» Kubo's Sushi Bar & Grill

Kubo's is a perennially busy second-floor Rice Village hot spot for expertly crafted sushi and creative monthly chef specials.

Up on the second floor, Kubo's manages to remove itself from the noise and bustle of the shops and dining spots in the Rice Village Arcade. Decidedly untrendy, the open and uncluttered dining room focuses on creating a welcoming environment with a focus on the food. Simple tables and a large curved sushi bar are interspersed with area devotees and Japanese businessmen. Staff is well-versed on the menu.

Expect a traditional Japanese menu with a few well-chosen Americanized sushi house favorites. Starters include the spicy tuna mushroom and light-as-air vegetable tempura. For rolls, sample the colorful caterpillar roll or Kubo's roll with tempura shrimp, but it's the sushi and sashimi that best display the sushi bar's talents. Commendably fresh and artfully presented sushi includes yellowtail, mackerel, salmon and daily specials like the luscious toro and live scallop. Entrees include sizzling scallops and shrimp, tangy garlic beef, noodle soups and rice bowls.

Happy Hour offers special prices on appetizers and drinks 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday to Saturday and 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. Also, try one of the rotating bi-monthly seafood specials any night you like.