Hukuya

The best seat in the house at Hukya is at the sushi bar, a chance to watch the chefs behind the counter slicing sashimi with quiet precision and making little pillows of sushi rice with casual aplomb. This modest eatery is always buzzing, its proximity to the train station making it an easy dinner stop for local commuters. There’s a casual, friendly and relaxed vibe to the place, and the counter seating is perfect for single diners. Sushi and sashimi boats are closer to the $20 mark but you can still find a good selection of sushi options under $15 like the inside-out California roll ($14) that’s rolled in bright orange tobiko flying fish roe, or the prawn tempura roll ($12). Each yields nine pieces. For something a little more substantial, yakiniku ($14) is a protein hit of braised scotch fillet with vegetables and rice. The spicy octopus ($14) is admirably tender, the tentacles doused in a sauce that has plenty of kick. If you’re still feeling peckish, spring for a side dish of fried gyoza ($8 for 7) or the karaage fried chicken ($9), little chunks of boneless chicken nobbled with a seasoned crunchy batter and served with a saucer of mayonnaise for dipping.