Let's just say, it was about what I expected. The floating boats around the bar, propelled by small jets of water is a similar concept to the conveyor belt version at the popular Frying Fish in Little Tokyo, but I wasn't that impressed with the sushi. Although the charming little boats floating by offered a somewhat soothing, and hypnotic effect, the sight of a couple of the nigiri and rolls with salmon on it had made way too many revolutions around the bar, was a bit disappointing. The edges of the salmon looked like it was drying out, because it looked darker than the rest of the piece of fish. I checked out the rating in the City of Pasadena Web site under the Restaurant Inspections section, and it basically ranked a "B" at 88. I guess you can't expect too much if some of the sushi has been floating around for an undetermined length of time.
Although the space was much more comfortable than Frying Fish, they were not as attentive to their clientele. Okay, if I were to say something nice, I definitely liked that they had different rolls that some of the cookie-cutter sushi bars don't seem to have or promote: jellyfish or the seaweed salad roll. The prices were decent, although I think I'll still take Kabuki in Old Pasadena or East Pasadena anytime. It's fun to see sushi float or rotate past you, but in the end, all you want is a decent and fresh piece of sushi. And by the way, Kabuki serves the best roasted freshwater eel.
Foodies can read more about unagi and get recipes online here: About Unagi.
Personally, I've learned that the higher fat content in the unagi is why it is better tasting. Once it is grilled crisp on the outside, the meat inside remains tender and, frankly, melts in your mouth! It tastes just like fish, and has the same texture. I also read that it is not the same thing as the electric eel (yikes!).
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