Yamato
Good sushi in the middle of the desert. Tucson has many sushi restaurants so we decided to investigate and find the best one. Yamato is the first as it is closest to Sparkman headquarters, an easy bike ride away. Unfortunately it can be found in an ugly mini-mall. Fortunately they have transformed the small space into a quiet retreat from the ugly urban sprawl outside. Colorful paper lanterns encircle the room and the windows are covered with white shades. The sushi bar is surrounded by the fanciest chairs of red leatherette I have ever seen. The servers were very sweet and friendly. Our sushi was beautifully prepared and as fresh as it gets in this desert. Good selections of nigiri and sashimi and the standard americanized rolls are enhanced by the full pitcher of iced green tea ($2.50) and mochi ice cream for desert. They also serve bento boxes and have inexpensive lunch specials. Recommended.
Location: 857 E. Grant Road
Cost: just right
Stars: ****
Bamboo Club
If you are looking for an over-priced “pan Asian” version of TGI Fridays, try this mini-chain with unfortunate wicker chairs and slightly embarrassed staff. I certainly was embarrassed for our perky server as she explained, “the sauces on the table are soy sauce and chilli sauce – our versions of salt and pepper!” The food and sauces were bland, overly salted and certainly not exotically twisted or upscale (as reviewed by the Tucson Weekly). Avoid unless you are stranded at the Park Place mall and the food court has been taken over by hari krishnas.
Location: Park Place Mall, 5870 E. Broadway Blvd
Cost: too damn much
Stars: nada
