AKIYAMA Japanese
Gourmet Restaurant:
132-16 14th Ave., College Pt.; Phone 747-0529;
Fax: 747-0618

CUISINE: Japanese with innovative creations

PARKING: In parking lot across from Whitepoint Shopping Center

CREDIT CARDS: Major cards ($15 minimum)

HOURS: Closed Sunday. Open for lunch from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. (12 noon on Sat). Dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. (11 p.m. Sat.).

This delightful Japanese restaurant caught our attention several years ago. First because of its skilled chef/owner, Raymond, who presents fresh, edible works of art. He has continued to be creative and on our recent visit, presented us with new dishes which, in our opinion, may well become classic dishes of the future. Be sure to ask for specials when you arrive.

Presentation is important in Japanese cuisine. From the dishes themselves on which the food is served to the flower-like arrangement of sliced ginger and wasabi, Raymond’s cuisine appeals to all the senses. His new concoctions are always a delight.

We started with the popular Japanese dumplings Gyoza with pork and veggies and also Shumai with shrimp and vegetables (both cost $4). As is our preference, we continued with several small dishes such as the Tako-Su (sliced octopus in vinegar sauce) to complete our light lunch. A side dish of shredded cukes, carrots and crabmeat was tasty. The highlight of our meal was a very special dish called The Dynamite. Served warm in a large clam shell, this dish is a rich combination of crab meat, scallops and mushrooms combined with Japanese mayonnaise. Ask your server if it’s available.

Being especially fond of fresh water eel, we ordered Unagi Sushi and the authentic, handsome Dragon Roll (eight segments arranged/decorated like a dragon at $8.50). Other eel-lovers might want to try the Eel on Rice.

Try accompanying your meal with Sake (warm or chilled) in a traditional square wooden drinking vessel. Imported beer is available. The bottomless teapot is always included with every order.

Popular Lunch Specials (also available for take out) include Beef Teriyaki (complete with rice and salad), Yakitori (skewered chicken with vegetables), Sushi, Hand Rolls, and the Happy Box (Bento) Special at $12.95.It’s always a treat to go back to Akiyama which deserves and maintains its fine reputation. The attentive service – our server was named Winnie — adds to the enjoyment of eating at Akiyama.