When I was living in the rural town of Wakasa, Japan, I'd say 99 percent of my memorable experiences revolved around trying new food. Since returning, I've searched for authentic dishes in the Boston area worth sharing. From a shopping court in Cambridge to a suburban supermarket, I've been surprised at where the nostalgic quest has taken me. This time of year, I especially crave the foods I enjoyed in Japan, many of which are intrinsically light and restorative. Here are five local places to find the healthful, yet comforting cuisine.
The Freshest Fish Market Flavor in Burlington
I grew up in Burlington, and the closest I ever got to Japanese food back then was mall sushi. Times have changed, and in 2009, the Asian grocery chain Hmart moved in. In addition to the market, you'll find five restaurants and a bakery. I order my usual, the “Number 2” Chirashi ($13.99) from San Soo Kap San Sushi.
Chirashizushi (or chirashi for short) means “scattered sushi,” and can literally be anything from raw fish to veggies and pickles on top of a sweet-tangy bed of sushi rice.
The succulent pieces of sashimi at San Soo Kap San range from smooth and delicate to buttery to slightly spicy. My bowl has an abundant array of fish, including salmon, tuna, escolar and yellowtail. If you're concerned about the bad reputation escolar gets (let's just say "white tuna" has been linked to tummy troubles) or want to indulge in, say, exclusively salmon, you can swap and substitute to your liking. Pair the sashimi’s subtle tastes with the crunch and vinegar of yellow takuan pickles. Digging in, I'm brought back to Wakasa Fisherman’s Wharf, a market I used to visit in Japan for fresh, local seafood. I've yet to find fresher chirashi anywhere in the States.
3 Old Concord Rd., Burlington, 781-270-6200, facebook.com/San-Soo-Kap-Sa-Sushi
Asian Pantry Provisions
Of course, it’s not all about the fish. Hmart is a place to stock up on everything from soy sauce and spicy bean paste to frozen dumpling skins. You'll find dozens of types of tofu, miso in every shade, mysterious fruit with spikes, kimchi in clear plastic jars, and, most importantly, all the sweets a girl could want. I always like to end on a sweet note, and no trip to Hmart would be complete without buying a mochi rice cake with red bean filling.
It might be a while before I make it back to Wakasa, but it's nice to know I can get a little taste (and you can too!) right in Boston's back yard.
3 Old Concord Rd., Burlington, 781-221-4570, hmart.com
Fusion Cooking at Uni
When I'm in the city, I've got my eyes on Uni. Their menu finds inspiration in global street food and is bursting with flavors from all over the world. On it you'll find innovative makimono, nigiri and sashimi offerings. This James Beard-award winner is a great local spot for fusion cuisine.
370A Commonwealth Ave., Boston, 617-536-7200, uni-boston.com
Also featured in Simply The Best Seafood Restaurants In Boston
Motivating Ramen at Yume Wo Katare
If you've been to Cambridge's Porter Square, you’ve likely seen the near-constant lines streaming out of this ramen shop that specializes in Jiro-style ramen (a rare find in the U.S.).
"Yume Wo Katare" translates to "talk about your dreams" in Japanese. While dining at the tiny 18-seat ramen shop, you're encouraged to share your dreams, either out loud or by writing them down. The practice is an inspiring reminder to put your good intentions out in the world, and to continue your path to personal fulfullment. Owner Tsuyoshi Nishioka believes that if you finish your bowl of ramen, you can do anything in life.
1923 Mass Ave., Cambridge, yumewokatare.com
Also featured in Our Favorite Slurp-Worthy Ramen Spots Around Boston
Authentic Sushi at Genki Ya
Many people who have spent time in Japan praise Genki Yafor their authenticity. And their commitment to offering the healthy, high quality sushi has not gone unnoticed. Their menu is large and includes an impressive variety of traditional nigiri. But it's the big, beautiful maki rolls that I love to order. Favorites include the Super Dragon roll with tempura sweet potato, eel and avocado, and the Tri-Color roll with tuna, salmon, and yellowtail, creamy avocado and multicolor fish roe.
Genki Ya started in Brookline in 2007, and has since expanded with locations in Cambridge, Dedham, Boston and Somerville.
398 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-277-3100, genkiyasushi.com
