If you’re ever wandering around the Old Port craving sushi, head down to Yosaku for some excellent Japanese cuisine. Yosaku is located at 1 Danforth Street, just outside the Old Port. In less complicated terms, it’s just a walk to the far end of Fore Street to Gorham’s Corner.
Yosaku has perhaps the best sushi in Portland. The fish is always fresh, and customers don’t find themselves picking a piece of sushi up with their chopsticks only to have it crumble apart. You can either get single roll, or get a combination platter. If you decide on a combo, you may want to split it with a friend, because you will never be able to finish it by yourself. Their sushi and lunch menu is reasonably priced, but dinners are a tad expensive (about 10-14 dollars for a large roll) However, despite the high price for dinner, you get your money’s worth.
The service at Yosaku can be a bit slow. This is especially true, as with all restaurants, when they are busy. The trick is to sit inside, either at the regular tables, sushi bar or the traditional Japanese seating, but not on the patio if you are in a rush. On the other hand, if you are looking to just relax, their patio is great when you want to just sit outside and enjoy the sunshine. Just don’t expect your waiter to be quick.
Another downside is the very limited parking. However, Yosaku is not hard to walk to (only a short walk to the Asylum if you’re waiting for a show) and it’s usually not hard to find on-street parking close by.
If you’re craving Japanese cuisine, or just looking for a new spot for a night out, be sure to check out Yosaku. Just make sure to go on a day you aren’t in a rush. The food is always great, but the service is 50/50.
Grade: B