Bamboo Sushi

Bamboo Sushi is peak Portland. It trumpets the fact that it is the "first certified sustainable sushi restaurant in the world" and the soundtrack includes Bon Iver, Amy Winehouse and Vampire Weekend. Obviously, well-dressed 30-somethings are in their element here. But even if you don't look good in tight black pants and aren't as concerned as you should be about the ethical harvest of seafood, Bamboo is obviously doing something right.

Photo: Nashco Photo: Nashco

Start with a few inventive, sweet and boozy drinks like the dragon ($8) or samurai mai tai ($9). Order the specials if you want (they are bound to be delicious), but make sure you save a place for the fresh, creamy shiro maguro sashimi ($6). If things are getting a bit too healthy, get a Northwest Philly roll ($9)—wild Alaskan salmon, cream cheese and avocado. It's lightly tempura-fried to add a pleasing crunch. And always order at least one green machine ($10), which has a killer cilantro sweet chili aioli.

Photo: Nashco Photo: Nashco

Pro tip: Always get there early or plan on a pretty long wait. There's a line at the door when Bamboo opens, and it doesn't quit for the rest of the night.

836 NW 23rd Ave., 971-229-1925; 310 SE 28th Ave., 232-5255; 1409 NE Alberta St., 889-0336; bamboosushi.com. Southeast and Northeast 4:30-10 pm nightly; Northwest 5-10 pm nightly. $$-$$$.

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