Americans have embraced sushi in the same way the Japanese have embraced baseball, purely and whole-heartedly.
In a time where Japanese cuisine is a regular part of American dining, going to the same old place can get rather old. So what is a diner suppose to do? Settle with the “norm?” Well Santa Clarita, I am happy to say the answer is No!
Having never met Sushiya Bar & Grill owner John Ko, he had no idea who I was when he so warmly welcomed me into his establishment. The restaurant was beautiful and contemporary. Filled with clean lines and appetizing colors, if this was a picture into my future it surely painted a delicious meal ahead.
After taking some beautiful inside photography, we sat down to enjoy our meal. At first we were handed menus to choose a few things, but after telling John we were at his mercy, our gracious host treated us to an exciting and delightful meal filled with exquisite tastes and hearty laughter. Our twosome happily became three as we embarked on a delightful journey.
Our first dish was a treat of true Japanese style, Sautéed Edamame($ 4.95). Generously portioned Edamame sautéed in either a garlic butter, which we enjoyed, or a sweet soy sauce, this delicious treat was the perfect way to begin the meal. It was hard to stop eating them and save room for the food to come.
Our next dish was reminiscent of our dinner threesome, the Ménage á Trois($14.50). Tuna, salmon and yellowtail lightly tossed in citrus vinaigrette with a bit of jalapeno, radish sprout and green onion. At first I was weary because of the heat jalapeno packs, but surprisingly these were mild on heat yet filled with flavor. The citrus vinaigrette and crunchy jalapeno compliment all three of the fish so perfectly that no matter what bite you chose, the perfect flavor is in it.
We enjoyed a perfectly prepared Miso Marinated Chilean Sea Bass($13.95) as the next delight on our journey. Marinated in a slightly sweet miso sauce, the sea bass was cooked to perfection and reminded me of a savory dessert in so many ways. I truly wanted to take this plate and say, “sorry” to my dining partners because I wasn’t sharing this one.
The Ginger Scallops($10.95) delivered next were truly a pleasurable experience, so much that after all the tender and juicy scallops had been devoured I wanted nothing more than to drink the broth. Something I dared not do in public, but was happy to see our host indulge. I will definitely be enjoying the broth on my next visit.
A spicy treat came next in the form of Salmon Cake($6.50). Made with generous chunks of fresh sushi grade salmon along with red and green peppers, the spiciness came from the sauce decorating the plate. With each bite, the heat built up, but never hit the point of no return. It was a perfectly balanced blend of flavors.
OMG! As funny at it sounds to say outloud when you’re an adult, the Oh, My God Roll($11.95) was something that really had me screaming oh my god! Deep fried soft shell crab, spicy tuna and crab topped with fresh tuna, avocado and masago, there was no rice in this spectacular roll. Normally a “two-biter,” I dared it all and consumed it just one bite… one perfect bite.
The Popcorn Lobster Special Roll($12.95) was the last stop on a truly delicious journey of food. A bed made with a spicy tuna roll and topped with deep fried lobster, this roll was comfort food at it’s best. A beautifully decorated plate only added to the appeal of this dish and the sauce that garnished it was so delicious I wanted to slide my finger across the plate
As I enjoyed the delicious food and great company, I also enjoyed learning more about owner John Ko. One thing that stood out for me was when he explain how he approached flavors and combinations in his cooking. “I am not really trying to compete with other Sushi establishments, I direct my efforts to standing apart with my unique and flavorful food,” Ko shared.
I know I have said this before, but if you share a passion for food as I do, make Sushiya Bar & Grill your next choice in.
Sushiya Bar & Grill is located at 23360 Valencia Boulevard, Suite D in Valencia. For more information, please call 661-254-3855.