The Pensacola dining scene is a lot more varied than many people realize. This is clear based on the popularity of restaurants like Sake Cafe Pensacola, where you can eat your fill of sushi and teriyaki. Situated near Cordova Mall, this local gem is absolutely worth visiting when you crave the region’s finest in Japanese cuisine.
Voted Best of the Bay for 2022, this restaurant is quickly gaining a reputation for its memorable atmosphere and its vast sushi selection. When you prefer sushi or hibachi over your standard Pensacola seafood selection, the Sake Cafe Pensacola should definitely be your go-to restaurant.
As you first step foot in this delightful establishment, you will be taken aback by the unusual architecture and interior design. It’s certainly not what you expect of a sushi restaurant, but that’s part of the appeal. As a former church, the restaurant retains its giant glass windows, which let in plenty of light.
The interior might not be conventional, but it’s certainly clean and comfortable. If you are primarily visiting with the intention of eating your fill of sushi, the sushi bar is the place for you. Otherwise, opt for one of the tables so you can relax and take in your lovely surroundings. Don’t forget to order your favorite drink, which will be expertly prepared by one of the amazing bartenders. Sake is essential, of course, but you can also enjoy house wine or even order a bucket of beer.
In general, the service is friendly and prompt. Regular visitors report a level of consistency that is often difficult to achieve at other sushi bars or hibachi restaurants.
A few of our favorite menu items at Sake Cafe Pensacola include the following:
Crispy Fried Calamari
As an indulgent start to your Sake Cafe Pensacola visit, this fun appetizer is appealing not only because it is perfectly breaded and flash-fried, but also because it is served alongside a delectable honey cream wasabi sauce.
Filet Mignon & Chicken Hibachi
Treat yourself to an exceptional hibachi experience. Anything you order from the hibachi menu will be accompanied by salad, soup, and veggies, plus your choice of steamed and fried rice. There are plenty of meat options for the hibachi, but anything that includes filet mignon is worth trying. Depending on your preferences, you can also pair the filet mignon with scallops, shrimp, or even lobster.
Crispy Jalapeno Pepper Roll
Sake Cafe Pensacola offers a variety of fried rolls, but this is one of the most compelling when you crave a bit of spice. No matter what you order, half the fun will involve interacting with the sushi chefs, who are notoriously friendly. When your unique jalapeno roll arrives, you’ll be greeted by spicy tuna, snow crab, and cream cheese, plus generous toppings of eel sauce, spicy mayo, scallion, and masago.
Curry Goat
You won’t find this dish at just any Pensacola restaurant, so it’s definitely worth trying when you have the chance. It is slow-cooked to perfection and includes all the essentials: coconut milk and yellow curry.
Vegetable & Tofu Teriyaki
Vegetarian options are somewhat limited on the Sake Cafe Pensacola menu — but with teriyaki this enticing, you won’t feel as if you’re missing out if you prefer to enjoy a meat-free meal. The portion sizes are excellent, so this is also a great choice when you arrive with a huge appetite.
Sake Cafe Pensacola might not look like your ordinary sushi or hibachi restaurant, but that’s exactly what makes it so appealing. Take a break from your usual Pensacola dining experience and check out the local church of sushi, where you will be treated to a memorable atmosphere and the best Japanese cuisine in town.
Insider Tips:
-Keep an eye on the specials board placed near the entrance, where you will find details about the deals of the day and anything else you need to know before you order.
-Reservations are available but not always necessary. If you hope to visit during a holiday, however, it’s always safer to reserve your spot in advance.