After living in Japan for a year, I came back to the states and became a bit of a sushi snob. People always raved about various sushi bars, but after eating at these places, my heart always longed for the sushi bars I had dined at in Japan. Until one day, I came upon this little unpretentious and inconspicuous Japanese restaurant at the bottom of Queen Anne Hill.

Shiki not only has the best sushi that I’ve eaten in the states, but I’ve also never been to a restaurant here that makes you feel like you’re in Japan. Ken-san (the owner) serves up delicious and authentic Japanese fare. When I’ve been there, regulars are abundant and Ken-san and his staff are warm and receptive to all of their customers. If you ask, they will also tell you what sushi is the freshest and most delicious for that day!

As far as sushi goes, the unagi (eel) is delicious. The sauce they use isn’t too heavy or sweet, and the unagi is grilled to absolutely heavenly and tender perfection!

The other thing that I love is that they serve up fresh FRESH FRESH amaebi (raw shrimp). Upon request, they’ll even fry the shrimp heads for you! If you haven’t tried fried shrimp heads and are a bit of an adventurous eater, they’re rather delicious.

The other great thing about Shiki is that if you request sushi that isn’t on the menu, they will most likely make it for you.

So check out Shiki for some really fantastic Japanese fare.