Devotees of this diminutive Chestnut Hill sushi spot claim it serves the best Japanese food this side of Tokyo.

The Scene
Rare is the time when all 13 seats aren't taken in the blink-and-you'll-miss-it dining room. Odds are once you're seated, you'll find yourself face-to-fish at the sushi bar, where expert hands slice and roll fresh, top-quality seafood.

The Food
While the sushi is superb, don't neglect the rest of the extensive menu, as the hot dishes are exceptional as well. For starters, the miso soup is light and flavorful, and the shrimp and vegetable tempura isn't greasy. The beef yaki ishi, a heaping portion of vegetables, rice, and steak on a sizzling stone grill, lets you cook. Regarding Oishii's sushi, the options seem endless; the rolls are filling and of the highest quality. The Boston maki features salmon, avocado, cucumber, and Boston lettuce, and fresh, tangy pickled ginger and butt-kicking wasabi add to the experience.