Minato Japanese Restaurant - Review - Smyrna - Atlanta - The Infatuation

"Dozens of graduation, wedding, and holiday photos line the walls at Minato, a low-key Japanese restaurant in Smyrna that's been quietly thriving for more than 30 years. That’s your first clue that this is a cozy neighborhood hangout. No matter your agenda—hiding out solo or meeting up with friends—the mid-sized space, which doesn't look like things have changed since the ’90s, accommodates. High-backed booths along the walls are perfect for bad hair days and antisocial moods, while the central sunken dining room is usually filled with friends working through sweet chicken teriyaki platters and sushi combos. The food here is run-of-the-mill but dependable. Minato isn’t trying to impress anyone new. It exists for the people who already know it, and that’s exactly why it works. photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman photo credit: Sarah Newman Pause Unmute Food Rundown Kara-Age Chicken Lightly battered, deep-fried chicken thighs are marinated in a garlic sauce. Crispy outside, juicy inside, it's a strong starter. photo credit: Sarah Newman Chicken Teriyaki A char-grilled chicken breast is coated in a sweet-but-balanced teriyaki glaze. Reliable, but not memorable. photo credit: Sarah Newman Sushi & Sashimi Platter A standard mix of nigiri and sashimi—tuna, yellowtail, salmon, albacore, tobiko, ikura, surf clam, and white fish. For sashimi lovers, it’s a safe choice, with no surprises. PlayMute video credit: Sarah Newman Tuna Maguro Skip unless you like sticking to the basics. This nigiri is mild but doesn’t bring much personality. Yellowtail Hamachi This nigiri has a buttery texture with a soft finish. Decent, but we’ve had much better." - Jacinta Howard