In the midst of DC’s Penn Quarter, the creators of Oya bring us yet another upcoming hot spot to satiate our Asian cravings!  Sei, the newest addition to my sushi favorites hits the DC scene offering a huge array of modern Asian cuisine.  Hiding in between DC’s Landsburgh Theatre and the stomping grounds of Jaleo, Sei opens it’s doors with the same sleek and chic style as it’s nearby sibling.  Offering intimate seating and a comfy sushi bar, Sei’s dimly lit corners and glamorous white leather seating will surely welcome its guests for years to come.  

 

Break open the menu, and one will find an endless selection of sake as well as both creative and traditional sushi rolls, nigiri and entrees.  As I tend to indulge more in sushi rice than that in sake, I chose a sampling of sushi rolls.  Want to start your sushi with a little salad?  Try the Caesar Roll.  This playful take on the traditional Caesar salad is a delightful (and vegetarian) option for those who find themselves a bit queasy at the sight of all things raw.  Want to be adventurous?  Start with the Fish n’ Chips.  This delectable creation is the perfect combination of….well, actually, I don’t know what– but, I’ll be honest– it is exactly what you would imagine fish n’ chips to taste like in one, perfect bite. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for this one!

 

 

 

Want to add a little more protein to your sushi diet?  Try the Kobe Tataki.  Thinly sliced Kobe, topping a spicy cucumber salmon roll with Cilantro Wasabi.  In the words of Hillshire Farm, GO Meat! (Sorry, I coudn’t resist– I absolutely LOVE those commercials)  But, I digress.   The picture may not do it justice, but if that doesn’t convince you– we chose this as our dessert.  What can I say, those sushi rolls just keep calling my name!

 

   

 

Moving on from the sushi menu, the drink menu is not sake-exclusive.  On the contrary, there is a solid selection of creative cocktails and beers to choose from. Our libation choices of the evening?  Asian Pear Mojito and Japan’s own microbrew, Hitachino White Ale.  Who said the Belgian’s were the only ones who knew how to brew?

 

And so, if you feel like you’ve tried all that Penn Quarter has to offer, or you just can’t seem to get that reservation into Oya, walk on over to Sei.  It’s the smaller and cuter version of it’s older counterpart, yet offers the same creative culinary edge and sophisticated, intimate style.  The sake is flowing and the sushi is rolling, so get out of your comfort zone and try DC’s newest fusion sanctuary!!

 

Sei Restaurant and Lounge

444 7th Street NW

Washington, DC 20004

(202) 783-7007

www.seirestaurant.com