SHIAWASE is a restaurant that fully deserves its Japanese name “Happiness” Shiuji and Luz Shinohara, owners and operators, apply themselves to do just that, make their customers happy with their attentive care and the fine Japanese cuisine they serve. They are rightfully very proud of their Japanese culture and have pledged to prepare traditional authentic Japanese cuisine.

As my dining companion and I confessed our limited knowledge of Japanese cuisine, Luz very nicely put us through a crash course. First, we had to know the origin of the word “sushi” “su” means vinegar “shi” means rice. In the past, before refrigeration the raw fish was conserved in vinegar. To this day vinegar plays a major role in Japanese cuisine. The salmon Nambanzuke: slightly floured, deep-fried and marinated in sweet vinegar with lemon is a delight.

Luz and Shinji introduced us to the Bento serving style: “O Bento” if formal, simply “Bento” if casual. The tray, which was brought to us, divided in compartments of different sizes was filled with various dishes. The bright pink ginger, green wasabi, was as much of a treat for the eyes as to the palate. We enjoyed it all: the fresh raw Tuna, the delicate salad of thinly sliced radishes marinated in sweet vinegar, the shrimp tempura set on a lacy paper doily, the katsu toji, port cutled in egg and sweet soy sauce, the beef teriyaki with mushrooms and a very special appetizer where radishes are spiced, dried in the sun and later re-hydrated before serving. Everything delicious and beautifully presented.

For the sushi lovers, Shiawase has a large selection of fresh seafood that Shinji or Yuki, both fine sushi chefs, will turn under your eyes into a tasty piece of art. On the menu, you will find very reasonably priced sushi and sashimi samplers. Although, we were pleased to have been introduced to true Japanese cuisine we did not turn our back on the California rolls. Shiawase offers a multitude of rolls including salmon skin rolls, lobster rolls, scallop roll, Tataki roll.

The lunch specials are extremely competitive in price and include miso soup, rice, a crisp mixed salad with light rice vinegar dressing, 2 shrimps and veggies tempura plus a main course of your choice. Beverages are not neglected as Shiawase carries premium wines, sakes and Japanese beers.

Shinji and Luz Shinohara are currently negotiating to open Shiawase # 2 in the heart of Anaheim. We wish them good luck. We will be there for the grand opening and we hope you will be too. .

Shiawase is located at 100 S Harbor Blvd, Suite A, Fullerton, Ca 92832. Telephone (714) 773 1234 Closed on Monday, They are open for lunch Tuesday to Friday 11.30 is to 2 pm. Dinner Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 5 pm to 10 pm. Friday & Saturday 5 pm to 10.30 pm, Sunday 5pm to 9 pm.

There is ample free off street parking behind the restaurant.

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Last Update:6/1/08