Nakama Japanese Steakhouse   

When Joe Collincini and Becky Gomes decided to renovate the antique four-story building on the corner of 17th Street -- which has stood since 1893 and last housed a stationary store -- the pair knew they were cooking up something big. The result is Nakama, a super-trendy, cafeteria-sized Japanese restaurant offering sushi, noodle bowls, a beautiful island bar and enough seats for over 200 customers to sit comfortably. Spacious and atmospherically lit, Nakama is truly a labor of love, boasting a massive eat-in and take-out menu. Sushi fans will delight in Nakama's avocado and California rolls, soft shell crab, red snapper and an ocean's worth of other tantalizing seafood. Also boasting the only smokeless hibachi in town, Nakama serves up entrees ranging from traditional filet mignon to hibachi scallops, strip steak and sesame chicken. Platters are served on carefully glazed ceramic plates and bowls, with earth-toned cloth napkins for dabbing away stray rice. The bar is open until late-night, giving upscale hipsters the chance to try the latest Asian drinks -- from Asahi and Kirin Ichiban beers to plum wines and traditional warm sake. Say 'Hai!' to Nakama. -- Robert Isenberg