Overall experience was good. Started with the beef tataki - would not recommend. The night market sauce, whatever that is…was giving Mr. Yoshida teriyaki, but way too salty. It overpowered the beef and there was no way to cleanse your palate between bites nor to avoid the sauce. Red crab hand roll could have used more crab and less mayo. It got so much better though, seafood was very fresh. The best bites of the night were the hamachi sashimi - very clean tasting, just fatty enough…I could have a couple more servings of those. Botan ebi nigiri was slightly buttery and so delicious. The snow crab also so so good. I also had the toro hand roll, the bluefin toro and scallops sashimi. Service was great, and it was a cozy, cute place. I felt that it was casual and not too pretentious.
Overview
If you're in Pittsburgh and craving an exceptional dining experience, look no further than Gi-Jin. Nestled at 208 6th St, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, this Japanese-inspired restaurant is a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for fresh, high-quality ingredients and an innovative approach to traditional dishes. From its chic interior to its meticulously crafted menu, Gi-Jin offers a memorable dining experience that captures the essence of both modern and classic Japanese cuisine.
Upon entering Gi-Jin, the ambiance immediately sets it apart. The sleek, contemporary decor blends effortlessly with the warm, inviting atmosphere, making it perfect for both casual diners and special occasions. Whether you're there for a cozy dinner date or celebrating with friends, the environment is sophisticated yet relaxed, which complements the innovative dishes that are about to make their way to your table.
The menu at Gi-Jin is a true testament to the restaurant’s commitment to using the finest ingredients. Drawing inspiration from Japanese culinary traditions, it features a variety of small plates, sushi, and larger entrees, each dish showcasing a meticulous attention to detail. One standout is the Wagyu beef, which is melt-in-your-mouth tender, perfectly seasoned, and cooked to perfection. Paired with fresh, seasonal vegetables, this dish is a prime example of the restaurant’s dedication to using the best ingredients available.
If you're in the mood for sushi, Gi-Jin offers a variety of options, each more impressive than the last. The fish is always impeccably fresh, and the sushi rolls are delicately prepared with a perfect balance of flavors. The tuna, salmon, and yellowtail are particularly popular, often praised for their rich textures and buttery finishes. For those who prefer a more adventurous option, try the chef’s tasting menu, which gives diners a curated selection of the restaurant’s finest offerings.
Beyond the food, Gi-Jin also stands out for its dedication to providing top-tier service. The staff is attentive, knowledgeable, and eager to recommend dishes based on your preferences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, they make sure each meal feels special and personalized.
For dessert, Gi-Jin offers a selection that is just as impressive as the rest of the menu. The matcha cheesecake, with its light, fluffy texture and delicate flavor, is a perfect end to a meal. For something a little more indulgent, the chocolate mochi is rich and satisfying without being overwhelming.
If you're not sure where to start, the tasting menu is an excellent way to experience a variety of dishes. It’s clear that Gi-Jin takes pride in creating a cohesive, well-balanced dining experience, and the tasting menu reflects that ethos. It’s the perfect option for those who want to sample a little bit of everything and let the chefs surprise you with their culinary expertise.
As for location, Gi-Jin couldn’t be more convenient for those visiting downtown Pittsburgh. It’s situated on 6th St, a short walk from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, making it the ideal spot for a pre- or post-show meal. Whether you’re exploring Pittsburgh’s cultural scene or simply looking for a delicious meal, this restaurant is easy to find and hard to forget.
Gi-Jin also attracts a loyal following, with many guests returning time and time again for its consistently excellent food and exceptional service. It’s a place where foodies and casual diners alike can appreciate the art of cooking while indulging in a delicious meal that feels both familiar and new. Reviews often highlight the quality of the food and the dedication to precision, making it clear that Gi-Jin stands out in Pittsburgh’s competitive dining scene.
All in all, Gi-Jin is a restaurant that takes Japanese cuisine to new heights. With its fresh ingredients, innovative dishes, and inviting atmosphere, it's no wonder it has become a local favorite. Whether you're a long-time fan of Japanese cuisine or a newcomer eager to explore, Gi-Jin is sure to leave you coming back for more.
Good to know
Service options
✓ Outdoor seating ✓ Dine-in ✓ DeliveryPopular for
✓ Dinner ✓ Solo diningAccessibility
✓ Wheelchair-accessible entrance ✓ Wheelchair-accessible seating ✓ Wheelchair-accessible toiletOfferings
✓ Alcohol ✓ Beer ✓ Cocktails ✓ Comfort food ✓ Healthy options ✓ Small plates ✓ Spirits ✓ WineDining options
✓ Dinner ✓ Dessert ✓ Seating ✓ Table serviceAmenities
✓ ToiletAtmosphere
✓ Cosy ✓ Romantic ✓ Trendy ✓ UpmarketCrowd
✓ LGBTQ+ friendly ✓ Tourists ✓ Transgender safe spacePlanning
✓ Reservations required ✓ Dinner reservations recommended ✓ Accepts reservations ✓ Usually a waitPayments
✓ Credit cards ✓ Debit cards ✓ Credit cardsParking
✓ Paid multi-storey car park ✓ Paid parking lot ✓ Paid street parking ✓ ParkingPhotos
Location
Reviews
And Mr. Deshantz continues to impress..... Some of our favorite restaurants in Pittsburgh belong to this group. Gi-Jin is added to the list. Incredible sushi experience. The selection and quality is second to none. The atmosphere is wonderful. Small dinning room giving you the personal experience. The food is amazing. Very big on sashimi and the cuts were fantastic. Highly recommend
First time here and wow! 10/10! The ambiance was chill and the staff were friendly and professional. The bar is beautiful. The food and drinks were fresh and unique. The only downside was another group of patrons who joined tables were overtaking the small space with excessively loud laughing, talking, and clapping. We had a hard time hearing our server and finally a few other patrons spoke up and asked them to keep it down so others in the space could enjoy conversation at a reasonable volume. The limit to 4 people per table now makes sense to me!
Most incredible sushi I’ve had in Pittsburgh! Went here for my birthday and everything was absolutely perfect! The menu is very creative and the sushi is as fresh as the kind I’ve tasted in Japan
Gi-Jin was a really cute experience. The interior design, lighting, and overall vibes are beautiful and definitely make it feel like a special occasion spot. We tried the bara chirashi, beef tataki, some hand rolls, and the matcha misu dessert; everything was pretty good, not mind-blowing in taste but decent, with gorgeous presentation. Portions are on the smaller side for the price, but the Orenji Valley cocktail was a standout & super refreshing. The only disappointment was the matcha misu, which came in a takeout-style paper box instead of a glass and tasted a little stale, like it might have been kept in the fridge. That said, the staff were super friendly and chill, and overall I’d say it’s a pricier but fun spot I’d go back to for the atmosphere and special occasions.
A new favorite date night spot! The service and atmosphere is always amazing. Please make a reservation in advance or you most likely won't get a spot! It's worth the wait!! Recommend: Toro Handroll, Sake Salmon Nigiri, Matchamisu, and the Tuna Pizza! This review was made in connection with a Toast Promotion!
The Staff was fantastic not just checking in on us. Especially found her explanation of the menu items very helpful and detailed. The Devil Crab was a wonderful combination of flavors and textures which complemented each other. Luv the crunch. My table mates enjoyed their choices. The chocolate dessert totally yummy. Seating with back support would be nice. A friend would appreciate a cushion. We will be returning!