The Blossom Roll at Yamato

serves fresh fish and tasty, yet still sophisticated sushi and entrees. I go here every week, the Zen-chic décor sets a cool vibe that is not stuffy, but rather relaxed. The staff is friendly and patient at this Seventh Avenue Japanese restaurant.

Patience is the key, the chef’s special roll menu, with 21 unique rolls to choose from, should be carefully considered. Most of them are delicious, but there are a couple that are a must-try. 

The Blossom Roll is made out of shrimp tempura, fresh mango, cream cheese and is covered with avocado and then eel, the one ingredient which makes this rich, easy-on-the-palate roll just a little more adventurous.

The eel right on top commences the taste with a certain kind of dare (for the less adventurous. But really, eel isn’t that far out there in taste, but the image of an eel in your mouth may make some squirm).

Then the mango and cream cheese, supplemented with the tempura covered shrimp, makes this roll a sweet and savory and crunchy delight. The avocado rounds out all the flavors smoothly.

If this roll doesn’t sound good to you, well, you have 20 other options to choose from and a nice selection of hot sake, .