The fish in Austin was never so fresh until this showstopper arrived. When you enter Sushi Roku (sushiroku.com), drinks are smoking and colorful plates are delicately tossed around tables. The reservations at the flavor emporium are understandably hard to get due to the goodness that lies inside. The baked crab hand roll is addictive, and the Hanabi is the best combination of crispy rice and bold freshness. The well-balanced menu has something for everyone, even the vegans.

Assorted sushi at Sushi Roku awaits. PHOTO BY RICHARD CASTEEL/COURTESY OF IDG

A sexy new addition to the block makes for fun evenings and keeps the pallet of Austin’s fish cuisine enticing. The drinks are avorful and unique, all created by the master bartender, keeping you on your toes. Smokin’ Yuzu is the new favorite drink in Austin, hands down, according to the folks around the bar, and I conquered it. If you’re not a mezcal person, the Empress’ Kiss, with its sake-filled lavender bubbles, is the perfect way to kick o the evening instead.

For a grand finale, order the Carnival Cake filled with flavorful surprises. PHOTO BY RICHARD CASTEEL/COURTESY OF IDG

Everything that comes across your table is art, but the albacore is the freshest possibly ever to melt in my mouth. All of its menu items are spectacular. The Brussels Sprout Chips are a must-have. “I want a giant bowl of these, and that’s all!” was a sentiment I heard more than once while passing around the highly desired app. Sushi Roku is best appreciated when shared so you can enjoy the many flavors that unfold.

The appealing dining room inside Sushi Roku. PHOTO BY RICHARD CASTEEL/COURTESY OF IDG

The meal’s conclusion takes you to the carnival with cotton candy in flames that leads to a delicious surprise inside or a chocolate explosion in your mouth that completes the perfect symphony of flavors. A restaurant can have all kinds of sparkling additives and gimmicks, but its true backbone is what matters, and Sushi Roku nails every piece of fin.

Fresh Waterloo Ichi Rolls off the menu. PHOTO BY RICHARD CASTEEL/COURTESY OF IDG