The Capital is Kinki for Sushi

Heather Seftel-Kirk

Sushi, a staple of Japanese cuisine for centuries, has earned a niche in the competitive restaurant market of the nation’s capital. Ottawa diners have plenty of options to choose from that are guaranteed to suit every taste and occasion.

At the top of the list, Kinki Asian- Fusion www.kinki.ca, located at 41 York Street in the Byward Market, is part sushi bar, part club and completely wonderful. Warm decor, subtle music, intimate booths and soft, comfy cushioned seats provide the backdrop for a sensual meal in an environment that embraces all the senses. The nomenclature is a tongue-in-cheek reference to the Kansai or Kinki region of Japan and the stylishly sexy setting of this epicurean’s delight. Beginning with quality ingredients, including the freshest top grade salmon and red tuna, Kinki’s master sushi chef creates aesthetic perfection on every plate. Each offering is a sculpted work of art with spectacular garnishes, dollops of sauce, and splashes of color and flavour. Together the result is a terrifically healthy, elegant and delicious meal.

The menu at Kinki is diverse and accommodates everyone from the floundering first-timer to the frenzied sushi shark. If you are a little unsure of where to begin just ask any of Kinki’s helpful staff for advice and suggestions. There are also plenty of alternatives for those not yet hooked on sushi; these include the Tenga Tuna Loin, seared Big Eye tuna in a sesame and mustard seed crust or the Diem Phoquin Gud, a succulent dish of green peppercorn tenderloin. Vegetarians will also appreciate the vast selection of vegetarian and vegan options, clearly identified on the menu.

Kinki’s desserts are mouth-watering (must-save-room-for) creations. Chocoholics will be thoroughly sated by the molten lava cake and those still keeping their New Year’s resolutions can indulge with a cold, sweet sorbet.

The main dining room at Kinki is inviting, with gentle lighting, rich woods, a statue of Buddha, and a great view onto York Street for people watching. At the back of the restaurant, a booth has space to accommodate close to a dozen. Additional seating is available downstairs and provides ample space for groups or private parties and is just as inviting as the upper levels. Though the prices here may be a little higher than other area sushi restaurants, when you look at the added elements of ambiance, presentation and quality, Kinki is worth the indulgence.

Something Hot in the Market

If you like the Byward Market, Wasabi Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar www.wasabisushibar.ca, on Clarence, offers equally exceptional dining. Set in rich oranges, gold and brown with wooden chairs and wicker throughout, Wasabi reflects serenity. Subtle lighting makes the individual dining space cozy and warm. The layout features a separate dining area and bar and another spacious area with a waiting lounge and a sushi bar; watch as Wasabi’s deft chefs create your meal before your eyes. Although the plates may not be presented with Kinki’s flair, there is still artistry at work here and delicious sushi. For a pleasant atmosphere, great flavour and price, Wasabi is not to miss.

When Speed is More Important than Ambiance

A little further away, at 280 Elgin Street, is a tiny, unassuming little place that’s worth checking out if you don’t have time for a full-length sit down meal or if a delicate ambiance isn’t a necessity. Green Tea Sushi and Noodle Bar www.greentearestaurant.ca offers tables for groups of two or four plus counter seating on bar stools set by a window – perfect for peering at pedestrians on busy Elgin, while you eat. The menu is somewhat limited but it does include all the favourites sushi lovers favour; the regular and special maki are excellent. Bento boxes are prepped and ready to go for those who have only a few minutes to grab lunch

When More is Better

Have a whale of an appetite? The all-you-can-eat option, 1000 Sushi Islands www.1000sushiislands.com is the catch of the day. Open since August 2008, this restaurant has quickly earned a great local following. Many appreciate the easy Queensway access and convenient location, at 1696 Carling Avenue, but most come to sample the ample sushi. While not a fancy eatery, 1000 Sushi Islands is ideal for large parties, business meetings and remorseless eating machines. The bright, open space accommodates dozens of groups and the tables can be shifted to any configuration required. Booths set along the side of the room provide a more intimate setting for couples, friends or families so parties of all sizes feel welcome. A second, private room makes for even more intimacy.

The menu is quite extensive with allyou- can-eat options, combo plates, and bento boxes. You will be happy to note that quality is not sacrificed for quantity. The sushi is delicious!

Suburban Living Gets a Lift

The West End was recently graced with the addition of a classy, trendy, sushi venue with the opening of Thi Fusion Restaurant (www.thifusion.com). Tucked between the AMC Theatre and Best Buy, at 790 Kanata Avenue, this new restaurant is a little tricky to find but has been a great discovery for droves of locals. The interior is tastefully decorated in dark woods with modern lighting and emerald green accents. Intimate booths and granite walls provide ambiance that is funky, classy and inviting. The menu is extensive and features traditional and unique sushi creations, plus a whole selection of dishes from the wok. Finally, an urban option is available to suburban dwellers.

Sushi is recognized around the globe as being both delicious and healthy and, thanks to the Capital’s finest sushi bars, Ottawans have long enjoyed Japan’s most popular culinary export.

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