Iwayama Sushi Littleton

This is the first dinner spot we chose based on zomato ratings. It was a good thing as the drive up to the run down strip mall, left something to be desired. However, the restaurant was clean and well loved. When they talk about ohana in the islands, you do not see that level of care often stateside.

Our coke and ice tea never hit empty without a refill. Conversations at the bar and other tables were happy, full of joy and I so not belief that I am overstepping to say it is how everyone is treated when they enter. This is not just a business, this is life.

Edamame were seasoned well in chili sauce and as we looked over the sushi menu, we picked our typical favorites- spicy tuna, sashimi and nigiri mixes. All of which were skillfully prepared and were excellent. The special menu though is what caught us off guard. We had to ask for help without a guide to the type of roll.

Blue crab roll- spiced mayo and avocado... Amazing. I was lucky to get two of the right pieces it was so incredibly good.

The big nasty- anything but nasty. Mango, avocado, crab, salmon... It was the fresh fruit in the roll that truly kept this rainbow of a roll refreshing and allowed the palette something new that was a great surprise.

Da big kahuna- ok the name even sounded cheesy coming out of my mouth, but this roll was the recommendation of the staff and it went beyond expectations. Deep fried cream cheese, asparagus, multiple fish with no rice. The sauce was so good that I was tempted to pull my finger across the plate to enjoy the last portion.

We have been to the most well known sushi restaurants in Denver. This was under budget, with a friendly vibe and staff, and the sushi was as good as the den.

We will be back again and hope to increase the size of our culinary ohana.

This Hidden Gem of a restaraunt is wonderful. The great range of menu options allows for a quick lunch or a very nice dinner. For lunch I would recommend Lee's delicious fish tacos or the Juicy Lucy burger, my wife loves his Hawaiian style pulled pork. Dinner options, there are plenty, I love his Danielle Roll, the pesto topping is wonderful. I also like the C-470 on Fire Roll it has a major spicy kick. The WALU is so delicious, anything with the super white tuna and Lee's pesto sauce is heavenly. The Teriyaki Steak is great too. If they made some coconut cake do yourself a favor and get a piece.