When a new Japanese restaurant opens nearby, we have to try it out. Yama Sushi recently opened on 620, between O'Connor and Great Oaks Dr., and we finally got an opportunity to try it.
You have to be observant to see it in the little strip center, as it's easy to fly by in 620 traffic. The sign is a little hard to read, as well.
The interior is tastefully decorated, modern and quiet. The wait staff is appropriately Asian and a sushi chef busies himself behind the counter. You're presented an order sheet for the sushi chef, a wine list and a menu.
After two orders of edamame, my DH had sesame beef, my daughter and my son's girlfriend had katsu chicken, I forgot what my son had (a chicken dish) and I had the tempura sampler (scallops, shrimp, Krab and veggies). We also ordered some sushi and sashimi. I'm very particular about maguro sashimi, and theirs was not quite the quality I expected. It should be easy to bite and "melt" in your mouth.
Well, it didn't pass that test, but it was fresh, beautifully presented and my husband had no reservations about finishing off a large order. The katsu chicken was presented with a traditional egg, although untraditionally fried (raw not being allowed, these days, in fear of salmonella). All our portions were very large, and our waitperson even remarked that he hoped we had big appetites. We learned that the portions were family size! So, we packed leftovers, but, we did finish our meal with green tea and red plum wine ice cream.
On a scale of 1 to 5, I'd rate it a 4 for atmosphere, 5 for service and 3.5 for the food. I do have to say that my tempura sampler was surprisingly generous and the large sea scallops were perfectly prepared. It's kid-friendly as there isn't a liquor bar.
I hope they do well. It's really nice to have another choice of Japanese restaurants and within an easy drive through the neighborhood. They also have a delivery menu.
hmmm...now, that's a nice alternative.
