The droves have yet to discover Ponzu's fresh, interesting and inexpensive cuisine, and that's a good thing; faced with huge crowds, the small Japanese restaurant might lose much of its super-attentive charm. For now, a sushi chef greets you from his small station as you enter, and steaming bowls of miso soup arrive almost immediately at your table (it comes with pretty much everything) in the warm, silk-draped dining room.

All of the traditional Japanese appetizers—like edamame for $3—are available, in addition to a few special starters like the Crispy Tortilla ($5.95), a little nacho stack topped with super-fresh tuna and salmon. The less adventurous sushi eater can fill up for cheap here; California rolls are only $3.95. If you want to live it up, go for the signature Turtle maki. For $12.95, the eel and avocado roll is topped with shrimp, wasabi mayo, eel sauce and wasabi tabiko. It looks like a turtle, but you won't be slow in eating it.

It is hard to beat Ponzu's sushi combinations: for less than $20, fish lovers can get 4-8 pieces and two rolls; for between $35 and $55, you can get one of the Maki combos—served with soup, appetizer, salad and specialty maki. For the land lubber, teriyaki, tempura and udon are all available for less than $13.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Pasha Carroll