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Hey everyone, Emma here! As a food blogger, I’m always on the lookout for delicious and unique dining experiences. So, when I heard whispers of a Japanese restaurant in Norwich, Connecticut, offering all-you-can-eat sushi with surprisingly high quality, I knew I had to investigate. Let me tell you, Mahzu Japanese Restaurant did not disappoint!
Stepping into Mahzu: A Hidden Gem
Nestled in the Marcus Plaza mall, Mahzu might not scream “culinary adventure” from the outside. But don’t let the unassuming storefront fool you. Inside, you’ll find a cozy and inviting atmosphere with booths, a captivating fish tank, and a sushi bar where you can watch the magic happen.
The Sunday Sushi Extravaganza
Now, let’s talk about the main event: the Sunday all-you-can-eat sushi special for $19.99. Yes, you read that right! For under $20, you can dive headfirst into a sea of fresh, delicious sushi. Now, there are a few ground rules: you choose from a curated list on a sushi bar checklist, hand rolls and elaborate rolls are excluded, and sharing isn’t allowed (trust me, you’ll want to keep it all to yourself!).
My Sushi Odyssey: A Feast for the Senses
I embarked on my sushi journey, eager to see if the quality lived up to the hype. Here’s a glimpse into my delicious odyssey:
- Ebi (Shrimp) Sushi: The shrimp was incredibly fresh and succulent, a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients. ($2 per piece a la carte)
- Salmon Roll and Tuna Roll: These classic rolls were perfectly executed, with a harmonious balance of flavors and textures. ($4 per roll a la carte)
- Eel Special Roll: This roll was a revelation! Tender eel, creamy avocado, cool cucumber, and a sprinkle of tobiko created a symphony of flavors. ($5 per roll a la carte)
- Hamachi-Scallion Roll: The delicate flavor of the yellowtail (hamachi) paired perfectly with the sharp bite of scallions. ($4 per roll a la carte)
- Special Dragon Roll: This roll was a work of art! Crab, avocado, and cucumber were enveloped in tender eel and topped with tobiko. ($7.50 per roll a la carte)
- Christmas in July Roll: A festive combination of tuna, yellowtail, and cucumber, this roll was a delightful explosion of freshness. ($6.95 per roll a la carte)
If I had ordered these items individually, the bill would have been over $30! The all-you-can-eat option is an incredible deal for sushi lovers.
Beyond the All-You-Can-Eat: Exploring the Menu
While the all-you-can-eat special is a steal, Mahzu’s menu is brimming with other tempting options. Here are a few standouts:
- Godzilla Roll: Imagine salmon, eel, fluke, and striped bass, all wrapped in rice, tempura-battered, and deep-fried to perfection. This roll is a monster of flavor!
- Holmdel Roll: Spicy tuna lovers, this one’s for you! Spicy tuna, avocado, and eel come together in perfect harmony.
- Crazy Roll: Another winner for spice enthusiasts, this roll features spicy tuna, salmon, and avocado.
- Sumo Roll: This roll is a delightful combination of chopped yellowtail, tempura flakes, eel, and avocado.
Pro Tip: While the elaborate rolls are tempting, I found that the simpler preparations truly allowed the freshness and quality of the fish to shine through.
Appetizers and More: Expanding Your Culinary Horizons
Mahzu’s appetizer selection is equally impressive, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to fresh, flavorful ingredients.
- Usuzukuri: This dish features thinly sliced fluke (a type of flounder) drizzled with ponzu sauce and topped with tobiko and finely chopped jalapeno. It’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor.
- Ika Karaage: These crispy, tender pieces of grilled squid are coated in a perfectly balanced ginger-barbecue sauce.
- Shrimp Shumai: These steamed shrimp dumplings are a classic for a reason.
- Sunomono: This refreshing salad features a medley of crab, octopus, shrimp, and vegetables in a light, vinegary dressing.
- Treasure Island: This unique dish is a sushi lover’s take on stuffed avocado. Imagine half an avocado topped with spicy mayonnaise and an assortment of fresh, raw fish.
For those who prefer cooked dishes: Mahzu offers a variety of teriyaki, tempura, hibachi, and noodle entrees. And don’t forget to save room for their delicious green tea ice cream!
Final Verdict: A Must-Visit for Sushi Lovers
Mahzu Japanese Restaurant is a hidden gem in Norwich, Connecticut. With its fresh, high-quality sushi, extensive menu, and unbeatable all-you-can-eat special, it’s a must-visit for any sushi lover.
Here are some additional tips for your visit:
- Reservations are recommended, especially for the all-you-can-eat special.
- Come hungry! You’ll want to savor every bite of the delicious sushi.
- Don’t be afraid to try something new. The menu is full of unique and flavorful options.
Happy eating!
For more information on Japanese cuisine and sushi, check out these resources:
