Tae K.
Yelp
The place is pretty. The light fixtures, the brick walls, the lacquered tables, and interesting chairs all work.
The service is also pretty prompt and friendly. It doesn't say much, though, since the place was mostly empty when I dined. When it gets crowded, I'd imagine there could be some slowdown.
I didn't do the omakase because they are a dime a dozen now in the city. I did try the sushi and the "handrolls." I say "handrolls" because they are essentially DIY kunkan sushi, otherwise known as "battleship maki," because of their appearance. They are good but misleading.
The sushi is surprisingly great, though. I tried ten different variation,s and they were all excellent.
The mains and the other dishes were also very good. The wine list is excellent and well priced.
Now, why the four stars, then? It's still quite expensive for what it is. When you dine at the table, there is the loss of a "performance" feel from an omakase. But if you take away the sushi from the menu, there are essentially eight things to order. Basically, you have to order the sushi.
So when all the sushi pieces come out at once along with the "handrolls," it still drives you back like 100 bucks easily. Yet it feels like you are still at your "appetizer" rounds.
Some serious thought needs to go into the menu to accommodate the table diners. In addition to just sushi and like four mains or so, why not have something that's substantial to pick at like grilled fish options or even now ubiquitous karaage?