Why: Soy Grill opened approximately four months ago, bringing another teriyaki option to the east side. Menu items include teriyaki favorites and are made without MSG. Free soup is available for dine-in customers and the extensive side item menu and pie and ice cream help set it apart from other fast casual teriyaki restaurants.
What I tried: I had a grilled chicken and gyoza combo served with rice and salad.
The chicken was a whole breast with rib meat sliced crosswise (there is an all white meat option on the menu as well). I could taste the teriyaki flavor throughout the meat, and I especially enjoyed the char-grilled flavor on every bite. There were three fried gyozas filled with a mixture of vegetables and ground pork, which I found appetizing and added interest to the entree. The rice was moist — not too dry and the salad was crisp, cold iceberg lettuce and carrots with just the right amount of that sweet, rice wine vinegar, poppyseed and mayonnaise dressing synonymous with teriyaki grills. Alongside, a small portion of sauce with sesame seeds accompanied the entree. There is also Sriracha sauce, sweet chili sauce, teriyaki and soy sauce at each table.
Atmosphere: The strip mall restaurant seats a moderate number for those who want to dine-in. A colorful, picture menu board above the counter makes ordering easy and beverages are help yourself style in a drink cooler. Walls are painted in bright, warm shades of green, orange and yellow and many live plants compliment the space. Seating consists of tables and chairs set for two to four diners. Tables have an oriental style print under the high gloss finish and chairs have a lightly upholstery seat. An attractive chandelier adds charm to the space. Overall, Soy Grill has a cheerful presence that goes beyond the first impression.
