Volcano Roll from Genki Ya
Something you might not know about this SavvyBostonian? When I first moved into the Boston area, I called Coolidge Corner, Brookline, home for four years. During this time, I got to know the neighborhood very well, including its numerous sushi spots. Of the many delicious sushi options, Genki Ya, stands out. Situated a handful of blocks away from the hustle and bustle of Coolidge Corner on Harvard Ave., Genki Ya is a tiny gem boasting great sushi.
When Genki Ya first moved in, I remember being thrilled to have the option of having my roll made with either brown or multi-grain rice. While some people may say it’s not authentic, I’ve always preferred whole grains. I also recall being intrigued with the chance to try rolls mixing fruits, veggies and fish. For example, the Hawaii Roll ($11.95), which features mango, sweet potato tempura, banana, avocado, cucumber and cream cheese with special sauce.
Over time, in addition to enjoying the wide variety of rolls, I looked forward to the unique name selection. Hey, it’s the little things that make me smile. Take the Fashion Roll ($7.95), with fresh water eel, cucumber, avocado, cream cheese, or the Red Sox Bases Roll ($9.95), with fried bean curd, spicy crab, avocado, cream cheese and flying fish roe with special sauce. Then, there’s the elaborately crafted Volcano Roll ($15.95), which true to its name, is a mountain of shrimp tempura roll pieces with baked scallops, king crab, mushrooms, spicy mayo, all covered in tempura flakes and sprinkled with flying fish roe.
Though there are many fancy options, Genki Ya also caters to the sushi enthusiast who enjoys more simple rolls, like my personal favorite salmon avocado roll ($6.50).
Salmon Avocado Roll
Genki Ya is located at 398 Harvard Street in Brookline.
There is also a new location in Cambridge near Alewife at 231 Alewife Brook Pkwy.