Japanese Village has improved since they moved into this new upstairs location on 10 Avenue and 4 St SW. It took over the old Cannery Row location.
One thing I've noticed when you sit around the teppanyaki (cooking table), the vents work so much better now. I used to walk away smelling like the cooked food in the old restaurant but now it's much better. I appreciate eating there more.
The best thing about Japanese Village is the STEAK SAUCE!! Yes, this steak sauce is phenomenal. Have you been there at lunchtime? People around the table put their rice bowls in front of the chef to have him put the steak sauce right on top of their rice - thus, the term "Rice Soup"!!! Yes, it's that good! It goes good with anything.
I usually have the Teriyaki Beef and Shrimp and it only costs $8.95 at lunchtime. There are different combos you can get. The more expensive steak cuts are also available like filet mignon and New York strip. Not only do you get the beef and shrimp, you get a choice of soup (shabu-shabu soup) or green salad with ginger dressing, lots of stir-fry veggies, a bowl of rice and a cup of green tea to wash all the food down. What a deal!
I understand that parking in the evening is validated by the restaurant. Ask the restaurant more about this.