Mottsu

Reasonable prices, unpretentious service and interesting combinations that change with the seasons—of course locals enjoy Mottsu. Japanese businessmen, far from their usual midtown haunts, also frequent the curved sushi bar, chatting with the sushi chef to the thrum of Cuban music. The Megumi-chan, a special appetizer named after a Japanese actress, is two pieces of duck sausage on a ceramic tray with a creamy seaweed-and-cream-cheese terrine. Fresh sushi, sashimi and rolls (the Cholesteroll includes king crab, avocado, egg and tempura flakes) are available, as are cooked dishes, such as teriyaki chicken or salmon and sautéed tilefish finished with a clam-anchovy sauce. There are plenty of roll options for vegetarians; budget-watchers will like the $15 twilight meal offered from 5 to 7pm.