Genji Sushi Bars in Columbia: What to Expect and Where to Find Them

Genji Sushi Bars has two locations in Columbia serving nigiri, rolls, and cooked dishes

Genji operates two sushi bars in Columbia: one downtown and one in the Five Points neighborhood. Both locations offer the same core menu of traditional nigiri, specialty rolls, and cooked Japanese dishes, though the dining experience and atmosphere differ between them. The downtown location sits in a more formal setting, while the Five Points spot has a casual neighborhood feel that draws regulars and walk-ins alike.

The menu at both locations centers on fresh fish and rice-based preparations. You'll find standard offerings like California rolls, spicy tuna, and salmon nigiri alongside house specials that rotate seasonally. Cooked options—teriyaki, tempura, and donburi bowls—make up roughly a third of the menu, so there's something for diners who prefer their fish cooked or want to avoid raw fish entirely.

Both bars operate with sushi chefs behind the counter, which means you can watch your roll being made and ask questions about ingredients or preparation. This setup also makes it easy to order directly from the chef if you want something not on the printed menu.

Key Takeaways

• Genji has two Columbia locations—downtown and in Five Points—each with its own atmosphere but the same core menu.
• The menu includes nigiri, specialty rolls, and cooked Japanese dishes, with seasonal specials that change throughout the year.
• Both locations have sushi chefs working behind the counter, so you can watch your food being prepared and request custom orders.
• Lunch and dinner hours differ between locations, so check ahead before visiting, especially on weekends.
• Genji accepts both dine-in and takeout orders at both bars.

Downtown Columbia location and dining experience

The downtown Genji sits in a more polished environment suited to business lunches, date nights, and diners seeking a quieter meal. The space is smaller and more intimate than the Five Points location, with seating at the sushi bar and a handful of tables. The lighting is dimmer, and the overall tone is more formal—this is where you go if you want to linger over your meal without the buzz of a neighborhood crowd.

Lunch service downtown draws professionals from nearby offices, and the lunch menu includes smaller portions and lower prices than dinner. Dinner service is quieter and more relaxed, with a mix of couples and small groups. Reservations are not always necessary for lunch, but calling ahead during dinner hours—especially Thursday through Saturday—can save you a wait.

Parking downtown can be tight, but there are public lots and street parking within a block or two of the restaurant. The location is walkable from the Vista and Main Street areas if you're exploring downtown.

Five Points location and neighborhood atmosphere

The Five Points Genji has a more casual, neighborhood-bar feel. The space is larger, with more seating at the bar and more tables, making it easier to walk in without a reservation. The crowd here skews younger and more relaxed—it's a spot where regulars come to know the chefs by name and where solo diners feel comfortable sitting at the bar with a drink.

Five Points is a walkable neighborhood with shops, galleries, and other restaurants nearby, so you can make an evening of it. Parking is street parking or in nearby lots, and the area is generally easy to navigate on foot. This location tends to be busier on weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday nights, when the neighborhood draws crowds.

The Five Points bar also hosts occasional specials and promotions that may differ from the downtown location, so it's worth asking what's current when you visit. The vibe here is more social—you're likely to overhear conversations at neighboring tables and see people greeting the staff.

Menu highlights and what sets Genji apart

Genji's specialty rolls tend to feature combinations of cooked and raw fish, avocado, and sauces that balance heat and richness. The spicy tuna roll is a reliable choice if you like heat; the California roll appeals to those new to sushi. House specials change, but they often include rolls with multiple proteins or unexpected ingredients like mango or jalapeño.

The nigiri selection depends on what's fresh that day. Genji sources fish regularly, so the chef can tell you what came in that morning and recommend it. Salmon, tuna, and white fish are always available; seasonal options like uni (sea urchin) or toro (fatty tuna belly) appear when they're in season and the price is reasonable.

If you're not in the mood for raw fish, the teriyaki chicken and salmon are solid choices, as are the vegetable tempura and shrimp tempura. The donburi bowls—rice topped with protein, vegetables, and sauce—are filling and work well for lunch. Edamame, miso soup, and seaweed salad round out the sides.

Pricing and what to budget

Lunch entrees at Genji typically range from moderate to mid-range pricing, with rolls and nigiri sets costing less than dinner. A lunch special—usually a combination of a few pieces of nigiri, a small roll, and miso soup—runs less than a full dinner order of the same items. Dinner prices are higher, reflecting larger portions and the full menu availability.

Specialty rolls cost more than basic rolls like California or spicy tuna. Nigiri is priced per piece or in sets of two or three. Cooked dishes like teriyaki and tempura fall in the mid-range and are often a good value if you're ordering for one person.

Both locations accept cash and cards. Takeout orders are available at both bars and may be slightly cheaper than dine-in if there's a discount for takeout—ask when you order. Delivery is not offered directly by Genji, but third-party delivery services may service both locations.

Hours, reservations, and how to visit

Hours vary between the two locations. The downtown bar typically opens for lunch and closes in the evening; the Five Points location may have extended hours, especially on weekends. Both close on certain days of the week—often Monday or Tuesday—so check ahead before making the trip. Calling the location directly is the fastest way to confirm current hours.

Reservations are recommended for dinner at the downtown location and for groups of four or more at Five Points. Walk-ins are welcome at both bars, but you may wait 15 to 30 minutes during peak hours (Friday and Saturday nights, lunch rush). If you're visiting solo or as a pair, sitting at the sushi bar usually means a shorter wait than a table.

Both locations are cash-friendly but accept cards. If you're ordering takeout, calling ahead gives the kitchen time to prepare your order so it's ready when you arrive.

What to know before you go

Genji is a traditional sushi bar, not a high-volume casual spot. The chefs take time with each order, so service is slower than a fast-casual restaurant—this is intentional and part of the experience. If you're in a hurry, order something simple like a California roll rather than a complex special roll.

The sushi bar seating is the best spot to watch the chefs work and ask questions about the fish. If you prefer privacy or a quieter meal, request a table. Both options are available at both locations.

Genji does not offer all-you-can-eat pricing. You order what you want, and you pay for it. This model keeps quality high and allows the chefs to source better fish than high-volume all-you-can-eat places typically do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation to eat at Genji?

Reservations are not required but are recommended for dinner at the downtown location and for groups of four or more at Five Points. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may wait during peak hours. Calling ahead is the quickest way to check wait times.

Can I order takeout from Genji?

Yes, both locations accept takeout orders. Calling ahead gives the kitchen time to prepare your order. Third-party delivery services may also service both locations, though Genji does not deliver directly.

What's the difference between the two Genji locations?

The downtown location is smaller and more formal, suited to business lunches and quieter dinners. The Five Points location is larger and more casual, with a neighborhood-bar atmosphere. Both serve the same core menu, though specials may differ.

Does Genji offer all-you-can-eat sushi?

No. Genji operates as a traditional sushi bar where you order what you want and pay per item. This model allows the chefs to source higher-quality fish than all-you-can-eat restaurants typically do.

What should I order if I'm new to sushi?

Start with a California roll or spicy tuna roll—both are approachable and flavorful. If you want to try nigiri, ask the chef what's fresh that day and request a sampler of two or three pieces. If raw fish isn't your preference, the teriyaki chicken or tempura are solid cooked options.