Asakuma

A big, clean-lined and colorful Japanese restaurant that is usually packed -- especially at the boisterous (and fun) sushi bar. In addition to sushi and sashimi, you can order tempura and sukiyaki, and more unusual dishes like seafood bouillabaisse with udon noodles in sake-soy broth.

The service is harried, the prices relatively high, but this is a reliable bet for good Japanese food on the Westside. Asakuma is one of the better sushi choices you can make on the Westside. The fish is fresh, the chefs are efficient and the décor is traditional American-Japanese, so you can keep your shoes on. It's a favorite for dates, business meals and social occasions.

The menu offers few surprises, but there are plenty of choices besides sushi. Problems: The service can be poor, the cost is never low and the parking arrangements can take time. -- Martin Koenigsberg

Valet parking

Full bar