UPTOWN. Patrons frequent this Minneapolis restaurant for its incredible sushi and authentic Japanese cuisine. Characteristic decor and careful service sets the stage for a delightful assortment of a la carte sushi and house specialty rolls like Dynamite, Futo and Wasabi Crunchy. The menu also features traditional entrees such as the Bento Box and Sukiyaki. During happy hour, diners can enjoy drink specials and discounted prices on various appetizers, sushi and entrees.

DOWNTOWN. This pagoda-shaped Japanese steakhouse features slicing, dicing, chopping, sizzling, and serving ­ all from a tableside grill. Chef-servers prepare lobster, shrimp, scallops, chicken, and filet mignon as diners watch from U-shaped booths. At the sushi bar, fresh rolls are served in miniature boats. Reservations accepted.

NORTHEAST. Winner of City Page's Best Japanese restaurant award, Masu is the place to go for robata and sushi. Sit at the oval wooden bar and watch chefs grill quail eggs and bacon or salmon with scallions. Other menu highlights include ramen dishes, udon, and soba. A full bar and hip, modern decor makes this a great choice for a nice night out.

WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. A unique ambiance and fresh sushi make this Minneapolis restaurant popular among locals and tourists alike. Tucked away in the Warehouse District, Origami serves up fresh sashimi and sushi, as well as authentic Japanese favorites. Specialty rolls include the Nine-and-a-Half Weeks Roll, Dynamite Maki and Hime Roll. Other menu choices include the Makunouchi Bento Box, Yaki Niku and Grilled Chicken Teriyaki. Happy hour is seven days a week and features both drink and sushi specials.

UPTOWN. A hot spot for happy hour specials, Wakame is as well known for its drinks as its cuisine. Specialty rolls include the Jeremy (spicy tuna inside topped with tempura, tobiko, wasabi mayo and sweet eel sauce) and the White Tiger (eel and avocado inside, topped with tuna and eel sauce). For a cocktail, try their signature martinis.