Shelby might be known for its barbecue joints and Southern comfort food, but this North Carolina town quietly boasts some exceptional Japanese spots where you can have a very good, affordable sit-down meal (we’ve defined ‘meal’ here as a main dish plus either a starter or a drink). Whether you crave sushi, ramen, or teriyaki, this guide has a solid under-$30 option—so you can save up for that next barbecue feast, or maybe some authentic wasabi.
Yamato Express
$ | (704) 471-0084 | WEBSITE
This popular Japanese restaurant is one of our go-to spots in all of Shelby, and it happens to be very affordable. In fact, you’d have to work pretty hard to spend over $25 here. The vegetarian plate with rice, sweet carrots, and broccoli is something you should order, and the other dishes (like the rolls with shrimp sauce) are just as good. As for convenience, you can use the drive-thru option and get your food quickly.
Basically, if you haven’t already eaten at Yamato Express, that needs to change.
Sumo Sushi & Hibachi
$ | (704) 419-2117 | WEBSITE
Japanese restaurants are everywhere these days, but luckily ‘too much of a good thing’ never applies to sushi and hibachi. Sumo Sushi & Hibachi has a few locations in the area, including this one with ample parking, which you should definitely stop into if you’re looking for a low-key, wheelchair-accessible alternative to fancier spots. You can get the Hibachi Chicken Bento Box for $14 and pile on the plentiful sushi options.
But we suggest ordering the Shrimp Tempura Bento Box for $16 instead, because it comes with the necessities: plain fried rice and attentive, caring service.
Japanese Express
$ | (704) 481-9192 | WEBSITE
Clearly sushi is a solid choice if you’re looking for something quick and comforting, and by now it’s obvious that Shelby has some excellent options. Japanese Express, in a straightforward storefront location, is one of them, but you’re not getting traditional fine dining here. Instead, you’re getting generous portions of tasty sushi that receives high praise, particularly from children.
It’s always a good (if slightly overwhelming) sign when the food is reasonably priced – and here, a satisfying meal starts at around $12. The staff is polite, professional, and friendly, going above and beyond to provide excellent service, with the owners themselves earning praise for their friendliness. Customers have described the food as delicious, with some calling it the best they’ve had in a while.
However, there have been issues with inconsistent business hours, leading to frustration and inconvenience – it’s suggested they communicate any changes to avoid such situations.
Chen’s Fusion
$ | (704) 434-9876 | WEBSITE
Chen’s Fusion is a straightforward take-out joint serving reliably tasty Chinese food at solid prices. The basics hit the mark (most entrees run $8-14), and the generous portions make it a practical choice for a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s take-out only.
Jade Express
$ | (704) 487-5999 | WEBSITE
Jade Express has become a staple for Shelby families seeking reliable Chinese food. This mall-based eatery’s menu features classics like General Tso’s Chicken and Bourbon Chicken, with most combo plates costing around $12–$15. You can enjoy their popular Teriyaki with a side of fried rice and still leave satisfied for under $20. It’s ideal for a quick lunch break or a convenient family dinner before heading to nearby holiday events.
Hoshi Express Japanese Grill
$ | (704) 313-7286 | WEBSITE
Unsurprisingly, Hoshi Express Japanese Grill has hibachi. It’s flavorful and very good, and you should order it whenever you’re here. But beyond that, the menu has other great, reasonably-priced Japanese dishes. You’ll find steak with mushrooms, chicken, and generous portions, and the takeout-only setup is perfect for grabbing dinner on the go, but still nice enough for a quick, satisfying meal at home.
Red Wok Express
$ | (704) 481-9191 | WEBSITE
Red Wok Express serves delicious Chinese and hibachi options, and it tends to be busy no matter when you visit. But it’s a cozy spot with quick service, so you won’t need to wait very long for your meal. And it’s so satisfying you might be tempted to skip fancier places to come here instead.
