By Ava Watson
Photo by April Watson
If you’re looking for a quaint little restaurant with a serene atmosphere and incredible flavors, Asuka is a standout choice. Asuka, which opened in 2013, is known for its traditional Japanese food and innovative sushi creations. They had a small location on Earhart but relocated for a little bit bigger space.
This hidden gem is now tucked away on Washington Avenue, but don’t be fooled by the slightly worn look of the outside. Walk inside, and you will be pleasantly surprised. As you step in, you’ll find an inviting atmosphere with warm lighting and beautiful Japanese lanterns hanging from the ceiling. The windows are covered in mirror paper, which adds to the calm ambience. There are two seating areas with a glass window dividing them, one being general seating and the other being a sushi bar.
My family and I have gone to Asuka every Thursday for as long as I can remember, and we keep coming back for two reasons–the food and the service. For as long as I have been going, I have only ever seen one waitress, and she is very good at her job. Everything always comes out very quickly, making for a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. The food is what makes this place so special. I started with a cup of miso soup with a rich, complex flavor–the perfect balance of salty and slightly sweet. Next came a house salad. The lettuce was crispy, and the dressing had a nice ginger flavor without being too overpowering. Next came the tri-colored sashimi, which is assorted salmon, yellowtail, and tuna. Since raw fish is not my preference, I had a friend give it a try instead.
“The fish tastes fresh and melts into your mouth,” said Willow senior Emile Ofengenden.
Then for my main course, I ordered the hibachi chicken, which came with steamed vegetables, fried rice, and teriyaki chicken. The steamed vegetables were filled with flavor and seasoned perfectly. My fried rice was a little peppery for me, but it still had a flavorful mix of eggs, chicken, and spices.
“The steamed vegetables were fresh, with a nice crunch, ” said April Watson (my mom).
Lastly, the teriyaki chicken was tender and juicy with a sweet glaze that left you wanting more with every bite.
Asuka is the perfect neighborhood restaurant for a quick bite or a date night. With low prices and good food, this hidden gem is definitely worth trying. They have amazing service and a wide variety of sushi rolls and hibachi meals to choose from. Asuka uses the freshest ingredients in every dish. If you’re a foodie like me, you will love this place. Whether you’re looking for lunch or dinner, you won’t be disappointed.
