. . "2013-06-30T00:00:00"^^ . "1"^^ . "I am originally from Japan and this is one of a few Japanese restaurants I love in Phoenix mainly for the following 2 reasons.\n\n1. I can find real authentic Japanese dishes (including sushi) with good quality in a wide variety.\n2. All are reasonably priced.\n\nWhen I say real sushi, I talk about the quality of fish, not about sushi rolls which I don't find in Japan. Well, a few simple sushi rolls like tekka maki (tuna rolls) but definitely not anything like california, spider, rainbow rolls etc. except at fast food style low end restaurants. In Japan I go to both low end ($20-30 per person) and high end ($200-300 or up) sushi restaurants.\n\nSushi Ken's sushi has quality of a decent sushi restaurant in Japan. It's a really good thing as it seems hard to get fresh fish in Phoenix. First time I had their sashimi lunch set, I was impressed by the quality of the fish. So my guess is they have at least one Japanese real sushi chef who knows fish. In Japan, chefs have licenses and specialized in certain areas (such as sushi, Japanese, ramen, etc.) and are trained for years. (like in the movie \"Jiro Dreams of Sushi\")\n\nAs for the cost performance, I recommend their appetizer & noodle combo($12.5). It's really a good deal considering some of the appetizers are not really appetizer size. I had chirashi sushi (assorted sashimi on sushi rice) for appetizer twice and it's quite filling by itself, then it's followed by a big bowl of ramen. I couldn't finish all of my food. This combo menu was not in the menu but on the wall.\n\nI noticed some people complained about the waitresses there. I so far haven't had any problems with their service. I've been there for 3 times. They were friendly and quick. I don't think it's because I'm Japanese as they were nice to others too. Maybe I just haven't met the notorious waitress yet. \n\nI'm so excited about going back to Sushi Ken soon. And I recommend this place to all who love authentic Japanese food."^^ . "7"^^ . "5"^^ . "0"^^ . .