The Scene
This polished restaurant benefits from its presence in a strip mall; locals just happen to stumble across it on their way to Starbucks. Brushed nickel mirrors hung on the walls and wood chairs conjure a contemporary feel, with curious conversation pieces like heavy crystal vases filled with goldfish. A wood-paneled tea lounge at the rear functions as a waiting area. Servers can be too intrusive, removing dishes and filling water glasses every few minutes.
The Food
Sushi is the main attraction, but Pan-Asian specialties are satisfying sidetrips. Shredded king crab meat floats in steaming cilantro broth salted just right. Pasty teriyaki sauce clings to mahi mahi strips portioned for two. Truffle oil and orange juice--a tasty alternative to soy--bring out the subtle flavors of amberjack kanpachi, while raw sea urchin is bitter, sweet and of fishy egg-white consistency. Thai steak sizzles in a spicy curry sauce adjusted to diner's heat tolerance.