You’ve probably driven past it a dozen times without blinking. Tucked into a modest storefront on Comly Road, Kenko Sushi Lincoln Park NJ doesn't exactly scream "culinary destination" from the sidewalk. There are no flashing neon signs or valet stands. Honestly, it looks like your run-of-the-mill suburban takeout joint. But walk inside, and you’re immediately hit with a vibe that feels more like a cozy Brooklyn haunt than a Morris County strip mall.
The walls? They’re covered in thousands of neon Post-it notes. Doodles, "I was here" tags, and tiny pieces of art from years of diners give the place a frantic, lived-in energy. It’s loud, it’s cramped, and it’s arguably some of the best sushi you’ll find in this corner of New Jersey.
The "Lincoln Park" Roll and the Art of the Overstuffed Roll
Most sushi spots play it safe with the size of their rolls. Not here. At Kenko, the portions are, frankly, aggressive. If you're the kind of person who wants a dainty, one-bite experience, you might struggle. These rolls are structural feats.
The namesake Lincoln Park roll is the heavy hitter. It’s a mountain of shrimp tempura and crab, topped with avocado, spicy tuna, and a heavy drizzle of teriyaki and spicy mayo. It is decadent. It is messy. It is exactly what you want when you’re craving "fusion" sushi that doesn't hold back.
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But it’s not just about the size. The fish quality is surprisingly high for the price point. While many local spots rely on frozen "sushi-grade" blocks that taste like nothing, there’s a distinct freshness here. The Godzilla roll—spicy tuna and avocado topped with more crab and a satisfying crunch—actually tastes like the sea, not just the spicy mayo it's drenched in.
Why the "Secret" Complimentary Perks Matter
One thing that catches first-timers off guard is the hospitality. In an era where every restaurant seems to be nickel-and-diming for extra ginger or a side of spicy mayo, Kenko goes the other way.
It’s almost a guarantee that you’ll get something "on the house." Sometimes it’s a small appetizer, other times it’s a "test" roll the chef is working on. But the real kicker? The complimentary mango shaved ice at the end of the meal. It’s light, icy, and serves as a perfect palate cleanser after you’ve demolished three rolls covered in eel sauce. It’s these small, unprompted touches that turn a casual diner into a regular.
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Navigating the Chaos: Orders and Apps
Let’s get real for a second—ordering here can be a bit of a headache if you aren't prepared. They’ve moved away from the old-school "just call us" model.
- The App is King: They largely push customers toward their proprietary app or online ordering system.
- No Phone Orders: Don't be surprised if you call and get told to go online. It’s just how they manage the sheer volume of takeout.
- The Gift Card Glitch: If you have a gift card, you usually can’t use it through the app. You have to walk in, pay with your card, and then have them refund the difference once they swipe the physical gift card. It's a bit of a dance, but the food makes it worth the 3-minute hassle.
They are closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays. Yeah, you read that right. A four-day work week (Wednesday through Saturday) is their standard. It sounds crazy for a business, but it ensures the staff isn't burnt out and the fish is cycled through quickly during their peak windows.
Beyond the Raw Stuff: Hibachi and Bubble Tea
If you're bringing someone who "doesn't do raw fish," the kitchen side of the menu is actually solid. The Chicken Teriyaki is a local favorite, mostly because they don't overcook the poultry into rubber. It stays juicy.
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They also have a massive dedicated following for their Bubble Tea. We’re talking 17 different types, all of which are gluten-free and lactose-free. The Kenko Iced Tea uses real fruit syrup rather than the powdery chemical stuff you find at the mall. It makes a difference.
What to Know Before You Go
Parking is generally easy since it’s in a shared lot, but Friday nights are a different story. If you're planning to dine in, expect a wait. The space is small—intimate, if you're being generous; tight, if you're being honest.
- Location: 261 Comly Rd #3, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035.
- Hours: Wednesday–Saturday, 11:15 AM to 8:30 PM.
- Price Point: Expect to spend about $25–$40 per person depending on how many specialty rolls you tackle.
Actionable Next Steps:
If you're planning a visit, download the Kenko Sushi app a few hours before you’re hungry to browse the "Special Rolls" section—the "Devil's Ride" and "Hamachi Dream" are often overlooked but incredible. Aim to arrive by 5:30 PM on a Thursday if you want a table without a 40-minute wait. Finally, make sure to bring a Sharpie if you want to add your own Post-it to the wall; they usually provide them, but having your own color makes your "mark" stand out.