Go. Eat.
One a recent shopping trip to Fairway in Plainview I had a massive sushi craving. So we walked into Kumo, one of my (formerly) favorite local establishments. They’ve never really been warm and fuzzy in the service department, but that didn’t keep me away – their fish was flippin’ fresh and creatively utilized in delicious rolls and palate-pleasing entrees.
But that day we arrived right in between lunch and dinner service. Not realizing the timing, I instantly regretted my restaurant faux pas, stopped in my tracks and announced we’d return another time. I had a Plan B to get my fix at Fairway’s sushi counter, no biggie. But they absolutely insisted we sit, ushering us to a table. So we begrudgingly settled in. This was a fishy situation.
The waitress, clearly annoyed we were interrupting HER lunch, rushed us through. Glaring eyes from sushi chefs made me shift in my seat. Rolls were delivered in a sloppy fashion with tuna bits spilling out. A neon sign was placed on one roll glowing the words “Eat, pay and get out.” Okay, maybe this last part is an exaggeration on the vibes directed our way, but you get the point. Cold-as-fish service = no more Kumo. A real shame since the food is so good. After all, I gave them an out – we didn’t have to sit.
Arata: A cozy, romantic spot for sushi.
Shortly after, I found Asian fusion redemption in little charmer called Arata on Cold Spring Road in Syosset. It’s West Village quaint, welcoming and the food is astoundingly good, taking sushi creations to an even higher level. The nice servers walk you through the menu items, making helpful suggestions for a full experience.
That evening, we opted for just a few appetizers. For cold, we enjoyed a blissful poke tuna, which was sublimely fresh cubed tuna sashimi and avocado with edamame puree. It was clean and bright – the puree a real creamy treat. For hot, we ordered scallops and brussel sprouts prepared with jalapeno salsa and chopped onion; the plump, pillowy scallop was a dream within slightly charred sprouts and slight crunch of pepper. Both were sublime. Senses were in positive overdrive: nice atmosphere, check; happy servers, check; great food, check!
As the artful-looking “five pieces of chef’s selection of contemporary sushi” was carried passed us, I vowed to go back and tackle that one soon. I’m hooked based on apps alone, but no more floundering. Totally cutting the carp. I’m eel-ated to have found a fine new sushi restaurant.
