Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar

Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar Restaurant Review:

Hamamori Restaurant & Sushi Bar is a South Coast Plaza hot-spot for sushi and contemporary Japanese fusion cuisine. Chef James Hamamori, who is known locally for his chain of more casual Wasa Sushi restaurants, has created a modern space with undulating white walls, crystal chandeliers, cream-colored chairs and turquoise and chrome accents. Regulars sit at the ten-seat sushi bar to enjoy sushi prepared by three chefs who shout their welcomes. But if you have come here for a fusion feast, then claim a comfortable table and prepare for an extravaganza. Start off by pairing a premium saké or white wine with the crispy calamari with yuzu miso. Or, begin with the crunchy and tender okaki-coated jumbo asparagus, which you dip in yuzu sea salt. Don’t miss the tamari-marinated black cod dish or the crisp-skinned madai with its accompanying rich consommé. Chef Hamamori appreciates European cuisine, as is evidenced in his tender Kobe beef medallion, which comes topped with a thin slice of caramelized Fuji apple surrounded by bits of dried fruit and a plum wine reduction. At meal’s end, try the kabocha squash flan served with fresh local berries. If you'd rather have the chefs take the wheel, simply order the omakase and prepare to be dazzled with an on-the-fly feast.