Pilot Report

Posts Tagged ‘sushi’

Some people believe the desert is the last place on Earth to find super fresh sushi. Some people would be wrong. The Phoenix metropolitan area is home to sushi showplaces as well as hidden gems serving spectacularly fresh Japanese cuisine.

However, not all people like sushi. I’ve converted many friends and family members into sushiholics and must admit it’s a fun transition to witness. Sushi bashers start off by insisting they’d never put a piece of raw fish into their mouths, so the trick is to start them on something cooked. Or make sure they drink enough sake to get them feeling adventurous. I’ve attempted starting sushi newbies on tame rolls such as cucumber or California, though to my surprise, I’ve often discovered what they like best is the sashimi. Meaning no rice involved. The same folks that begin their sushi journey by freaking out about eating raw fish end up loving it served straight up. Sushi irony.

For people that fall into this bracket, try a beginning a social evening with sushi or sashimi at Benihana Benihana before gathering round the teppanyaki table for entertainment and more food than will fit in your belly. For a quieter evening at a place with a neighborhood feel, check out Sakana. With four Valley locations, all serving lunch and dinner, there’s something on the menu to please everyone. Those who continue to turn up their noses at sushi, despite your best efforts, are bound to find something delectable among the pork, chicken and cooked fish offerings.

Swanky Scottsdale sushi venues include great date spots Roka Akor and Stingray Sushi. Roka Akor boasts a sexy Shochu Lounge, serving top notch cocktails featuring this Asian liquor. Stingray serves what some people comment are the best Lollipop rolls in town. A long, fresh strip of cucumber is wrapped around a selection of fish and then speared with a skinny wooden stick. Arranged artfully on a white plate, the colorful “lollipops” are presented for your enjoyment.

Learn more about where to dine on stellar Japanese cuisine at japaneserestaurants.com.sg .