I was fortunate to dine with an intelligent and crafty gentleman who allowed Chef Hiro Sone to create for us his signature "Taste of Ame." Each course was elegantly prepared, incredibly fresh, and beautifully presented on perfectly chosen presentation china. Such a devilish little detail, but very important to those of us who enjoy eye-feel as much as mouth-feel.
The sashimi was among the best I've ever experienced: fresh, beautiful, divinely choreographed.
Each of the waitstaff was more solicitous and polite than the next and the service was so seamless that sometimes I didn't even notice my water glass had been refilled or my napkin replaced. These folks are true professionals!
The *ONLY* thing I found sad about the evening was the couple sitting across from us who kept answering their cell phones as if in a duel to see who could be the rudest to the other. Observing them was both fascinating and heartbreaking. Please turn off your cell phones when dining, both in public and in private. If only I'd been in possession of Politenessman's steel hanky, the evening would have been perfect!
Pros: If you're serious about sake, this is it! Elegant, quality dining experience!
Cons: Bozos on cell phones...but they're everywhere, aren't they?
more