Mission Mania #5 - Kiji (22nd and Guerrero)

Coming in at sweet number five is this most delicious of delicates located on the lone island block of 22nd and Guerrero next to a few other mildly interesting restaurants (and the NOT interesting Tuba) and a couple of bars. Lord knows, I love me some sushi. In fact, it might be my most favorite of food genres. And Kiji exemplifies all of the flavor-based reasons one might idolize this type of cuisine. We are talking the freshest of fish with unique combinations and constantly evolving daily specials. But, I might have a sweet spot for this beauty since Kiji introduced me to the glories of the living sea butter, otherwise known as sea urchin. Ah uni, you are like the secret to transcendence and peace on earth all at once. And for an extra buck or too, you can get belly pieces of your favorite fishes, a choice I highly recommend. The salmon belly will melt in your mouth in ways that almost seem R-rated. They also offer unique creations that will delight and inspire. For 5$ you can get a melt-in-your-mouth shot that includes an oyster, uni, raw quail egg and salmon roe, a decision that will satisfy many of your rawness cravings at quite a reasonable price. True to San Francisco form, the restaurant is a little pricey (it's okay - when dealing with raw - quality is worth the price), so expect to spend about $25 per person. Also, you must be prepared to deal with some mild electro music and ridiculous mood lighting. It's almost as if Virgin's red-headed twin has expanded its tentacles into the most tasty of professions and you're stuck dealing with the music as compensation for the empty seat next to you.

Final judgment: "Oh, it's so worth it. Suck down the bounty of the sea - with fresh options of abalone and geoduck, along with toro, uni and sake favorites, you are guaranteed a graciously delicious dinner of the Pacific Ocean's finest."