Tsunami ? restaurant by night, lounge by late night ? is the chic place to feast on sushi or experiment with Asian fusion. After establishing a successful Annapolis location, Tsunami owners recently brought the posh venue and Lemongrass, its sister loungeand restaurant, to a Harbor East renovated warehouse.
Visit the Baltimore location of Tsunami with its infancy in mind.
The Scene: The ambiance is the main entree for patrons ? both diners and drinkers. Its walls, painted a subdued lime and meditative dark blue, set the mood, further enhanced by soft-white orb lights, similar to Chinese lanterns, hanging from the high ceiling. Modern details, from bamboo sticks to metallic tabletops, seal Tsunami?s tranquil, polished vibe.
The Pour: An extensive wine list and adventurous martini selection, including a warm sake concoction, bolsters the bar offerings.
The Taste: Our tuna and yellowtail sashimi was fresh and well-plated with wasabi and an attractive garnish.
Of our three entrees, the burnt chili New York strip with spiced port reduction and goat cheese mashed potatoes stood out. Thin slices of red pepper, carrots and shredded lettuce added an amazing texture and atypical crunch to the creamy dish. The melt-in-your-mouth steak, cooked medium, was so tender you could probably cut it with a butter knife.
For $16, the crab cake was impossibly minute and mostly filler. Its one saving grace was the accompanying serving of chopped, sweet mango.
The Finishing Touch: Though a pretty pink color, the Japanese red bean ice cream, served with a delicious yet dense green tea vanilla cake, didn?t live up to its name; it tasted exactly like a scoop of plain vanilla.
Don?t Miss: ?The Tsunami,? an electric-blue cocktail with ginger shavings. It leaves your tongue tingling with its tangy sweetness.
Why you will go: The endless sushi selections, excellent service and unique atmosphere.
Why you won?t: Growling stomachs won?t be quieted by Tsunami?s petite portions and light fare. While the dishes we sampled were well-prepared, you might find yourself craving a second dinner.
IF YOU GO
Tsunami
» Where: 1300 Bank Street, Harbor East, Baltimore
» Prices: $8-11 for first courses; $5 to market price for second course; $11-31 for entrees
» Info: 410-327-1370
