I think Raleigh is turning Japanese! I really think so.

Sushi Rolls at Mura, North Hills

Raleigh is home to lots of Sushi hot spots and with so many Sushi restaurants coming to town I thought it would be appropriate to write a little segment on the ones foodies are raving about.

1. Sushi Blues Cafe

Glenwood Ave.

Sushi Blues is perfect for a quick meal with affordable prices. What's so unique about Sushi Blues? They have live entertainment! Most performances fall in the Blues or Jazz genre and their late night specials such as "Half-Price Sushi" draw in a large crowd from the local colleges. If you stop by, be sure to try the "Wolfpack Roll" it was a definite favorite of mine!

2. Sono

Fayetteville St.

More for those in a fancy mood, Sono has a very urban, chic atmosphere. They have a full sushi menu as well as a good selection of dinner entrees. I would definitely try it on a Monday, they have a special for a four course meal for 25 bucks! Other cool aspects to Sono? You can go to their website and check out what fresh fish they have this week! I just found out they have Orange Niragi from Hawaii! Cool beans.

3. Haru Sushi

Glenwood Village

Although I've never been here, everyone I know that has gone here has raved that this is the best sushi spot in Raleigh. The News & Observer raved that Haru "offers world class sushi in a warm, romantic setting." Their prices are pretty standard (About $7 a roll) and they have a pretty eclectic menu. It appears to be a great spot for a lunch date, with decent prices and a convenient location. Who wants to to try to park downtown for a quick lunch? I am definitely checking this spot out first chance I get!

4. Mura

North Hills

Another great spot for you fancy pants out there! Mura has a very modern atmosphere with a very sleek sushi bar. Mura also has private rooms if you want to get your sushi-party on. And you can book a table online so you don't have to deal with a single person before you get to the restaurant! Mura offers the fresh fish list online too, so you can check out if they have anything that meets your craving that day. Mura has also received Best Sushi in Raleigh on City Search in 2009 and the Metro Bravo Award for Best Sushi in Raleigh in 2009 and 2010. Even though it's on the pricer side, I would definitely suggest it for a nice dinner or special occasion. They have a neon lights behind their liquor at the bar, so you know this place means business.

I hope this put you in the mood for some sushi! These are just a couple of my suggestions, let us know at myrestaurantguru.com if you find any places people need to know about!

-Margaret

myrestaurantguru.com