For sushi fanatics

By Juliann Kirkland (bestfoodinchina.net)
Updated: 2008-11-11 15:52

Located in the heart of the French Concession on Taojiang Lu, Haiku by Hatsune, is well-known by sushi fanatics. This solid addition to the Shanghai dining scene is packed with customers every night of the week so reservations are almost always required.

The décor of Haiku is elegant and takes advantage of the floor to ceiling windows overlooking the cobblestone street. With interesting artistic twists including a trendy loft-style design, there are many unique features to explore. The focus of course is the sushi bar where mouth-watering dishes are prepared right before you and commanding chefs set the tone for the entire restaurant.

Although Haiku has an extensive list of cooked Japanese dishes, we decided to focus our evening on the creative sushi selections. Arriving first to the table was the sake-2-me roll, a deluxe salmon skin roll with onions, fresh salmon, and unagi sauce. With a sweet outside and crunchy inside, this interesting combination of textures is a surprise to the senses. The 119 roll arrived next; the spicy tuna and hot sauce combination is one of my favorites. But for those wanting to turn it up a notch, the dynamite roll delivers twice the spice! The kappa maki, a thin cucumber roll, pairs nicely with this helping to cool the taste buds. Our last maki choice was the Sweepee roll, a delicious and unique Haiku creation, consisting of deep fried sweet potato and avocado topped with sesame seeds.

We enjoyed the smaller of the two combination plates offered for the nigiri. Consisting of twelve fish selections (chef's choice) served over sushi rice and on a bed of ice, this dish is as fresh as it sounds. Giving a great overall sampling of the nigiri choices, the combination platter is the perfect size to split with a friend.

Haiku by Hatsune is an excellent place to spend a relaxing evening dining on fresh, delectable, and beautifully prepared fish, not to be missed by sushi lovers! The restaurant certainly lives up to the hype.

Haiku by Hatsune
Location: 28 B Taojiang Lu, near Hengshan Lu
Tel:021-6445-0021

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