Raku It's Japanese II

Oh, how I hesitated to write this recommendation! Not because I have any doubts whatsoever about the quality and funky charm of this casual Upper West Side sushi oasis, but because it can already be hard to get a table there at peak dinner hours. And yet, dear reader, I couldn't keep this modestly priced gem from you a moment longer.

I'm a creature of habit and have sampled only a small number of dishes from the menu, but I can attest that the sushi and sashimi are top-notch. I typically order uni (sea urchin), salmon, a dynamite roll, the spicy tuna, crab stick and jalapeño "pizza" on crunchy rice, a beer and, if the night calls for it, sake.

If you miss the relaxed, unpretentious charm of the old Upper West Side, and you're picky about your sushi, give Raku II a try!