Kushi Izakaya & Sushi

I met up with my gal pals, Jackie and Sarah, at Kushi Izakaya & Sushi for a sensational dinner and we wanted to share the highlights with you all. Sarah had a Living Social coupon to use and Jackie and I were happy to help her use it. Kushi is a sushi joint and also it has a traditional Japanese grill. This is brilliant because you get the best of both worlds from the land and sea. Kushi Izakaya & Sushi (465 K St NW)
It is very important to start the meal off well by getting a drink at the bar and nibbling some oysters. To wash down our Kushi and Blue Pool Oysters, we ordered Saketinis. When in Rome, right? The saketini can be made with vodka or gin. I opted for vodka and it was very refreshing. The cucumber is a nice burst of cooling freshness.
Lets just start off with the very best part. The Uni (sea urchin) is really something special. Uni has a very delicate and unique flavor. Almost like sea air. If you've never had it, you should give it a try at Kushi, where they do it well.
I know it may seem odd to get Grilled Eggplant as a starter at a sushi place, but this eggplant is amazing. We get it every time we come. It is almost barbecued with a smokey flavor and an incredibly smooth texture. I love this dish. Perhaps the most delicious vegetable dish in DC.
The Miso Marinated Fish should not be missed.
Look at how it flakes apart. It melts in your mouth like butter and has a light, distinct flavor.
Next was BBQ Quail Stuffed with Duck Sausage, thank-you-very-much. I loved every bite of this dish. It was somehow delicate and hearty, but very satisfying. I wished that they made it in entree size!
Don't forget to order the Wagyu Beef Skewers. Utterly tender and full of flavor. They come with seasoned salt and strong mustard for dipping, if you are so inclined.
For dessert, we picked Mango and Sea Sat Ice Creams, which were both very flavorful and not too sweet, with was perfect.
And to wash it all down...Genmaicha Tea, which has toasted rice in the mix so it has an earthy flavor that helps round out the rich meal. The perfect end to a perfect dinner with friends.