Best of Tucson 1996: Best Japanese

Best Japanese

Sakura Teppan Steak & Sushi
6534 E. Tanque Verde Road

READERS' PICK: The ambiance changes dramatically between lunch and dinner at Sakura, from the bustling, casual feel of the former to the more intimate, low-lit elegance of the latter. But whenever you visit, the flare of the Teppan-style grill is sure to appease thrill-seeking diners of all temperaments. Each table in the spacious dining room falls under the command of its own chef, who prepares rice and meat with consumate skill. Imagine a Vegas nightclub show, martial art and Ginsu knife commercial combined into a singular eating experience, and you have something resembling the fine Japanese tradition at Sakura. Artful sushi, fresh sashimi, tender soba and sumptuous strips of marinated meats: These are the signature aspects that make Sakura a readers' favorite year after year.

READERS' POLL RUNNER-UP: Earlier this year, Takamatsu took up residence in whatever abandoned greasy spoon used to be at 5532 E. Speedway, and boy, what an improvement! Takamatsu combines Korean and Japanese cuisines in the upscaled cavernous building, with a friendly staff that's always willing to help you find your footing in the unchartered waters of Oriental dining. One side of the restaurant caters to the Korean grill, where diners huddle around said grill mid-table, with a variety of do-your-own marinated delicacies of the hoofed and beaked persuasions. Across the way, one of the city's largest sushi bars beckons. But don't feel obligated to sidle up to the glass, because plenty of more intimate table seating abounds. The best thing to recommend the sushi here is its unexpected heat and the quantity in which it's served. You can really stretch your dollar with the Takamatsu chefs' generous portions. And about that fire: Something other than wasabi lurks behind that innocent-looking nodi wrapper. Chili or cayenne pepper? We can't put our finger on it, but even the cucumber rolls have a kick.

STAFF PICK: While some Japanese restaurants feature menus catering to nouveau tastes or touristy floor shows, Sushi-Cho Restaurant, 1830 E. Broadway, exhibits a refreshing lack of pretense. Known primarily for the freshness of its fish and exceedingly generous portions, Sushi-Cho has earned a reputation among sushi aficionados as a place to go to stuff yourself (not an easy feat with sushi). Sushi-Cho also offers excellent tempura and teriyaki dishes; but the ample sushi is their signature. Try the California or cucumber rolls if you're new to the experience, and then move on to more adventurous fare, like yellowbelly tuna. It's all prepared skillfully with fresh rice, seaweed and a myriad of selections from the sea. If you've never had sushi but are curious, or if you love sushi but can never get enough, Sushi-Cho is sure to satisfy.

A PERFECT 10: Housed in the Geronimo complex, Yakitori, 820 E. University Blvd., serves a simple yet elegant Japanese lunch of rice, salad and tempura vegetables for just about five dollars--about as much as you'd pay for a slab of mystery meat at a fast-food joint. Virtuous as always, we (usually) opt for the nutritious alternative--but maybe sneak in a bottle of cold Kirin beer on the side.