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| - Maybe I was setting myself up for a bad experience by coming here directly after seeing Jiro Dreams of Sushi, but my goodness, this was a disappointing experience on so many levels. The only thing about which I have no complaints is the carefully-curated "atmosphere." I ordered one of their overpriced cocktails, which was sorely lacking in booze and took nearly half an hour to arrive. The sushi, also overpriced, took at least an hour to arrive (this was mid-afternoon, so it's not like the place was busy). One of my dining companions was so sick of waiting that she was on the verge of walking out. The rolls place a much greater emphasis on non-Japanese ingredients than I see at other Madison sushi restaurants (such as cream cheese and LOTS of mayo); maybe they were trying to go for fusion, but it came off as disjointed and (as Julia B. mentioned) trying to cover up for the poor quality of the ingredients. The salmon roll I ordered was appallingly dry and required as much chewing as beef jerky. The wasabi was anemic and flavorless. Frankly, I'm not sure how this place is still in business, with so many other great sushi restaurants on State (my favorites being Wasabi and Takara). It seems like the entire budget was used up on decor, with little left over for wait staff, trained sushi chefs, or quality ingredients. I won't be returning.
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