Sushi Nami Royale – A great local option for Japanese Cuisine

When I was on the west coast I learned to enjoy the Japanese food.  Teriyaki became a favorite flavor and I nervously tried various types of vegetarian sushi, and even a couple Maki rolls containing fish.  I really enjoy the fresh clean flavors and condiments such as pickled ginger, wasabi and spicy mayo appeal to my desire for spice.

Recently in search of a healthy and local lunch option I discovered Sushi Nami Royal in Dartmouth Crossing.  I am more open minded now than I used to be about food so I have returned several times and have tried many different menu selections.  I have even on a few occasions brought friends in to dine and they too have found this a great taste experience.  I have talked to the owner of the restaurant and it is locally owned with three Halifax locations.  He strives to use Nova Scotia product where ever possible but as is understandable has to send to Japan for some of the specialty ingredients.  He talks with passionate and pride about his restaurant and this passion shows in the food that is produced.



Maki Lunch

 For those who do not know sushi does not mean raw fish, it actually means its sour, referring to the vinegared rice which forms the base of sushi.  Sliced raw fish (or other proteins) is called sashimi and is also served.  There are many types of sushi and if you want to try it without the raw proteins you can enjoy a vegetarian sushi though I would encourage you to try some of the sushi containing fish.  This style of fish has been enjoyed world wide for decades and if prepared correctly is flavorful and very healthy.

Cold Saki

For those who have never tried sushi I would suggest you try the Maki Lunch.  Maki sushi is rolled sushi with rice, nori (a pressed seaweed wrapper), and various fillings such as fish, crab, avocado, cucumber, etc.  This dipped in soy sauce topped with a little picked ginger and/or wasabi (Japanese horseradish) is a wonderful taste treat.  The Maki lunch is served with a salad and miso soup and is very light and refreshing.

I have also sampled the Sushi Lunch which has Maki Sushi and Nigiri Sushi (a rectangle of rice topped with a piece of fish or shrimp as well as the Sashimi lunch which has nice slices of fresh Tuna, Clam, Albacore, Snapper and Salmon.  These are also served with a nice fresh salad and miso soup.

Bento Box

If sushi is not for you there are other options.  They have a nice variety of bento boxes.  These are compartmentalized trays with a cooked protein (chicken, pork, beef or seafood) a fresh salad, miso soup and a choice of Maki sushi, Japanese Dumpling, Assorted Tempura or a spring roll.  This is beautifully presented and very tasty and well balanced.  They also Teriyaki bowls which contain rice and your source of meat all cooked in a spicy teriyaki sauce.

Beef Sashimi

Everything I have mentioned here I have tried and would recommend highly.  I have sampled a number of their appetizers and have enjoyed them all, my favorite has to be the beef sashimi which is thinly sliced raw beef seasoned which you then dip in a Ponzu (Japanese sour citrus) sauce.  The velvety rich beef contrasted with the sour salty sauce is a real treat.  If you are not into raw proteins there is a wide variety if cooked appetizers which are also outstanding.

I highly recommend that you try Sushi Nami Royale for a special night out or a nice light lunch.  It is a healthy way to enjoy some local product produced in a locally owned restaurant. Enjoy.