In Burien, where sushi dreams were once dashed by closures, hope has returned. We’ve updated this guide to our favorite Japanese restaurant resurrections. These spots—some with new names or locations—vanished, leaving our chopsticks idle and hearts heavy. Now, they’re back, greeting us like long-lost friends at the airport. From intimate izakayas to bustling ramen shops, here are the 19 best that have triumphantly returned to our tables.
Manna Teriyaki
$ | (206) 431-8891 | WEBSITE
What it was: A casual spot in Burien that served satisfying Japanese fusion from a kitchen that clearly knew its way around flavor. Manna Teriyaki’s Bento #2, along with the friendly service and clean space, became one of our go-to spots for a reliable, filling meal. The sweet chicken and pork fried rice were consistently tender and flavorful, and the Szechuan chaap was absolutely delicious for the price.
The simple chic decor with those comfortable pink chairs was a nice touch in the low-key setting. It’s the kind of place where you get generous portions without the fuss—just good value and tasty food, like those excellent vegetable samosas with mint chutney or the perfectly seasoned spicy noodles. A solid choice when you want something that hits the spot.
Umai sushi &teriyaki
$ | (206) 624-2511 | WEBSITE
What it is: Umai Sushi & Teriyaki is a cozy takeout spot that serves the kind of satisfying comfort food one might crave after a long day. It opened in the early 2020s—a time when hidden gems and quick-service eateries became neighborhood staples. It remains open today, tucked away at Pike Place, offering about six seats for those who want to eat in, though most customers grab their food to enjoy at home or in their hotel rooms.
The salmon fried rice and shrimp fried rice are standout options, with flavors that truly linger—many describe them as an explosion of taste. The chicken katsu with katsu sauce is another highlight, alongside the beef, chicken, and pork ribs. The staff is super friendly and welcoming, providing quick service that leaves visitors feeling satisfied.
With a mix-and-match bowl and a buffet-style option that offers great value, it’s a place where the smoked salmon-fried rice and general tsao’s chicken come highly recommended. Overall, Umai Sushi & Teriyaki delivers tasty food and friendly service in a snug, no-frills setting.
Yak’s Teriyaki
$ | (206) 343-9505 | WEBSITE
What it was: A Burien staple for authentic Japanese teriyaki. Customers were always satisfied, the portions were generous, and you never knew when the owner would stop by to make sure everything was perfect. Sadly, the original location closed after a rent hike, and the new spot never quite captured the same magic.
Asia Ginger Teriyaki Restaurant
$ | (206) 264-0500 | WEBSITE
What it is: A Burien staple that serves the best teriyaki chicken in the area for years. It’s unapologetically no-frills and famous for its nicely charred, tender chicken and flavorful egg rolls. It has a loyal following who appreciate the great portions at reasonable prices, though some wish for more side options like steamed vegetables or shredded cabbage.
Musashi’s
$ | (425) 301-3292 | WEBSITE
What it is now: Musashi’s. When the original owners moved on, they passed the torch to chefs determined to honor the classics while adding their own creative spin. Now we have this hybrid creation that surprisingly clicks. Somehow, both the traditional nigiri and the inventive rolls feel like main attractions (and the hamachi kama is as satisfying as it’s ever been).
Migoto
$$ | (206) 329-1112 | WEBSITE
What it is: A cozy retreat for sushi lovers seeking comfort. It’s where you give yourself a food coma from indulging in fresh delights like the wonderful coho salmon. Touching the 3D cherry blossom painting could give you a sense of calm. It’s a place where everyone can be relaxed and content, with low-fi music setting the perfect sushi mood and the chef treating visitors like family.
Woks Teriyaki
$ | (206) 762-5030 | WEBSITE
What it was: Woks Teriyaki began as a humble family-run spot catering to factory workers before it grew into a beloved teriyaki destination in Burien. Their menu revolves around generously portioned comfort food, but it also includes lots of Korean specialties, like spicy pork bulgogi, seafood soft tofu stew, and stone pot bibimbap. The flavors are well-balanced and homemade, avoiding overpowering artificial seasonings.
The atmosphere is straightforward and functional, typical of a fast-food-style teriyaki joint, but the restaurant maintains a clean, welcoming environment. With ample free parking and prices that stay under $15 for most dishes, Woks Teriyaki is a delightful blend of authentic flavors and efficient service, making it a noteworthy spot for anyone craving quality teriyaki and more.
Urara Japanese Cuisine
$$ | (206) 451-5914 | WEBSITE
What it was: A hidden gem tucked away near Pike Market that developed a loyal following thanks to its authentic Japanese comfort food. We tried their spider roll, loved it, and then discovered it’s considered the best in Washington state. Perfect.
Asian table
$ | (253) 277-3046 | WEBSITE
What it was: A bright Burien spot with a clean, welcoming environment and a good food safety rating. It quickly became a go-to for satisfying Asian cuisine—a place for generous portions, fresh hot meals, and everything in between. The lunch service was always a reliably great place to get your money’s worth with leftovers and strike up a conversation with the friendly staff. Then, it abruptly closed due to mismanagement.
Onibaba by Tsukushinbo
$$ | (206) 467-4004 | WEBSITE
What it is now: A more refined version of its cozy self. It’s improved the lighting and curated the playlist, and had the restaurant version of a glow-up. Dishes on the menu showcase the kitchen’s creativity without going over the top. The ramen is exceptional, the onigiri offerings are innovative, and the dashi ochazuke with shrimp tempura is a hit. Overall, things are more polished now, and we like this new version better.
Grillbird
$ | (206) 402-4388 | WEBSITE
What it was: The Japanese spot in West Seattle when it opened in 2026 inside the unassuming strip mall location. It was compact and always busy. The menu was full of comfort food hits: chicken teriyaki, crispy chicken, and a standout burger for a satisfying meal. It became a go-to for takeout. The staff was consistently kind, with one server named Devyn bringing positive energy to every interaction.
The easy ordering through the toast app made it a convenient choice for families in a rush, with orders ready in about 15 minutes. Parking was limited to about eight spots, so arriving early was wise. The food arrived warm and crispy, with generous portions that made it a favorite for carry-out or dining in.
Yuzen Japanese Cuisine
$$ | (206) 275-3310 | WEBSITE
What it was: A clean, nice spot that’s not your average sushi place, but a high-quality option near Seattle/Bellevue. The friendly staff did the most they could with the straightforward space, serving amazing food that included outstanding sushi rolls, udon, and a ridiculously good fried oysters appetizer. The Hiyashi Wakame seaweed salad was great too. A must-visit for sushi lovers looking for top-notch quality.
Happy Teriyaki Des Moines
$ | (253) 941-6096 | WEBSITE
What it is now: Still a place for quick teriyaki—only now the service is mainly for to-go orders instead of sit-down dining. You’ll still get generous portions of perfect chicken and rice with that just-right sauce, but there might be smaller portions for certain dishes like the short ribs. Recent management has kept it tasty, but it’s certainly more modern (and pricier).
Soho Teriyaki(Kent)
$ | (253) 854-1977 | WEBSITE
What it is now: A straightforward spot, right there on a main road in Kent. They have a full menu available, but the chicken teriyaki is still the thing to order. It’s one of the most satisfying and flavorful dishes in Burien right now. The perfectly cooked rice is still on the plate, too.
Bro’s Teriyaki #2
$ | (206) 793-3562 | WEBSITE
What it is: A teriyaki spot that started as a local favorite before it became a weekend destination, where it consistently draws crowds and reliably satisfies cravings. Then, Bro’s Teriyaki #2 emerged as the rare place open on Sundays, making it the go-to for those weekend teriyaki fixes.
Fort St. George
$$ | (206) 382-0662 | WEBSITE
What it is now: Spiritually, a classic Japanese comfort spot, with old cartoons and anime playing on the big TV. But it’s also a slightly impossible vibe to replicate elsewhere, thanks to a level of atmosphere your local neighborhood joint never quite captures. The bento box is the reason for that vibe. It’s the most satisfying, well-balanced meal we’ve ever enjoyed.
ASIA GINGER TERIYAKI & ROLL
$ | (206) 682-2444 | WEBSITE
What it is now: A Burien spot that still feels essential. Gone are the days of fussy plating and lengthy waits (but loyal regulars can still find their generous chicken teriyaki). The restaurant, run by the same friendly staff, feels more efficient (and affordable). Reviving a neighborhood favorite is a delicate balance. Expectations shift and standards evolve. But after some recent hiccups, Asia Ginger Teriyaki & Roll still feels like a reliable choice.
Okinawa Teriyaki
$ | (206) 447-2648 | WEBSITE
What it is now: A neighborhood gem. We still wish for a day when Okinawa Teriyaki expands to more locations. But for now, you can find them at their current spot in Burien, open daily. The extensive menu has some standout dishes, a couple of vegetarian options, and the same yakisoba and katsu favorites.
Konich’s Teriyaki
$ | (206) 878-4860 | WEBSITE
What it is now: One of the most exciting spots in Burien. Konich’s Teriyaki is what happens if you give your beloved casual Japanese joint a cozy, simple setting and permission to pack their teriyaki with bold, well-rounded sauces. It’s delicious, satisfying, and you can spend under $20 per person for generous portions that serve two to three people.