When you are looking for a high-quality dining experience in Coralville, Iowa, Three Samurai Japanese Restaurant stands out as a top choice. Known for its blend of entertainment and authentic cuisine, this establishment offers something for everyone, from fresh sushi to interactive hibachi grilling. This guide provides all the essential details you need to plan your visit, including location, hours, and what to expect from the menu.
Where to Find Three Samurai
Finding the restaurant is simple, as it is located in a convenient area for both locals and visitors. You can find Three Samurai at the following address:
1801 2nd Street #200
Coralville, IA 52241
The restaurant is situated in a vibrant part of the city, making it an ideal spot for a business lunch or a family dinner after a day of shopping. If you need to contact the restaurant for reservations or specific inquiries, you can reach them at (319) 337-3340.
Operating Hours
Before heading out, it is important to know when the kitchen is open. Three Samurai typically follows a schedule that accommodates both the lunch crowd and the evening dinner rush. While hours can vary on holidays, the standard operating times are as follows:
- Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Lunch) and 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Dinner)
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 PM (Lunch) and 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM (Dinner)
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Open all day)
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Open all day)
Please note that the “Lunch” break on weekdays allows the staff to prepare for the intensive dinner service. If you are planning a late lunch or an early dinner, Saturday and Sunday offer continuous service throughout the day.
Exploring the Menu
The menu at Three Samurai is divided into several distinct categories to cater to different tastes. Whether you want a quick bite or a full multi-course meal, there are plenty of options to choose from.
The Hibachi Grill Experience
Hibachi is one of the main draws of the restaurant. Guests sit around a large iron griddle where a skilled chef prepares the meal right in front of them. This is as much a performance as it is a meal, featuring impressive knife skills and occasional fire displays.
- Steak and Poultry: Options typically include New York strip, filet mignon, and chicken breast.
- Seafood: Fresh shrimp, scallops, and lobster tails are popular choices for the grill.
- Vegetarian: A vegetable-only hibachi option is usually available for those who prefer plant-based dining.
Each hibachi meal generally comes with a set of sides, including Japanese onion soup, a crisp salad with ginger dressing, grilled vegetables, and fried rice.
The Sushi Bar
For those who prefer cold dishes, the sushi bar offers a wide array of fresh fish. You can choose from traditional nigiri, sashimi, or elaborate specialty rolls. The chefs focus on presentation and freshness, ensuring each plate is visually appealing.
Popular rolls often include classic ingredients like spicy tuna, salmon, avocado, and tempura shrimp. If you are new to sushi, the staff can often recommend a roll that fits your comfort level, ranging from fully cooked options to raw delicacies.
Kitchen Entrees and Appetizers
If you aren’t in the mood for sushi or the hibachi show, the kitchen serves a variety of traditional Japanese dishes. These include tempura (lightly battered and fried vegetables or seafood), teriyaki bowls, and noodle dishes like udon or soba.
Starting your meal with an appetizer is highly recommended. Common favorites include gyoza (pork or vegetable dumplings), edamame (salted soybeans), and age-dashi tofu.
What to Expect During Your Visit
Three Samurai is designed to be a family-friendly environment. The atmosphere is generally relaxed but can become quite energetic in the hibachi section. If you prefer a quieter meal, requesting a table in the standard dining room or at the sushi bar is a good idea.
Reservations and Group Dining
Because the hibachi tables seat multiple people, they are perfect for large groups and celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries. However, because these tables fill up quickly, making a reservation is highly recommended, especially on Friday and Saturday nights.
For smaller parties or those dining at the sushi bar, walk-ins are usually accommodated more easily. If you are planning a visit during the graduation season or local university events, try to book your table at least a week in advance.
Tips for a Great Experience
To make the most of your visit to Three Samurai, keep these simple tips in mind:
- Arrive early: If you have a hibachi reservation, arriving 10 minutes early ensures your entire party is present when the chef begins.
- Ask about specials: The sushi bar often has daily fish arrivals that may not be on the permanent menu.
- Check for lunch deals: Weekday lunch specials are often a more budget-friendly way to enjoy high-quality Japanese cuisine.
- Dietary needs: Inform your server or chef of any allergies immediately, especially at the hibachi table where multiple ingredients are cooked on the same surface.
Whether you are a local resident or just passing through Coralville, Three Samurai offers a reliable and enjoyable dining experience. With its combination of fresh ingredients and entertaining service, it remains a staple of the local food scene.
Conclusion
Three Samurai Japanese Restaurant provides a comprehensive dining experience that caters to sushi lovers and fans of grilled entrees alike. By visiting during their standard hours at their 2nd Street location, you can enjoy a meal that is both delicious and memorable. Remember to call ahead for reservations if you have a large group or want a front-row seat at the hibachi grill. For more helpful guides on local dining and lifestyle tips, feel free to explore our other articles.