Zest Sushi Tapas Bar in Roswell recently opened on the bustling Canton Street corridor, where rows of galleries and newish restaurants, such as INC and Salt Factory, have come together to create a lively shopping and dining destination.
The look: Located in the former Fused space, the narrow storefront has the stylish ambience of a California wine bar. An L-shaped bar with high stools, a stretch of banquettes and a couple of bistro-style window tables offer cozy seating options.
The scene: One sunny weekend afternoon, the sidewalk in front of Zest evoked a European street scene, with dogs lazing under tables while their people sipped wine and snacked on salads. But evenings get much more energetic, as sushi chefs turn out wild style specialty rolls and young women sip dainty cans of sparkling Sofia Blanc de Blancs with plastic straws.
The menu: True to its name, Zest's offerings are divided into two sections -- tapas and sushi. Among the small plates, look for edamame hummus ($7), short rib tacos ($8) and salmon soba noodles ($12). Along with sushi and sashimi platters ($19-$25), maki and hand rolls ($7-$15), there are miso soup, Asian salads, tempura and grilled hamachi.
The drinks: There's a concise selection of cold and hot sake, plus Asian and American lagers. But cocktails and wine are the stars of the drink list. Look for the likes of a house-infused pineapple margarita ($9) or a sugar cane mojito ($9) or splurge on a bottle of Chalk Hill sauvignon blanc ($47).
The extras: On Mondays-Fridays, Zest features a $10 bento box lunch special that includes a California roll, chicken skewer and choice of soup or salad. And if it's your birthday (and you can prove it with a photo ID), you'll be treated to a menu item of your choice.
Dining out
Zest Sushi Tapas Bar
11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 11:30 a.m.-11 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; noon-10 p.m. Sundays. Bar open late.
Tapas, $6-$14; sushi, $4-$25.
957 Canton St., Roswell. 678-461-6788, www.zestoncantonstreet.com.
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