Tsuru Sushi

I have yet to find a place in Milan that serves Sushi that rivals Sushi Hook back home in California (or any of the other various Sushi venues in San Francisco). I normally head to Saien because as a student I get a discount and it’s close to school, but my classmates convinced me to try out Tsuru during our lunch break.
I was impressed, but not entirely convinced.
The location is great since it’s right off the Naviglio Pavese, but it’s tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the canal. While the space is not as big and ‘luxurious’ (I used this term lightly considering I’m a graduate student) as Saien but it’s tight small space reminds me of all those places I love back home. (+1)
I ordered the Maki Menu. The service was accommodating in my request for no shellfish. The salad was large and delicious with fresh salmon and squid. I was impressed, definitely a bigger portion than I’ve received at Saien. (+1)
The miso soup was delicious, but comparable to other soups I’ve had. (+1)
When they brought out the maki was happy to see that I received three different rolls of a mixed variety of Maki, Uramaki and Hosomaki (salmon, tuna and something else that I don’t remember). Saien only gives you two (+1)
The reason I give this place only three stars as opposed to four or even five is because I didn’t finish my meal. I /​always/​finish my meal. At first I thought it was because I was strangely full, but after some reflection as two why there was a complete roll left on my plate I dismissed that idea. (–1)
The fact of the matter is I was not a fan of of the Uramaki, which is normally my favorite of any maki menu (what can I say, I love rice?) After one piece, I just couldn’t do the rest and I wasn’t sure why. The Uramaki was salmon and avocado (both of which were fresh, delicious etc.) but they happened to also include a bit of cabbage or lettuce that was bitter and old and completely ruined the salmon and avocado.
Perhaps I just happened to get a bad batch or maybe my tastebuds were having an off day. It happens. I’m sure I’ll head back and give them another chance, because the ambience, the rest of the meal, and the price (10euros for salad, miso, 3 rolls, and a fruit bowl) were definitely things that left me with a smile on my face and my tummy happy.

I am not a lover of sushi and Japanese food, but a good friend of mine is and so we ended up here quite often during my trips to Milano. The place looks more like a winery in the suburbs of Rome (hence the name Osteria), and it’s located in the popular Navigli area. What’s more important is food, and I must admit that I have enjoyed eating sushi and sashimi every time I came here. Also, prices are affordable. Recommended.