“Off the top here, I had written a four star review for this location in Breckwood Plaza in Springfield from years ago. However I noticed recently that review was somehow transferred to the Joy Bowl in East Longmeadow, a relatively new location which definitely wasn't open when I made my review, so that review has been deleted. So now I have a new review for this location.My wife and I typically do take-out, each of us getting a build-your-own poké bowl (usually the three protein option) and the steamed vegetable gyoza. We used to get the regular (meat) gyoza and honestly either option is very good. Their dipping sauce does a lot of the heavy lifting as it is very flavorful.The build-your-own poké bowls can be made with a variety of bases (including white/brown rice, lettuce/mixed greens or seaweed salad, or "noodles" (which is effectively linguine)), proteins, fruit and vegetable add-ins, sauces, and a few toppings. This variety gives you the opportunity to try a lot of different things on ensuing visits until you eventually find a mixture that works for you. Once again the sauces typically do a lot of the work as the proteins are generally unseasoned and vegetables are uncooked, but for me it's about finding a good mix of textures and not overwhelming yourself with sweetness (which can happen with the mango or pineapple or the unagi (eel) sauce).I have visited this Joy Bowl enough times to say my review would be five stars if not for one thing: inconsistent bowl filling. My wife and I have recently gone whole food plant-based with a carbohydrate limitation, so rather then getting rice for the base we have been opting for the lettuce/mixed greens salad. Lately this has meant that the quantity of filling has not been as satisfactory, an issue which seems to depend on who is filling the bowl. Salad can be smushed down moreso than rice but, more often than not in recent weeks, whoever has been filling the bowl hasn't made an effort to compensate for this, and we have been left wanting more food. If you are getting rice or noodles for a base, this inconsistency probably won't be an issue for you. For me, for the price being paid, and at a time when there's not a lot of money to spend on eating out, this dissatisfaction has lead to us opting not to go to Joy Bowl.In summation, Joy Bowl's food is quite tasty and satisfying...when there's a reasonable effort made by the person building the bowl.(It also wouldn't hurt to find a way to keep the entrance door from slamming shut, but I suppose that's a bigger issue for the people dining in and the people who work there!)“
“This is my favorite place for Asian style cuisines. I live over half an hour away, but still remain loyal to my favorite restaurant, because they never disappoint. The drinks and food are all phenomenal. So glad I discovered this hidden gem!“
“The food was absolutely amazing! I am so happy to have a restaurant like this in the area , the prices are great . My server Carrisa was absolutely delightful, sweet, and so helpful. I haven’t experienced such a good service in a long time . Any questions I had in regard to the menu were answered and she gave great suggestions about the specials !“
“This place has awesome sushi! Annaisewas such a sweet young lady who took our order. We had such a nice interaction with her. She needs a raise! We waited a long time for our order but the ppl ordering were so nice to speak with. One gentleman was from Dedham and that's not far from where we live. He missed how New Englanders say "South Shore". The food was worth the wait. Thanks to our brother for suggesting this wonderful place. I'm stuffed.“
“This may be saying a lot, but it's becoming one of the BEST hidden gems in Western MA. The food is absolutely delicious. The owner is on site and very much involved. Pride of ownership and commitment to food quality is evident. Highly recommend you give this place a try. You won't be disappointed.“
“i’ve got the flu rn, can’t taste much. ordered some spicy drunken noodles, kani salad and tom yum soup to cure me. some of the best, flavorful food i have ever had. the heat isn’t overbearing and it genuinely made me feel just a little better. thank you!“
Japanese • $$
“Why does this place not have 5 ? The staff is super friendly and kind. We had the ramen, as it was a cold and snow covered night. The restaurant had good vibes and was clean. I loved the ramen and definitely will be back to try the Hibachi next time!“
“I regret not taking pictures of this deliciousness. The Pupu platter can feed like 3 or 4 people. The veggie Mei Fun and the Hibachi rice with Jumbo Shrimps to die for. The wonton soup was super good too. Definitely my new favorite Asian restaurant.“
“I don't have anything negative to say. Impeccable service, perfectly cooked, amazingly seasoned food, nice relaxing ambiance and even one of the best dj's I've had the pleasure of hearing. I've heard people discuss the price but it is worth every penny and you get what you pay for. We tried a bunch of shareables and desserts and in my opinion it's the best way to go. My best bites were crispy lobster roll and sea bass satay. The mandarin dessert looked so much like a mandarin that I tried to open with my fingers thinking they stuffed an actual mandarin w mousse. I cannot wait to go back.“
“I had the spicy teriyaki chicken and teriyaki steak with fried rice and all the veggies. I also ordered the crab rangoons. The chicken was great, good flavor and well cooked. The steak not so much. The steak just felt very low quality with a taste to reflect. Veggies and rice were flavorful and well seasoned. The rangoons had a nice outer casing which reminded me of an empanadilla, the filling wasn't too sweet and the flavor ran a bit mild. They weren’t bad but they could have more flavor. Overall I would rate my meal 8.5/10.“
“A great place to go to when you’re looking for a quick, nutritious meal. We usually dine-in on our way north to Vermont for ski weekends or when we are in the area for errands. We always build our own bowls and pile on the veggies sky high alongside mango flavored coconut water from the fridge. Vegan friendly so that’s an extra plus too!Vegetarian options: Veg options are pretty self evident and their dressings are clearly labeled. While tofu is the only blatant veg protein, you can also pile on the edamame for more protein.“
“Excellent food! The service was super friendly, food serviced in a timely manner. You must be patient as the host/waitress also works behind the scene and may not hear you enter or time to check on you frequently.I loved all the art and greenery too!“