In the mood for some delicious and healthy sushi? Look no further than Osaka Japanese Restaurant, located in the Montrose area at Westheimer and Whitney streets.
The general ambience is laid back and casual. Parking is in abundance and does not require valet.
The menu boasts a wide variety of the freshest sashimi in the Houston area, including favorites such as tuna, salmon and yellow tail.
However, while the sashimi is amazing, the chef has taken roll making to a whole new and creative level. One particular sushi roll is called the 911, and consists of tempura-fried shrimp, avocado and jalapeno rolled in rice and topped with a layer of fresh salmon. As a topping to all of this, the chef piles on spicy tuna and tempura-batter crispies. Standard items such as miso soup and edamame are prepared to perfection. Osaka’s menu also covers a wide range of food items other than sushi. Special dishes include soups like yose nabe, shabu shabu and udon suki.
While this little establishment can be somewhat pricey on a student budget, the chef does provide tables with a few supplemental items such as dumplings or ice cream on the house.
Osaka also offers a couple of private rooms for small parties and business lunches. The guests take their shoes off before entering the room and sit at a sunken table. Traditionally, one would sit on the floor on cushions; however, for comfort’s sake, this has been modified. The wine and sake list is adequate to accommodate most any palate. Other items on the menu are tempura-battered meat and vegetables, stir fry and kushiyaki.
So if you’re craving sushi, don’t even think about going anywhere else. This place is highly recommended.
Osaka
515 Westheimer Road
Verdict: Pricey, but near perfect.