By Leo Rose
When my family and I walked into VKI Japanese Steakhouse, I could immediately hear the sizzling of the hibachi grills and the enthusiastic chatter of the families seated nearby. Approaching the host’s stand, I took notice of the establishment’s inviting atmosphere and aesthetics; soft music played overhead while I was visually met with warm, mango-colored walls and traditional wood paneling at the bar. Before the staff even addressed us, I knew I was going to enjoy my time here.
Sherry, one of the owner’s daughters, warmly greeted my family as we entered. She guided us to one of the multiple hibachi grills and introduced us to VKI’s wide selection, recommending the shrimp tempura and pork gyoza as starters. We decided to try the pan-fried gyoza as well as an order of spicy tuna rolls as our appetizers, and since we had hibachi access, we all ordered food off the grill to see how the chef would perform: grilled chicken, scallops, shrimp, and filet mignon awaited us all that evening.
The service proved to be fast and effective as our appetizers were swiftly brought out. I chose to try the gyoza first; six crispy dumplings filled with pork and veggies, fried to perfection. The crisp outer shell quickly gave way to the soft, savory interior and paired excellently with soy sauce. I just had to try the sushi next, as although I personally am not much of a connoisseur of seafood, the presentation captured my attention and interest. I was immensely pleased by the cool tenderness of the tuna and accompanying spiciness, which was not at all overbearing… it was just right, regardless of one’s spice tolerance.
We quickly followed our tasty appetizers with fresh iceberg salads adorned with tangy ginger dressing and hot bowls of miso soup; before the main course was served, we had already experienced a plethora of flavors and temperatures. Soon after, the hibachi chef Joko introduced himself and began to perform for us with gusto. I was mesmerized by his display of proficiency with his tools and his routine as he set flash fires before us and tossed grilled eggs and veggies toward our eager mouths with amazing accuracy. The fragrances of the surf, turf, and fried rice then surrounded us as the veggies were finished cooking; I dug in the moment my plate was filled with a medley of stir-fried squash, carrots, onions, mushrooms, and zucchini. Cooked perfectly al dente, the veggies were a wonderful blend of saltiness and savory umami. Then, grilled chicken and steak were added on top of my carbs. I had my fill of juicy chicken and succulent steak, both served with creamy yum-yum sauce and zesty ginger sauce.
For dessert, we decided to try the fried ice cream, a typical delicacy of Japanese steak houses which VKI transforms into a perfect choice to share for the family: a large scoop of vanilla ice cream coated in a warm, crispy fried shell sliced four ways, topped with heavy whipped cream. The result was a symphony of tastes and textures, offering the sensations of warm and cold, sweet and savory, soft and crispy; it was the perfect way to end the meal and satisfy us all.
VKI Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar is a family-owned business that has been in Santa Rosa Beach for 12 years. For the sushi lovers out there, VKI offers an extended menu of sushi and sashimi, including sushi appetizers, sushi entrees served with miso soup and a green salad, traditional hand rolls (cooked and raw), and over 40 chef’s special rolls. Other offerings include Teriyaki, Tempura, Katsu, Japanese Noodles, Fried Rice, Lunch Bento Boxes, a variety of soups and salads, beer, wine, and sake; all of which is available for takeout order through DoorDash and Uber Eats. VKI Japanese Steakhouse is ocated at 4552 US Hwy 98 West in Santa Rosa Beach, next door to Louis Louis. They are open six days a week (closed Mondays) from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., serving lunch and dinner. For more information, call (850) 267-2555 and visit www.vkijapanesesantarosa.kwickmenu.com.
