Umi Sushi Bar & Grill, Austin

The chefs here are true artists. Thus, everything served is meticulously prepared and then plated with a masterful touch of bravado. Umi presents a full hot and cold menu of Japanese specialties. The sushi, sashimi, rolls, hand rolls and boats for two or three are pretty as a picture. What's more, they taste as good as they look. Likewise, from the kitchen, options range from Kobe-style Wagyu steaks, Chicken Teriyaki and Seafood Tempura to noodle bowls of Beef Yaki Udon and Shrmp Yaki Soba. Look for lunch and dinner Bento Boxes, plus appetizers, soups and salads that can be mixed and matched to make a meal. Parched throat? Umi's stylish décor and full bar make this a popular watering hole among Austin's upwardly-mobile professional crowd. HAPPY HOUR: Mon. - Sat. from 4 - 6:30 p.m. REVERSE HAPPY HOUR: Every Fri. & Sat. Night from 9:30 p.m. - close, with $2 drafts and a live DJ. LUNCH SPECIALS: Starting at $7.95, Mon. - Fri. from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.