Kenny Kravings

Sampling Cheap vs. Upscale Sushi

Haley Samaan | Design and Layout Editor

GUYS! I can’t believe I’m saying this, but sadly, this is my last food review. To end my era, I will review my all-time favorite food: SUSHI--ensuring all your sushi desires are met!

Publix

Publix is a fan-favorite grocery store, so it would only make sense to review Publix sushi for the storebought option.

Publix sushi is found in prepackaged, clear containers in the seafood section. I purchased the California roll and the Shrimp Tempura roll. The California roll was not my favorite. The rice was very thick and stickier than I liked. It was priced at $6.99 and came with eight pieces. The sushi did not taste fresh to me, and I was not a fan of the consistency. I would not purchase this again.

The Shrimp Tempura roll was better than I expected. It had a sauce on top that had a slight kick, but it made the sushi moist and flavorful. It was $10.49 and came with eight pieces.

Although this probably would not be my first choice, I would eat it if it was all that was available.

O-KU

502 1st St N Jacksonville Beach, Fla 32250

(904) 694- 2770

The restaurant I chose for my fancy option was O-KU in Jacksonville Beach, approximately 27 minutes east of BK.

This was my first time trying this restaurant, and it did not disappoint. The restaurant is not big, but it has both indoor and rooftop seating. I wasn’t able to make a reservation ahead of time, but when I arrived around 6:30 p.m., rooftop seating was available. Although it was cold outside, there were heaters on the rooftop that kept me comfortable. The atmosphere was calm and upscale, without noisy music or fluorescent lighting. The customer service was also amazing. Our waiter was very friendly and timely in bringing us our food.

I ordered a California roll and a Shrimp Tempura roll. The California roll was delicious and much better than Publix’s. It tasted fresher and had a smoother texture. It was priced at $12 – about double the price of Publix –and came with eight pieces.

The Shrimp Tempura roll was my favorite! It had a great sauce on top of it. The sauce was not too overpowering and added a great flavor.

This restaurant was absolutely amazing and exceeded my expectations! I have recommended it to many people after going. I will definitely be going back!

There was also the perfect ratio of shrimp to rice. It was $14 and came with eight pieces.