R23

This gallery-like space in Downtown's out-of-the-way warehouse/artist-loft district has been the secret of sushi connoisseurs since 1991. At the back of R23's single, large exposed-brick dining room, the 12-seat sushi bar shines like a beacon; what appear at first to be ceramic wall ornaments are really stylish sushi platters hanging in wait for large orders. Salmon, yellowtail, shrimp, tuna, and scallops are among the always-fresh selections; an excellent offering if available is seared toro, in which the rich belly tuna absorbs a delectable, smoky flavor from the grill. Though R23's sublimely perfect sushi is the star, the short but inventive menu includes pungent miso-based soup with mixed seafood, sautéed scallops with shiitake mushrooms, deep-fried sawa crab, fresh Dungeness crab salad, and roasted Hama Hama oysters with sea urchin on top. Browse a wide selection of premium wines and sakes, which were chosen specifically to pair with the food.

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