Blowfish Sushi Bar / Japanese Restaurant

Mission, San Francisco –

Although the place is loud and parts of the menu would make a sushi purist commit hara-kiri, Blowfish Sushi continues to be a chic Mission hotspot where the trendy set fuels up before a night out.

Split in two by a small wall of bamboo and white orchids, the dimly lit venue features a dining area where the stylish regulars enjoy pyramids of tartare along with their traditional bento, and a slick bar that’s home to lots of specialty cocktails, sake, and plum wine.

Acai strawberry martinis in hand, moneyed loft owners and fashionable ladies – pretending they’re not going to order that green tea cheesecake like they always do – chat and flirt with the tatted staff, as the hectic chefs dole out mountains of tuna, salmon, and avocado (Thanks California!), all served with house-made potato chips.

A modern décor of textured walls, IKEA-style chairs, and symmetrical ceiling panels give the space a minimalist look, a simplicity that’s counterbalanced by rows of framed anime prints and a fair share of boobies.

Several flat-screens randomly play anime movies to go with the artwork, while DJs usually spin a conversation-unfriendly mix of funk, soul, throwback, and Top 40 to go with all the teriyaki.

Busy every night, Blowfish Sushi is a colorful combination of creative cuisine, intriguing cocktails, and a party atmosphere that patrons won’t mind blowing a paycheck on.