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| - It is with great sadness and a deep sense of loss that I must amend my previous rating of what was once the best sushi in all of Vegas. Once rated a 5 star, it now lies more around the 3 star range.
To be sure, the crowds are still lining up for a seat at this one-time fine establishment, but one wonders if the restaurant's popularity may have contributed to its current downfall.
Since my last review of Yama, the place has certainly gotten a lot busier. But management has not responded well to the rush of new business.
Here is a few things that have gone very wrong at Yama:
* The fish is no longer fresh. Rather than cutting the fish from the filet as it is ordered, they pre-cut several hundreds of pieces at a time - and the quality of the fish has suffered immensely, with most pieces having a soft, slimy film covering them.
* The place is way too crowded. Rather than focusing on a great dining experience, management has decided to try and cram as many people as possible along the bar and around the tables. Turnover seems to be the most important factor. If I didn't know any better, I would say they have added seats to accommodate more customers in the same sized space.
* The chefs are rushing. It appears as though the place has completely abandoned the 'Art' of sushi in favor of speed and efficiency. They give little regard to the presentation and balance of the dishes. Far too many times I have been handed a plate that has way too much or way too little of something, like so much vinegar on the roll that the rice crumbles at the slightest touch.
Be sure that these issues were not a factor for the many years I have enjoyed Yama - that is until recently. Hopefully there is still time to fix them.
Don't get me wrong, I am happy for Yama's success - I just wish it was not at the expense of what made them great to begin with.
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