Michael M.
Yelp
Now before anyone gets glove slapping, let me say this place will most likely garner five stars after a few more successful visits.
A fantastic variety of sushi is worth the short drive from downtown Philly to this quiet, elegant restaurant in Haddonfield. It's a BYO, so pick up a favorite Sake or bottle o'vino on the way.
I started with the baby octopus, lightly roasted and tender, the taste was reminiscent of bacon with the smoky, rich flavor that was pulled out of these tiny tasty treats.
Fresh Live Abalone!! OMG yes please. I'm fairly certain this is one of the only places in the area that serves this. Crunchy yet tender, nutty and sweet., wow. Fresh live scallop? Sweet as candy.
Kumomoto oysters are fresh and served with a lovely mignoette interpretation.
Crab cocktail was filled with huge pieced of crab, super fresh, perfectly cooked. Not a hint of anything but firm meaty goodness.
The white tuna ceviche was crazy good. grapefruit wedges separated slices of white tuna. A sprinkle of crunchy fleur de sel was on top of each wedge of grapefruit, a small sliver of jalapeno on top of each slice of fish. with a very light citrus drizzle. This dish was amazing, and I would never have thought to salt grapefruit, it worked perfectly, and the light pop of the jalapeno was a great burst of green on your palate.
Sunomono is served in multiple styles, I went with the simple cold version, which had the lovely addition of udon noodles. Crisp light flavors were a perfect interlude on this hot June evening.
Two white tuna handrolls were served in nori so fresh it crackled and shattered in your mouth. I can't remember the last time I've had food this fresh short of Morimoto or Nobu.
Our final dish this evening was a shashimi plate for two that was crazy good. Salmon so rich the thin slivers of lemon were practically a mandatory addition to prevent the richness from overwhelming your palate. Yellowtail that still tasted of the sun and sea. Amazing fish.
So why not five stars? Three reasons. First, I asked for a bottle of water for the table. I received a soda glass with a straw. My guest received nothing, and had to order his own separate serving. When my glass was empty, it was not refilled, even when I slid it to the edge of the table to clearly indicate I wanted more. By the time staff returned to acknowledge the glass, I was done eating.
Second, while we were there, a family in shorts and tshirts arrived. Now I think it's great bringing your kids out to try new things, but shame on Fuji for not putting them in a separate area of the dining room where their incessant prattle, booth kicking, and constant trips to the bathroom would not entertain the guests who were out for a Saturday night classy dinner. Elitist? Screw you and wear a tie hippie. It's Saturday night and if I'm paying $100 or more a person for a meal, wear a damn collared shirt and get a babysitter.
Third? If an item is no longer available on your menu, remove it or let me know when you hand me the menu. Two main course items and one dessert item I requested were not available.
Price? For the quality of the fish it was an excellent value. Definitely the best Sushi in South Jersey and in the top three in the region.
Call ahead for seating at the Sushi bar of for either of the Chef's special tastings. I'm planning an Omikase here soon!
I'm heading back tonight for another serving of abalone and to try a few more dishes. Hope to see you there!