When walking down the tourist trafficked Main Street in Half Moon Bay, you’ll notice an array of restaurants lining the sidewalk. But what you might not notice, down a side street and almost hidden by exotic plants, is one of the best sushi restaurants on the peninsula.

Stepping into Sushi Main Street, found on Mill Street, is like stepping into a traditional Japanese sushi bar. The atmosphere is friendly and exotic, complemented greatly by the décor. Waiting to be seated, you look around to soak up all the Japanese artisan work, statues and paintings. The air is bustling with conversation and the smell of fresh fish. Whether you choose to sit at one of the stone tables or at the bar, every seat is the best in the house.

The best way to start the meal is with some tea, and maybe a bowl of miso soup and kelp salad. There are many other great starters but these are my favorites. The tea is warm and fresh with a slight hint of mint. Their miso is just perfect with a few pieces of tofu floating at the bottom. And if you’ve never had kelp salad, don’t be afraid, because it’s delicious! Short strings of seaweed, topped with sesame seeds and a dash of soy sauce, you’ll be surprised how much you like seaweed afterwards. Another great starter is a bowl of edamame, soy beans, for the whole table. But be patient, since these tend to go fast.

When you’ve finished with all your appetizers, the main course is the real treat. There are two chefs behind the bar ready and willing to make you the best sushi you’ve ever had. From traditional rolls like Unagi, Tako and California, to house specials like the Half Moon Bay, these two chefs make some amazing rolls, fresh and right in front of you. The rolls, whether traditional or special, all reflect the area in that most have avocado in them. The Unagi (eel) and Tako (octopus) are some of my favorites, but be careful, the Unagi is very rich and soaked in teriyaki sauce, delicious but can be a mouth full. The special Half Moon Bay roll is also very good. It is a vegetarian roll made with avocado, artichoke hearts, and sprouts; three of the coast’s top produces.

But what if sushi rolls aren’t your thing? Well you’re in luck; Sushi Main Street also serves a variety of noodle soups as well as vegetable and/or shrimp tempura.

And don’t forget to wash everything down with some rich Japanese beer or pick from their wide selection of sake.

Packed full of traditional flavors, Sushi Main Street in Half Moon Bay is a fantastic place for a date, or just eating with friends or family.