Raw fish makes a splash at this west suburban sushi house in Elmwood Park.

by Jennifer Olvera

In Short
Next door to panini-centered sister restaurant Massa is an anomaly in these parts: a hip sushi restaurant serving innovative rolls, sleek cocktails and sake. Outside, a covered patio outfitted with drapes and slow-turning fans is reminiscent of South Beach. Inside, high-backed banquettes and pendant lights with oversized shades gussy up a neutral dining room. A small sushi bar turns out classic and contemporary maki such as the Hawaiian with kona kampachi, cucumbers, scallions, jalapenos and cilantro. Sushi-squeamish diners can fill up on cooked entrees like miso-sake-glazed sea bass or snack on fried togarashi calamari with honey-wasabi dipping sauce.