I grew up ethnically Japanese (3rd generation) eating musubi (rice balls covered in seaweed) and lots of ikura (red/orange salmon eggs) over rice. I thought everyone ate food like this till I came to the U.S. Mainland and learned otherwise. Little did I know or dream that nigiri sushi would become so mainstream in the 21st Century.

I have found sushi in supermarkets in Europe, and as far away as Australia and New Zealand. It is sold in deli sections in Safeway and Whole Foods in Tucson. The plethora of sushi bars and Japanese restaurants in Tucson can also attest to the popularity of this food. Even some of my Hispanic friends will suggest eating sushi for dinner over Mexican food.

My favorite Hawaiian-style sushi and ramen noodles are served at Samurai on 3912 N. Oracle, which is fast food style. And then there’s my favorite Japanese-style healthy restaurant, Yoshimatsu at 2660 N. Campbell, which even has a cute gift shop and a side bistro, Sushimatsu.

Try both these restaurants and let me know about your experiences. There are now so many Japanese sushi restaurants in Tucson that I haven’t tried them all, so feel free to send in your alternate recommendations to me.

My dream would be to have an expense account with this online newspaper, to try them all! I have yet to eat at the new Ginza Sushi and Izakaya up near Kolb and Sunrise, or at the upscale Ra at La Encantada.

For the sushi lovering community, put your hands together before you eat, and say “itadakimasu” (thanks for this meal.)