Midori feels like the coolest new restaurant on the block. Walking in, you'd probably pat yourself on the back for scouting such a find. That is, of course, until you discover the restaurant has been in business, without a makeover, since 1986.
Never would you guess by looking at Midori's modern, light-wood sushi bar that the place was designed in the era of parachute pants. It's perfectly preserved, spotlessly clean and utterly enchanting. One wall of the restaurant is built of dividers that separate to create four private rooms available for rental. Each area seats up to 10 people and features a traditional Japanese table and chairs with no legs.
Aside from the full line of sushi, the menu lists appetizers like beef sashimi, spicy shrimp sala and scallop butter yaki. Udon choices (a Japanese noodle dish) include tempura, seafood, chicken and beef ($8.95 to $9.95). You can also take your pick of tempuras, teriyaki and stew-based dishes.
But the real treat of Midori lies in the adjoining room, where wicker chairs, burgundy carpet and metal walls await you and your vocal chords. This room, which is also where you'll find the bar, can be rented out for karaoke parties, starting at $15 per person. A stage, lightshow and large projection screen signal that it's time to belt it out.
An interesting side note about Midori: The restaurant offers more than 30 brands of tequila and specializes in margaritas made with fresh lime juice. Hmm…
Average cost: $21-$30
Centerstage Reviewer: Christy Bonstell
