I held off on writing a review on this place for a couple of reasons: 1. The food has not always been good here; 2. But it is the one place I can down some sake and walk home after… I find myself in a strange position… Do I write a bad review on a place I will continue to show my face at… or do I write a good review when I only like the food there half of the times…?

Last night, after an outstanding meal at the sushi bar (I normally take a table), I think Mikaku has redeemed itself… I am now writing a review on this place with much understanding and appreciation.

My relationship with this place started out of convenience. Based on the sashimi that came with my lunch/dinner bento, I have been very reluctant to order any real sushi items. However, many of their Japanese dishes, such as tofu in hot broth, homemade soba, salt duck, and other Japanese “diner” food has always been very good. The special board will tell you: Clams in Sake, Creamy Daikon Soup… etc. So I basically avoid sushi there.

Then last night I had this urgent need for some sushi. I came here, and it was packed with Japanese businessmen. I sat at the sushi bar and ordered what I could: Black Cod, White Tuna, Yellowtail and Amaebi. I had my fingers crossed, hoping that by paying more the quality of the fish would be (much needed) better than the bento quality.

I was NOT disappointed. In addition to the tasty fish, I noticed how well trained the chef was. Very skilled, precise—- an old school chef who went through the whole tutelage beginning with rice washing long before he was allowed to touch the fish. I almost felt sad that as good as he was, he had to make those silly spicy tuna and California rolls.

After a very satisfying meal, he asked me how the food was. I said, “Delicious,” then added, “you are a very good sushi chef.” Instead of a humble nod, he smiled proudly, as if giving me props for recognizing it. I also suggested that I’d wish to see more seafood items, such as aji and scallops. He shook his head and explained that he did do that in the past, but no one ordered it. I turned my head and saw the Japanese businessmen who busied themselves away with the food… Some of food items I had never seen before. And I recalled that this place was constantly hit by the traffic of Japanese travelers… At that moment I decided to make good rapport with this nice sushi chef. I want what those Japanese men are eating. With that said, Mikaku shall see me back very soon.