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ISHI & Kaori’s Oven

  • (4.9) 115 reviews
  • Price Range: $50–100
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Overview Menu Photos Reviews Location Opening

Overview Reviews

ISHI & Kaori’s Oven has quickly become a beloved gem in Champaign, IL, noted for its authentic Japanese cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Diners rave about the freshness of the ingredients, particularly the sushi crafted by Chef Ken, who is praised for his creative use of seasonal fish. Each visit reveals delightful surprises as he constantly evolves the menu, enhancing flavor profiles that keep guests coming back.

The cozy setting provides an ideal backdrop for both solo dining and intimate group gatherings, while the menu boasts a delectable range of options, from small plates to sweet treats like Kaori’s pastries. The omakase experience has garnered particular acclaim, delivering an unforgettable culinary journey.

Given its popularity, particularly for dinner and lunch, reservations are highly recommended. If you're in the area, don’t miss your chance to explore this culinary delight!

1
Authentic Sushi Experience

At ISHI & Kaori’s Oven, diners can indulge in an authentic sushi experience crafted by Chef Ken. His commitment to sourcing the highest quality ingredients ensures that every bite is a fresh delight, reflecting true Japanese culinary artistry.

2
Delectable Pastries by Kaori

Don't miss out on Kaori's exquisite pastries, such as her famous cream cheese wraps and delightful cheesecakes. These sweet treats are the perfect complement to your meal and a definite must-try!

3
Cozy Atmosphere with Great Accessibility

This trendy eatery provides a cozy setting that is perfect for solo dining or family meals. With wheelchair-accessible features and a welcoming vibe, ISHI & Kaori’s Oven is a delightful spot for everyone to enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine.

Additional Services & Amenities

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves healthy options
Serves small plates
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Serves dessert
Seating
Amenities
Toilet
Atmosphere
Cosy
Trendy
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Children
Good for kids
High chairs available
Parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking

Customer Reviews & Ratings

Rachel Yang
Mar 4,2025
5/5
Absolutely had an amazing dinner time here at ISHI. I’m so glad now they are taking reservations for omakase! The owners were really welcoming. I was surprised how fresh everything tasted. The chef admitted that it’s ready hard to find seafood here in Champaign, but he manages to source one of highest quality ingredients that provides an authentic Japanese food experience in town. I will definitely come visit again!
Bianca Xu (Bianca)
Feb 22,2025
5/5
My friend from Japan and I are so glad that we finally have an authentic Sushi place to go during weekend! The quality of the fish is beyond our expectations, and actually proves that you only need very little seasoning to make a good dish if your ingredients are fresh! And Kudos to Kaori and her cream pastries. Love them! Please offer online reservation in future!
Vinod Havalad
Feb 7,2025
5/5
Love it here! Amazing sushi from Ken and incredible pastries from Kaori. Must-visit if you’re in town, one of the best Japanese restaurant experiences you will have!
Jessica Truong
Feb 5,2025
5/5
This is a second review I’m making for ISHI simply because I went two more times after my first and wanted to share how each experience got better and better each time. Chef Ken tries to incorporate new kinds of fish in his menu and finds new ways to enhance and compliment different flavors being used. I was impressed with the new items he presented even just after a month after I last visited! Please consider checking out ISHI if you are in the area! Quality of fish is incredible every time and Kaori’s desserts (cheesecake and matcha cake) are ALWAYS delicious!!
Jinxin Zhang
Feb 3,2025
5/5
I have eaten here three times now and I just love this place more and more. The omakase is out of this world. Ken is a true sushi master and the level of dedication and expertise can be tasted with every bite. The location is a bit of a hidden hole in the wall. The plaza is pretty nondescript but once you step through, the decor and vibe is full on authentic Japanese sushi bar. I am so tempted to keep this spot a secret so reservations won’t become too hard to get but honestly Ken deserves the shout out.
Wendy Mountainbear
Jan 17,2025
5/5
Wonderful a la carte Sunday lunch in Champaign with Ken and Kaori! It was our first visit and admittedly I was very nervous about the counter seating with our kids but Kaori was very welcoming and explained there were options for the kids - okonomiyaki and omu-curry. It was incredible to be able to enjoy the counter experience and I will remember it for some time. Ken is very skilled and uses only the best ingredients - a large restaurant group in Chicago has not been able to get uni for months so to find uni don here was serendipitous and speaks volumes of his supplier relationships!
Peter Stocks
Jan 17,2025
5/5
A wonderful, delicious and genuine experience with a very talented and personable chef. Some of the best sushi I've had in the area and the best conversation and experience I've had anywhere. The dessert were also all impeccable. I can't recommend it enough.
Weifang L.
Jan 11,2025
5/5
Food was exceptional. We had the Omakase. The fish was of premium quality. I was truly amazed by the tuna and uni we had that day. The macha cake and roll cake were also amazing! The place is small with only eight seats, so make reservations early. Best sushi place in town and very reasonably priced. Highly recommended to sushi lovers!!

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Location

Hours

Monday Closed
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
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