Nagomi Japanese - Lower Saucon

TL;DR: A review from a kid that grew up in Japan; Nagomi serves well prepared, quality Japanese staples, while offering the most culturally authentic mom and pop Japanese dining experience I've ever had in the states. I was driving through the area and just happened upon this wonderful little spot. Decided to stop and walk in for dinner and I'm so so glad that I did. I could talk all day about how much I enjoyed my experience but the two highlights that everyone will notice are the food and the service:I ordered the Tonkatsu, a classic comfort dish consisting of a deep fried pork cutlet, sliced into batons, served on a bed of shredded cabbage, and topped with a tangy sweet sauce. There are many variations, but in its purest form, it relies heavily on technique and quality of ingredients to be truly good. Theirs was perfect. Satisfyingly crunchy, yet balanced and light, served with a bowl of rice that reminded me of my mother's and various little veggies. I smiled the whole time I ate.There are little nuances to Japanese culture, especially in the service industry, that are difficult to articulate but rather just need to be experienced. When my friends ask for advice for their first trip to Japan, I strongly encourage them to venture off the main streets and wander into the smaller mom and pop restaurants, because this is where I believe you get the truest and most honest form of Japanese cooking, combined with that universal feeling of coming home to a meal made by your parents. That very special and emotional experience is what is captured at Nagomi, and you feel it as soon as you walk in. I was greeted by the owner, who was so warm and genuine. She was kind enough to speak with me in Japanese, which I dont have many chances to do outside of phone calls with my parents, so this meant a great deal to me personally. She took my order and chatted with me as her husband came down the stairs to prepare my meal fresh. And when I was ready to leave, she walked me to the door, opened it for me, and sent me on my way. A tiny detail, but a very traditional practice for Japanese business owners to walk their customers out, as a show of appreciation.Nagomi shares with its customers a truly special experience that is very rare in the US. A selection of dishes broadly representative of Japanese cuisine, done well, and served with the attention and detail oriented care that the country is known for. I encourage anyone who comes through the area to not only stop in, but maybe try something new to them. Cannot wait to come back.

Went here with my family before the Cincinnati music festival, it was absolutely delicious. The woman who greeted us and served us had the kindest soul and was very attentive to all our needs. I had the sushi dinner platter where the chef chooses my rolls and nigiri, safe to say everything was absolutely fantabulous!! Interior was was clean, comfortable, and simple, leaving you ample time to enjoy the delicious food in front of you. Highly recommend, must go!!!!!!!!!!

This is the best Japanese restaurant in town! The atmosphere and food are authentic. We got the lunch sushi deal which came with miso soup and a salad. Everything was delicious and fresh and the owners are so kind and hospitable!

I had the pleasure of dining at Nagomi Japanese restaurant with my Japanese mother, and we were blown away by the incredible authenticity of the food. The small, charming space in a cute pink house only added to the charm of the experience. The service was impeccable, and we felt truly taken care of throughout our meal. Thank you so much for such a wonderful evening we can't wait to come back!

This place is amazing! We made our second visit for a family celebration it was another fantastic evening. The small dining room and the incredible service make it feel like you are dining at a friend's home. The sushi sashimi are simply the best in the city. Everyone in our group of 5 loved their beautifully presented meals. Don't miss the amazing desserts! Can't wait to go back.