Charleston SC, August 16, 2025
News Summary
Shiki Sushi, a renowned Japanese restaurant located in Charleston, is set to celebrate 25 years of providing exceptional sushi. Under the leadership of Chef James Park, the restaurant has established itself as a beloved dining option, known for its high-quality ingredients and sustainable practices. With a commitment to culinary excellence and a strong local following, Shiki continues to thrive as it looks toward future expansion.
Shiki Sushi in Charleston Celebrates 25 Years of Quality Cuisine Under Chef James Park
Charleston, SC – Shiki Sushi, a premier Japanese restaurant located at 334 East Bay St., is preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary in December 2026. The restaurant has garnered a reputation for quality sushi under the leadership of Chef James Park, who is the son of the founders, Misa and Hae Gon Park.
Since its opening in 2001, Shiki has become a staple in Charleston’s dining scene, enhanced by Chef James Park’s childhood experiences in the restaurant. He learned about the business from the ground up, with his mother managing the front of the house while his father handled the kitchen and sushi bar. Today, Chef Park oversees a team of 23 employees, including six sushi chefs, contributing to the restaurant’s continued success.
Sourcing and Culinary Techniques
The culinary artistry at Shiki goes beyond traditional sushi-making. The restaurant is known for its unique sourcing methods, where fresh fish is procured from various international locations. Ora King salmon from New Zealand and Atlantic salmon from the Faroe Islands are staples on their menu. Moreover, off-menu items are often sourced from the prestigious Toyosu fish market in Tokyo, including rare and exceptional seafood.
Chef Park employs advanced techniques such as ikajime, a method that improves fish preparation, enhancing both shelf life and flavor. In a commitment to sustainability, the restaurant repurposes food waste into fertilizer for his mother’s garden, showcasing an eco-friendly approach.
Evolution of Charleston’s Dining Scene
Shiki experienced significant changes in Charleston’s dining landscape since its inception. There has been a noticeable increase in demand for diverse food offerings, and Chef Park attributes some of this evolution to the influence of food documentaries like “Jiro Dreams of Sushi”, which has sparked a trend toward traditional sushi styles.
Despite the competition, Park believes that Shiki’s strong local clientele is a significant advantage, allowing for ingredients that are fresher and more direct. New diners are often encouraged to start their sushi journey with milder options, such as shrimp tempura rolls, making the experience accessible to all.
Future Aspirations
As the restaurant approaches its milestone anniversary, Chef Park is open to the possibility of expansion, given that a suitable space becomes available in the future. Shiki currently operates from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, welcoming patrons who are eager to experience quality sushi in an inviting atmosphere.
Conclusion
With 25 years of culinary tradition and innovation ahead, Shiki Sushi remains a cornerstone of Charleston’s vibrant food scene as it celebrates its impressive history and looks to a promising future.
FAQ
What is Shiki Sushi’s address?
Shiki Sushi is located at 334 East Bay St., Charleston, SC.
When was Shiki Sushi established?
Shiki Sushi opened in 2001.
Who is the current owner of Shiki Sushi?
Chef James Park, the son of the founders Misa and Hae Gon Park, is currently the owner.
What are some unique fish sourcing methods used by Shiki Sushi?
Shiki sources fish from international markets, including Ora King salmon from New Zealand and off-menu items from the Toyosu fish market in Tokyo.
What times is Shiki Sushi open?
Shiki Sushi is open from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
What sustainable practices does Shiki Sushi follow?
The restaurant repurposes its food waste into fertilizer for James Park’s mother’s garden.
What is the restaurant’s anniversary date?
Shiki Sushi will celebrate its 25th anniversary in December 2026.
Key Features of Shiki Sushi
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 334 East Bay St., Charleston, SC |
| Founded | 2001 |
| Owner | Chef James Park |
| Team Size | 23 employees, including 6 sushi chefs |
| Fish Sourcing | Ora King salmon from New Zealand, Atlantic salmon from the Faroe Islands |
| Special Techniques | Ikajime method for fish preparation |
| Environmental Practices | Food waste repurposed into fertilizer |
| Operating Hours | 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., 5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Tuesday – Saturday |
| 25th Anniversary | December 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Charleston City Paper: Park Keeps Family Tradition Alive at Charleston’s Shiki
- Post and Courier: Hummus & Lebanese Food at Charleston Shiki
- Eater Carolinas: Best Sushi in Charleston
- Count on 2: Top Five Sushi Restaurants in Charleston
- Post and Courier: Charleston Sushi Restaurants – New and Old
- Wikipedia: Sushi
- Google Search: sushi techniques
- Google Scholar: sushi sustainability
- Encyclopedia Britannica: sushi
- Google News: charleston sushi
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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