Kengo Sushi Yakitori - Toledo

This is a true gem, never would have guessed Toledo would be home to one of the best Japanese dining experiences in the Midwest but here we are. Truly exceptional in all facets. Service, dishes, attention to detail, the omakase style just puts it on another level. Add this on your bucket list, it's a must. Fine folks of Toledo, you have no idea how lucky you are to have such an experience. Or perhaps you do! Can't wait to go back.

I've dined at this restaurant twice once as a regular customer and once for the omakase course. The food here is undeniably excellent, deserving of five stars. However, I must address the service, which leaves much to be desired.During my first visit, I encountered significant delays in receiving our dishes. What made this experience even more frustrating was that the table next to us appeared to be friends with the owner chef, resulting in prompt and friendly service for them. Meanwhile, our table, along with others, languished in waiting.Hoping for a better experience, I returned as an omakase customer. Unfortunately, my second visit reinforced the initial negative impression. While the omakase service was reasonably paced, it became apparent that the restaurant prioritizes omakase customers (or the owner's friends) over other diners. While this isn't inherently problematic, it does imply that regular patrons, or ichigen san, may not receive the same level of attention or service.In summary, the food here is exceptional and deserves five stars. However, prospective regular customers should be prepared for potentially uneven treatment compared to omakase, or their favorite, patrons. Also, the music is too loud.Parking: When a baseball game is going on, it's extremely difficult to find a parking spot. You need a cash of $10 $20 to avoid this hassle.

Solo diner visiting Toledo, and just called if Kengo had a vacant seat in their Omakase bar. Thrilled that they did. The reviews were spot on. Excellent and friendly service. The atmosphere is busy and fast paced as it is a small restaurant. The Omakase that night was a combination of new things I have never had before, plus some yakitoris and nigiris. Pricey but well worth it. Great area in downtown Toledo and right beside the Mudhen’s stadium. The owner also owns a Ramen place next door as well as another restaurant in Toledo’s casino. Definitely will do all of them!

An absolute GEM of a sushi spot. I've had sushi and omakase tasting menus all over the US and beyond and Kengo is consistently one of my favorites. High quality ingredients prepared expertly. The bartenders also happen to be some of the best in the Toledo.Food: 5/5

Kengo and his Band of Merry Men and Women are the best! Love it! Best Dirty Martini in town. Fish is fantastic. The Spanish mackerel is a dish I aspire to create and at home but just can't get it quite right.The coziness of the place is its charm.Food: 5/5