Kenji’s
3940 Spring Dr #6, Reno, NV 89502
Found this gem on Yelp years ago, and it's been a forever favorite ever since. Kenji’s delivers Hawaiian fusion with all the comforting classics that always hit the spot, plus stellar service that keeps you coming back for more.
If you’ve been following me for a while, you’ll know that I LOVE highlighting local businesses, especially the ones that check all the boxes. With all of the food options popping up around town, I know how overwhelming it can get to choose where to spend your time (and money). I'm here to help narrow it down and introduce you to the ones that are absolutely worth adding to your sacred foodie rotation, many of which, btw, are beloved local businesses.
If you've spent any time in Reno, you'll quickly learn how strong our local network is. In my time of living, I've never witnessed a stronger tight knit and genuinely supportive as this one . It's one of the things I love most about living here. There's nothing quite as powerful than a community of people chasing their dreams and lifting each other up along the way.
Now, let's talk about Kenji’s and what makes it so special.
1. Food Truck Inside a Restaurant? A+ for Effort
There's a food truck inside the restaurant. Joe admitted how difficult was to bring this vision to life, but man was it worth all the effort at the end. Look how fun & innovative this is!
2. You Know It’s Legit When the Construction Workers Eat Here
Construction workers don’t mess around with their lunch break. If they’re regulars, the food is the real deal. Case closed.
3. Spam Musubis
I consider myself a pretty healthy person… but I will never, ever, say no to a spam musubi. Pronounced "moo-soo (as in soon)-be." A kind Hawaiian man corrected me once and said that mispronouncing it is practically a crime. Thanks, & don't worry - the only thing I want to butcher is the spam, not the name, LOL.
Did you know that these tasty little guys trace back to the humble, Japanese onigiri rice balls? Japanese origin, Hawaiian innovation. Note: businesses in bigger cities are thriving solely off selling these guys (hint, hint). If someone hopped on a business like Onigilly here in Reno, it would 100% make waves. Portable, handheld, sushi-like food is so appreciated in times of hustle, hangriness, and needing something quick that actually hits the spot.
4. Generous Portions
Kenji’s doesn’t play when it comes to portions. Add an extra scoop of rice and mac salad to your plate and you'll have yourself a meal for two!
5. The Old School Playlist Always Slaps
The music just hits right with the food. I can't tell you how happy I get when I meet businesses owners around the same age as me. Yep, we get to go down memory lane together and talk about the good ol' days. LOL.
6. Rad Business Owners
Joe and his wife, Keliana, are the kind of small business owners you want to support - kind, hard working, & genuinely cool. They’ve show up everyday, cook from the heart, and care about each and every one of their customers. I used to send my baby girl in the shop on her own around the time she was 7-8 years old, and Joe always made sure she got back safely.
7. Local Support
Caught @silverstatepieco here on a recent visit. If you don’t already know them, they’re behind some of the most drool worthy pies in town, both sweet and savory. Chefs who make good food know good food. I love seeing local businesses support one another. ❤️
8. From Freezing Food Truck to Brick & Mortar
Kenji’s started as a food truck grinding through harsh Reno winters. Joe once told me that the cold was enough motivation to work toward something more. It’s giving Rocky Balboa vibes. Major respect. Gen Z friends, I see you!
9. Not Just Hawaiian Food
Joe puts his own spin on things by blending in his Mexican heritage. Kalua pork tacos, or the Hawaiiano sandwich stacked with seared ham, pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, garlic-lemon mayo, and crusty bread, anyone?
10. Always Consistent
No gimmicks, no fluff. Just solid Hawaiian fusion food made with love. Come on in and see why people keep coming back for more. There's plenty more room (and love) to go around. Join the club.
Shoutout to @yelpreno for helping me find this gem years ago.
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