Ukiah Japanese Smokehouse

So good, I went there twice in the three days I visited Asheville. Walking in you immediately notice the mouth watering (to me) wood smoke scent. If, like some people I know, you dislike smoke, this Japanese smokehouse is not for you. I sat at the bar and went early. Service was attentive, and they remembered me and welcomed me back on my second visit. I tried the navy strength G&T, very tasty. Maybe more than the "Barking up the right tree", at least to me. Maybe I was feeling bitter that day? The trout was just perfect. Grilled fillets on skewers. Moist, medium rare, so tasty. Not a huge portion, but it was good for me by myself. Baby back ribs were bone in, with yakitori sauce and scallions. Sweet and savory, moist and perfectly done. The were six ribs which I couldn't finish myself. Marinated Beet salad was yummy - golden beets not red made the next day less scary. If you've eaten a lot of red beets, you know what I mean. Grilled mushrooms were really tasty, but a pretty small portion. Broccoli rabe was kinda fibrous, and the bacon topping was not crispy and kinda hard to eat with it. Maybe reconsider this one in the menu. Finally, the coconut cake by Chef Mom was so good. Butter cream frosting. Coconut ice cream on the side. The lady with celiac sitting next to me was green with envy. I felt a little bad.

AMAZING!!!! Some of the best food in Asheville I have ever had. Waiter was well educated on their gluten-free options.

My husband and I had an incredible experience for dinner. Highly recommend sitting at the bar - the service from our bartender Xavier and the manager Julian were top tier, their service and hospitality made our night. Everyone who brought our food was friendly, knowledgeable and the food spoke for itself. I can't stop thinking about the Japanese sweet potato. Great gluten free options as well. Can't wait to come back!