Notes On A Sushi Menu

Notes written on the back of a sushi menu in blue biro - Orlando, Florida - 29.07.2009:

Lunched at my favourite Japanese restaurant, a small hole-in-the-wall that's been there for years. Simple decoration and unadorned functional chairs that make IKEA look ornate. I imagine this is right out of a common work street in any big Japanese city. The lack of Asian decor would be enough to put off the casual tourist but would be an anime fan's wet dream. The distinct and authentic taste and smell. It's home. The American equivolent would be a 'greasy chopstick'.

Further notes - Tallahassee, Florida - 14.08.2009

Surreal and perfect, the morning was something I don't get much in Orlando anymore, and that is surprise and new experience. Earlier I had gone to a Lil Champ convenience store in a suburban neighborhood that I had not been to many times. The cashier, it turns out, was Samoan. We showed each other our Polynesian tats and bid good day. Then I decided to go the aforementioned dining establishment (for those who are curious, it is Aki at the strip on the corner of Carrier and Universal). There was a Wednesday lunch crowd consisting of about half workers from surrounding offices and half Japanese diners. To the casual observer, this place is nothing special. In fact, it would probably make most think twice about even dining there. It's not distinct, nor is it seem to try very hard. No flash, no guys with Ginsus flipping shrimp tails into some Midwestern tourist's cleavage, and no fancy sushi rolls with foi gras, rabbit-digested parsley, and a lemon-caramel wasabi puree. No, it's a mom and pop place, like an Asian Denny's but independently owned. And they make a fine product. (I wonder if Vale has been there--I should mention it to her.) I like going there just as much for everything they aren't as well as for everything they are.