Yo Sushi (Glen Cove, Vallejo)

Robin & I tried to come here once before, but it was insanely packed. There was good review of this local chain (I believe there's five Yo Sushi restaurants in all now) on the Internet which highlighted the fact this is a very non-traditional sushi place.

Gotta admit, I was pretty skeptical. The place is loud with Japanese videos and lively decor. Plus there's menus everywhere. When we arrived there was only one customer, but it started filling up fast as soon as we had ordered, paid and sat down. I was on the fence about whether it is tacky and garish, or festive and super-modern.

Note the Nigiri clock. And the sign that says that employees must "wash hands."

Once our Maki (rolls) were ready, our fears began to allay. At first, I couldn't tell if the staff looked like a bunch of irresponsible youngsters or light-hearted folks who can handle anything. They got this order done quickly, but there was nothing about it that seemed rushed. While we ate and saw the lunch crowd increase, I could see how poised they were.

First roll--closest to the viewer in foreground--is the Oregon roll: Salmon & Avocado. Nice, simple. Love the teardrop shape. Next: Spicy Garlic White Tuna. What's not to love? These kept getting better.

Third roll: Rick Rolling. Just kidding: Rock 'n Roll. I've had this one before: Eel, avocado, cucumber and Tobiko.

The finally, the best for last. We were getting full already. Thankfully we had room for what has to be the best Maki/sushi roll I've ever had: Bonito Dragon. Crab meat, Avocado and Cucumber topped with Unagi, Avocado and Bonito flakes. The blend of flavor and texture is just superb on this one. 

Definitely one of the best restaurants in Vallejo. And pretty cheap for sushi. But I've yet to go to Michael Warring.

Robin & I decided to return again to Yo Sushi, and started off with a very generous helping of Wakame and some nice hot miso soup, perfect on a cold night.

Then we got the same rolls we got last time. Somehow, they tasted even better.

And we got some fried scallops.

www.getyosushi.com