My mother is Japanese, and she knows when the Japanese food that she eats is authentic...if you want an authentic taste of Japanese food and the best "sushi rice" in Tampa Bay, go to Mike's Sushi and Sake Bar. The whole Kimura family all work together to make your experience here to be the best it can be...ICHIBAN!! Try the Volcano Roll, the Spider Roll, or any of Mike's special rolls and you will be so glad you did. The Tempura here is the best I have ever tasted in this area. So crisp and never greasy, lightly fried to perfection and so plentiful. The presentation of your food is very pleasing to the eye and most pleasing to your palate!

The first requirement is to have a Japanese owner who knows how the food should be prepared. The next is to have a trained itamae(sushi maker). Mike (Masaaki Kimura) is a Kyoto native and he runs the counter while his wife Ayako runs the kitchen. He provides food not available in other restaurants. To be served different tsumamimono(appetizers but more applicable as food to eat as you drink sake) that takes much preparation such as kazunoko(herring roe) made New Year's style is a treat. Mike is innovative as well as traditional so getting comfort food (I am Japanese) as well as different tastes(I am a foodie and also know how to cook Japanese food) is a special thing for me. Japanese clam broths, broiled fish are some special things in addition to wonderful raw treats. Mike has good bottles of sake which you can leave and drink the next time ("bottle keep"). He has loyal customers from decades ago and it is not a surprise.

My 1st impression of this restuarant was great. Now I have been there 6 times and Mike, (The Owner ) is one of the best around here.He is always there making the sush. We got personalized sticks for free! You can also buy a whole bottle of Saki, (Which is cheaper), and leave it there for next time , the part that you dont finishThis place is awesome food and is a great place to eat