Down on Fairview Avenue, there’s a sushi restaurant serves delicious food at an affordable price.
With a large variety of Japanese dishes featuring the likes of sushi, ramen, bento boxes and more, Idaho Press Boise reporter Haadiya Tariq and I grabbed a filling meal at Island Sushi and Ramen.
I did things a bit differently this week. Rather than following a recommendation, I picked this particular place myself because it was my birthday. Island Sushi and Ramen was the perfect choice because I love Japanese cuisine and have had my eye on this shop for a few months now.
Island Sushi and Ramen had a calm and relaxing vibe.
Haadiya Tariq/Idaho Press
The space had a calm and relaxing atmosphere, with natural woods and a light color scheme, as well as soft pop music playing in the background. Haadiya particularly enjoyed the soft lighting provided by the stylish wooden pendant lamps hanging from the ceiling, and I liked how the staff was very friendly and attentive without being overbearing. This all contributed to the laid-back experience.
Nothing hits like a classic edamame appetizer, and Island Sushi and Ramen did not disappoint. The steamed soybeans provided a fresh “snap” and had an enjoyable fresh and tangy flavor. Haadiya said it was the perfect snack to munch on while we waited for our rolls to arrive.
As a fan of tofu, Haadiya felt the aged tofu appetizer would satisfy her craving. She loved the mild flavor of the tofu combined with the savory fish flakes and umami broth, and she enjoyed the contrast of the crisp exterior with the silky interior. But make sure to let it cool down once it arrives, because it’s hotter than it seems.
Onto the sushi. I decided to get a special roll since it was my special day. I got the Hawaii Roll and felt like I could hear the ocean waves as I enjoyed this tropical dish. The roll had tuna, yellowtail and avocado, topped with salmon, mango and tobiko. The soft fish with its briny and clean flavor matched well with the sweet mango and savory mayo, creating a bright bite. The roll also came with some miso soup, which served as a light appetizer with its hearty broth, soft tofu and salty seaweed.
Haadiya got the Prince Roll and said it packed quite the flavorful punch. The Shrimp Tempura Roll was topped with salmon and thin slices of lemon. The sharp, citrusy lemon was elevated by a savory special sauce. But what really impressed her were the textures that followed, with the crunchy tempura combining well with the soft salmon and creamy avocado. Overall, Haadiya felt the dish was well balanced both texture and flavor wise and said she will add it to her sushi rotation in the future.
Island Sushi and Ramen was a wonderful experience for us and is one of my favorite sushi spots so far in Boise. It really stands out with its stellar customer service, stylish decor and delicious food at a good price. If you’re looking for a quiet meal, this is the place, and we both will be returning in the future.
WANT TO GO?
This chill restaurant is located at 8716 W. Fairview Ave. in Boise Hours are 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. On Friday and Saturday it is open 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. On Sundays it is open noon-9 p.m. The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays. To learn more about what Island Sushi and Ramen has to offer visit its website at islandsushiandramen.com.
AloJapan.com