Kenichi Aspen, Aspen

Aspen, CO is a community of only some 3,500 year-round residents, and I, being lucky enough to be one of them, am constantly amazed at how many fantastic restaurants have been squeezed into our tiny mountain town. Being no stranger to culinary expertise, Aspen even plays host each year to one of the best food events in the country: The Aspen Food and Wine Classic. So, as one could imagine, the over 100 eateries in Aspen don't just serve great food, they also tend to rank high on the list of best places to eat in the USA. Kenichi, I have no doubt, would be on that list. With so many great places to choose from in town, I often have to tear myself away from Kenichi in order to force myself to eat someplace else. If I had to make a reasonable guess, I would have to say I've eaten at Kenichi probably between 20 and 30 times. I have NEVER had a bad experience. Of any kind. The food is superb, the service is friendly and impeccable, the decor is swanky and modern (but not over-the-top), and the price is fairly reasonable (given the area and type of cuisine). I can't make recommendations, because I would recommend EVERYTHING. So, all I can really say is this: If you're in Aspen, and you're in the mood for sushi, don't go to Takah Sushi (food is okay, but low-end) or Matsuhisa (really good, but severely overpriced). Pick Kenichi, it's one of the best restaurants in Aspen. Trust me, you won't regret it! :)

We really enjoyed Kenichi. The sushi was fresh and good; the blue toro tuna was awesome. Rolls were high quality and interesting, but not over the top. My favorite was the Godzilla Roll with eel and strawberry, which sounds a little strange, but it's delicious. You absolutely must get the dynamite shrimp appetizer. I can't wait for Kenichi to open in Dallas next year.