KAI Restaurant & Bar

- 520 Bayway, Elizabeth, NJ 07202

KAI Restaurant & Bar stands out as a vibrant and sophisticated culinary destination in Elizabeth, New Jersey, bringing the rich, complex flavors of authentic Peruvian cuisine to the local community. More than just a traditional Latin American eatery, KAI focuses on delivering an elevated, modern dining experience, with a menu that masterfully balances Peruvian classics alongside the innovative, globally-renowned Nikkei cuisine—the celebrated fusion of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients. This blend creates a unique and compelling flavor profile that appeals to both adventurous foodies and those seeking refined, comforting meals.

The restaurant functions as a full-service dining spot and a destination bar, making it an ideal choice for a variety of occasions, from a casual lunch to a celebratory dinner with a group. The atmosphere is described as Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, offering a comfortable yet stylish backdrop for a memorable meal. Guests consistently rave about the high quality of the food—noting dishes are both flavorful and well-cooked—as well as the meticulously crafted drink menu. As the space can be quite popular, especially during peak dining hours and when live music is featured, its popularity among locals is evident, often leading to a busy crowd of Groups enjoying the full experience.

KAI is dedicated to offering a full culinary and social experience. From a comprehensive beverage program that includes happy hour food and drinks to its impressive selection of small plates and desserts, the establishment ensures every detail enhances the dining journey. This Elizabeth gem truly showcases the dynamic evolution of Peruvian food, making it an essential visit for anyone in New Jersey seeking a world-class culinary adventure close to home.

The restaurant is conveniently located in Elizabeth, NJ, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors in the area. Its proximity to major thoroughfares ensures a simple commute, and the business has gone to great lengths to simplify the parking experience for its patrons.

Address:520 Bayway, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA

For physical accessibility, KAI ensures a welcoming environment for all guests:

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance
• Wheelchair Accessible Seating

Parking is also hassle-free, a major convenience in this bustling area:

• Free Parking Lot
• Free Street Parking
• On-site Parking Available

KAI Restaurant & Bar provides versatile service options to meet diverse customer needs, from quick takeout to full table service dining.

• Dining Options: Available for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert. Full Table service and comfortable Seating are provided.
• Takeout: Orders can be picked up quickly for those on the go.
• Bar Service: A Bar onsite offers a great place to enjoy the extensive drink menu.
• Happy Hour: Specials are available for both Happy hour drinks and Happy hour food.
• Family-Friendly: A dedicated Kids' menu (featuring items like Chicken Milanesa & Fries and Salchipapa & Fries) ensures there are great options for children.
• Payment Options: Accepts Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments for convenience.

KAI has established itself through a combination of exceptional service, a high-quality beverage program, and a commitment to culinary excellence.

• Great Cocktails and Beer Selection: The bar is a major highlight, offering a variety of Cocktails, Beer, Hard liquor, and Wine, with drinks consistently praised as "pleasing to the eye" and perfectly balanced.
• Culinary Diversity: Extensive offerings include Alcohol, Coffee, Organic dishes, Small plates, and full menus for Vegetarians (Ceviche de Hongos, Chaufa Hongos) and Vegans.
• Authentic and Fusion Cuisine: Specializing in both traditional Peruvian dishes and modern Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian) creations.
• Fast Service: Recognized as a key highlight, ensuring efficiency without compromising quality.
• Great Dessert: The dessert menu, featuring Peruvian Tres Leches and Kabocha Crème Brûlée, is a major draw.
• Atmosphere: The ambiance is uniquely Casual, Cozy, and Trendy, often complemented by live music, as noted by happy diners.

To make a reservation, inquire about a visit, or place a takeout order, please use the following contact details:

Address: 520 Bayway, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA

Phone: (908) 441-7807

Mobile Phone: +1 908-441-7807

For the New Jersey local seeking a truly unique and flavor-packed experience, KAI Restaurant & Bar is worth choosing for its authentic culinary foundation and its mastery of contemporary fusion. The menu is structured around three main culinary territories: the land (Mi Tierra), the sea (Mi Mar), and the dynamic fusion of Nikkei.

Start with the Ceviches & Nikkei section, the undisputed signature of Peruvian and Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. The classic Ceviche is a must-try, featuring fresh fish marinated in 'leche de tigre' (tiger’s milk), a potent citrus marinade with a touch of aji (chili pepper). For a true taste of the sophisticated fusion, choose the Tiradito Apasionado or the Acevichado Roll. Tiradito, similar to Japanese sashimi, features thinly sliced raw fish bathed in a Nikkei-style, often creamy, sauce—lighter than ceviche but packed with Peruvian heat and Japanese finesse. The Acevichado Roll is an excellent introductory Nikkei dish, typically a sushi roll filled with tempura shrimp and avocado, topped with fish and drizzled with a rich, tangy ‘acevichado’ sauce (a blend of ceviche marinade and sometimes mayonnaise).

From the traditional Peruvian favorites, the Lomo Saltado is essential. This beloved 'Chifa' (Peruvian-Chinese fusion) stir-fry is a wok-seared dish of tender beef (lomo), onions, tomatoes, and Peruvian spices, finished with soy sauce and vinegar. Crucially, it is served with rice and French fries—a perfect example of Peruvian comfort food that is a mandatory choice for first-time visitors. Another highly recommended main course is the Arroz con Mariscos Norteño, a favorite among patrons. Described in reviews as "delicious, 20/10," this dish is Peru's answer to paella—a rich, flavorful rice dish cooked with mixed seafood (mariscos) and a complex chili paste base, offering a deep, savory taste of the coastal North of Peru.

Beyond the incredible food, the overall experience sets KAI apart. Customers praise the cocktail program, confirming that the drinks are both creative and potent. A local highlight to try is the chicha mora, a traditional, non-alcoholic Peruvian beverage made from purple corn, fruit, and spices, which one customer highly recommended as "Incredible." Given the consistently high praise for the food quality, drinks, and service, combined with the cozy yet trendy atmosphere and occasional live music, it is highly recommended to follow the advice of local diners and "make reservations" to secure a table at this Elizabeth culinary hotspot.

KAI Restaurant & Bar

520 Bayway, Elizabeth, NJ 07202, USA