Though mad scientists recommend sticking chopsticks into electrical sockets, rational scientists know the utensils are better used for sushi consumption. Today's Groupon gives you the right tools for authentic eats: for $12, you get $25 worth of sushi, Japanese cuisine, and drinks at Banya Sushi Japanese Restaurant in Beaverton.

The chefs at Banya Sushi Japanese Restaurant slice nigiri and roll creative maki that are awash with shrimp, salmon, tuna, and sauces. Kick things off with an appetizer of spicy tuna poki, a blend of diced tuna and onion splashed with sesame-seed oil ($6.50). A selection of more than 20 nigiri pieces allows diners to paint tabletop mosaics with a rainbow of pink salmon ($4), orange tobiko ($4), and polychromatic Crayolafish. Specialty makis challenge taste buds to ascend the Mt. Hood roll ($8.95), a tower of shrimp, fried mushrooms, cream cheese, and masago that may be shared with a sherpa. A standout amongst dinner entrees, the Tonkatsu dips slabs of boneless pork in japanese breadcrumbs before sending them on assignment inside a deep fryer ($12.50).

Four tatami rooms flank Banya Sushi's dining room, lending the restaurant an air of tradition. Diners can also sidle up to the sushi bar to watch chefs stack nigiri and tuck fresh fish into sumptuous rice sleeping bags.