Fast Foodie: Piranha Killer Sushi

The latest addition to the eateries fast emerging at the mini mall on the south side of Basse Road opposite the Quarry, Piranha Killer Sushi, is part of a small chain started in Arlington a decade ago. Occupying the corner site previously held by Sugarbakers, PKS is within a nine-iron shot of Max's Wine Dive, Five Guys Burgers, Urban Taco, Jamba Juice, and Starbucks, and maybe a solid, five-iron from the Quarry Golf Club Restaurant. The newest kid on the block has been mobbed at night, with both patios plus the indoor seating filled, and a mainly twenty-something crowd taking advantage of the four-hour "Happy Hour" pricing. Lunch is a bit quieter and service noticeably more efficient. The decor is attractive, with light colors of orange, green, and yellow, and two spacious bar areas, one for drinks and food as you enter, the other featuring several young sushi chefs working on preparation. The 20 or so sushi rolls are mostly $2.50/piece, with most tables ordering a half dozen or more to split. The appetizers are usually enough food for a couple, washed down with sake or Japanese beer.

Our party enjoyed the sashimi salad with tuna, conch, and escolar, a white-fleshed fish sometimes associated with laxative properties (go easy). The salmon ceviche with jalapeño and mango was also a hit. Entrees include choice of Asian salad or a very good miso soup; prices at dinner range from $10.95 up to $24.95.

Lunchtime entrees are more reasonable — $8.95 to $12.95. I had the grilled salmon bento box with mixed grilled vegetables, rice, and spring rolls in a spicy marmalade. My companion tried the sushi bento which came with two small salads and five pieces of sushi. All very attractively packaged and presented. We also sampled (by invitation) a neighbor's yummy mussels in saffron sauce. Service was a bit on the slow side, but my server explained that the chef had dropped my salmon, and was preparing another piece. I appreciated his candor and waited patiently.