Wild Goji Revolving Sushi & Bar

Reviews

• ★★★★½ Tuna Tataki Seared Scallop Shiitake Mushroom Takoyaki Squid Salad Seared Salmon Yakaniku Beef Visited Dec 3, 2024

  Decent Selections, Decent Quality, Many Portions Are Single Piece, Prices Are A Bit High.

  Wild Goji recently transitioned from a ramen and dim sum spot into a revolving sushi bar. Like many conveyor-belt sushi restaurants, diners sit in booths as sushi plates glide by, each color-coded to indicate pricing. A menu provides details, and the total cost is based on the number of plates selected.
  
  I hadn't been impressed by Wild Goji in its previous incarnation. After one overpriced, unmemorable visit, I never went back. Curious to see if the conversion made a difference, my friend and I gave it another shot.
  
  The change was immediately apparent. Gone was the dimly lit space. In its place was a bright, colorful dining area with booths lining the conveyor belt. The layout had shifted with the kitchen at the back, and a dining area that spanned the width of the location. A kiosk greeted guests at the entrance, along with a flavored water dispenser. We were seated promptly, but a line quickly formed behind us, which I had never seen at the previous restaurant.
  
  The Food
  
  Takoyaki (3 pieces, $2.95)
  The takoyaki was decent but not exceptional. I expected the usual molten-hot interior, but these were warm and slightly thick instead of creamy. They lacked the punchy texture and flavor I enjoy.
  
  Beef Yakiniku (1 piece, $4.25)
  Flavorful but not outstanding, the yakiniku was tender and topped with a rich sauce. At this price, I expected more than one piece, especially since other places offer better value for similar or quality.
  
  Tuna Tataki (2 pieces, $4.25)
  The tuna tataki was the standout dish. Perfectly seared with a peppery crust and drizzled with ponzu, it delivered an excellent blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The buttery, tender texture placed it among the best I've had.
  
  Shiitake Mushroom Pocket (1 piece, $4.25)
  Despite being meatless, the shiitake mushroom pocket impressed me, with its rich, sautéed flavor and chewy texture. However, the portion size felt overpriced, as mushrooms are a less expensive protien.
  
  Torched Sea Scallop with Mayo (1 piece, $4.25)
  Surprisingly good, the scallop was tender, with a buttery, grilled flavor that paired well with the creamy mayo.
  
  Squid & Seaweed Salads (each $2.95)
  Both salads were enjoyable, though not standout dishes. The squid salad could have used more seasoning, while the seaweed salad had a good crunch without being overly salty or fishy like some places. Fairly priced and a good filler between sushi, they both earned a respectable score due to their flavor, price, and portion size.
  
  Overall Experience
  We continued sampling more plates, including additional tuna tataki, torched salmon with mayo, and tuna avocado rolls. Nothing fell below a 8/10, with many items exceeding expectations.
  
  While the flavors were a step above most all-you-can-eat (AYCE) sushi spots, the price felt a bit steep. I would likely have spent $10 less at an AYCE sushi place for a comparable amount of food, with only a few items making this restaurant score above the best AYCE restaurants which are priced around $30 a person.
  
  Conclusion
  
  Wild Goji's new concept is a definite improvement, with fresh flavors and a vibrant atmosphere. Though a bit pricey, the quality of many items make it worth an occasional visit.
  I wouldn’t hesitate to return, though price remains the only drawback.

  — Paul

• ★★★★½ Asparagus Bacon Skewer Shitake Mushroom Skewer Shoyu Ramen Visited Mar 13, 2019

  First Time Trying Wild Goji

  This was my first time eating at Wild Goji, and I decided to try a few of their skewers along with a bowl of ramen. I started with the shiitake mushroom skewer, which cost $2, the bacon-wrapped asparagus for $3, and the pork belly skewer that was $2. I was surprised the shitake skewer only had two small mushrooms on it. The asparagus skewer was similar with just two small pieces of asparagus wrapped in bacon. Both portions were far smaller than expected.
  
  The pork belly skewer was a better value in comparison. It consisted of cubes of pork belly cooked until the edges were golden brown and starting to crisp. It was probably the largest portion of the three skewers, and surprisingly, it cost the same as the mushrooms.
  
  The ramen was a much more substantial portion, although still smaller than what I've received at some other ramen restaurants. The price was about average compared to other places, and the flavor was good.
  
  The meal wasn't particularly expensive, and everything tasted good, but the portion sizes left me wanting more. Unless you're a light eater, you'll probably need to order several skewers and other items to feel full. Wild Goji has some good flavors, but be prepared to order more than you might expect to get a satisfying meal.

  — Paul