Crystal Fish
514 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey
(831) 649-3474, crystalfish.com
The daily line out the door should never deter fans or newcomers to the consistent winner as Best Japanese. There is something for everyone at Crystal Fish, be they traditionalists who only do simple nigiri and handrolls, or adventure types into fusion and opt for things like the rainbow roll or the indulgent firecracker roll. But Japanese food is more than sushi. Crystal Fish also offers different types of udon, teriyaki and karage (Japanese fried chicken), all impeccably prepared.
