Revisiting the hallowed halls of academia might be a smart move when considering the School Sushi restaurant at 163 West Short Street in downtown Lexington, Kentucky. The interior is designed with lively schools of fish. The windows, walls and lighting fixtures of this former bank literally shimmer with oceanic ambiance.
Photos by Marie Pullen Photography
Photos by Marie Pullen Photography
The menu boasts a wide variety of appetizing choices to answer those particular cravings that only fresh sushi and other traditional, made from scratch Japanese specialties can satisfy.
We settled on three handcrafted rolls for our dining pleasure. Paired with a delectable honey mayonnaise, the Honey Bee Roll consists of tender shrimp and tempura crunch inside with savory tuna and salmon on top. Fire and Ice Roll is a delectable, spicy tuna roll crowned with zesty orange and green flying fish roe. The Crunch and Munch Roll combines a shrimp crested roll filled with a peppery crab, garnished with tangy mayo and that tantalizing tempura crunch.
From back to front: Fire and Ice, Crunch and Munch, and Honey Bee rolls Photos by Marie Pullen Photography
Seated at the prep bar we observed the fresh selection of fish and seafood used in the creation of our rolls. A consensus could not be reached in debating our favorite, as every one was delicious! The owner, Tomoka, ensures that the service at School is exceptional with friendly and knowledgeable staff presenting beautifully plated entrees. Close attention is paid to detail, right down to the sculpting of wasabi paste into tiny fish.
Torching the salmon atop a Cincy Roll. Photos by Marie Pullen Photography
Photos by Marie Pullen Photography
Delectable rice and noodle dishes complete the offerings, together with succulent meat courses. The full bar provides cocktails, beers and wines from which to choose. And of course there is a wide selection of sake, including several flavored varieties to accompany your meal.
You won't need to pack a lunch box to enjoy a noonday meal at School. I suggest the traditional Bento tray and California Roll lunch specials with two rolls for $10-$13. For a lark, dine within the old vault!
Photos by Marie Pullen Photography
I’m delighted that School has moved to its downtown location where I feel they have found their true home. For a unique and flavorful experience, be sure to add the School Sushi restaurant to your A+ list of Lexington's many fun and tasty activities.
Photos by Marie Pullen Photography