by Loretta Chilcoat Jergensen

SUSHI HANA
6 E. Pennsylvania Avenue, Baltimore, MD
410-823-0372

Just a few miles north of downtown, the secret of Sushi Hana is getting out. Patrons are greeted by a soothing Koi pond, before choosing between the bright, main dining room or the dimly lit (and more intimate) adjoining one just a few steps up, which also has the bar and a few televisions. Devotees of Po Chen and his clever sushi chefs know the best rolls are not on the menu, nor on the special board—one of their most popular rolls is the Monster Roll (avocado, yellowtail and cream cheese, then dropped in tempura batter and served warm). Great presentation, fat maki rolls and the freshest nigiri that melts in your mouth make this restaurant a standout among the dearth of sushi joints in the area.

by Rodney Smiley

BLUEPOINTE
3455 Peachtree Road
Atlanta, GA 30326
(404) 237-9070
Part of the Buckhead Life restaurant group, BluePointe markets flash in every form. The dining room, the skyscraper that contains it and the seen-and-be-seen crowd are all out of an Absolut advertisement. Skip the overdone entrees and go straight for the sushi. The Super Crunch Roll, Shrimp Tempura Roll, Real California Roll, Rainbow Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Eel Avocado Roll, and Spider Roll are all equally tasty. For the very adventurous the Sashimi Tasting Plate is a must. Order a light wine or mixed drink to go with it - the bar here is known for its apple martini. Expect icy service in step with the cold beauty of the interior.

Caren Calvin

MR.SUSHI
2400 Juan Tabo NE, Albuquerque, NM 87112
(505) 298-3081

Mr. Sushi comes highly recommended by local sushi-lovers I queried, featuring such treats as Squid Dynamite to raise your body temperature. A duo of chefs keep diners engaged with their rousing techniques. Other delights include the Shabu Shabu, a sort of Japanese version of Mongolian BBQ, and of course, Tempura dishes. Bento Boxes are available for a fun and economical sampling of the offerings. Mr. Sushi is a must-try experience for sushi fanatics.

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