Popular Montclair restaurant is closing its doors after 35 years

MONTCLAIR — After 35 years, the popular Japanese sushi spot Daikichi is closing its doors.

The Kaneda family — which has owned the restaurant since its inception — said they will officially close on Saturday.

"This was an incredibly difficult decision to make," the Kanedas posted on its website. "And while we are sad to say goodbye to this era, our family is ready to move on to its next chapter."

The end of an era for a Montclair institution

Originally opened in 1988, Daikichi is an intimate, beloved Montclair spot known for serving creative sushi rolls and upscale Japanese small plates. The restaurant had a reputation for using, according to its owners, only the "freshest ingredients," and making all of its sauces from scratch.

"Their sushi was better and fresher than anyone’s!" Cindy Smith said on Facebook.

Over the years, Daikichi has undergone a few changes, including opening Upstairs, a trendy New American bar above the restaurant that has since closed, and retailing some of its signature condiments.

The community shares its love

Since the announcement of its closing, fans of Daikichi have been pouring love for the spot all over social media. Many praised the owner, Aki Kaneda, for his exceptional service.

"Aki knew how to treat his customers, and provided the most delicious sushi," Lois Montorio online commented on Baristanet's post of the closing. "That’s why he was there for 35 years."

"Sad to see it go," said Bradley Horner Real Estate, no doubt summing up how many fans feel.

Kara VanDooijeweert is a food writer for NorthJersey.com and The Record. If you can't find her in Jersey's best restaurants, she's probably off running a race course in the mountains. Catch her on Instagram: @karanicolev & @northjerseyeats, join our NorthJerseyEats Facebook group, and sign up for her North Jersey Eats newsletter.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Daikichi restaurant in Montclair NJ closing after 35 years