Umi Sake House

The Scene
Recessed lighting, minimalist decor and a cool slate floor set the scene at this chic, urban sake house. The low-ceilinged bar space attracts Belltown trendseekers, while a quieter night can be had on the enclosed atrium in the back, where skylights and potted trees evoke the feeling of outdoor dining without interference from the variable Seattle weather or noisy downtown revelers.

The Food
With a dizzying selection of pan fried, baked, grilled, steamed and raw items, a meal could be built from the appetizer menu alone. Try the "Tower of King Crab," comprised of generous slices of king crab, avocados, snow crab, and tomato salsa with cilantro and yuzu aioli. While an array of hot Pan Asian dishes are offered, the seductive sushi selection is the real star. Sample the house roll with silken scallop, cucumber, tobiko, and avocado, all wrapped in a ruby-hued cocoon of tuna, or go straight for the daily fresh sheet and follow your server's suggestions.