Restaurant Reservations - Free • Instant • Confirmed
Learn More
Restaurant Reviews
Find Restaurants in Your Area
Select a Location
Reserve now:

moto-i Reviews List

moto-i

moto-i is a sake brewery restaurant located in the uptown neighborhood of Minneapolis. moto-i is a full service restaurant with liquor, beer, wine and of course sake! Our sake is brewed on site, unpasteurized and served on draft.


The menu is reminiscent of an Izakaya, a Japanese Pub, with small plates as well as noodles and rice dishes, the restaurant incorporates many Asian ethnicities and keeps the focus on street, comfort and tavern food from Asia.
See more moto-i details
120 Current Reviews
Summary of Diner Ratings & Reviews
Overall 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
(120 Reviews)
Open Ratings Snapshot
Rating Breakdown 120 reviews
5 stars
(39)
4 stars
(55)
3 stars
(20)
2 stars
(5)
1 star
(1)
Food 
4.1 / 5
(Outstanding) 4.1 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3.8 / 5
(Very Good) 3.8 / 5
Noise Level
2.3 / 3
Energetic
Filter Reviews By:
Diners classify this restaurant as:
  • fit for foodies(53)
  • neighborhood gem(48)
  • vibrant bar scene(46)
  • good for groups(40)
  • hot spot(30)
  • late-night find(23)
moto-i Reviews List
Review 1 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Dinner for 2

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"This was my third visit and the food was excellent. Shared 5 small plates to start. We had the pickle plate, JFC (Japanese Fried Chicken), sliders, fried pork belly, and the sweet potato fries. All were really good but the two that wow are the pickle plate and the fried pork belly. We actually ordered one more pickle plate and fried pork belly. Moto does a quick pickle (I am guessing) so the veggies retain much of their snap and crunch. The veggies will rotate based on what they have. On our plates were carrots, celery (celery pickled is fantastic), daikon radish, fennel, and red onion. The fired pork belly is crispy goodnes. The sauce and the cilantro add fantastic flavor. If you love saki, they make their own in house and it is reallygood"
Dined on 6/15/2013
 2008
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 2 for moto-i
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Food Only Ok

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The ambiance and service were both very good. The views from the rooftop dining area are beautiful, but we had several recommended dishes and only a few stood out as different/tasty. The Japanese Fried Chicken and the Pulled Pork Buns were delicious/one of a kind, however, the tempura mushroom chips were just sliced mushrooms tempura style, nothing special and the spicy/citrus sauce that came with it, didn't go well at all. The sweet potato fries were dreadful, soggy and not crispy. The edamame and rangoons were decent, but nothing special. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this to friends or family unless they were interested in the extensive micro-brewed saki menu. I'm not knowledgeable about saki, so I'm unsure if it was impressive or not..."
Dined on 6/07/2013
 2012
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, notable wine list
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 3 for moto-i
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Third time is not a charm

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/18/2013
Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Our previous two visits to Moto-I were very pleasurable, and over a year ago. I'm not sure if they have new management and/or a new chef, but it was not the same restaurant that we were looking forward to. The server acted like he was completely bored. The food was mediocre at best. We went for brunch, but the brunch menu has totally changed. The small plates were bland and overcooked. We are so over Moto-I...there are many other restaurants with way better service and food."
Dined on 5/18/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 4 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Hadn't been to this restaurant before but had a Groupon for brunch. Would definitely recommend if you're looking for something out of the ordinary for brunch. Mimosa Sake for $2 - taste great and what a deal. We had the pork belly bites for an appetizer and for entrees had the pork sandwich with scrambled egg, the ginger egg fried rice and the big boy breakfast. Will definitely go again."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: great for brunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 5 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/14/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Love the small-plates menu. It was a perfect way for two of us to share a few interesting dishes. The pork belly bites were fantastic. The yellowtail sashimi was tasty, but overpowered by the spicy thick jalapeno slices. The mussels tasted fresh, if a little bit bland compared to the other dishes."
Dined on 5/14/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 6 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Wonderful!

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"My husband and I went on a Saturday for brunch at 1pm. It was very quiet and a great atmosphere. The food was amazing. Loved the asian inspired brunch menu."
Dined on 5/11/2013
Special Features: great for brunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 7 for moto-i
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

Poor Service

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/11/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Arrived at 11:30 am for Saturday brunch to celebrate a birthday (5 people) Ordered rangoons and was told they were out. Already? After that we had to flag down staff to place order for an app (since they were out of previous request). 5 min later rangoons arrived. What? Thought they were out, never told about this. Second app arrived and had to request napkins and eating utensils. After everyone arrived and ordered meals, had to request napkins and utensils for the new arrivals. This place was NOT busy. Staff standing around and conversing. No bill-finally put up CC which results in receipt only. No itemized bill. Got home and figured out that we were overcharged by $30. Difficult to prove since no itemized bill. Live & Learn!"
Dined on 5/11/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 8 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Wish: a Moto-i in my neighborhood!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Fantastic Sake, brewed on site, need I say more? Incredible range of styles and flavors - so food friendly! We drive in from far west Minnetonka just for the sake, it is that good. Pork belly bites - out of this world! Japanese-style savory pancake deep flavors, great textures, and dancing bonito - fun! Perfectly steamed and seasoned edamame, lucious roasted beets. Friendly and super helpful server - patiently answered all our questions. WOW!"
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 9 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Great food and service. Really great happy hour!"
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 10 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Pleasantly Suprised

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/12/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"If you want your sake fix this is the place to get it. There fried rice is excellent. However if your looking for a steak not the place to go."
Dined on 5/12/2013
Special Features: great for lunch
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 11 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Food took too long

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The service was ok on this night. It took entirely too long to receive our food. The food itself is very tasty so I would say it's worth the wait if you have a wonderful date to wait with!"
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, late-night find
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 12 for moto-i
Overall rating 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5

Horrible experience

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/10/2013
Food 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Slow service, even non existent at times. We waited 40+ minutes for our food. We will not be eating there again."
Dined on 5/10/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 13 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Good Food, Good Sake

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/09/2013
Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The menu has a good assortment of food. We chose to order a number of smaller dishes to share. The waiter was very knowledgeable about the sake and was able to recommend a fit for our taste."
Dined on 5/09/2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, notable wine list, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 14 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Great drinks

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/08/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great roof top patio in the summer."
Dined on 5/08/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 15 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/05/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Great variety of food, saki drinks and excellent service."
Dined on 5/05/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 16 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Japanese Brunch Food? OK!

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Interesting menu of Japanese food appropriate for what we call Brunch. Savory pancake w cabbage, bacon, poached egg on top - super yum! So called ginger "fried" rice - great accompaniments like pickled onions, dried fish flakes, bacon bits, and super-cool panko crusted poached egg -- but, where was the ginger, and was the rice even fried? And, for $12? Funky good Chinese sausage -- not sure of the flavors in it (five spice?) but great texture, crispy/chewy. They offered sake-based drinks, like mimosa and bloody for $2, but honestly, why cover up the incredible flavors of their sake brewed on the premises? We stuck with glasses of junmai and genshu - awesome, but quite pricey compared to the sake-tails - maybe half-off during brunch?"
Dined on 5/04/2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 17 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Mmmm moto-i

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/03/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I wish the patio would be open, but sadly the Minnesota weather is not cooperating. The sake is tasty and the classic bowl of ramen is fattening and delicious. If there are two must have items, they are: spicy chicken steamed buns and the good luck cocktail. NOM NOM NOM!"
Dined on 5/03/2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for outdoor dining, vibrant bar scene, late-night find
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 18 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Pleasant surprise

OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/04/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"I had originally purchased a Group-on to Moto-I primarily because it was near a theater where we had tickets for a play. That event fell through and we finally got around to rescheduling our dinner at Moto-i this past weekend. Service was attentive. Food was good. We'll probably return."
Dined on 5/04/2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 19 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Once we got over the shock of them being out of their beyond awesome pork belly bites (oh no!), we managed to have a lovely evening. Incredible sake, brewed on the premises, creative food choices, lots of small plates to share - range of flavors and textures, something for everyone. Lots of creative veggies, lots of fun meats and seafood, all presented in appetizing manner. And, superb service - our server was very attentive without being intrusive, enthusiastic and genuine. Oh, and the cucumber cooler martini, wow!"
Dined on 5/02/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem, hot spot
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 20 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

moto-i or moto bye?

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Ok ok, lets set the scene.. I wanted to have sushi - sashimi and that is NOT the place for it. However the ramen and soba are excellent. Of course the housmade sake was spot on... I will come back for the ramen and sake no question."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 21 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Customer Avatar
OpenTable Diner
Dined on 5/01/2013
Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was good and tasted more authentic than asian-fusion. The chicken rice porridge was GREAT; the crispy chicken strips definitely complimented the rice porridge. It was the perfect consistency and flavors. Only negative was that our rangoons and fried chicken were a little overcooked and a little burnt on top."
Dined on 5/01/2013
Special Features: good for groups, kid-friendly, late-night find
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 22 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Incredible Sake

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Moto-i brews their Sakes on the premises - they are wonderful, with a range of flavors adn textures offered, a couple truly beautiful. We were sad that they no longer offered the whole fish, but got over that when we ordered the pork belly bites - wow! Truly pork heaven on a plate. Awesome Japenese-style savory pancake, naughty-good Bulogi sliders. Server was terrific with recommendations and explanations, but perhaps a bit overwhelmed for a while, then another server joined in and order was restored. A wonderful spot for sake, nummy bites of food, and conversation."
Dined on 4/28/2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, neighborhood gem, hot spot
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 23 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Always good food and wonderful

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Always good food and wonderful sake. the menu changes just a little bit every time we go and that makes for a new experience every time. We really have never been disappointed. Great restaurant overall."
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2005
Special Features: fit for foodies, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 24 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great find

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"We went pre-theater with two teenage grandchildren and had a great time sampling many of the small dishes with Japanese flavors. Very busy and energetic on a Friday eve but the back booths allowed for good conversation. Our server was friendly and attentive, food cam our quickly - ever all a great experience!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2006
Special Features: vibrant bar scene
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 25 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

The food was great and the

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was great and the service was very fast. There was always one of the waiters or waitresses re-filling our waters or clearing plates, not just our own. Fun atmosphere and tasty food. The ramen is delicious!"
Dined on 04/19/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 26 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Not the usual Japanese resto

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Nice ambiance, perfect for a casual romantic date -- dimly-lit, more of a modern Asian feel. The servings are on the medium-light portion size, good to share between two (another plus for a romantic date!) They have a good selection of locally-brewed sake, which is fun for sake-lovers looking for new sake types aside from those you can find in the liquor store, or those who want to try something new. They serve unpasteurized sake, which makes sake taste crisper and fresher on the palate. Their Japanese food selection is not the usual fare you see in other Japanese restos. They don't have a big sushi selection, but they have Japanese and Western fusion dishes. I personally liked the okonomiyaki, and their noodles are pretty good."
Dined on 03/30/2013
 2010
Special Features: fit for foodies, romantic, special occasion
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 27 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

this was my first time to

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"this was my first time to Moto - fabulous food - awesome staff!! Will definitely come again!!!"
Dined on 04/12/2013
 2013
Special Features: great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, romantic
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 28 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Ordered two fried rice options

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Ordered two fried rice options and a round of small plates for the table. Great sharing options and the food was quite good...not overly ambitious or adventures....but quite nice. We will definitely return."
Dined on 04/13/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 29 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great for sake, meh for food.

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"We had fun at Moto-i because of the combination of all parts, not so much because the place itself made that happen. The sake was really the highlight of the offerings from the menu. We tried 4 sakes between the sake flight and ordering another off the menu and they were wonderful. The food, however, was nothing memorable for most of our party. The general consensus was that it was "good" but not a lot more excitement than that. I had a mushroom ramen dish that I really enjoyed, but I was the only person who said they'd come back just for that dish. I think I would go there again, and maybe even recommend it, but with certain considerations. The expectation would be more on the social/cocktail/sake and very little around the food."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2007
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 30 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Some of the portions were

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Some of the portions were kind of small but it all had great flavors."
Dined on 04/06/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 31 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"I like the dark ambience of moto-i and their booths are perfect for friends or a date. Service was prompt and friendly, and you can never argue with $2 mimosas and Bloody Marys for brunch! The food was a bit hit or miss - for happy hour, I enjoyed every dish we tried, but for brunch, there were a few items on the salty side (namely the tempura shrimp and the dressed salad greens). Interesting concept, wonderful drinks."
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find, hot spot
+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 32 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Good sake, food was hit or

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Good sake, food was hit or miss. It's not that it was bad, just not what we were expecting. Mostly disappointed that they didn't have any sushi (but some good sashimi)."
Dined on 03/15/2013
 2012
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, hot spot
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 33 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

We went to Moto-I for my birthday

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"We went to Moto-I for my birthday dinner. The food and service were better than I expected! Such a nice little restaurant! I highly recommend this restaurant!"
Dined on 03/11/2013
 2013
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 34 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Our waiter, I think his name

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Our waiter, I think his name was Ryan, was one of the best in the business. So attentive and informative. And the service was very fast."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 35 for moto-i
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

the ambiance was just what

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"the ambiance was just what we were looking for but id called earlier and told them that about 20 people were coming over all at the same time or maybe more and .....was shocked that only one server /the bar tender was helping. we waited very long for drinks and food and i never ordered mine cause others took so long. many had to leave and get faster food. sad. he did the best he could but he really needed help. it was on thurs mar 7th"
Dined on 03/07/2013
 2013
Special Features: good for groups
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 36 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Good Food, Bad Ambiance

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was very tasty and authentic, but it was VERY loud and because of a large group next to us we had trouble getting any service. We were there for 45 minutes before getting our appetizers.
The sauce on the karaage appetizer was very good, I wish there was more of it on the dish."
Dined on 03/09/2013
 2011
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 37 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Great happy hour. Great service!

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Great happy hour. Great service!"
Dined on 03/06/2013
 2009
Special Features: good for groups, neighborhood gem
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 38 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Solid solid solid!

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Still one of my top picks... always love this place and has the best happy hour in town!"
Dined on 02/26/2013
 2005
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for brunch, great for outdoor dining, late-night find, neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion, scenic view, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 39 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

I made reservations here because

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"I made reservations here because it was across the street from the theater for which I had purchased tickets and it sounded like a decent, fun place. Upon arrival, we were seated in the end two seats of a long table. It was alright until people got seated next to us, at which time we literally had no elbow room. Our waiter noticed our displeasure and moves us to a booth right away. Aside from that, the experience was excellent. The food was delicious, the sake was the best I've ever had, our waiter was phenomenal and the prices are quite reasonable. I recommend moto-i to anyone wishing to try something a little different. Just request a private booth or table when making your reservation."
Dined on 03/02/2013
 2013
Special Features: neighborhood gem, romantic, special occasion
+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 40 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

A unique menu, but the food

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"A unique menu, but the food is really good. Its pretty cool that they make their own Sake also. We went here for my birthday the other night and had a lot of fun. Its a fun atmosphere, great service and food. Also during the summer, the rooftop patio is awesome."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, fit for foodies, good for groups, great for outdoor dining, neighborhood gem, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 41 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

The food was pretty good,

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"The food was pretty good, but WAY overpriced."
Dined on 03/01/2013
 2011
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 42 for moto-i
Overall rating 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5

The food was lackluster and

Food 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
1 / 5
(Poor) 1 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"The food was lackluster and I'm not quite sure how it ended up on the "Best Of" lists for breakfasts in MSP Magazine. It was like a bad interview: looked good on paper, but not so much in person."
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 43 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Ryan was spectacular! Great

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Ryan was spectacular! Great recommendation for an app plus a couple of insightful Saki ideas. Very attentive..."
Dined on 02/24/2013
 2010
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, neighborhood gem, romantic, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 44 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Always a great selection of

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Always a great selection of Sakes and tasty noodles!"
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2008
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, good for groups, romantic
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 45 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Don't get me wrong - I love

Food 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Service 
2 / 5
(Fair) 2 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Don't get me wrong - I love Moto-i. I am a repeat customer and I am always satisfied with the food, however on this visit our wait staff was subpar. We had 1 person take our drink order, one person deliver the drinks, one person take our food order, 3 different people deliver food and then we weren't sure who to ask for the bill as no one seemed to want to take responsibility for our table. On top of that, the staff seemed pretentious and too busy to be bothered with customers. Along with the bad attitude of the waiters, our food came out in a very odd staggered fashion - we ordered an appetizer of edamame that came out after our entrees. Also, we were not brought food we ordered and were charged for food we didn't order."
Dined on 02/23/2013
 2009
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, special occasion, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 46 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

Staff and food is amazing.

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Staff and food is amazing. Love this place."
Dined on 02/20/2013
 2012
Special Features: fit for foodies, good for groups, late-night find, neighborhood gem, notable wine list, romantic, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 47 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Foodie Heaven

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Quiet
Quiet
"Phenomenal pork steam buns and homemade ramen that will make you melt."
Dined on 02/18/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies, great for brunch, great for lunch, hot spot
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 48 for moto-i
Overall rating 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5

Everything was fine until

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Moderate
Moderate
"Everything was fine until dessert. Two orders of the same dessert. One came. The other took about 20 minutes. No explanation."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2007
Special Features: fit for foodies
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 49 for moto-i
Overall rating 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5

Sat by the Kitchen, long wait

Food 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Service 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Ambiance 
3 / 5
(Good) 3 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"Sat by the Kitchen, long wait for food, appitizer and main dishes served at the same time,good Sake wonderful mussels. Sent our Ramen back it was so bad."
Dined on 02/16/2013
 2013
Special Features: vibrant bar scene, late-night find
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
Review 50 for moto-i
Overall rating 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5

First time there ~ food and

Food 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Service 
5 / 5
(Outstanding) 5 / 5
Ambiance 
4 / 5
(Very Good) 4 / 5
Noise Level
Energetic
Energetic
"First time there ~ food and drinks were amazing!!! Will definitely return!"
Dined on 02/14/2013
 2013
0points
0of 0voted this as helpful.
Thank you! You have successfully submitted a comment for this review.
1 2 next>>