The Best Sushi in Providence

Sushi has always been a fascinating food, holding its own against a wave of popularity that gave many the impression it was just a fad for businessmen and yuppies. However, like all things that have a long tradition it outlasted any kind of backlash and has continued to gain popularity among all walks of life.

Of course, if you want to get some sushi you have to first figure out where you should eat it. Because of its continued popularity many people continue to see more and more sushi restaurants, even seeing it in the most unconventional places. Yes, you can get sushi platters from the supermarket, and discounted ones from the local gas station. Hey, when I said they are popular, they are popular.

Now getting assorted fish wrapped in rice from your local gas pump is not the most preferred way to go about getting some good sushi.

Of course, any Japanese restaurant will try to drive the patrons through the doors and into their seats. In Providence there is Ran Zan, Oki Japanese Steakhouse, and Haruki East, just to name some.

In Providence, Haruki East is the best place to get sushi. Located on the East side of Providence, this is the second restaurant opened under the same name after the first Haruki was made in Cranston, R.I.

Sushi isn't just something thrown together, made pretty and served to the public. There is a dedicated process and skill in making sushi that the restaurants, both at its Providence and Cranston locations have strived for.

Haruki East has a full sushi bar where, like any good sushi restaurant, you can watch your order, and others be prepared by showmen who do as much to entertain as cook.

The restaurant has a decidedly upscale Japanese flair, with modern and Eastern design juxtaposed into an open and accommodating establishment.

When you are seated you are served the typical amenities for any place you may happen to eat, and you will be served tea, however, their tea is a fine green tea that is unexpected but very welcomed.

From there the menu is a mix of traditional Japanese flavors and dishes such as teriyaki, udon, donburi (lightly breaded fried foods), and tempura. There are also dishes from foreign lands you would never expect to see at a Japanese restaurant.

Now, don't let these things fool you. They do not detract from the sushi you came here for. Haruki East continues a tradition of authenticity that was established in the Cranston location.

The Japanese strive for both flavor and beauty in their food and Haruki's does just that. The sushi is full, fresh and delicious. Using the freshest ingredients you can taste some of the most standard rolls (California rolls), and newer tastes (Philly roll). When the rolls, or assorted pieces come to your table you can tell just by looking at it that the flavor of your food permeates and helped create how good it looks.

Take a seat at a table, or eat at the bar, which affords you the best view of the sushi preparation with a wide, well lit prep area and a divider of the clearest glass that will not detract from viewing the action.

Haruki East is located on 172 Wayland Ave., in Providence, R.I. For more information call 401-223-0332. Casual, no smoking. Open for lunch Mon-Sat from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., for dinner Mon-Thu for 5 to 10 p.m., Fri-Sat 5 to 10:30 and Sun 4:30 to 10 p.m. V, MC, AM. Highchairs and booster seats available. On-street parking, plus validated parking at Wayland Square (free after 4 p.m.).