Maki Zushi in Tustin or Sushi Shibucho in Costa Mesa?

Nothing bad, there was a lot of misunderstandings and lack of expertise on my part.

The main problem was I never been to Maki Zushi before and I should've scoped it before taking a big group (the party turned out to be 8).

1. They are crazy busy. I disagree they have underlings in the back making sushi for the masses. It looked as if all sushi was made by three itamaes at the bar. I was expecting the group to be semi-entertained by the itamae, but he barely looked up to take an order.

2. MZ is a weird place, it's not exactly purist, it's not exactly fusion. I don't know how to characterize it. Judging from the inside, I wouldn't have guessed they have specialty fish that cost $27 a serving, but they do. Always ask the price at this place. Unfortunately this happened to my dining companion and I didn't realize it till it was too late and I couldn't get involved. Which leads me to point #3...

3. Sushi bars are not conducive to socializing with others. My party was way too large, especially for a place like MZ. I couldn't talk to everyone in my party and make sure they were taken care of. Unfortunately MZ's waitresses couldn't be bothered (btw: service is not good). I'd limit any sushi bar party to four, unless you sit at a table, and I'd make sure everyone is on the same page about sushi.

That's all! It wasn't a disaster, but next time I'll be better prepared. I'll try the place again. It wasn't the best sushi I had but it was good and the presentation was beautiful.

fuddykat in Los Angeles Area

Maki Zushi in Tustin or Sushi Shibucho in Costa Mesa?

Thank again to everyone who replied.

Going to Maki Zushi was great advice. I learned a lot about what to do and what not to do when hosting a dinner party at a sushi bar. I'm glad Maki Zushi was roomier, but I wouldn't recommend hosting a dinner party there.

Sushi was satisfactory, that's all I'm going to say. I seem to have differing taste than most Chowhounders. Presentation of cuts of sushi was beautiful. Having Yoshi as the itamae was great advice.

E Eto is correct, having omakase or ordering specials can make the bill skyrocket very quickly. As embarrassing as it may be, I'd always ask the price of their specials before ordering here, it's an eye opener.

All in all, CH saved my ass from taking the party to Sushi Shibucho, which would've been disaster. Will try Maki Zushi again before reviewing. I like it, I will return, but unfortunately others in my party will not.

Arrigato!

fuddykat in Los Angeles Area

very short review of bottega louis tonight

If her initial visit is this bad, why would she go again? She did mention it was her first visit. I don't see anything wrong with her posting her opinion of her initial visit.

fuddykat in Los Angeles Area

Maki Zushi in Tustin or Sushi Shibucho in Costa Mesa?

Thanks everyone for the excellent advise! Wow, I'm so impressed.

Maki Zushi it is. I'll report back!

fuddykat in Los Angeles Area

Quick Furaibo review

I agree, I see Furaibo as a place to hang out and chow down on cheap grub. I think their food is just a few steps up from mediocre. But at least it's fresh and hot.

fuddykat in Los Angeles Area