Shima shines in Coronado

Dining options on Coronado just become more exciting with the recent opening of Shima Japanese Steakhouse.

This 8,000-square-foot restaurant with an inviting whimsical decor opened May 8 and lets guests enjoy an exciting teppanyaki experience right at their seats.

“It’s like nothing else on Coronado,” said owner Tim Aaron, who is also the force behind the island’s Nicky Rottens Bar & Burger Joint. “The experience can really take you away.”

Located steps from the shops at the Ferry Landing and with access to the ferry and water taxis from the Gaslamp District, Shima Japanese Steakhouse caters to both families and visitors. Its authentic menus offer up specials, craft cocktails, sushi, Wagyu steak and fresh seafood nightly.

There are two main dining rooms, a private dining room and a lounge to meet any diner’s preferences. There’s also a drinks bar and a sushi bar stretched out along the wall of the dining room behind the lounge. An available private room works well for rehearsal dinners or other gatherings of up to 50 people.

Guests in any seat in the restaurant can order from any of the eatery’s menus. Each menu offers the freshest of ingredients and includes fare for carnivores and vegans alike. There are gluten-free options, and the chef uses safflower oil to fry in, not only for its flavor, but also because it spares people with nut allergies. The sushi bar adds to the restaurant’s great choices while Shima’s full bar features a range of spirits, including whiskeys from Japan, wines and beers.

Aaron recommends the hibachi option where food is prepared in front of guests on an iron-plate grill table, with chefs entertaining guests with elaborate knife tricks as they cook. Chefs take great pleasure creating flaming volcanoes, throwing shrimp and more as they prepare Shima’s delicious made-to-order fare. Hibachi dining comes with both soup and salad as well as ice cream for dessert.

Aaron is proud that this dining destination’s outstanding options from Wagyu beef to a full-size Alaskan crab that can feed a whole table. The latter treat is flown in from Alaska, so it’s recommended to call in advance to reserve an order.

“Shima is an interactive experience with a show that’s great for families, date nights, special events or any fun night,” Aaron said. “Shima, which means island in Japanese, is exactly what my vision was, a place to let go and have fun while enjoying great food.”

Shima Japanese Steakhouse is at 126 Orange Ave. on Coronado. Visit it online at shimacoronado.com or follow Shima on Facebook at facebook.com/ShimaCoronado.

Source: DiscoverSD