Temari Cafe

1043 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852, United States

Temari Cafe
About the Company

Sushi, ramen & donburi served in a compact dining room reminiscent of authentic Japanese eateries.

Reviews
Review №1

Delicious and authentic Japanese food! I recommend you try it if you’re in the area. It’s not a big place, and they are limited on tables, if there is a wait, it’s worth it!

Published 24 days ago

Review №2

All time favorite place for Japanese comfort food and light fare. The staff is the best.

Published a month ago

Review №3

Personally, I haven’t went here yet. But my sister and dad rave about it all the time!

Published a month ago

Review №4

Very nice folks but the food is just ok. Perhaps better suited for someone looking for home-style meals but not for those searching for something a bit more elaborate in terms of flavors or presentation.

Published a month ago

Review №5

Published a month ago

Review №6

A cozy place with a great food. Their sashimi is very fresh. Strongly recommend this place!

Published 2 months ago

Review №7

Published 2 months ago

Review №8

Published 2 months ago

Review №9

This place is really great! I live in DC and have come out specifically for Temari twice. I think the best deal is the 'combo', which consists of one of several of the restaurant's specialties, like roasted fish, teriyaki, or a katsu don, plus a nice serving of sides and a big plate of chef's choice sashimi. Best deal for sure.

The restaurant does pretty much every Japanese dish you can imagine, whether it's teriyaki, a rice bowl (donburi), or something more specific. On this most recent trip, I had a shouga-don, which was a rice bowl with a bunch of stir fried pork on top. It was SUPER filling and very tasty.

I should also mention that one of my group got the combo every time, and the sashimi that was served has been top-notch every time! Melt-in-your-mouth level tuna and salmon, among others. A good way to go between two is for one to get the combo and the other get just a standard main, and then share everything. Comes out to about $30 each.

Published 2 months ago

Review №10

Published 2 months ago

Review №11

Fantastic authentic japanese food. Most people here in the restaurant speak Japanese themselves.

Published 2 months ago

Review №12

We found a long piece of VINYL in the ramen!!! It was my husband's first visit but we decided not to go there anymore.

Published 3 months ago

Review №13

Published 3 months ago

Review №14

Excellent Japanese food barely adapted for America. Unagi Donburi is great. They even have Sansho if you ask. A bit pricey, but well worth it.

Published 3 months ago

Review №15

Published 3 months ago

Review №16

Published 4 months ago

Review №17

Published 4 months ago

Review №18

Published 4 months ago

Review №19

Published 4 months ago

Review №20

Temari Cafe has a cozy and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with a comforting meal. The ramen with rich, flavorful broth and tender noodles were amazing!! However, the sashimi was slightly disappointing, as it didn’t seem as fresh. Overall, it’s a great spot for ramen and takoyaki .

Published 4 months ago

Review №21

Having just come back from Japan i was craving some good comfort japanese food. I've been here many times but on this occasion the vibe was different. It was lunch time rush so it was very crowded. Servers were nice but very busy so service was a bit slow.

I got the kaki furai but one of them still had pieces of shell inside. The appetizer that is included was more like an afterthought. Kitchen must have been slammed but so i can see how the quality control wasn't up to par.

Prices just seem to be always increasing. The kaki furai + sashimi combo was $29.95 for lunch. Quite pricey. Although they do give a lot of food and the sashimi was pretty tasty.
Skip the shaved ice because it's more like crushed ice. It's very hard to eat.

After tax and tip my lunch came out to $45.70 which is pretty crazy considering you can get this in Japan for like $20.

Anyways i still give them 4 stars because we need places like this to stay in business. Everything is either a chain or fine dining these days.

Published 4 months ago

Review №22

A comfortable clean cafe with friendly staff. The atmosphere was the closest I've had to cafes in Japan in the US. The food was delicious. I ordered the ramen. I will happily be back.

Published 4 months ago

Review №23

Arrived at 730pm, waited for more than an hr to be seated and get food

Published 5 months ago

Review №24

Small place and longer wait for food. Taste is very home-made and high quality, but the ramen broth was on the lighter side and prices are noticeably higher than expected. Service was great though.

Published 5 months ago

Review №25

Published 5 months ago

Review №26

Many times I went there, I ordered sashimi. The meat of the fish is always fresh. The place is quiet. It is good for a couple to enjoy meal there.

Published 6 months ago

Review №27

Traditional japanese style foods. Our family often comes here when we want to try japanese meals other than sushi/sashimi.

One downside is that the dinner table is way too small. For a family of 5+, this restaurant may not be a good choice.

Published 6 months ago

Review №28

Awesome. I asked a close friend who is a Japan-o-phile (she loves all things Japanese) where the most authentic Japanese restaurant in the area is. She said "Temari" without hesitation. So she and another friend and I went for lunch. She ordered for us in Japanese which was pretty cool.

The waitstaff is extraordinarily polite and fast. Tended to us really well.

And the food!!! I got a rice bowl with pork cutlet (I think). It was wonderful. And for dessert we got the strawberry mocchi in the attached photo. I've never had mocchi like this -- mostly fruit rather than just a sort of ice cream puff.

Will DEFINITELY return when we're in the area for lunch. I think my friend pegged this as a good pure Japanese restaurant.

Published 6 months ago

Review №29

Published 6 months ago

Review №30

Published 6 months ago

Review №31

Temari Cafe is a hole in the wall with great food. My favorite menu items are the teriyaki chicken, tonkatsu, and omurice. The potato salad is the absolute best.

Published 6 months ago

Review №32

Published 6 months ago

Review №33

Very good food.

Published 7 months ago

Review №34

The best authentic Japanese food!

Published 7 months ago

Review №35

Published 7 months ago

Review №36

My sister & I came here on my birthday and loved the food! As other reviewers have said it’s the closest I’ve found to restaurant or kissaten from Japan in the US. The service is attentive and top-notch, and everything is delicious and feels home-cooked in the best way possible. The curry was increadible, and loved the matcha shaved ice. I haven’t seen warabi mochi on other menus and was so excited to have it again. Everything was also very reasonably priced for the portion sizes.

Published 7 months ago

Review №37

Published 7 months ago

Review №38

Published 7 months ago

Review №39

A wonderful authentic Japanese restaurant. I lived in Japan for 3 years and this was a throwback to those days :)

Published 8 months ago

Review №40

Ok, so 5 stars on atmosphere is quite a stretch, but I'm going to defend it by saying the food should be at 10 stars - so it balances out.
If you are looking for real deal Japanese shokudo, definitely give this place a try. The menu is huge and varied, featuring everything from dishes anyone can recognize, to those items that some might feel are more adventurous. Everything is fresh and delicious!
It's a small restaurant, with usually a good wait, so definitely take the time to check out the Japanese market upstairs.

Published 8 months ago

Review №41

I’ve been coming to Temari Cafe for nearly a decade now & it continues to be one of my favorite restaurants of all time. The food is fantastic; everything on the menu. The service & staff are always friendly & incredibly fast & attentive. The location & atmosphere is so warm & cozy. It ticks all the boxes & I will continue to visit Temari as long as I can.

Published 8 months ago

Review №42

Published 8 months ago

Review №43

Absolutely phenomenal Japanese food. Best in the area.

Published 9 months ago

Review №44

Amazing little place in a location that has fierce competition. The quality of all the food was amazing while the service was fantastic even in a rush if people. The salad we got at the beginning was the best I've had in a Japanese restaurant. The miso soup had a really wonderful string flavor. The gyudon is the best I've had in the area. Usually at other places it'll just be the meat over white rice whereas here the rice had flavor to it which made the whole dish all the more better. The ramen broth was also subtle yet flavorful and the ramen noodles were top notch. Overall I'd 100% visit again

Published 9 months ago

Review №45

Delicious and authentic Japanese food

Published 9 months ago

Review №46

Published 9 months ago

Review №47

Published 9 months ago

Review №48

Published 9 months ago

Review №49

Published 9 months ago

Review №50

Published 9 months ago

Review №51

This cafe feels like Japan in America. If you have been to places like Kyoto and Osaka, you know what I mean.

It has very traditional foods that have flavors that are similar to restaurants in Japan. I believe a Japanese family runs the restaurant. Since a lot of the menu items are similar to Japanese cafes in Japan.

One thing though, it is very small, so your best bet at getting a seat and not waiting too long. Is to come right when it opens for breakfast or dinner.

Published 9 months ago

Review №52

Published 9 months ago

Review №53

Published 9 months ago

Review №54

Great place to go to if you're craving Japanese! The food is good and the staff is friendly, the only downside is that the restaurant is very small. Otherwise, its a very nice place to eat some Japanese food!

Published 9 months ago

Review №55

Published 10 months ago

Review №56

10/10 💟

Published 10 months ago

Review №57

Don't be fooled by this small restaurant's facade: it is some of the best food in the DMV. Although the space is small, the staff is incredibly considerate and welcoming. But the best part is the food. They give you free miso soup with a perfect depth and smokiness and a simple salad with a dressing i want to drink. I dream about their salmon teriyaki and katsu curry. Overall, can't go wrong here :))

Published 10 months ago

Review №58

They don’t accept customers who come with stroller

Published 10 months ago

Review №59

Published 10 months ago

Review №60

Published 10 months ago

Review №61

Delicious and authentic. I love this spot.

Published 10 months ago

Review №62

We came on a Friday evening and it was very crowded. Luckily there were two bar seats when we arrived but very soon after there was a line out the door. However, possibly due to the busyness, the service was quite slow in all respects, from getting our order taken, to water refills, to getting our food.

As for the food, I felt the Salmon Donburi was very good. The portion of salmon was quite good and the rice was very nicely seasoned and the flavors all paired very well with each other. I would say the sushi rolls were not worth it though. Not wrapped very well, and I felt like there was a bit too much rice compared to the fish on some pieces. The picture doesn't show but many of the sushi pieces had the thicker part of the fish visible from the top but on the bottom it was much smaller. I would say the donburi was about 4x the cost of a sushi roll, but I think had well over 4x the content, and also came with a soup and salad, so I'd definitely recommend that over the sushi.

Many other things to try here. If we come back, we will definitely try to avoid the peak times.

Published 10 months ago

Review №63

Went to Temari Cafe few times to dine in with my friend.

We liked their hospitality, and enjoyed enriched and comfy dishes that we will come back for more.

Published a year ago

Review №64

Published a year ago

Review №65

Published a year ago

Review №66

Published a year ago

Review №67

This place makes delicious Japanese home food and high quality sushi. They have Hokkaido uni lately, and it's an absolute treat. We have been coming here for over a decade and have never had a bad meal. The staff is kind and attentive on top of everything else.

Published a year ago

Review №68

THIS PLACE IS AMAZING!!! My favorite Japanese restaurant in Rockville hands down! I got the saba-sashimi combo and it was SO GOOD! I rarely write comments online, but this meal deserves one. Temari Cafe deserves a raving review!

Published a year ago

Review №69

Published a year ago

Review №70

Published a year ago

Review №71

Published a year ago

Review №72

Good food. Good service. Reasonable price.

Published a year ago

Review №73

Published a year ago

Review №74

Temari is our favorite Japanese restaurant in the state. They are always efficient and friendly, and the food is phenomenal. We tend to take out our food because it's a small restaurant, but the parking is easy.

Published a year ago

Review №75

This is a cozy place with really good food. The fish used for the sushi was really fresh. I also had the katsu curry which was tasty.

Published a year ago

Review №76

The food is so comforting and so good here. It’s best to come for lunch or right when they open for dinner to get a table without a wait. It’s a small place but the service is great and the food comes out quick and is delicious.

Published a year ago

Review №77

I’ve been going here for more than 10 years and the food is always consistent. It’s one of the few Japanese family owned restaurants in the area. My go to is the chicken karaage or the chicken katsu with curry rice. It does tend to get busy during peak times and on the weekends. You can expect to wait 20-30 minutes during busy times, but you can check out the Japanese grocery store upstairs while waiting.

The staff is attentive and quick to help if you have questions.

It’s easy to get in and out of the parking lot since it’s right off 355. Expect to spend at least $20-30 for a meal.

Published a year ago

Review №78

Published a year ago

Review №79

Published a year ago

Review №80

Published a year ago

Review №81

You'll only get better in Japan, or so I've heard. I haven't been to Japan to compare, so I love this place! The wait that people are talking about is much to do about nothing. Enjoy your company, enjoy your meal.

Published a year ago

Review №82

Far and away my favorite Japanese restaurant in the Rockville area. The menu and food are authentic (a lot of teishoku-style home cooking sets), and service is constantly excellent. Small dining area, and busy at peak times, but definitely worth a visit.

Published a year ago

Review №83

Best way to experience Japan is in this restaurant, through excellent food. Better than Japantown, San Francisco.

Published a year ago

Review №84

Published a year ago

Review №85

Great place, I wish there was less salt in their soups.

Published a year ago

Review №86

Owned by Japanese, but their food is not as authentic as I experienced in Japan for many years. Too pricey. Disappointed with taste of donkotsu Ramen and karaage.

Published a year ago

Review №87

Great food and service. Decent sized portions

Published a year ago

Review №88

Such a cute and delicious place to eat. The waitress was a very adorable lady who treats you so well it makes the dishes taste like home. A cozy and absolutely wonderful Japanese place, that boasts more than just your typical ramen and curry bowl!

Published a year ago

Review №89

Great Japanese food made by lovely Japanese people. It's a tiny restaurant so go early
The ramen and the fried chicken were incredible. Highly recommend!!

Published a year ago

Review №90

One of my favorite places to eat bar none, food is the best Japanese food I’ve had in the US - just as good as my time in Japan.

It’s nice to come here and practice basic Japanese with the wait staff and get authentic food that is reasonably priced.

Highly recommend the Mango or Melon soda and the Katsu Curry!

Published a year ago

Review №91

Published a year ago

Review №92

Boutique authentic Japanese cafe for a quick bite. Highly recommended!

Published a year ago

Review №93

Published a year ago

Review №94

💰: Not cheap. $23 ish for one serving of Katsu Curry Rice
🍛: But it tastes sooooooo good! Better than most of the Japanese restaurants in the area. It’s like Mom’s homemade style. 👍👍👍
💺: A pretty small store. Super busy around the lunch time.

Published a year ago

Review №95

Wow! We stumbled upon this small restaurant while picking up a battery at the Batteries Plus next door. We walked in at 2.00 pm for a late lunch and decided to give it a try! Unbelievably delicious, friendly and the restaurant was packed.

We will be back!!!

Published a year ago

Review №96

This hole-in-the-wall restaurant, in the Talbot Center strip mall on 355, offers truly authentic Japanese cuisine.

Though only 6 tables, a 5-seat counter, & dated decor, this Rockville mainstay serves up the best Japanese food in MoCo, either cooked or raw. And if it's not on the menu, they'll make it if they can.

The pricey dinners do come with tasty appetizers. Service is spotty during dinner hour, but grandma does her best.

Plenty of parking. Nice place to relax & enjoy.

Published a year ago

Review №97

Godd Japanese dishes in MD. It is good to visit next time.

Published a year ago

Review №98

Had the Tonkatsu and it was extremely delicious! Want to go back soon!

Published a year ago

Review №99

Wonderful little authentic Japanese restaurant that reminds me of my time in Japan. The two Japanese grandmas are so sweet. I had the Unadon (eel with rice) and it was delicious but a little pricey. I'm glad to have found this place so I can revisit the taste of Japan when I miss it!

Published a year ago

Review №100

Published a year ago

Review №101

The foods are great! The servers keep talking in a mixed of Japanese and English, which seems authentic! They are kind and professional. The place is small and has a bar seating.

Published a year ago

Review №102

I'm glad I stumbled upon this place when I was craving takoyaki. It is the closest to a real taste of japanese cuisine. This is easily one of my top 5 favorite spots in the DMV.

Though it is a tad expensive, it is worth every penny. The place is small compared to typical American dining spots. They typically close mid day/afternoon, so do keep it in mind when visiting. It's best to double check their hours. Since the place is small, and akin to that of a small family dinner - it is best to go in there before busy hours to grab a seat.

Every time I crave Japanese dishes especially my favorite katsu curry, this is my go to. I always recommend this to friends, and they are also very pleased with the experience. I highly recommend it if you love Japanese dishes that are not the usual ramen or sushi(though of course they offer these).

Tip: if you are waiting for your seat it's best to check out the grocery 'Maruichi' on top of the restaurant. Mariachi offers authentic Japanese goods.

Published a year ago

Review №103

Excellent food!! Great atmosphere. A bit slow on service, but there was 8 of us, so it’s to be understood!! Thank you for great Japanese comfort food and Sushi in Rockville!!

Published a year ago

Review №104

Published a year ago

Review №105

Avocado sushi was pretty good and good price. Right amount of rice and avocado. The karrake chicken not the best I’ve had compared to Akira. The batter they used wasn’t great and not crispy or it’s just not my style. The Chicken Katsu Donburi ($18.95) wasn’t that good! The rice was so mushy and the batter on the chicken fell off before I put the chicken into my mouth. It just didn’t deliver in taste and quality. Quite disappointing because I really wanted it to be good. Miso soup is really good! The dressing for the salad is superb! Brother ordered katsu and loved it.

Published a year ago

Review №106

We recently dined at The Temari Cafe. Although we observed limited vegetarian options and the staff's reluctance to modify menu items, everything else was excellent. The service was warm and welcoming, and the genuine Japanese ambiance set it apart. Unlike many eateries that mix Japanese elements with other culinary traditions, this cafe exuded an authentically Japanese aura. From the attentive service to the curated menu, it was markedly more Japanese than many venues we've frequented outside of Japan. The dishes, rich in traditional Japanese nuances, were imaginatively prepared, flavorful, and visually captivating, culminating in a delightful dessert. We eagerly anticipate our return to explore more of their offerings and hope to see an expanded vegetarian selection.

Published a year ago

Review №107

Authentic japanese fare. Been visiting for 20+years.

Published a year ago

Review №108

Tekka domburri. Tuna on rice. OMG. So good

Published a year ago

Review №109

Published a year ago

Review №110

Published a year ago

Review №111

This is a wonderful restaurant bringing the real Japanese culinary experiences to our neighborhood. The sushi quality is the best at relative reasonable prices. I would skip their tempura or fried food as the batter are too heavy. The services are attentive.

Published a year ago

Review №112

Some of the best Japanese food. Coming here every time I'm in Maryland for over 5 years.

Published a year ago

Review №113

Great little 💎!! Great food!

Published a year ago

Review №114

Published a year ago

Review №115

Friendly service, cozy environment, most importantly, excellent food. If you are a sushi/sashimi lover, you won’t find what they serve here at other places. Tremendous, family style curry, and you can see the care they put in their appetizers.

Published a year ago

Review №116

As always the food was delicious. I ordered a set meal that came with an entry, salad, soup, and rice. It's a hardy lunch. the wait staff is friendly and despite us being there in the middle of lunch rush they got our food to us quickly.

Published a year ago

Review №117

Published a year ago

Review №118

Delicious broiled atka mackere!

Published a year ago

Review №119

The food here is pretty good for the price. I had a Curry Katsu Chicken meal which wasn't too bad, but could have used a bit more spice. Also, I didn't give it 5 stars since I've been to Japan and know what the real stuff tastes like. I do recommend going here, though, as you won't find anything closer to Japan unless you actually go there.

Published a year ago

Review №120

A small cozy Japanese cafe that serves real authentic Japanese food. Excellent food, great service, feels of a little neighborhood family eatery in rural Japan. It does get busy over weekends.

Published a year ago

Review №121

Still the best in my list for authentic Japanese restaurant, just love the quality, service and atmosphere here.

Published 2 years ago

Review №122

Published 2 years ago

Review №123

Best Japanese food in the area, feels like you're in Japan

Published 2 years ago

Review №124

生姜焼き丼が良い

Published 2 years ago

Review №125

The food is okay and the space is too small. The service is nice.

Published 2 years ago

Review №126

Published 2 years ago

Review №127

Published 2 years ago

Review №128

The japanese lady who takes your order is the most endearing aspect of this experience. Bringing in the authentic Japanese customer service experience.

Published 2 years ago

Review №129

Really cute place with great food!

Published 2 years ago

Review №130

Great food
Fair prices
Not much you can’t like about this local Japanese run place.

Published 2 years ago

Review №131

First time I came to this place and let me tell you the food is delicious there is no denying that but it also look so much like the anime! So if you want food that you see a lot in the anime come here the restaurant is small but cute and cozy, the services is very good and friendly so I will definitely recommend this place and I will definitely come back here again!

Published 2 years ago

Review №132

Very pleasant place to have very delicious Japanese dishes. Come early, because the wait time could be long during peak hour, especially if more than 4 persons.

Published 2 years ago

Review №133

Published 2 years ago

Review №134

I sought out Temari for numerous reasons. The fact that this non-descript restaurant sits right below a small Japanese market and various review pictures depict really vibrant sushi entrees gives me high hopes that I may have found my go-to sushi place. But I am both pleased and dissappointed as I think my expectations may be too high.

What was pleasing is the sushi where I was surprised to see nice fatty yellowtail and what seems like chūtoro in the sashimi dinner portion that was ordered; the chirashi seemed small and lackluster though. What was dissappointing is the price (which I felt was high) and the seating (really small tables). While I cannot be certain, it seemed like the kitchen is super small so I wonder at times if the food is prepped elsewhere - which is not an issue at all. Again, I believe my expectations are too high as I was hunting for my go-to sushi haunt with awesome Japanese small plates and client-impressing sushi so I think my hunt continues.

Published 2 years ago

Review №135

Published 2 years ago

Review №136

Published 2 years ago

Review №137

Feels like a small place in Japan.

Published 2 years ago

Review №138

Been here for years.

Published 2 years ago

Review №139

Published 2 years ago

Review №140

Published 2 years ago

Review №141

Published 2 years ago

Review №142

Kind busy Saturday afternoon, may need to wait a bit to be seated, appetizer was really delicious. Decent amount of rice and miso soup.

Published 2 years ago

Review №143

Published 2 years ago

Review №144

Published 2 years ago

Review №145

Published 2 years ago

Review №146

Always so delicious and high quality!

Published 2 years ago

Review №147

Published 2 years ago

Review №148

We used to have business in this area and the last place we usually visited before heading home was Temari. It's a small little place in a strip mall so we really wasn't sure what we were getting into but what a find!
The wife loves katsu curry and I always picked up the omu rice. Not sure if it's the same as the last time I've been here but the omu rice was about the size of a football and I could never finish it in one sitting. Wish there was a place back home in Delaware that served this, but I have not found one yet. Same thing with the wife's favorite curry katsu. Most places have the tonkatsu, but without the curry. A shame since this is delicious.
They have other items on the menu, but we generally only went there for our favorites, even if we only did takeout before returning home. This is a cozy little place that's greater than what it appears on the outside.

Published 2 years ago

Review №149

First of all, the service is exceptional. Friendly, attentive, but not intrusive.

The food itself was great. Everything from the appetizers to sushi / sashimi to karaage / katsu to ramen - you can't go wrong.

Great for lunch / dinner / casual date-night / small groups. I wouldn't go there with a group any bigger than four if I could help it, especially during peak lunch or dinner hours.

Published 2 years ago

Review №150

The food was great. If you are looking for a quick lunch, be early as there was a wait for seating while we were there during a week day. It's very popular.

Service was friendly and food arrived quick and hot. Visiting the area but would visit again next time I'm that way!

The strawberry kakigori was great!

Published 2 years ago

Review №151

Authentic Japanese restaurant. Great food and welcoming staff.

Published 2 years ago

Review №152

The most authentic Japanese food in the dmv area , in my humble opinion. Delicious and comforting, with large portions as well!
Pictured is the kaki combo, and the karaage which was extra hot and freshly fried

Published 2 years ago

Review №153

I find the Ramen is not really good compare to some I had before but the pork kusu was ok .. tempura is good.

Published 2 years ago

Review №154

I have been going to this cafe for almost 20 years. This is as authentic as it gets for Japanese food. I have a usual order and my second usual order if I don't feel like having the first one. The servers here are so nice and accommodating. The one thing I wish they had was more seating because everytime I want to go and have lunch or dinner, it is always quite packed. After my meal, I usually go upstairs to Maruichi and get some snacks and groceries.

Published 2 years ago

Review №155

Had an amazing Lunch, I was in a bit of a hurry to get in and out to finish running errands but the staff were super welcoming, attentive, and friendly; genuinely made me feel comfortable dining there.

I had the Katsu Donburi, tasted just like home where I used to live in an area with a large Japanese population. Will absolutely be coming back anytime I’m in the area.

Published 2 years ago

Review №156

Some of the most authentic Japanese food I've had stateside. Ordered the Katsu Curry and was not disappointed. They have authentic Kakigori (shaved ice) as well. Highly recommended!

Published 2 years ago

Review №157

it good

Published 2 years ago

Review №158

Excellent Japanese food and great service.

Published 2 years ago

Review №159

Published 2 years ago

Review №160

The fish quality was top notch. My husband who is picky liked it a lot.

Published 2 years ago

Review №161

Temari is a rather small restaurant, so expect a wait if you go for dinner on the weekend! The servers are all very friendly and will refill your tea with a cheery attitude. The food was homey and filling. They don't serve anything too fancy. Everything is more of a comfort meal. I came here on the recommendation of a coworker who said the food here was the best Japanese food they've had in the states outside of Hawaii. The fish there is served very fresh as well. It definitely serves as a good hole in the wall.

Published 2 years ago

Review №162

I love this place. I've been living in NOVA area for more than 10 years and I cannot believe I didn't know about this place. After my trip to Japan, I started to researching about real Japanese food near DC area. I was so used to going Korean/Japanese restaurants and I was kinda tired of it. I know LA and NY have many real Japanese restaurants but I doubt that DC area has real one. I finally found this restaurant and I've been going there twice so far within couple weeks and I am making a trip back to here later this week. The service is great. The waitress there very friendly like Japanese people in Japan. They repeat "Thank you very much" every time they come to you. The food is little pricey compare to other restaurant but since I love the food there I think it's so worth it. I am coming from Centreville, VA so there's little distance but I don't mind driving there to get good quality of food. I am pretty sure I will visit this restaurant again.

Published 2 years ago

Review №163

best authentic Japanese in the area

Published 2 years ago

Review №164

Published 2 years ago

Review №165

Food presentation was great and delicious. Staff were very friendly and accurate with taking orders, especially with larger groups. The dining area is small, so if you have a large group I recommend to call ahead.

Published 2 years ago

Review №166

March 2023 updated:
This time the experience really questions my previous review on this restaurant. I had uni, toro(fatty tuna), and salmon. All the sushi pieces are below average. Uni was charged $12/a piece, but it tasted like a $3 piece. The Toro is amazing. The salmon is meh, I had better ones in a sushi buffet.

On the entree , I ordered beef filet, that was definitely over cooked to well done. It was not pleasant to chew through the whole thing. The salad and soup are free , but the salad lettuce is very bitter, and the soup I can taste the residuals from the miso (powder?)

Overall, in combination with low quality of food, the long wait and high prices, I reduce the rating from 5 stars to 3.

Previous reviews (during pandemic):

In this restaurant , they really value the quality of food, not only I taste the effort they put into making my dish (curry is very well done, sushi is delicious), I taste the effort they put into the side dishes as well. Like the reddish color thing in the picture (fermented plum?) ... I ordered a sashimi combo and the various side dishes are perfectly done, and they will be the reason I keep going back. It reminds me of the taste in Japan, people really put thought into making their food. I asked why don't they put their restaurant on Uber eat or Doordash, they said they want to keep the food delivery at the highest standard and these apps aren't holding it. Needless to say, their are still very busy with people call in for pickups .

Published 2 years ago

Review №167

Published 2 years ago

Review №168

Published 2 years ago

Review №169

Published 2 years ago

Review №170

Published 2 years ago

Review №171

Seems a popular place to dine.
Visited them specifically for the Katsu curry.
Nice….

Published 2 years ago

Review №172

Published 2 years ago

Review №173

Authentic Japanese food and experience.

Published 2 years ago

Review №174

I went in with high hopes considering that most of the places on Rockville Pike are great places to eat. From all of the reviews I thought that Temari would be a no brainer but I was sadly mistaken. I ordered the chashu ramen and a California roll with tobico. The pork in the ramen is chewy at best and the egg was fully boiled. The California roll had rice that was like porridge and had the consistency of mochi rice before being totally beaten. I will not be going back...

Published 2 years ago

Review №175

Published 2 years ago

Review №176

Five Stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great food and service. I tried the ramen (I have also had the sashimi special, very good.) and it was delicious. The sushi and other choices on the menu looked delicious too. It was s busy Saturday afternoon and everyone there was enjoying the food. This is definitely a local favorite. There is a Japanese grocery store just above the restaurant. Check that out after you eat. Great location on Rockville Pike and plenty of parking. Check the menu and the hours online before your arrival. Enjoy!

Published 2 years ago

Review №177

Authentic Japanese food in the area

Published 2 years ago

Review №178

We used to eat at Temari Cafe a lot before Covid, but now we mostly get takeout. They have excellent Japanese dishes, everything tastes good and they pack the takeout dishes very nicely.

Published 2 years ago

Review №179

A super cozy place with yummy food and great service. Came here with a friend for an impromptu dinner just before 8pm on a Friday, and this place was packed. We weren't sure we would get a table, but were told that we could wait for a little while. While waiting, the server came to take our order so it would be ready when we were seated - that was a really nice touch (and very efficient of them!).

I think we caught them at the end of their dinner rush because sure enough, a couple of tables cleared out shortly after. We were shown to our table (they actually just pointed in a general direction but we got the idea) and lo and behold, the drinks we had ordered were already on the table and the spicy tuna sushi we ordered arrived shortly after. We honestly weren't expecting much when they took our order ahead of time but they took it very seriously, which was fantastic. The beer was served in a chilled glass, which was a nice touch.

Spicy tuna was very nice. I had ordered the tonkatsu curry - the rice was sticky rice, which was great, and the curry came with onions as well as more unbreaded, tender chunks of pork (in addition to the tonkatsu!). My friend had the teriyaki, which she said was wonderful - she pointed out that usually teriyaki was drenched in this syrupy sauce but this sauce was lighter and thinner, which was much more to her taste. Everything was very yummy.

Service was very attentive, would let us know which of the jars on the table were soy sauce without us having to wonder. Despite us finishing our meal close to closing, they didn't once rush us and even asked if we wanted dessert! I don't know how to describe this experience but everything was very homey and cozy. Would definitely visit again.

Published 2 years ago

Review №180

Published 2 years ago

Review №181

Published 2 years ago

Review №182

唐揚雞太乾…

Published 2 years ago

Review №183

The Japanese food and service are excellent. The futomaki reminds me of how my family made it for New Years here and California.

Published 2 years ago

Review №184

Cozy eatery with wonderful Japaneses cuisine! Loved the curry, ramen, and fried oyster.

Published 2 years ago

Review №185

日本人オーナーがやっているだけあってちゃんとした日本食が食べられます。食材の違いのため全ての料理が日本とまったく同じ味とは言いませんが、アメリカ滞在中の日本食の恋しさを紛らわせてくれることは間違いありません。日本人御用達ですので、行くとたいてい日本人に会えます。ついでに2階にあるマルイチで買い物して帰るパターンが多いです。

Published 2 years ago

Review №186

Don’t go here . Awful place ! Awful Onwer older lady !
My dinner with my family tonight in this restaurant. Our bill are 90.5 before tax . After tax are 96 for my dinner .

When you tips then 17% the boss and server are not satisfied and chase after me say hey . My boss is mad say tips not enough give $20dollar more !
If you need $20 for some other reason I will help you out but not coming over tell me I have to ! . Which total is 37% !!!!!! Didn’t give awesome service but expect more than what you do !
Don’t every go here
Bad food bad service bad attitude !
I

Published 2 years ago

Review №187

Love this restaurant, owned by Japanese. Food is great, no complaints about their services. If you love sushi, you will love this restaurant.

Published 2 years ago

Review №188

Great service. Food was ok, price is way too high.

Let me start by saying that service was very good. Was greeted at door and given time to choose my order. Everyone was very nice. I came in for my first time with the intention of ordering a chicken katsu donburi bowl.

The first thing to arrive was a small side salad which was pleasant and the most flavorful thing I had that night.

The main dish itself arrived with a bowl of miso soup. The soup was extremely watered down and barely tasted of anything. The donburi itself was comprised of the chicken katsu, some sporadic scrambled egg pieces, and some slightly cooked onions. The rice beneath had only a mild flavor added to it and for the most part tasted of nothing. Once I had finished the chicken and egg pieces the remaining rice and onions had less flavor than I would anticipate.

Overall this would not have been a terrible experience if this were a cheap eat place. But the fact that the Donburi and miso soup cost $20 when the most expensive thing might've been the few strips of chicken on top, left a bad taste in my mouth. I'm fully aware that inflation is affecting but it still was disappointing. My hope is that I have caught this place at an off time and that maybe I should've ordered something different. I am willing to try again and will update my review if/when I do. For now I would just say keep expectations tempered.

Published 2 years ago

Review №189

Published 2 years ago

Review №190

Everything is friggin' awesome. Everything! They make great omurice and seasonal dishes. Try it all.

Published 2 years ago

Review №191

Delightful. Food was top notch as usual.
Been going to this place since when there were no ramen shops in Rockville at all and they never disappoint me with authentic Japanese cuisine.
A Japanese owned business, there is also a Japanese store above the restaurant from the other side of the plaza.

Published 2 years ago

Review №192

Published 2 years ago

Review №193

Hidden gem for Japanese food in Rockville area . You might feeling like Japan . Item menu in this restaurant so expensive.

Published 2 years ago

Review №194

Published 2 years ago

Review №195

Went in with high hopes but definitely not authentic Japanese food but more like “close enough” type of Japanese food. The cha-shu ramen was a miss - the cha-she was hard as rock and chewy. The karaage was not karaage - it was deep fried chicken meat that was so dried. The green tea was good thou. The service was adequate. Expect a longe wait for your food during dinner rush hours.

Published 2 years ago

Review №196

absolutely FANTASTIC japanese restaurant. Reminded me of eating at my grandmother's house back in the hilltops of japan.

However, the only problem that i had was that the food was very expensive for the tekka-don. Back in my hometown of Sapporo, Japan, you will be absolutely LAUGHED at if you told your customer that you were charging them 18 dollars for something like that.

Either A) lower the prices B) add more fish C) improve the quality of the fish

Other than that, tasted great. Will be coming back for sure !

Published 2 years ago

Review №197

Had ramen and karaage chicken appetizer. Both were delicious and consistent with these dishes I have had in Japan. It's not elevated cuisine, but it's authentic. I'll definitely go back when I am in that neighborhood and want sushi or ramen.

The waitress spoke Japanese to me the whole time, which I loved. ❤️ My Japanese definitely needs practice!

I didn't take any photos of the food. I was hungry and I was there just before closing time (they close between lunch and dinner) so i wanted to eat and leave, not overstay.

(Sashimi & nigiri photo added from a return visit.)

Published 2 years ago

Review №198

Fresh authentic Japanese food. The real deal compared to some other restaurants in the DC area that advertise themselves as a Japanese restaurant. Would go back anytime.

Published 2 years ago

Review №199

Published 2 years ago

Review №200

Published 2 years ago

Company information
  • 19 photos
  • 200 reviews
  • 4.6 rating
  • Phone: +1 301-340-7720
  • Address: 1043 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852, United States
  • Coordinates: 39.07143, -77.133304
Categories
  • Japanese restaurant
  • Restaurant
  • Sushi restaurant
Working hours
  • Sunday: 11:30 AM–3 PM–4–8:30 PM
  • Monday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM–5–8:30 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM–5–8:30 PM
  • Thursday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM–5–8:30 PM
  • Friday: 11:30 AM–2:30 PM–5–9 PM
  • Saturday: 11:30 AM–3 PM–4–9 PM
Service options
  • On-site services: Yes
  • Dine-in: Yes
Highlights
  • Great tea selection: Yes
Popular for
  • Lunch: Yes
  • Dinner: Yes
  • Solo dining: Yes
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park: Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance: Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating: Yes
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet: Yes
Offerings
  • Coffee: Yes
  • Comfort food: Yes
  • Small plates: Yes
  • Wine: Yes
Dining options
  • Lunch: Yes
  • Dinner: Yes
  • Dessert: Yes
  • Seating: Yes
Amenities
  • Toilets: Yes
Atmosphere
  • Casual: Yes
  • Cosy: Yes
Planning
  • Usually a wait: Yes
Payments
  • Credit cards: Yes
  • Debit cards: Yes
  • NFC mobile payments: Yes
  • Credit cards: Yes
Children
  • High chairs: Yes
Parking
  • Free of charge street parking: Yes
  • Free parking lot: Yes
  • Parking: Yes