Grab a bottle of sake or of your favorite Japanese beer and head on down to this Lakeview sushi joint where familiarity is the name of the game.

There's really nothing on the menu that one hasn’t seen before, but with its above average offerings and relaxing atmosphere, this neighborhood sushi joint is still worth a visit.

Despite the small dining area, there are plenty of seats to go around. The room is accentuated with lime-green walls, dark metallic chairs and tables, bamboo plants and fake bonsai trees. Dolls dressed in traditional Japanese garb sit along the walls while soft music plays in the background.

Once you've settled in, it's time to strap in your seat belts and go for a ride. With special rolls called "Chicago Crazy" and "Viva Las Vegas," Hiro's menu attempts to take its diners on a cross-country trip. The Miami ($10) is a filling roll of yellow tail, avocado, cucumber, cream cheese and tobico. The roll is then deep fried and dressed with a spicy sauce. The rolls range between $8-$16. Hiro's also offers classics such as the Philadelphia ($4) and tuna rolls, but its fish and rice ratio favors the latter.

The entrees ($9-$17) include the Bi Bim Bop ($9), a plate of marinated oriental vegetables on a bed of rice. It's topped with an egg and your choice of meat.

The loungy atmosphere and artsy deco mirrors that of Café Furaibo, another Lakeview institution. Inexpensive selections of sushi platters can be found on their lunch special menu, while just up the street, less expensive sushi can still be found at New Tokyo. But with its relaxing atmosphere, fresh and tasty food and friendly service, what more could you really ask for from Hiro's?

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Kimber Solana