I had been to Shima once a few months back with friends, but was too busy enjoying my friends' company that I didn't really get a chance to appreciate the food. I stumbled upon Shima a second time merely because the nearby restaurant I really wanted to try was closed. As luck would have it, I fell in love with this slightly run down hole in the wall on my second visit. The restaurant is in a large shopping plaza in Miami Lakes between an adult day care and a check cashing place. Completely unassuming, this little gem offers both freshly cut sashimi, nigiri and maki rolls along their boat river. Not interested in any of the dishes floating along? No worries, they also have a full menu with noodles, bento boxes, rice bowls and even a hot pot for two.
I'd be lying if I said I had ordered from their menu, I'll blame my self diagnosed ADHD for that. I see something delicious pass by in front of me and I'm going to reach out and grab it :insert perverted joke here: Everything I've ever eaten at this restaurant has been off of the floating boats and the prices on dishes range from $1.90 to $3.90. The sushi chef is always kind enough to make you something specific or explain a dish if you're not familiar with it.
I've had a couple of their rolls, including their spicy crab roll topped with masago and what I'm assuming is their take on a California roll. Since the rolls don't come with an explanation, you're completely dependent on your eyes. Both rolls were great, filling and always fresh. The California roll uses lettuce instead of cucumber, same crunch but slightly different taste. This works for me because I kind of hate cucumbers.
The only dish I haven't been crazy about is their spicy squid salad. Although tasty, the squid was really chewy. I hate having to gnaw at my food like I'm a dog with a chew toy. It's a shame because the seasoning was perfect, but the texture of the squid killed it for me.
On the exterior (and interior) this place isn't the most luxurious sushi restaurant in town, but the food is fresh, honest and delicious. Along with sushi, you'll also see tempura veggies, shrimp and the occasional dumpling float along from the kitchen. This is the type of place you hit up when you want sushi close to home, in a relaxed environment and don't feel like dressing up for dinner. I've yet to be terribly disappointed at this restaurant and realize the trick is to sit close to the sushi chef to get the freshest of the fresh.
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Restaurant Details:
Shima Japanese
(305) 821-2310
16873 NW 67th Ave
Hialeah, FL 33015

2 comments
I'm in love with your post! I must get out and look for a sushi place. Some sake wouldn't hurt, too. I like traditions. Wink!
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Mischna Ong
You should try Katana's in Miami Beach. I like it even more then Shima. More selection I feel. Same concept, also low prices. The wait to be seated is longer though
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