Last night that someone was the chef/sushi roller at the Sushi Box.
People in Madison are so attached to Wasabi on State Street, that they will not set foot in a place that holds the enviable position of being far from pedestrian traffic, far from the campus and far from the suburbs. Basically, it’s in nobody’s way except for maybe sick people who inevitably will pass it en route to UW Hospitals. Though why do I think that sick types rarely pause to eat raw fish on their way to get their bones set or kidneys examined? People are funny that way.
So last night, I walked the unattractive blocks of Old University, entered the Sushi Box, pulled out a Sapporo and circled my sushi choices.
That would have been that, and the post may have been shorter and better for it, but for the fact that the chef/sushi roller had the smile of all smiles…
…and so I boldly asked if I could stand over his shoulder and watch (and take photos and basically be in the way, but I didn’t mention that part then). He smiled a “yes” right at me and got to work while I admired his hands. And his polka dotted hat. And the final product. Wonderful, all of it.
Was it wonderful? I went there a couple of years back and was terribly disappointed. (I would *love* to hear that things have improved.)
ReplyDeleteYour post made me all crazy for sushi, so I went to the Sushi Box for lunch today.
ReplyDeleteI never tire of sushi. Wish I could make it at home. Well, at least Edo delivers to my neighborhood.
Politely curious:
ReplyDeletedid you wear a hairnet in there?
With your restaurant knowledge, are members of the public generally allowed in so close to the food preparation, or was this fellow bending the rules having you there at his shoulder?
Makes me wonder when I eat out, who's back there breathing and puttering about my food. I think there are regulations, such as handwashing and the hairnet thing that would apply to employees, so my above question is sincere. (as is my earlier request. Thanks!)
anon: I have a telephoto lens. Though if you are worried about who breathes on or touches your food, you're better off not eating out.
ReplyDeleteAs a lawyer, I know you know how to look up the regs. Hairnets are not required. Waiters would look pretty silly in them.
The chef's smile made me smile. Nice photos nina, as always.
ReplyDeletei don't know if it's because i'm so obsessed with sushi, but i love this post.
ReplyDelete