Nobu – New York City
Since opening his first restaurant in Los Angeles, the relatively casual sushi bar Matsuhiso, Japanese chef Nobu Matsuhisu conquered New York (and contributed greatly to turning TriBeCa into a dining destination) with Nobu in 1994, ushering in the concept of high design and Japanese fusion. Since then, he’s opened branches in Malibu, London, and Las Vegas. (There are two additional outposts in New York City: The cheaper, no reservations Nobu Next Door, and the newer, flashier Nobu 57, uptown.) Do order the widely imitated signature dish of broiled black cod with miso, and try the more unusual presentations, such as yellowtail sashimi with jalapeno peppers. Avoid the inevitably disappointing garden variety sushi that can be ordered at any sushi bar.

Eaten here? Add your notes on best dishes -- click EasyEdit