Genji Sushi Bars Across South Carolina

Where to find Genji in South Carolina

Genji operates sushi bars in multiple South Carolina locations, with the primary restaurant in the Midlands region. The chain focuses on Japanese cuisine centered around sushi rolls, nigiri, and cooked entrées. Each location maintains the same core menu while adapting to local preferences and seasonal availability.

The original and flagship Genji is located in Columbia, where it has built a steady customer base over years of operation. The restaurant occupies a casual dining space designed for both walk-in customers and those making reservations. Hours and exact address details change periodically, so calling ahead or checking their current location online before visiting ensures you arrive when they're open.

If you're traveling elsewhere in South Carolina, check whether additional Genji locations have opened or remain active, as restaurant locations can shift. Local search results or a direct phone call to the Columbia location can point you toward the nearest Genji if you're outside the Midlands.

Key Takeaways

• Genji's primary location is in Columbia, South Carolina, serving sushi rolls, nigiri, and Japanese cooked dishes in a casual dining setting.
• The menu includes both raw and cooked options, making it accessible to diners with different preferences for sushi preparation.
• Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours, particularly on weekends, though walk-in seating is often available.
• Hours and location details change, so contacting the restaurant directly before your visit prevents disappointment.

What's on the menu

Genji's menu centers on sushi rolls with both traditional and creative combinations. Standard offerings include California rolls, spicy tuna rolls, and Philadelphia rolls alongside house specialties that rotate based on ingredient availability and chef preference. Nigiri selections feature common varieties like salmon, tuna, and shrimp, plus seasonal fish when available.

Beyond raw preparations, Genji serves cooked Japanese dishes including teriyaki chicken, beef, and salmon, as well as tempura vegetables and shrimp. These options appeal to diners who prefer cooked food or want variety within a single meal. Appetizers typically include edamame, gyoza (dumplings), and miso soup, which many customers order as starters.

Pricing reflects casual dining standards for sushi in South Carolina—rolls generally fall in the $6 to $15 range, with combination platters offering better value if you want to sample multiple items. Lunch specials often provide discounted pricing on selected rolls and entrées during midday hours.

Dining experience and atmosphere

Genji maintains a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere suited to casual meals with friends, family, or colleagues. The space typically includes a sushi bar where you can watch chefs prepare rolls, plus standard dining tables. This setup works well whether you're seeking a quick lunch or a more leisurely dinner.

The restaurant accommodates both small groups and larger parties, though advance notice helps the kitchen prepare for bigger orders. Service is generally attentive without being intrusive, and staff can answer questions about menu items or suggest combinations if you're uncertain what to order.

How to order and pay

You can dine in at Genji by arriving during operating hours or calling ahead to reserve a table. Many locations also offer takeout for customers who prefer to eat at home. Payment methods typically include cash and major credit cards, though confirming accepted payment types when you call prevents surprises at checkout.

For larger orders or special requests—such as rolls without certain ingredients or modifications for dietary preferences—calling in advance gives the kitchen time to prepare. This is especially useful if you're ordering for a group or need items made to specific specifications.

Parking and accessibility

Genji's Columbia location includes parking appropriate to its strip mall or downtown setting, depending on the exact address. Street parking or a dedicated lot is typically available, though peak dinner hours may require circling briefly to find a space.

Wheelchair accessibility varies by location. If mobility access is important to your visit, call ahead to confirm the restaurant can accommodate your needs. Staff can also direct you to the most convenient entrance and seating if you have specific requirements.

What to know before you visit

Sushi quality depends partly on ingredient freshness, which means Genji may occasionally run out of specific fish or rolls during busy periods. If you have your heart set on a particular item, arriving earlier in the evening or calling ahead to confirm availability helps. The kitchen can often suggest equally good alternatives if a favorite is temporarily unavailable.

If you're new to sushi, staff at Genji are generally patient with questions and can explain what's in each roll or suggest milder options if you're hesitant about raw fish. Starting with cooked rolls like tempura shrimp or California rolls (which contain cooked crab) is a common entry point before exploring raw preparations.

Dietary restrictions or allergies should be mentioned when ordering. While sushi restaurants typically handle these requests carefully, communicating clearly about what you can and cannot eat ensures your meal is prepared safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Genji have vegetarian sushi options?

Yes. Vegetarian rolls typically include cucumber, avocado, pickled vegetables, and sometimes tempura-fried vegetables. The menu usually lists these clearly, and staff can identify which rolls contain no fish or seafood if you ask.

Can I order Genji sushi for delivery?

Many Genji locations offer takeout, and some partner with delivery services. Call the restaurant directly to ask about delivery options in your area, as this varies by location and may depend on distance from the restaurant.

What's the difference between a California roll and a Philadelphia roll?

A California roll contains imitation crab, cucumber, and avocado. A Philadelphia roll contains salmon, cream cheese, and cucumber. Both are mild and popular with people new to sushi, making them good starting points if you're uncertain what to order.

Do I need a reservation at Genji?

Reservations are helpful during dinner hours and weekends but not always required for small groups. Walk-ins are generally welcome, though you may wait during peak times. Calling ahead ensures a table is ready when you arrive.

What should I do if I'm allergic to seafood?

Tell your server or the person taking your order about your allergy before ordering. Genji can prepare vegetarian rolls and cooked entrées that avoid seafood entirely. Cross-contamination is possible in any sushi kitchen, so be explicit about the severity of your allergy.