Vegas is known for it's off-strip chain restaurants, or over-the-top-glitzy on-strip places. For a local, this can get disheartening and exhausting. A friend suggested that a group of us go to Wayne's Sushi Bar. Huhhh? Wayne's Sushi Bar? This place does not even have a sign out front, but is within the building of the Shilla BBQ (korean) on Sahara near the Palace Station. The second I walked in to this tiny, right-out-of-Gilligan's Island place, which seats no more than 20 total, I was totally endeared as Wayne greeted me from behind the sushi bar with, "Hi! What's your name?" As my party arrived, he and his wife, Heidi, spoiled us with their unique sushi style and even indulged us in a game of "Sushi Roulette"! As the dinner continued, I noted the 3 TV screens light up with Karoke lyrics as the song books began to be passed around. Sushi and Karaoke all rolled into one delicious maki-roll? Gasp. Both Heidi and Wayne have amazing voices and seranaded the guests in-between service. Microphones were passed around the tables and singers didn't even get up, which led to a sing-a-long type of experience. It was a blast!
If you are looking for a unique, warm, inviting, delicious and fun "non-Vegassy" experience, please find this place. I'm going again soon!