THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Le Poisson Japonais

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Le Poisson Japonais Restaurant Review:

The unassuming storefront restaurant, shaded in pale green hues and situated on a quiet block just off bustling University Avenue, appears generic at first glance. But at the peak of dinner, throngs of well-dressed locals crowding the small tables and buzzing with excited anticipation reveal that this Japanese hot spot is more than a simple sushi house. The charming Kenji Seki, known for his flamboyant suits and graceful presence, has partnered with chef Naoki Uchiyam to bring exceptional Japanese fare, sparkling fresh fish and a top-shelf sake list to Palo Alto. Every dish delights, but standouts like the barbecued eel with burdock and peppercorn sauce or bonito flake-coated flounder with sesame sauce promises unique flavors. The raw fish menu takes nearly an entire page to list with many variations of carpaccio, tataki (seared on the outside, raw on the inside), tartar and sashimi available. Harried servers could benefit from a lesson or two about the menu and smaller areas of responsibility, but none of the happy eaters seem to mind their missteps.