The 242 Sushi Craze

In the last issue we mentioned the new sushi craze that has finally began to transcend into Nassau. A new twist has  been placed on Oriental Dining and Chinese dishes apparently aren’t the only ones able to capture Bahamian taste buds. With summer fast approaching going out for sushi is definitely something to be added to that to-do list. In recent years Sushi restaurants have been popping up all over the place  and are  becoming increasingly popular. It’s about time, because there are only a handful of places that offer a unique experience away from the peas and rice and macaroni. I mean, let’s face it guys, Outback is OUT of season! I don’t know about you but I’ve had enough of the relentless “Junkanoo Style” renditions of Happy Birthday by unenthusiastic waiters and waitresses clanging pots and pans with spoons, and if they feelin’ extra festive they MAY bring out the goat skin drum.

Honestly, it’s a little played out if you ask me.

In terms of Japanese cuisine, Seafront Sushi, Nobu and Ichiban are the three restaurants that seem to be the most favorited by Bahamians.

Seafront Sushi recently underwent a MAJOR upgrade and re-located a little further east on Bay Street and offers a fantastic view of Nassau’s Harbor. Their volcano roll, made up of crab and cream cheese with a delectable conch sauce is to die for! You can wash it all down with a glass of Japanese sake (pronounced sah-kee) or head across the road to the dock for that stitchie afterwards. I suggest that you get in on the action at Seafront’s sushi bar,  to see the magic happen.  You thought that you could only see chopping and flipping fish and spices on TV, right? Well, it’s here in the 242! Chef Petty should probably watch out, because he’s got a little competition down there!

If  you’re feeling like T.I. with ya stacks on deck, and you feel like giving Shorty whatever she likes, try Nobu, in the Casino in the Royal Towers at Atlantis, Paradise Island. The ambiance is exquisite and particularly elegant. The aura (the nightclub which is right next door, by the way) is perfect for date night. Also worth noting is the fully stocked bar centered at the head of the main dining area. There are additional, smaller dining spaces on each side.

Ichiban Restaurant, on West Bay Street offers a scenic view of the Western Esplanade, which is especially beautiful to see from the balcony at sunset. A fusion of Japanese and Bahamian culture seems to be incorporated into the essence of Ichiban.  They’re especially known for having fresh fish, and the presentation of food is the bomb! Totally worth mentioning is their Bahamian Dream roll that consists of grouper, conch, scallion, avocado,mango, and sesame seeds. It’s a tasty sushi roll that doesn’t completely abandon that well-known Bahamian flavor, so it’s all good in my books.

To those of you that still have qualms about eating raw fish, most sushi joints around town do offer the familiar Asian entrees along with steaks, and seafood on their menus,so there’s more than enough to choose from!

Besides, imagine how high class & cultured you’ll sound bragging to friends about the Sashimi Moriwase or the Tekka Tumaki you had. It’s almost like you became fluent in Japanese overnight, and as a bonus its definitely healthier than getting chicken in the bag.

Don’t know how to use chopsticks? Don’t worry, they do give forks to the utensil- impaired, but it’s still recommended that you get some practice. Youtube a tutorial or something, because after you first time with sushi you’ll definitely be going back for more.

The oriental madness is taking over Nassau.  Sushi is definitely the next big thing and by the looks of it it will be around for quite some time, so don’t miss out! Believe me, the experience is definitely worth it!