I wanted to write about any number of Italian wines or restaurants today, but I am distracted by memories of an amazing lunch I had last week in Benicia, California. My colleagues at the Henry Wine Group introduced me to Matsuri Sushi, and anytime I am in the area I make a point to return. No doubt about it- this is some good sushi.
There is definitely something purifying about Japanese cuisine: the simplicity of ingredients and the balance of flavors. I love a simple lunch of fish, a little rice, all flavored with soy and citrus. This is brain food- the kind of meal that powers the rest of your day with a feel-good buzz. Matsuri Sushi is one of my favorite places, especially if you can sit at the bar and ask the sushi chef to prepare a chef’s choice selection (omakase– style).
Another lovely addition to the fresh fish and well-balanced flavors of the food at Matsuri Sushi is their green tea. I believe this is a Genmaicha tea- green tea flavored with roasted rice. This nutty, mellow, comforting beverage is one of the most balanced I have encountered. The aromas of this hot liquid combine toasty popcorn, seawater, sage and fresh-cut grass. The tea is such the perfect complement to the food, it almost make me forget about all the lovely Italian wines I would also pair with this remarkable sushi… almost.