Ahh Sushi. Tucked into a historic brownstone, this is one of the city's best little finds, with a half-price sushi "happy hour" Thursday through Tuesday from 5 to 6 and specials all day Wednesday. You'll find all the sushi standards here, well crafted and served by friendly chefs. $$$$. 22 East 100 South; 801/596-8600.
Circle Lounge. The sushi chef keeps rolling until 1 a.m. at the new downtown jazz club and cocktail lounge ($12 membership fee). Seating is on low sofas or in the red or white rooms. Try the spoonful of tuna tartare with flavored oil. $$$; closed Sun-Mon. 328 S. State St.; 801/531-5400.
Happy Sumo. In the Gateway Shopping Center, Happy Sumo offers curtained booths and photos of sumo wrestlers. As for sushi, you name it, it's here, with more than 25 creative rolls, including the delectable Funky Roll. $$$. 153 S. Rio Grande St.; 801/456-7866.
Kyoto. The sushi bar at the back of the cozy restaurant often fills with locals who crave pristine sushi without any gimmicks. Try the sweet shrimp (amaebi) nigiri, complete with tempura-fried heads; the Rainbow Roll makes a filling sampler. $$$$. 1080 East 1300 South; 801/487-3525.
Takashi. Chef-owner Takashi Gibo has long been revered as Salt Lake's sushi master. His new, modern restaurant provides an extensive menu. Be sure to try the grilled eggplant with miso, and don't miss the lemon-laced Sunshine Roll. $$$; closed Sun. 18 W. Market St.; 801/519-9595.
