Nestled within the vibrant open-air complex of The Circle Ratchaphruek in Bangkok’s Taling Chan district, Shichi Japanese Restaurant was a delightful discovery during my recent visit. As someone who’s always on the hunt for authentic yet approachable dining experiences while traveling, Shichi caught my attention with its sleek, modern design and the promise of fresh, high-quality Japanese cuisine. After spending an evening savoring their dishes and soaking in the ambiance, I can confidently say it’s a spot worth visiting for anyone craving a taste of Japan in the heart of Bangkok. Here’s my experience as a reviewer, complete with the highs, lows, and everything in between.
Arrival and Ambiance
I arrived at The Circle Ratchaphruek on a warm Friday evening, the perfect time to explore this lively lifestyle hub. Shichi Japanese Restaurant is easy to spot, with its minimalist exterior and warm lighting spilling out onto the outdoor seating area. The restaurant’s design strikes a balance between modern sophistication and traditional Japanese charm—think clean wooden accents, soft lighting, and a touch of greenery that blends seamlessly with the open-air vibe of The Circle. As I stepped inside, I was greeted by a friendly hostess who led me to a cozy table near the window, offering a view of the bustling yet relaxed atmosphere outside.
The interior felt intimate yet spacious, with neatly arranged tables and a sushi counter where chefs were busy crafting dishes with precision. The soft hum of Japanese pop music in the background added a playful touch, while the open layout ensured it never felt stuffy. One thing I noticed right away was how Shichi caters to a mix of locals and expats, creating a welcoming vibe that made me feel like I was in on a local secret. A Tripadvisor review I’d read beforehand mentioned the restaurant’s “authentic yet approachable” atmosphere, and I couldn’t agree more—it’s the kind of place where you can come for a casual dinner or a special occasion.
The Food: A Journey to Japan
Let’s get to the heart of the experience: the food. Shichi’s menu is a love letter to Japanese cuisine, offering everything from sushi and sashimi to hearty ramen and grilled dishes. As a sushi enthusiast, I was eager to dive into their raw offerings, but I also wanted to explore their cooked dishes to get a full sense of what Shichi had to offer.
I started with the Shichi Signature Sushi Platter (around 850 THB), which came highly recommended by both the server and online reviews. The platter was a work of art—vibrant slices of salmon, tuna, and hamachi, alongside delicate pieces of tamago and shrimp tempura rolls. Each piece was fresh, with the fish melting in my mouth and the rice perfectly seasoned with just the right amount of vinegar. The shrimp tempura roll was a standout, with a satisfying crunch that balanced the softness of the fish. However, I did notice that the portion size was slightly smaller than expected for the price, a sentiment echoed by a Google Maps review that mentioned the “premium pricing” for some dishes.
Next, I couldn’t resist trying the Spicy Miso Ramen (320 THB), as I’d read on a blog that Shichi’s ramen was a crowd favorite. The broth was rich and creamy, with a slow-building heat that didn’t overpower the umami flavors. The noodles had that perfect chewy texture, and the toppings—tender chashu pork, seaweed, and a perfectly jammy egg—elevated the dish to comfort food heaven. My only gripe was that the portion was on the smaller side for a ramen bowl, especially compared to some of the hearty servings I’ve had elsewhere in Bangkok. Still, the quality was undeniable, and I left the bowl scraped clean.
For dessert, I opted for the Matcha Lava Cake (180 THB), a modern twist on a classic that I’d seen raved about on Instagram. It was a warm, gooey delight with a subtle matcha bitterness that paired beautifully with the accompanying scoop of vanilla ice cream. The presentation was Instagram-worthy, and the flavors delivered on the hype. If I had to nitpick, I’d say the cake was a tad sweet for my taste, but that’s a minor quibble in an otherwise stellar dish.
Service and Value
The service at Shichi was a highlight of the evening. The staff were attentive without being overbearing, and they seemed genuinely passionate about the food. My server, a young woman with a warm smile, was happy to explain the menu and even suggested pairing my sushi with a glass of chilled sake, which turned out to be a fantastic recommendation. The sake was crisp and complemented the meal perfectly, adding a touch of indulgence to the evening.
That said, I did notice that the restaurant got busy as the night went on, and the staff seemed slightly stretched during peak hours. A Google Maps review had mentioned occasional delays in service during busy times, and I experienced a brief wait for my ramen to arrive. It wasn’t a dealbreaker, but if you’re visiting on a weekend evening, it’s worth being prepared for a slightly slower pace.
In terms of value, Shichi leans toward the higher end of the price spectrum for Bangkok’s Japanese restaurants. My total bill, including the sushi platter, ramen, dessert, and sake, came to around 1,500 THB. While the quality justified the cost, budget travelers might find the prices a bit steep compared to other local eateries. That said, the freshness of the ingredients and the care put into each dish made it feel like a worthwhile splurge.
The Vibe and Surroundings
One of the things I loved about Shichi was how it fit into the broader experience of The Circle Ratchaphruek. After dinner, I took a leisurely stroll around the complex, enjoying the twinkling string lights and the buzz of families and friends hanging out. The Circle’s open-air layout makes it a perfect spot to pair a meal at Shichi with some shopping or a coffee at one of the nearby cafes. The relaxed, community-oriented vibe of the complex enhanced my dining experience, making it feel like more than just a meal—it was an evening well spent.
Practical Tips for Visitors
If you’re planning a visit to Shichi Japanese Restaurant, here are a few tips based on my experience:Timing is Key:
- Aim for an early evening visit (around 6 PM) to avoid the peak dinner rush. This ensures faster service and a more relaxed atmosphere. The Circle is also at its most charming in the evening, with cooler temperatures and a festive vibe.
- Reservations: Shichi can get busy, especially on weekends. I didn’t make a reservation, but I’d recommend booking ahead if you’re dining with a group or visiting during peak hours.
- Getting There: The Circle Ratchaphruek is about a 30-minute drive from central Bangkok. Use a ride-hailing app like Grab for convenience, as public transport options are limited. The Google Maps link (https://maps.app.goo.gl/kit8wWiRgJTx6bys6) is accurate and will guide you straight to the restaurant.
- What to Order: Don’t skip the sushi platter or the ramen, and leave room for the matcha lava cake if you have a sweet tooth. If you’re on a budget, stick to one or two dishes to keep costs manageable.
- Explore The Circle: Make an evening of it by exploring the shops and stalls at The Circle after your meal. It’s a great way to soak in the local vibe and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.
Final Thoughts
Shichi Japanese Restaurant is a gem within The Circle Ratchaphruek, offering a taste of Japan that’s both authentic and approachable. From the fresh sushi to the comforting ramen and the indulgent matcha dessert, every dish I tried was crafted with care and bursting with flavor. The ambiance, with its blend of modern and traditional elements, made for a relaxing and enjoyable evening, while the friendly service added a personal touch that I always appreciate when traveling.
Is it perfect? Not quite—the prices are a bit high, and the service can slow down during busy times. But these minor drawbacks didn’t overshadow the overall experience. For anyone looking to escape the hustle of central Bangkok and enjoy a quality meal in a laid-back, community-oriented setting, Shichi is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place that leaves you full, happy, and already planning your next visit.
