Origami — October 30, 2010

Origami
30 North 1^st Street
Minneapolis
www.origamirestaurant.com

Many local blogs and articles proclaim the sushi at Origami to be some of the best in town. But since we hadn’t met anyone all that high on it, we set out to decide for ourselves.

Specialty roll and spicy tuna

Set back from the lively activity of 1^st Avenue, Origami is nestled next to a cul-de-sac that offers quiet street parking, as well as a tiny row of patron parking across the street. Walking in, we were surprised at the amount of seating available inside what had looked like a tiny space – tables both on the main floor and second level meant we didn’t have a wait. And though the upstairs décor made it feel like a date in a 1990s sitcom, the noise level was moderate and the space was roomy yet cozy.

A fun selection of Asian drinks

The sushi was good, but it wasn’t as memorable as some of the other places we’ve visited in town. And while the menu was pretty standard (not huge or inventive, but more varied than some), Origami offered our basic go-tos alongside a fun nightly special, which we enjoyed most. That evening’s New York roll combined raw fish with the tartness of green apple, the spice of cilantro and jalapeno, and the crunch of tempura flakes. It was the most creative thing on the menu, and we found the combination so tasty that we ordered it twice. The Dynamite roll, a usual favorite, also hit the spot with yellowtail, garlic bean chili sauce, lettuce and cucumber. Topped off with a few spicy tuna pieces, we left pleasantly full with our tongues still tingling.

Unfortunately, service was terrible. Though we sat quickly, it took seemingly forever for our waitress to take our order and even longer to deliver our sushi.  She forgot our requests and never stopped by to check in or fill up our drinks. We were sure to ask for the bill before our last roll arrived, just to be sure we’d have it by the time we were ready to leave.

We wouldn’t back the claim that Origami has the best sushi in the Twin Cities, but the taste wasn’t disappointing. And, the selection of Japanese beers and other assorted drinks was nicely varied. Origami’s service was the downfall of our visit, though we won’t let that downplay everything else the place has to offer. It’s not our first choice for sushi, but we could be convinced to try it again. Especially if that New York roll lands a spot on the permanent menu…

RATING (out of 5 ♠♠♠♠♠)
Ambiance/Environment: ♠♠
Menu Selection: ♠♠1/2
Service: ♠1/2
Food Taste & Presentation: ♠♠♠
COMPLETE EXPERIENCE: ♠♠1/2

Total bill, including tip: $73.29