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| - Tastes like Japan.
These were the first three words out of my mouth after the first bite. Not that I've 'eaten' Japan before, but I was born there, and it wasn't until now that I've been to a sushi bar that has taken me back to my childhood.
I certainly had my doubts reading the few reviews regarding the authenticity, but those were out the window as early as the appetizers. The miso soup was delicious--rich, but not overly salty like most restaurants. The salad was fresh, and the ginger dressing might be one of the best I've ever had.
For the main course, I went with the ikura (salmon roe) nigiri, the Volcano roll, and a half order of the Futomaki roll. Can you say heaven? The Futomaki might be one of the best rolls I've tasted, and I immediately regretted not getting the full order. This would be the first thing I recommend, as it would turn anyone into a believer. The ikura nigiri is authentic as it gets, and it didn't disappoint, though large fish eggs might not be everyone's cup of tea. The Volcano roll was delicious as well, albeit a bit on the small side for a specialty roll. My girlfriend got the tempura dinner which was phenomenal as well. The tempura batter was perfection.
You can tell the chef puts a ton of work into each dish. The flavors are just so complex and satisfying. I still have a place in my heart for other sushi restaurants in Cleveland, but Shinano is authentic, traditional cuisine and hits a spot on my palate that no other can touch. There's so much more I want to try. It just sucks that I only found the place now that I'm moving to the west side, but that won't get in the way of me and some damn good Japanese food.
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