Izumi’s is short on flash, big on fresh

Izumi’s Restaurant
2150 N. Prospect Ave.
414-271-5278
izumis.com

If you like a lot of flash with your sushi, Izumi’s is not the spot for you. Its rather no-nonsense décor and quiet dining room are not for the trendy. But Izumi’s is one of the best eateries in Milwaukee for experiencing true Japanese cuisine,

Izumi’s isn’t cheap (be wary of any restaurant that sells inexpensive sushi, because sushi-grade fish is expensive). But it’s a good value. To get sushi and sashimi any fresher, you’d have to pull it out of the water yourself.

Service is authentically friendly and knowledgeable. Our young server was an ocean of knowledge about fish. She capably steered the veteran sushi and sashimi fans among us through the extensive menu and assisted the novices with excellent suggestions.

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A worthwhile trip to the Riviera

Riviera Maya
2258 S. Kinnickinnic
414-294-4848
Riviera-Maya-Milwaukee.com

In the middle of a winter like this, it’s inevitable to consider a trip to warmer climes. For many of us, however, that’s a consideration that won’t come true any time soon.

So consider a trip to Riviera Maya in Bay View as a more affordable alternative. Once you enter the colorful, expansive dining room of this popular neighborhood spot, it’s easy to pretend that you are south of the border – if you don’t look out the window at the snowdrifts. The cheerful staff exudes warmth, and what they may lack in polish, they more than make up for in enthusiasm.

If you choose to start with an appetizer, the nachos Xel-ha is a good selection. A gigantic mound of chips is topped with steak, pork, chorizo and bacon and served with refried beans and melted chihuahua cheese, guacamole and pico de gallo. There’s more than enough for four to share as an appetizer, or for one to have as an entrée. The price is quite reasonable at just under $8.

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Dining to your heart’s content

An intimate dinner, a glass of wine and soft candlelight; what more could you ask for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner?

Well, plenty actually. In this economy, it’s not enough for restaurants to throw in some hearts and flowers and call it a “special event.” They’ve got to come up with something special to bring in business. Here are a few places that are making that extra effort to help you put together a memorable romantic evening.

Bartolotta’s has coordinated a three-course meal and showing of Chocolat at Discovery World at Pier Wisconsin, 500 N. Harbor Drive. Tickets, priced at $55 a person, are available for Feb. 13 and Feb. 14. Call 414-765-8610 for more information.

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For a heart-y appetite

Long before Viagra, men were trying to find ways to perk up their sex lives. In ancient times, there were many foods thought to put people in the mood. The old saying, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” may be based somewhat in fact — and apply to women as well.

Some foods, such as liquor, lower inhibitions. Others, such as chocolate, release endorphins, chemicals in the body that bring on a feeling of well-being. Some foods are high in zinc, necessary for sperm production. And some foods thought to act as quasi-aphrodisiacs are:

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