Old Town's Sushi Sampler: A Progressive Date Suggestion

Did you know that Alexandria is home to more than 12 sushi spots?!

In Old Town alone, there are five within walking distance of one another.

• Asian Bistro - 809 King Street
• Momo Sushi & Cafe - 212 Queen Street
• Zento Japanese Restaurant - 693 North Washington Street
• Ichiban Sushi House - 211 King Street
• Nasime - 1209 King Street

Each tends to have its loyal fan base. Some Alexandrians swear by Momo Sushi & Cafe on Queen Street. Others are Zento devotees (above Trader Joe's). And then there are Ichiban lovers (next door to Sonoma wine bar)! But, what if you popped by a few all in the same evening?

I know, it may sound a little insane but despite being sushi restaurants at their core, each menu has a little something special. Sure, you'll find a california roll and yellow tail sushimi everywhere but what you won't find are certain speciality rolls along with unique takes on other go-to Japanese fare - Yakisoba noodles, for instance, can only be found at Momo (served with miso soup & house salad, of course); The Miami Heat roll (Tuna, whitefish, fresh salmon & cucumber with hot sauce & sesame seeds) and the Victoria's Secret roll (Pink seaweed with tempura shrimp tuna, salmon, white tuna, flounder, cucumber & avocado)? Those are Ichiban specialties; and, Tuna Poke salad? That's a Zento thing.

In addition to the menu diversity, each destination boasts its own special vibe. Momo may have the best bar area. Zento may have the best Happy Hour specials (5-7pm every day!). And, Ichiban wins for easily the most central location.

If you're looking to hit up all three, there's no wrong way to do it. You could start at Zento and work your way towards Ichiban on King Street, with a stop at Momo along the way. Or you could start at Ichiban and move away from the activity on King ending your sushi tour of Old Town at Zento.

If a sweet treat is a must for you, Ichiban may the ideal spot to end your evening as its the only one of the three that offers several dessert options, including tempura fried ice cream.

And if all else fails each restaurant offers takeout and delivery (through GrubHub, Seamless or Door Dash).

NOTE: If you're looking for a more upscale sushi experience, you might consider trying the newest addition to the Old Town sushi scene: Nasime. Nasime is a small Japanese restaurant with a different approach to sushi. Chef/Owner Yuh Shimomura offers patrons a 5-course tasting menu priced at $55 per person. Each night is different and includes a variety of Japanese cuisine, not just sushi.

「楽しんで」

(Tanoshinde = "Enjoy" in Japanese)