Aoi Japanese Restaurant & Bar
Inside APA Hotel, 120 S Wood Ave, Iselin
(732) 635-7146
Recent Reviews
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We arrived 10 minutes early for our 7:30 reservation. Stood and waited 15 minutes (literally, no seats) and never saw a hostess or single employee serve any customers the whole time we were there, besides the bartender who asked if we had a reservation and told us to wait. There were many tables open and no one else waiting so I don’t see why we couldn’t have been sat. Seeing as no one seated was being served either, we decided to leave.
Atmosphere: 3
Service: 1
Ben and Jennifer were absolutely amazing! Top notch service and very knowledgeable. We came here for the first time three years for an anniversary and I had stumbled on it when looking for omakase online. We traveled 30 minutes plus but totally worth it. Today we brought my sister in law and she absolutely fell in love with it. Chefs choice never ceases to amaze and let’s not even mention the amazing Suntory Premium Malt (hard to find in Jersey) highly recommend and definitely will be back. This is a nice treat for us at minimum once a year since it’s a bit of a drive but totally worth it!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Our anniversary dinner and absolutely did not disappoint. It was by far one of the best and authentic Japanese restaurants we tried in Jersey. The other great one was Tomo’s in East Hanover but it’s closed. I’m just beyond thrilled that we’ve found our go-to place from now on. They have real Japanese chefs making sushi/sashimi, and their appetizers are as good as they get. I do not mind paying a little more for the quality and authenticity! The service was top notch as well.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 5
Very attentive and kind service by Japanese waitress. Great sushi made by Japanese chef. Highly recommended.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
I ordered the Sukiyaki and it was just perfect!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
This is the most affordable and authentic Japanese sushi I’ve ever had in the U.S.!!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
The absolute worst service I've received in years. Whether it was the bartender for drinks and food or the manager no one was able to provide anything remotely close to service. It's really a shame because the food was good.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 4
Service: 1
If you want authentic Japanese and don't want to travel to NYC or northern Jersey, Aoi is the place to go. High quality sashimi and sushi. I always go for the Chirashi bowl. For rolls, I go with the caterpillar roll. They do omakase (I believe on the weekends only) and offer hot noodle soups and rice dishes. For dessert, you can never go wrong with the black sesame panacota!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Aoi Japanese Restaurant & Bar is an absolute gem! From the moment you step in, the atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with an authenticity that instantly transports you to Japan.
The fact that the owner, sushi chef, and staff are all Japanese really shines through in both the hospitality and the cuisine.
The food is nothing short of outstanding. Every bite was fresh, full of depth, and crafted with care. The menu is refreshingly authentic, offering a true taste of Japan that I have never found in NJ. Dining here honestly made me feel like I was on vacation in Japan without leaving town.
If you’re looking for exceptional Japanese food paired with a genuine cultural experience, Aoi is the place!
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Surprising find in Woodbridge. Hope this place does well so I can keep coming back! Fish was fresh, rice nicely seasoned and perfectly cooked.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Restaurantji Recommends
Lovely hidden gem in a hotel. Sushi is delicious and everyone is very friendly.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Very good Sushi, fine selection of Japanese whisky and a nice open kitchen to watch your Sushi being made for you.
Atmosphere: 4
Food: 5
Service: 4
Great food and service, happy hour recommended for best prices.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Absolutely loved our experience at AOI Japanese Restaurant in the APA Hotel Woodbridge!
From start to finish, everything was perfect. We ordered the miso soup, two rolls, calamari, edamame, chicken, Shrimp Tempura (my fav) and finished with fried ice cream — both red bean and mango flavors. Every single dish was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The fried ice cream was the perfect sweet ending!
The atmosphere is cozy yet elegant, and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive — they really made us feel welcome and taken care of.
If you’re in the area or staying at the hotel, this place is a must-try. Can’t wait to come back again soon!
It was fantastic experience . Food was too tasty. Luke was amazing. Being a vegetarian , he helped me and guide to choose perfect items. Thank you luke.
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