Hibachi in Atlanta was once a big deal, and then it petered out like a dying flame in an onion volcano. But Nakato has remained through it all—and even recently renovated with a modern aesthetic that could rival a fancy hotel lobby. With more than fifty years of cooking with flair, the Cheshire Bridge Japanese restaurant is still the go-to destination for birthdays, anniversaries, and any occasion that calls for a side of sushi and a show. The hibachi room and private tatami-style salons roar with the sound of hissing grills and rowdy “happy birthday” shouts. Eggs fly through the air, knives clank like percussion, and the space hears more applause than a pre-season Hawks game. When the show is over, your plate is full of stir-fried noodles that have just the right garlicky kick, a generous portion of filet mignon and chicken that are still sizzling, and a fried rice that just tastes better because you saw them make it. As fun as it is, the hibachi menu shouldn’t get all the attention. Nakato may not be young and trendy, but their raw fish selections aren't far behind the other top-notch sushi spots. So if you just want sushi (and a thinner crowd), there's a separate, minimalist-chic dining room that operates at more of a Sunday-driver's speed. Grab a seat and choose from more than 25 roll options that cover everything from spicy (the Kiss of Death roll topped with spicy tempura flakes) to simple (a very good eel roll). We'd say order the spicy tuna-topped Illuminati Roll, and try not to drop your chopsticks when raucous cheers break out from the next room.
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