Far East Feast

Discovering a sushi restaurant that has amazing food and a buzzy, chic ambiance is like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack.

But we’ve found it: Saiko-i Sushi Lounge & Hibachi in Boca Raton. There, you’ll encounter an impressive variety of the highest quality fish in every sushi dish, each presented as a gorgeous work of culinary art. This perfect execution extends to the many other options on the menu of this über-popular restaurant.

Happy hour is an event at Saiko-i, with reasonably priced cocktails, like the Prickly Pear Margarita and a variety of sake, in addition to more traditional libations. Happy hour appetizer fare is superb in terms of quality and pricing, including the addictive Spicy Tuna Biscuit, which is crispy rice topped with spicy tuna jalapeño caviar and served with eel sauce and wasabi mayo.

Foie gras fan? Go straight for Saiko-i’s Foie Gras with Eel – not only because it’s a rare find but because it’s sheer heaven on a plate. The lightly seared piece of foie gras with eel is served with fresh Asian pear and wasabi soy. The Roasted Duck Wrap – which envelops savory roasted duck, greens, avocado and balsamic drizzle in Singapore flatbread – is addictive and different. The restaurant also offers a wide-ranging menu of Asian soups and noodle bowls that you won’t find elsewhere in South Florida. 

Saiko-i’s signature sushi rolls and cucumber rolls are wondrous. The Lobster Bomb is a spectacular combination of tempura lobster, avocado, asparagus and scallions, accompanied by a side of tempura lobster tail with spicy mayo and eel sauce. I’m missing it even now.

The Hot Sally is a fabulous creation: spicy tuna and spicy yellowtail inside; fluke with plum puree and Thai chili sauce outside. I recommend the Saiko-i King Roll, too. Inside is fried Alaskan king crab, avocado, kani and shrimp. On top is spicy tuna, spicy yellowtail and Thai chili sauce. Swoon.

Saiko-i’s skilled hibachi chefs attract a crowd, and the restaurant has a plentiful assortment of cooked dishes featuring duck, chicken, fish, pork and beef prepared in your choice of Thai, Japanese, Korean and Chinese styles.

Choice is, indeed, a delicious thing at Saiko-i. O

Saiko-i Sushi Lounge & Hibachi is located at 5970 S.W. 18th St., Ste. E4, Boca Raton. For more information, call 561-393-5888 or visit saikoiboca.com.