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dishes using traditional techniques, but fresh flavors, Wu says. “We do our homework,” he says. “We look at the old and look at the new and combine the best parts.” One of the most popular traditional dishes is the shrimp tempura, which Wu says is not too heavy, not too light. The teriyaki is also popular, but less authentic, as is the chirashi sushi. Wu says it’s important to him to provide top-notch customer service, and the warm and friendly atmosphere modeled after ItalianAmerican restaurants. “It’s about relationship and community, even before food,” he says.
Akai Hana
1173 Old Henderson Rd., Columbus Surrounded by multiple Japanese shops in Kenny Centre, Akai Hana
Akai Hana 12
cityscenecolumbus.com | January/February 2017
SushiKo
has been serving Japanese cuisine for just north of 25 years. Assistant Manager Yumiko Passalacqua says the clientele is about 80 percent American and 20 percent people of Asian descent. Over the past few years, the restaurant has seen Americans become more adventurous in trying raw fish, such as sashimi. Still, more Americanized sushi rolls with fried toppings and sauces remain among the most popular items on the menu. Chef Tsukasa Endo, who was trained in Japan and New York City, also creates a seasonal chef’s choice, and takes special orders from people familiar with Japanese cuisine. Akai Hana will celebrate Japanese New Year Jan. 1-15, during which time Endo will make a