Fodor's Expert Review Uchi

Respectful of traditional sushi and sashimi methods—but not limited by them—this standout sushi bar (and consistently ranked top restaurant in Austin) starts with super-fresh ingredients. After that, anything goes, including touches of the South or south-of-the-border: yellowtail with ponzu sauce and sliced chilies, tempura-style fried green tomatoes, or seared monkfish cheeks with Vietnamese caramel, Belgian endive, roasted red grapes, and cilantro. You can make a tapas-style meal from the cold and hot "tastings" menu. Sit at the sushi bar during the daily sake social hour (4–6:30 pm) and watch the enthusiastic cooks at work. An intimate but welcoming interior and attentive, knowledgeable service seals the deal.