Monday Munchies: Akira Hibachi and Sushi
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The crispy Philly roll. Photo: Worth Sparkman/Axios
What's missing from east Fayetteville is a diversity of restaurants. There are a few neighborhood staples, but after a decade or so, one looks for something different.
- So, I was excited to see construction underway for Akira Hibachi and Sushi on Mission Boulevard.
The vibe: The dining room is small and similar to your average fast-food location. Spotlessly clean, but there are no frills.
Dig in: I went for a crispy Philly roll ($13) with smoked salmon, cream cheese and avocado and topped with plenty of tempura flakes, but started with tuna sashimi ($6.50).
- The table shared the gyoza ($6) and my date tried the regular Philadelphia roll ($9).
The verdict: I'll eat here again, but probably not the sushi. While it beat the pants off our least fave sushi spot, it didn't thrill anyone as one of the few bright spots like Bentoville we still have for good raw fish in NWA.
- I'm no sushi connoisseur, but I know what I like. The salmon was smoky, the temperature was crispy, and the flavors were there. It missed some culinary mark.
- It would be fine for a quick lunch. In fact, I noticed when leaving there's a drive-thru, but Akira's not my date night go-to.
Yes, but: I really want to check out the hibachi offerings ($13-$19). I suspect they're hearty and may be more in the kitchen's wheelhouse.
Check it out: 11am-9pm every day at 2615 E. Mission Boulevard in Fayetteville.