Everything on the Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen Menu in Winston-Salem

Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen has established itself as a cornerstone for high-quality, fast-casual Japanese comfort food in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Located at 3439 Burke Mill Road, this establishment bridges the gap between traditional sit-down teppanyaki steakhouses and quick-service eateries. For those looking for the full menu, current pricing, and a detailed breakdown of what to expect during a visit, this comprehensive guide covers every aspect of the dining experience at Little Ari's.

Quick Reference: Location and Operating Hours

Before diving into the extensive flavor profiles of their hibachi and ramen, here are the essential logistics for planning a visit:

Address: 3439 Burke Mill Rd, Winston-Salem, NC 27103
Phone Number: (336) 331-3893
Service Style: Fast-casual counter service (dine-in, takeout, and delivery)

Regular Operating Hours

Monday – Friday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

The restaurant is conveniently situated in a high-traffic area, making it a popular choice for local professionals during lunch hours and families seeking an efficient yet satisfying dinner.

The Core of the Menu: Hibachi and Teppanyaki

The primary draw at Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen is their hibachi section. Unlike traditional Japanese steakhouses where you sit around a shared grill, Little Ari's prepares these dishes in a centralized kitchen, allowing for much faster turnaround times without sacrificing the characteristic sear of teppanyaki cooking.

Understanding the "Solo" Entrees

The "Solo" menu is designed for those who have a specific protein preference. Each entree typically comes with a choice of fried rice, steamed rice, or noodles, along with a side of sautéed vegetables and their famous signature white sauce.

Teriyaki Chicken ($12.15): A crowd favorite, the chicken is glazed in a savory-sweet teriyaki sauce that caramelizes slightly on the grill. For those with a smaller appetite, the Teriyaki Chicken Light is available for $9.20.
Hibachi Chicken ($12.15): Distinguished from the teriyaki version by its focus on savory soy and garlic notes rather than the sweetness of the glaze.
Hibachi Shrimp ($13.10): Large, succulent shrimp are seared quickly to maintain a snap in every bite. The "Light" version is priced at $10.40.
Hibachi Salmon ($13.95): A delicate yet flavorful option for seafood lovers. The kitchen is known for not overcooking the salmon, keeping the center moist.
Hibachi Steak ($16.50): Utilizing ribeye cuts, this steak offers a robust beef flavor that pairs perfectly with the char of the grill.
Filet Mignon ($19.80): The premium choice on the menu. This tender cut is the gold standard for many hibachi enthusiasts in Winston-Salem, providing a melt-in-the-mouth texture.
Vegetarian Options: The Hibachi Vegetable ($8.95) and Tofu & Vegetable ($9.95) ensure that non-meat eaters have substantial, flavorful options.

The Power of the Combo Platter

For diners who find it difficult to choose just one protein, the Combo menu offers the best value. These pairings are generous and provide a diverse flavor profile on a single plate.

Steak & Shrimp ($14.80): Perhaps the most popular combination, balancing the earthiness of the ribeye with the sweetness of the shrimp.
Filet & Salmon ($16.90): A sophisticated pairing that combines the most tender beef with the rich fats of the salmon.
Chicken & Shrimp ($12.60): An affordable way to enjoy "surf and turf" in a casual setting.

In our experience, the combo plates are where Little Ari's truly shines in terms of portion size. Even the "light" versions of solo items are often enough for a standard lunch, but the regular combos are frequently large enough to provide leftovers.

Ramen Bowls: A Deep Dive into the Broth

In recent years, Winston-Salem has seen a surge in ramen popularity, and Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen provides a reliable, comforting bowl that rivals dedicated ramen shops. The menu features three primary styles, each priced at $12.95.

1. Tonkotsu Ramen

The Tonkotsu is the richest option on the menu. The broth is made by boiling pork bones for hours until the collagen dissolves, creating a creamy, opaque white soup. At Little Ari's, this bowl is traditionally topped with tender slices of pork belly (chashu), a soft-boiled egg, scallions, and bamboo shoots. It is the ultimate comfort food for a rainy North Carolina afternoon.

2. Shoyu Ramen

For those who prefer a clearer, more salt-forward broth, the Shoyu Ramen is the way to go. The base is a high-quality soy sauce blended with a meat and vegetable stock. It offers a cleaner finish on the palate compared to the Tonkotsu and highlights the texture of the wavy noodles.

3. Chicken Ramen

A lighter alternative to the pork-based broths, the Chicken Ramen features a savory chicken dashi. It is less oily than the other varieties and is a popular choice for those looking for a healthier or lighter soup option.

Note: For those who enjoy a kick of heat, you can add "Spicy" to any ramen bowl for an additional $1.00.

Onigiri: The Portable Japanese Snack

One of the most unique aspects of Little Ari's menu is the inclusion of Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls). These are relatively rare in the Winston-Salem fast-casual scene. Priced at a very accessible $2.25 each, they make for a perfect side or a light snack.

Shio Jake (Salted Salmon): A traditional filling that provides a salty, flaky contrast to the soft white rice.
Tuna Mayo: A creamy, savory filling that is a staple in Japanese convenience stores.
Shrimp Katsu Onigiri: This version adds a bit of crunch, featuring breaded and fried shrimp inside the rice ball.
Shibazuke (Japanese Pickles): A great vegan/vegetarian option that provides a tangy, crunchy center.

Kitchen Favorites and Comfort Foods

Beyond the grills and soup bowls, the "Kitchen Favorites" section offers deep-fried delights and traditional Japanese stews.

Curry Dishes

Japanese curry is distinct from Indian or Thai varieties; it is thicker, sweeter, and more like a rich gravy.

Beef Curry with Rice ($10.80): Slow-cooked beef that falls apart, served over a bed of steamed rice.
Chicken Curry with Rice ($9.55): A slightly lighter version with the same deep, aromatic curry base.

Katsu (Breaded and Fried)

Katsu refers to meat that has been coated in Panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried to a golden crisp.

Spicy Katsu Chicken ($12.10): Adds a layer of heat to the traditional breaded chicken.
Katsu Shrimp ($13.30): Large shrimp fried in a light, airy Panko crust.

Appetizers and Small Bites

Gyoza ($4.55): Available both fried and pan-fried, these pork and vegetable dumplings are the quintessential starter.
Shumai ($4.55): These small shrimp dumplings can be ordered steamed or fried.
Takoyaki ($6.95): These octopus-filled batter balls are topped with takoyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes. They are a must-try for anyone looking for authentic Japanese street food flavors.
Niku-Man ($3.75): A large, fluffy steamed bun filled with savory BBQ pork.

The Famous "Sweet Carrots" and Sides

No discussion of Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen is complete without mentioning their Sweet Carrots. In many Winston-Salem hibachi spots, the carrots can be an afterthought, but here, they are a destination in themselves. They are cooked to a tender-crisp texture and glazed in a way that highlights their natural sweetness without becoming cloying.

Customizing Your Sides

Fried Rice vs. Steamed Rice: Both are available for $3.50 as side orders. The fried rice is well-seasoned without being overly greasy.
Sautéed Vegetables ($4.50): A mix of zucchini, onions, broccoli, and mushrooms. For those with specific preferences, you can order sides of just Zucchini & Onions ($3.20) or Broccoli ($3.20).
The White Sauce ($1.25 for extra): This is the "yum-yum" sauce that locals crave. It is creamy, tangy, and perfect for dipping both the steak and the shrimp.

Beverages, Snacks, and Desserts

Little Ari's stocks a wide variety of imported Japanese beverages and snacks that add to the authenticity of the experience.

Drinks

Ramune ($2.65): The classic Japanese marble soda, available in original and peach flavors. It’s a favorite for kids and those nostalgic for Japanese pop culture.
Calpico ($2.65): A non-carbonated, milk-based soft drink with a refreshing yogurt-like flavor. Available in peach, strawberry, and mango.
Japanese Teas ($2.65): Including Oolong, Jasmine, and the famous Oi Ocha Green Tea and Matcha.
Pocari Sweat ($2.65): An iconic Japanese ion supply drink (similar to an electrolyte drink).

Snacks and Desserts

The counter often features a selection of Japanese treats:

Pocky ($1.00): Chocolate-covered biscuit sticks.
Hi-Chew ($2.65): Fruit-flavored chewy candies.
Swiss Rolls ($2.85): Available in vanilla and chocolate, providing a soft, sweet end to a savory meal.

The Dining Experience: What to Expect When You Visit

Little Ari's is designed for efficiency, but it doesn't feel cold or clinical. When you enter, you are greeted by a clean, modern interior with plenty of natural light.

The Ordering Process

Counter Service: You place your order at the front counter. The menu is clearly displayed on overhead boards.
The Pager: Once you pay, you are given a buzzer/pager.
Seating: You can choose any available table. The dining area is unpretentious and features a mix of standard tables and chairs.
Pick-up: When your pager vibrates, you head to the pick-up window. The food is typically served in sturdy containers, even for dine-in, which makes taking leftovers home incredibly easy.
Clean-up: As a fast-casual spot, diners are expected to clear their own trays at the designated trash and recycling stations.

Atmosphere and Vibe

The vibe is "neighborhood casual." You’ll see everyone from construction workers in high-vis vests to office employees in business casual, all drawn by the same high-value meals. While some reviewers have noted the dining area can be quiet or "simple," others appreciate the lack of pretense. It’s a place where the focus is entirely on the quality of the kitchen’s output.

Why Little Ari's Stands Out in Winston-Salem

Winston-Salem has no shortage of Japanese restaurants, so what makes Little Ari's special?

Price-to-Quality Ratio: While prices for beef and seafood have risen globally, Little Ari's has managed to keep their lunch specials and solo entrees within a very reasonable $10–$20 range.
Speed: If you are on a 30-minute lunch break, Little Ari's is one of the few places where you can get a "real" cooked meal (as opposed to a sandwich or salad) in under 10 minutes.
Onigiri Availability: As mentioned earlier, finding fresh Onigiri in the Triad area isn't always easy. This makes Little Ari's a specific destination for fans of Japanese rice balls.
Consistency: Regulars frequently comment on the consistency of the hibachi sear and the broth quality. You know exactly what you are going to get every time you walk in.

Is Little Ari's Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely. The restaurant offers a specific Kids Menu that includes:

Kid's Teriyaki Chicken ($7.95)
Kid's Hibachi Chicken ($7.95)
Kid's Hibachi Shrimp ($8.95)

These portions are perfectly sized for younger children and omit some of the more "complex" vegetables that picky eaters might avoid, focusing instead on the protein and rice. The presence of Ramune soda and Pocky snacks also makes it a "fun" destination for families.

Tips for the Best Experience

Order Online for Peak Hours: During the 12:00 PM lunch rush, the line can get long. Use their online ordering platform (via Toast) to have your food ready the moment you arrive.
Don't Skip the White Sauce: Even if you aren't usually a sauce person, the white sauce at Little Ari's is a local legend for a reason.
Try the Daily Specials: Occasionally, the restaurant will feature bento-style lunch specials that offer a little bit of everything (Katsu, Hibachi, and Gyoza) at a discounted price.
Check the Parking: While there is a dedicated lot, it can fill up during the height of the lunch hour. Arriving 10 minutes before or after the noon rush usually guarantees a spot right in front.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Does Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen offer sushi?

While they do not have a traditional sushi bar with raw nigiri and sashimi, they offer Onigiri (rice balls) and occasionally specialty cooked rolls or sushi-adjacent items like their Katsu Shrimp Onigiri. The focus is more on cooked "kitchen" food rather than raw fish.

Is there a gluten-free menu?

While they do not have a certified gluten-free kitchen, many hibachi items can be prepared with steamed rice and without certain sauces. However, because soy sauce (which contains wheat) is a primary ingredient in almost all their glazes and broths, diners with severe Celiac disease should exercise caution and speak with the manager.

Can I customize my vegetable mix?

The hibachi vegetables are typically sautéed as a pre-mixed blend of zucchini, onions, mushrooms, and broccoli. However, the kitchen is usually very accommodating to requests like "no onions" or "extra broccoli" for a small additional fee.

Do they offer delivery?

Yes, Little Ari's is available on most major third-party delivery platforms including DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub. For the best pricing, ordering directly through their website for pickup is recommended.

What is the most popular dish?

The Steak & Shrimp Combo and the Tonkotsu Ramen are consistently cited as the top-selling items. Among the smaller bites, the Fried Gyoza and Sweet Carrots are nearly universal additions to every order.

Summary of Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen

Little Ari's Japanese Kitchen in Winston-Salem is a testament to the fact that fast food doesn't have to be low quality. By focusing on the essentials—freshly seared meats, rich ramen broths, and unique Japanese snacks—they have created a menu that appeals to both the "quick lunch" crowd and the "comfort food" seekers. Whether you are there for the premium Filet Mignon hibachi or just a $2.25 tuna mayo onigiri, the value proposition remains one of the strongest in the Burke Mill Road area.

If you find yourself in Winston-Salem craving the smoky char of a hibachi grill or the creamy depth of a pork-bone ramen, Little Ari's is a destination that delivers on its promises of flavor, speed, and affordability.