Shiro's
It's hard to believe that this little corner eatery serves some of Seattle's best sushi. But then, considering chef Shiro Kashiba's formidable reputation of having served important Japanese delegates and ministers, it's not really surprising. Starting off in the city with the now popular Nikko restaurant, he installed himself and his considerable talents in this simple but elegant Belltown storefront in 1994. Turning out crisp cuts of fish and hand rolls with as much flourish as food, Shiro's is renowned for innovative adaptations of local seafood in sushi. The chef's-choice Sushi Dinner covers the basics but it's also rewarding to sample from the sushi list. The restaurant serves sake, beer and wine.
As the name suggests, Umi Sake House specializes in all things sake and provides a comprehensive menu of both hot and cold styles of the Japanese rice wine. The menu primarily consists of numerous sushi rolls, but other Japanese dishes are available as well. The restaurant also does both an afternoon and late night happy hour that leads to double the fun at affordable prices. The restaurant has an intimate ambiance that is great for a romantic evening with loved ones or a peaceful meal alone.
Japonessa is an elegant Japanese restaurant that is designed to reflect comfort and style. The ambiance is warm with the velvet curtains at the entrance and the seating is cozy and trendy. The menu has a huge selection of sushi, with an option for every palate. Apart from Sushi, Japonessa's menu also has salads, sashimi rolls and the bento lunch box which go best with hot or cold Sake. The drinks options also include house wine. Check the full menu on the website.
Maneki
Located in the international district of Seattle and established in 1904, Maneki continues to offer traditional and authentic Japanese sushi and dishes at shockingly reasonable prices. Menu items include spider rolls, ten-zaru soba noodles, gyozas, chicken karaage, avacado ponzu and much more. Make a reservation for your group and enjoy your meal in a Tatami room, where you can try the traditional Japanese-style seating on the floor. Try a sake from the bar, which is open daily until midnight.
Nishino
A Zagat rated restaurant, Nishino is run by its founder Tatsu Nishino and his team of professional Japanese chefs who are extremely well-acquainted with the art of making sushi. Nishino has been serving its guests since its inception in 1995 and is particularly known for its comprehensive 7-course meals that amalgamate some of the most exquisite creations of the restaurant. If you wish to savor something truly original, order the Curried Seared Halibut Cheek or the Foie Gras and Seared Tuna from the Nishino signature section. The staff is friendly, attentive and offer recommendations to elevate your fine dining experience at the restaurant.
Chef Shiro Kashiba has delighted Seattle diners with his culinary artistry and craft for over five decades. Located next to the Pike Place Market, Sushi Kashiba offers the highest standard Japanese cuisine that sushi lovers have come to expect from who the Seattle Times calls, the "Sushi Sensei" of Seattle.
Brainchild of chef Taichi Kitamura, Sushi Kappo Tamura offers authentic Japanese cuisine, which includes painstakingly sourcing ingredients from the Pacific. Since opening its doors in 2010, Sushi Kappo Tamura has been thronged by gourmands who crave for a taste of their delectable sushi. Sushi made from mackerel if highly recommended. For some of the best offerings of this place, order from their seasonal special. Sushi Kappo Tamura provides a special 'Sake Flight' menu, wherein guests get an opportunity to taste different Japanese brews.
This lively eatery popular with the hip Belltown crowd, serves up inventive Japanese fusion creations. Purists may be disappointed by Americanized concoctions such as the deep-fried Las Vegas roll (featuring eel, cucumber, cream cheese, and avocado), but sushi novices may find the offerings more approachable than traditional raw bar fare. Entrees include yakisoba, udon and a variety of seafood dishes. Happy hours are from 4p to 6p. The restaurant also hosts late-night happy hours.
