2 Best Restaurants in Cayman Islands

Taikun is an archaic Japanese term of esteem, loosely translated as "Supreme Commander." It's an appropriate designation for this sensuous sushi spot, clad in black with crimson and gray accents and dominated by a buzzy communal table. Start with one of the terrific cocktails or indulge in the superlative sake flights, which can be optimally paired with your sushi. Savor the salmon rice foie gras or melting Wagyu nigiri, then dive into such sublime signature maki as the Volcano (ahi poke, spicy salmon, tempura shrimp, cucumber, shiso, orange tobiko, wasabi mayo, and kabayaki sauce). The attention to detail is such that the waitstaff grates the fresh wasabi on sharkskin at the table; the resulting flavor is explosive in the best sense.

This modish locals' lair serves superlative sushi. The main room's scarlet cushions, cherry blown-glass pendant lamps, leather-and-bamboo accents, orchids, and maroon walls create an exciting vibe. Savvy diners literally leave themselves in Yoshi's hands (the rolls and nightly sushi "pizzas" are particularly creative), while the raw-phobic can choose from fine cooked items, from tuna tataki (meat or fish steak, served raw or lightly seared) to tempura and teriyaki. The congenial staff recommends sake and beer pairings, but the wine and martini selections are also admirable for an Asian eatery.