cooked to perfection and the seasoning didn't overpower the light sweetness of the fish itself. A perfect compliment. The small shredded cabbage served to cleanse my palette, and the tiny pit of freshly ground diakon radish offered a smooth almost creamy refresher when I was finished. The lemon offered was lovely, but it took to much from the fish itself. The man who cooked the food obviously puts his heart into the food and it shows. It's super affordable too! I was shocked at the prices because for lunch it was, drink included under 15$ and that was for two entries! (I took one to go- it was THAT GOOD). You step in and it feels like a mom and pop place but when I went, mid-day on a sunday, by myself, the music was soothing, there was a show about cute dogs playing on the tv, and it really was just so wonderful because it felt welcoming. It was good food, good atmosphere, and what I loved best was just how nice the man was and how his love of cooking really did show in the food.

Best place for Japanese food in Salem. Most of the staff are Japanese and the treatment is such. Good food, albeit expensive for Salem. However, if you're looking for Japanese comfort food, look no further.

Love this restaurant. Bento boxes are great. It is a one man show so the wait time is a little longer than most restaurants but it is totally worth it. The owner is from japan and he takes great pride in his work so you know it is authentic and made with pride. I will be going back not only for the service but also for the delicious food. 10/10

This is not a sushi bar, like so many other Japanese places. In fact, you won't find sushi on the menu. Instead, you will be presented with an array of meals and entrees Their Katsu items are great. The gyosa is delicately prepared and delicious. There are many chicken, pork and fish items, each worth ordering....and the ice cream desserts! The mochi's are outstanding but you must try the tempura ice cream! The setting is very simple and unassuming. The wait staff are definitely also the owners. They are gracious and attentive. They serve lunch and dinner. The location is slightly off the beaten path of Salem's dining, but easy to find and worth the couple extra minutes to get there!