It’s been almost 6 months since we first got word that the former Old Country Buffet restaurant would reopen as a new establishment. We had the name “FUJI,” but that was about it. We eventually found that it would be an Asian Fusion restaurant. I was pumped and eagerly waited to try it out. The day is finally at hand!

I heard through the grapevine that FUJI (2513 Main St in Union Gap) was having a soft opening and planned to have their Grand Opening on May 31st. So my wife and I went to check it out. I didn’t know what to expect, but when I walked inside, and the smells hit me, I knew I would NOT be disappointed!

tsm/Timmy!

The restaurant is buffet style, comparable to Minado Buffet in Yakima (which makes sense considering the previous business and the size of the building). I was impressed with the Sushi bar and the conveyer belt around the Sushi preparation station. That was pretty cool.

tsm/Timmy!

The food was good. I think for me, the Orange Chicken, Sweet and Sour Chicken, and Potstickers were some of the best I have ever had. My wife had quite a variety of Sushi and seemed to enjoy every one she tried (pictures below). The only food my wife and I tried and had differences of opinion about was the crab Rangoon (I’ve also called them butterflies and bowties). My wife really liked them, but to me, I have had better. Not bad by any means.

tsm/Timmy!

With this being a soft opening, I understand the kinks are getting worked out. The wait staff was all very nice and pleasant, but it sometimes seemed like they weren’t quite sure what to do or who would handle which tables. This could have been because of the new environment, new employees, shift change, etc. It was also different for me that we paid after the meal. At most all-you-can-eat buffets, you pay first, so that was a little different. But with them bringing their card reading machine to the table, that was nice. (NOTE: Upon doing more research, more and more buffets have been charging patrons after the meal, in case customers are unreasonably wasteful with food).

My only real criticisms of the new restaurant are the music and seating. As far as music, it sounded like it was playing through their system from someone’s phone, complete with “Connecting” coming over the loudspeakers. That made me laugh. Regarding the seating situation, that one might be a little more serious. Yes, I’m a bigger guy, and everything was fine. But, they did have a lot of tables in the dining area. A majority of tables were set up cafeteria style with not many walkways. Not to mention that they were pretty close together. Even skinny people would have a tough time playing “Pac-Man” as they walked through to get more food or to return to their seats.

tsm/Timmy!

I enjoyed my dinner and plan on going back. I’m super grateful that place is back in action, a new dining choice, and another great restaurant in Union Gap! Did you check it out during their soft opening? If so, what are your thoughts? Tap the App and let us know, and check out some pictures from our dining experience below!