Oishi Japanese Restaurant & Bar

Walking into Oishi Japanese Restaurant & Bar feels like slipping into a familiar neighborhood spot that just happens to do Japanese cuisine really well. I’ve eaten here more times than I can count, usually after a long drive up US-1, and it’s become one of those places I recommend without hesitation when friends ask where to eat in Scarborough. Located at 285 US-1, Scarborough, ME 04074, United States, it’s easy to get to, with parking that doesn’t feel like a puzzle, which already sets a relaxed tone before you even sit down.

The menu strikes a balance between comfort and creativity. You’ll see the expected favorites like sushi rolls, tempura, and teriyaki, but there’s also enough variety to keep regulars interested. One night I watched a couple at the next table split a sushi boat, while a family nearby stuck to bento boxes, and both seemed equally happy. That range matters. According to data from the National Restaurant Association, menus that offer familiar items alongside more adventurous options tend to earn higher repeat-visit rates, and this place is a textbook example of that idea in action.

What stands out most is the consistency. I’ve ordered the same spicy tuna roll on different visits, months apart, and it’s been remarkably steady in flavor and presentation. That kind of reliability doesn’t happen by accident. In traditional Japanese kitchens, chefs train for years to master knife skills and rice preparation, and while this isn’t a formal sushi academy, the discipline shows. Properly seasoned sushi rice, for example, requires precise ratios of vinegar, sugar, and salt, a process explained in detail by culinary institutions like the Japanese Culinary Academy. You can taste that care here.

The bar side of the restaurant adds another layer. On one visit, I asked the server about sake options, and instead of a rushed answer, I got a quick breakdown of dry versus sweet profiles and a recommendation that actually fit what I was eating. That kind of service builds trust. Beverage pairing isn’t just a trend; studies published in food science journals have shown that complementary drinks can enhance perceived flavor in meals, and it’s clear the staff understands that principle even if they don’t talk about it in technical terms.

Reviews from locals back up my experiences. Scroll through online feedback and you’ll see repeated mentions of friendly staff, fresh fish, and portions that feel fair for the price. No restaurant is perfect, and a few reviewers note that peak hours can mean a short wait, especially on weekends. From my perspective, that’s a reasonable trade-off for a place that cooks to order rather than rushing plates out. If timing is tight, calling ahead or opting for an earlier dinner usually solves the problem.

What also deserves mention is how the restaurant fits into the local dining scene. Scarborough has grown quickly, and with growth comes a flood of new dining options. Yet this spot has held its ground, which says a lot. Longevity in the restaurant world is often cited by industry experts as one of the strongest indicators of quality, since poorly run places rarely survive beyond a few years. Seeing familiar faces among the staff on repeat visits reinforces that sense of stability.

From a practical standpoint, the location makes it convenient for both locals and travelers passing through southern Maine. Whether you’re stopping in after work or making it a planned dinner destination, the atmosphere stays casual and welcoming. The lighting is warm, the seating comfortable, and the noise level manageable enough to actually hold a conversation, something that’s surprisingly rare these days.

My own experience has been shaped by small moments: a server remembering my usual order, a chef adjusting a roll when I asked for less sauce, and meals that left me satisfied without feeling overstuffed. There’s always room for improvement, like expanding seasonal specials or highlighting local seafood more explicitly, but those are minor gaps rather than deal-breakers. As it stands, the restaurant delivers what it promises: dependable Japanese food, thoughtful service, and a place that feels easy to return to again and again.