Cleveland star chef Dante Boccuzzi established his Tremont-basement hotspot by committing to consistency and sourcing top-notch fish weekly from Japan. “We keep all these signature staple dishes, because that’s why people fight to get in,” Boccuzzi says. 2247 Professor Ave. B, Cleveland, danteboccuzzi.com/ginko-restaurant
SUGGESTED: Read our full list of the 25 Best Restaurants of 2024.
1. Eye of the Tiger ($14). A tangy blend of pickled shiitake mushrooms, pickled burdock root and fresh-as-can-be oysters, with dollops of spicy mayo and eel sauce in the center, make up this edgy specialty roll. “When you make it, it looks like a pair of eyes staring at you,” Boccuzzi says.
2. Sake toro aburi ($9). Salmon belly, the fattiest part of the fish, is paired with miso mayo and shredded white onions — flavors that blend into a savory swirl, without being too fishy. “It’s a good piece of nigiri for people that maybe don’t always want raw fish,” Boccuzzi says.
3. Tamago ($6). Ginko’s menu relies on the quality of fish, but the tamago — a simple egg-based omelet nigiri — employs a different technique. Light, airy and balanced, the vegetarian-friendly bite finishes sweet. “It’s a dish of skill and precision,” Boccuzzi says.
RELATED: 5 Cleveland Sushi Spots To Get Hooked On
For more updates about Cleveland, sign up for our Cleveland Magazine Daily newsletter, delivered to your inbox six times a week.
Cleveland Magazine is also available in print, publishing 12 times a year with immersive features, helpful guides and beautiful photography and design.
