Arrogant, Smug Attitude; Flawless Sushi

I have been an Edomae customer for many years.

I first stumbled (literally) into Edomae at Jianwai Soho...maybe in 2006? I tried it at random and was blown away by the quality of the sushi and their large Japanese clientele.

Then, in 2008, I started going to their newer branch on LUCKY STREET. I've been dining at this branch ever since.

In fact, I have introduced (more like "converted") many friends into Edomae addicts...it was my secret sushi place...and, to be honest, I was thrilled that many western expats did not seem to know about this place.

Additionally, Edomae has been extremely popular among the Japanese expats in Beijing.

Anyway, I have very high standards for sushi and Edomae is one of the very best and the most fresh in Beijing - their fatty belly salmon is out of this world. I believe Edomae is as good as Nobu or any other top-tier five-star hotel sushi restaurant.

Again, I have introduced several friends to Edomae and they now dine their once (or more) times a week!

HOWEVER, all of this success has gone to their heads and the wait staff, hostesses and maitre'd are more than a little proud of how busy they are. I have been an old customer and have spent many thousands of RMB and am still treated like a first-time visitor each time I go there. Believe me, the wait staff is very abrupt and very, very arrogant. Thank goodness that the sushi chefs are kind, polite and down to earth.

Anyway, go for the amazing food but beware the awful attitude of the staff.

Unless you are dressed like a Chinese movie star or Japanese billionaire, they will treat you like an economy-class flier.