10/05/04

Old-school Marigny bar with sushi on the side and some non-fishy surprises.

by Contributor

The Scene
Wasabi combines a relaxed Japanese aesthetic with a classic neighborhood barroom setting that's perfect for off-Quarter hipsters. The main dining room feels more formal, but a jazzy soundtrack brings the overall vibe back to the Crescent City. Informal, efficient service underscores the room's laid-back feel.

The Food
Expect a full roster of sushi bar standards from ginger-marinated grilled tuna morsels to ample sashimi portions. Fish-phobic diners can choose from a strong array of land-based dishes: thin-sliced negamaki (tender beef and green onion rolls) are a sizzling standout among starters; bento-style combo dinners don't skimp on teriyaki and tempura components. Signature rolls tend to be crazy for the crunchy (fried tempura crumbs) and creamy wasabi sauce, but the real winner is the Vietnamese-style rice paper roll packed with crispy vegetables and served with a fiery chili-hoisin dipping sauce. Desserts like the deep-fried cheesecake are best left to the adventurous sweet tooth.

02/08/03

What's the Japanese word for delicious?

by vamptourgirl

This place was recommended on AOL's Travel Board by one of the local B&B owners, and he could not have been more right!!! Could not wait to try it and love every bite!!! Service was very good also.

• Pros: delicious, good service, price was fair
• Cons: closes too early, hard to park