Taka, Asbury Park, NJ:
A Restaurant Review
Taka, an Asian fusion upscale restaurant in a casual, chic setting,
is noted for their excellent sushi and Japanese fusion dishes.
Prestigious "Best Restaurant" Recognition
Awarded to establishments earning 3 stars or higher for culinary excellence, service, and overall dining experience.
Taka Restaurant Highlights
Fare: Japanese-Asian Fusion
Price: Moderate - Expensive
Food Quality: Creatively prepared with fresh ingredients. Excellent sushi and Japanese fusion dishes
Service: Friendly & attentive
Decor: Ambiance is upscale, chic, with a SOHO New York feel to it.
Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Note: Four star Rating System from 1/2 Star = Poor to F stars = Best in Class
Noise Level: Moderate - High
Dress: Upscale Casual
Recommended For: Diners who enjoy excellent sushi and Japanese fusion food with upscale, chic ambiance and a good mix of food and drinks.
Not Recommended For: Diners who prefer traditional Japanese food in a traditional Japanese setting without the frills.
Recommended dishes: When available, The Nigiri & Sashimi with 8 pieces assorted nigiri, 6 pieces assorted sashimi, The Sesame Coated Tuna with Bean Sauce; Barbecued Salmon; and The Sushi specials.
Liquor: Full bar service with a good selection of cocktails and beers.
Taka is a favorite among locals and visitors who appreciate top-notch sushi and Japanese-Asian fusion, all served in a setting that’s upscale yet relaxed and chic.
The ambiance channels a SoHo New York vibe, with stylish decor featuring a bold, cartoon-style mural of geishas facing samurai warriors, soft white Japanese lanterns floating above the dining area, and authentic tables imported from Japan.
Perfect for a romantic evening, Taka is an ideal spot for date night.
The kitchen is helmed by part-owner and chef Takahiro Hirai, who delivers a menu of meticulously crafted Japanese dishes. Taka is far from your typical sushi joint—it offers a high-end, eclectic dining experience with imaginative presentations and the freshest ingredients.
Chef Hirai honed his culinary talents at top sushi restaurants in Miami Beach and Nantucket, later bringing his skills to Kessler's Catering in Elberon, NJ, before opening Taka.
For the best experience, stick to the traditional Japanese offerings—especially the sushi—which stand out for their precision and artistry. While the non-Japanese dishes are enjoyable, they don’t quite match the level of excellence found in the traditional selections.
Though some specials may be on the pricier side, the menu includes more budget-friendly options to suit a range of diners.
Be sure to save room for dessert. Made in-house, the sweet treats are worth the indulgence—favorites include the Bittersweet Chocolate Cake and the Green Tea Cheesecake.
Taka is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner.
(updated: April 2025)
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