The Rice

Japanese Restaurant Restaurant Japanese Cuisine

Bestie Business Card

High class food materials cooked by using natural ingredents only.

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Business Hours

Mon: 11:30a–3p4–7:30p
Tue: 11:30a–3p4–7:30p
Wed: 11:30a–3p4–7:30p
Thu: 11:30a–3p4–7:30p
Fri: 11:30a–3p4–7:30p
Sat: 11:30a–3p4–7:30p
Sun: Closed

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About Lake Forest, California, USA

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Nominated for BestAround

A-
Overall Grade
Rating Scale:
A: 80-100% B: 60-79% C: 40-59% D: 20-39%

The Rice, a Japanese restaurant in Foothill Ranch, California, has earned a nomination for "BestAround" largely due to its unwavering commitment to authentic, high-quality cuisine and exceptional service. The restaurant's menu, featuring traditional delicacies like Udon noodles, Nabeyaki Udon, and Kinako Mochi, showcases a dedication to using only the finest natural ingredients, particularly highlighted by their Prime Beef Sukiyaki crafted with USDA Classified Wagyu beef. This focus on quality is further underscored by sustainable practices, including hydrogen water systems and locally sourced produce, appealing to health-conscious diners.

Beyond its culinary prowess, The Rice distinguishes itself through a holistic approach to dining that integrates sustainability and community engagement. The pairing of dishes with high-quality teas and the restaurant's Instagram giveaway program foster a sense of community and loyalty among patrons. While some reviews note the higher price point and occasional concerns about fish freshness, the overall reception is overwhelmingly positive. The Rice's ability to deliver an authentic Japanese dining experience in a family-run setting, coupled with its generous portions and inviting atmosphere, positions it as a standout choice for those seeking genuine culinary excellence. It's clear that The Rice not only qualifies for "BestAround" but also sets a benchmark for other establishments aiming to blend tradition with modern dining excellence.

About The Rice

The Rice, a Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of Foothill Ranch, California, stands as a beacon of authenticity and natural culinary excellence. Specializing in high-class, handcrafted dishes using only the finest natural ingredients, The Rice offers a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Their menu features a range of traditional Japanese delicacies, such as Udon noodles served in a "Eat In Only" broth, Nabeyaki Udon with a surprising twist of shrimp miso and deep-fried flour, and Kinako Mochi, a dessert that perfectly complements their curry offerings.

One of The Rice's most notable highlights is its Prime Beef Sukiyaki, crafted with the finest Wagyu beef from Miyazaki, Japan. This premium cut, known for its exceptional tenderness and rich flavor, is prepared using only natural seasonings and scratch-cooked to ensure maximum freshness and quality. The restaurant's commitment to using USDA Classified Wagyu beef sets it apart, emphasizing the importance of traceability and authenticity in their culinary practices.

Beyond its menu, The Rice prides itself on its dedication to sustainability and natural ingredients. The use of hydrogen water systems for broth preparation, locally sourced organic vegetables, and 4 times filtered water underscores their commitment to providing a health-conscious dining experience. Additionally, the restaurant's pairing of dishes with high-quality teas, including Shizuoka Honicha, Kukicha, Sencha, and Matcha genmaicha, enhances the overall sensory journey for patrons.

The Rice also offers a unique giveaway of a hot tea cup to customers who follow their Instagram, fostering a community of loyal followers and encouraging them to share their experiences with the brand. This blend of culinary excellence, natural ingredients, and community engagement makes The Rice a standout destination in Foothill Ranch, appealing to both locals and visitors seeking an authentic and high-quality dining experience.

Category Tags
Japanese Restaurant Restaurant Japanese Cuisine Food Service Dining Experience

What Customers Say

4.7
Rating Based On
78
Official Google Reviews
5
68
4
4
3
2
2
2
1
2

Customers consistently highlight The Rice's commitment to authentic Japanese cuisine, emphasizing the freshness of ingredients and the homemade feel of their dishes. Many praise the excellent service, noting the friendly and attentive staff, particularly in a family-owned setting where personal touches are appreciated. Portion sizes are frequently mentioned as generous, though some note that the prices can be on the higher side for certain items. The restaurant's atmosphere is described as cozy and inviting, with both indoor and outdoor seating options, catering to various preferences.

Several reviews specifically commend the quality of specific dishes, such as the Salmon Tataki Donburi, Seafood Salad, and Ikura Donburi, indicating a strong satisfaction with the menu offerings. However, a few reviews touch on areas for improvement, including concerns about the freshness of certain fish items and the cramped seating during peak hours. Despite these minor critiques, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with customers expressing a desire to return frequently and highly recommending the restaurant.

The Rice stands out as a standout feature, often receiving glowing reviews for its exceptional food quality and service. The restaurant's ability to maintain an authentic Japanese dining experience in a family-owned setting is particularly praised, making it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors seeking genuine culinary experiences.