Experiencing and appreciating different cultures is always a way to gain perspective or learn something new. For those of you who enjoy trying new things, especially food, Akeno Sushi might just be the place to start.
The owner and sushi chef of the restaurant, John Qiu, said he and his wife, Teresa, came to this area, where they have been for four years now, basically because they found a job.
Qiu seems to be satisfied with doing business in the city of Wilkes-Barre.
“This is a nice area with nice people,” Qiu said.
The restaurant itself seems to be a favorite among the student population of Wilkes University and King’s College, and Qiu said the business is always good.
Students say that it’s appealing for a variety of reasons.
“I’ve been there once with three friends, and the service was impeccable,” sophomore engineering major Zachary Tomasura said. “The atmosphere was very upbeat without losing the whole oriental motif, the food was delicious for the price and the fact that a teacher of mine walked in and knew the staff on an almost personal level shows that their hospitality towards the college population makes them a great place to go and enjoy good food with good friends in a great atmosphere.”
“The No. 1 reason I go to Akeno is for the awesome service,” junior English major Miranda Baur said. “They’re friendly and fast, and their sushi has always been delicious. Plus, they have my favorite drink ever, bubble tea, which I’ve only experienced finding bigger cities like Philadelphia and Boston. It’s great to have something so fresh and exciting so close to campus.”
There are many popular items on the menu at Akeno, 72 S. Main St. Some of these include Miso Soup, Spicy Kani Salad, Kani Kaki, which is a crab and cream cheese tempura, fried calamari, spicy rolls combo (spicy california, spicy tuna, spicy salmon), spicy tuna, spicy salmon, spicy yellowtail and the O.M.G. rolls, which is tempura smoke salmon, cream cheese with avocado, crunchy and eel sauce, as well as a variety of other options.
At Akeno, you can either dine in or pickup, or even take advantage of their latest accommodation and make a reservation.
Akeno Sushi is open Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., Friday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., Saturday noon to 10:30 p.m. and Sunday noon to 9:30 p.m.
Something else that makes Akeno what it is are its low prices, which range from $2 on the cheaper end to about $20 or $40 on the most expensive side. Students can also get 10 percent off with their student ID, but on regular priced items.
Beginning on Jan. 29, from 4 to 8 p.m., all sushi will be 50 percent off, no coupon necessary. However, this cannot be used with the 10 percent off student discount.
If you’re looking for something different than the typical cafeteria food or the quick snacks between classes, stop by Akeno Sushi to experience a taste of some “Japanese cuisine.”
Call (570)-825-8880 or visit www.akenosushibar.com for further questions or further details.
Akeno Sushi restaurant big hit with local college students
January 29, 2013
About the Contributor
Alyssa Stencavage, L&A&E Editor
Alyssa Stencavage is a junior communications studies major at Wilkes University with concentrations in broadcast media and public relations, as well as a minor in marketing. She began her time at The Beacon as a freshman in 2011, when she worked as a staff writer and became the assistant life editor at the start of her sophomore year. She currently is campus life editor.
During her sophomore year, she participated in an independent study with the Times Leader, and was also involved with an account team on the Zebra Communication Board during her junior year. She also works with the Wilkes television station, Wilkes Now. Before coming to Wilkes, she wrote for her high school newspaper, while also playing volleyball and running track.
Outside of school, Alyssa works as a cashier at a local grocery store and is the oldest of three children. She enjoys listening to music, taking walks and spending time with family and friends.
Alyssa believes her experience with The Beacon has improved her as a writer and will help her achieve success beyond her years at Wilkes. In the future, she would like to be an anchor at a local television station.