Sushi Wasabi

Words like togetherness, familial, even fatherly, go a long way in describing the flow of omakase courses at Sushi Wasabi. With particular attention to detail paid to vinegar-cured sushi, the chef offers delicacies like uni (urchin) and nodoguro from the sea of Japan in special courses, plus buttery, sweet grilled eel. Sushi Wasabi’s name, a play on the spicy condiment and a word for pure, Japanese essence, is full of the playfulness of a family kitchen or neighborhood diner. The menu is all omakase, but the chef makes guests feel at home and personally cared for with accommodations for budget and diet before they even step inside. In fact, the chef even goes so far as to discourage reservations for business meetings. Instead, he prefers to save his counter space for sushi aficionados, whether they come alone or in a group. The bright atmosphere is easy and inviting, the chef’s smile as warm as the company and the fresh shari (sushi rice) he prepares for the 8-10 bites of nigiri that keep guests coming back. A true rarity, the homey-ness of a sushi place for neighborhood regulars coming from work combines with exquisite attention to quality.