Taking a break from fair food to let you know, the first (as far as I know) Twin Cities kosher sushi spot is now open in St. Louis Park. Sato Sushi and American Fusion took over the former Prime Deli space just off Minnetonka Blvd, and it’s jumping. Popped in the other day and found it open, so got takeout.
It was announced last August that Stewart Woodman would take over the deli to create a kosher spot run by a chef called Shiloh, but I’m told he’s no longer part of the project. Instead, the kitchen is now run by Sang Hun Kwon and the menu is released to a few audiences.
On the sushi side, you’ll find vegetable rolls, crispy rolls, and some 17 signature rolls from the expected #9 roll to a fried BMW roll with spicy tuna, non-dairy cream cheese, and unagi sauce. There are also baked rolls, nigiri-sashimi and combos. Prices for the rolls are quite affordable, ranging from $5 for a six-piece cucumber roll to $24 for a ten-piece sky blue roll with bluefin tuna, but most range between $15 and $17. I had a few rolls and hot and cold entrees, I really like the White Tiger roll with crunchy spicy tuna and salmon, topped with yellowtail and jalapeño. They have these big Titanic sushi boats if you have a crew ready.
The other part of the menu is full of American bistro fare, ranging from fries and chopped salad to burger, steak and grilled chicken basket. There is also beer, wine and sake-based cocktails.
The opening had been delayed due to construction issues, but the place now has a cool, modern vibe. A few seats are available at the small sushi bar (which used to be the deli), but the dining area contains more seating in booths and tables under a black-and-white city mural. Up front, under umbrellas, a few patio tables will linger until it gets too cold.
The entire place has been certified kosher, which means it complies with Jewish dietary laws and has been blessed and approved by a rabbinical organization. The sign at Sato indicates that the Rabbinical Council of Chicago has certified this establishment.
Whether you stay kosher or not, this is a nice little addition to the neighborhood. This little patio is a gem, and even more so with a spicy tuna roll and a giant bottle of Sapporo. And the fact that I can have fries on the side just means I win. Sato is open daily for lunch and dinner, and there are a few sweet sushi lunch deals, like the 6-piece assorted nigiri and spicy tuna roll for $19. Food is also available for pickup or delivery. Look for more changes to this mall, as there are also plans to revamp The Kosher Spot grocery store next door.
September 1, 2022
1:46 p.m.
