 This famous jazz venue in Oakland is also a thriving Japanese restaurant. Diners enjoy sushi, saké, balanced cocktails and the good energy of pre-show anticipation in one of several dining areas that together accommodate up to 250, including a long sushi bar and adjoining lounge, unique tatami table area, and special, shoes-optional section with welled seating. Amtrak trains occasionally pass through Jack London Square literally feet from the windows, adding an almost surreal ambience (though not a hint of their noise reaches the jazz club). Friendly servers are well aware of showtimes, and bustle in clusters about the space. Along with the extensive sushi menu (the daily specials are good bets), we recommend items off the cedar plank grill, including flavorful seasonal vegetables with spicy miso sauce. We also like the Japanese seaweed salad, a lovely pile of textured red and green ribbons, apple, shiso and cucumber. All plates are served family-style. The dining room clears impressively at showtime; within the jazz club, drinks, dessert and a special bar menu are available. |
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