UPTOWN. One of the area's first Japanese restaurants, authentically designed Fuji-Ya is still one of Minneapolis's favorites. Thanks to traditional decor and a menu featuring favorites like chicken and shrimp tempura and Yose Nabe (a medley of seafood, vegetables, noodles, and mushrooms), the restaurant has a loyal following. Fuji-Ya offers a variety of platters for sushi lovers as well. Reservations are suggested.

DOWNTOWN. This pagoda-shaped Japanese steakhouse features slicing, dicing, chopping, sizzling, and serving ­ all from a tableside grill. Chef-servers prepare lobster, shrimp, scallops, chicken, and filet mignon as diners watch from U-shaped booths. At the sushi bar, fresh rolls are served in miniature boats. Reservations accepted.

DOWNTOWN. Kikugawa offers excellent Japanese fare and, on occasion, karaoke. Expect to be treated like a long-lost friend, and try to get a table with views of the river. Kikugawa's sushi has loyal fans, and the restaurant tends to get busy on Fridays and Saturdays. If you stop in for lunch, try the bento box, which includes tasty morsels of all the chef's favorites. Reservations are suggested, especially on weekends.

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. A hidden treasure tucked away in the Warehouse District, this Japanese eatery offers first-rate elegance in both food and ambiance. Sushi and sashimi are wonderfully fresh and expertly crafted, and yose-nabe, served in an enormous clay bowl, offers generous portions of noodles, seafood, chicken, and vegetables. Other options include tempura, teriyaki salmon or chicken, and grilled scallops. First-come, first-served reservation policy.