Energetic, friendly staff make Genki special
When you get tired of the same old burgers and fries, and you’re feeling a little adventurous, head downtown to Kalispell’s only authentic Japanese restaurant, Genki. It’s like a vacation for your taste buds.
The staff
The staff at Genki lives up to the word’s Japanese meaning: energetic and friendly. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur of Japanese food or a novice, the staff can help you navigate through the many choices. With the food listed by its Japanese names, sometimes it’s not easy to guess what you’re ordering, but the staff is knowledgeable and can help you choose something delicious. The sushi menu also offers pictures, so it’s easy to see just what you’re getting.
The vibe and food
There is something for everyone on Genki’s menu. From the expected tempura (lightly breaded deep-fried vegetables and shrimp), sushi and sashimi to typical Asian favorites like moo goo gai-pan and General Tao’s chicken with broccoli, you can get your ethnic food fix.
If you’ve got picky eaters, have no fear. Genki also offers “American food,” including cheeseburgers, chicken nuggets and french fries, a children’s menu and even a few selections for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
With lunch and dinner specials daily as well as house specials, there’s enough offered that a family could eat there every day for a month and not have the same thing twice. Of course, you’re likely to come across a few favorites you just can’t pass up each visit; the unagi eel has made more than one appearance on my meal list.
No matter what you order, the portions are very generous, and most include miso soup, rice and sunomono salad (cucumbers and carrots in a light vinegar dressing; very tasty and refreshing).
The atmosphere is relaxing, with the traditional fish tank so many Asian restaurants seem to have, paper lanterns casting a cool glow and plenty of booth seating for even the largest groups. It makes a great haven for a lunch break during a hot day or a place to unwind after work.
Genki offers an extensive wine and beer list as well, including the traditional favorites of plum wine, heated saki and a selection of Japanese beers, as well as other domestic and imported choices.
The price
Genki Lunch Box — $10.95
Lo Mein — $9.95
Dragon Roll — $11.95
Genki Sushi Combination (12 pieces of chef’s choice of nigirizushi and eight pieces of makizushi roll; serves two) — $35.95
Stop by Genki Japanese Restaurant at 302 Main St. in downtown Kalispell for a great lunch or dinner, or call them at 257-8889 for takeout or delivery.
Genki is open Monday through Saturday and serves lunch from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Dinner Monday through Thursday is from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and dinner Friday and Saturday is from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.