Osaka Japanese Restaurant

The Scene
Small groups and couples fill petite tables throughout the slightly worn in, comfortable dining room while sushi chefs chat up neighborhood locals lining a wood-topped bar. Japanese prints adorn wood-paneled walls and high ceilings make for a spacious feel. Expect a leisurely dining pace: Servers are sweet but slow.

The Food
Sushi dominates the menu: Albacore tuna is light and buttery and the sashimi appetizer offers a platter of colorful, beautifully arranged strips of fish. Specialty rolls are simple but tasty, including the Balboa, yellowtail, avocado and green onion; and the Golden Gate, salmon and asparagus wrapped in seaweed and rolled in tobiko. Traditional specialties include tempura, udon and teriyaki dishes along with Japanese-style stews like Yosenabe, seafood, chicken, veggies and yam noodles cooked in dashi broth. Desserts, like green tea ice cream wrapped in pound cake and deep fried, satisfy sweet cravings.