Momo Taro Sushi: A taste of Japan in Rockville

The first greeting customers get at Momo Taro Sushi in Rockville is from a gold cat just inside the entrance that waves its left paw to all who enter. The next greeting patrons get comes from one of the hosts or hostesses, who graciously seat guests at a table or sushi bar. Larger groups can request more private, traditional style seating on the side of the restaurant, complete with cushions to kneel on.

Edamame ($3.50) are a great way to start off a meal. Opening up the tough green pod reveals bright green soybeans, warm and slightly salted. Other appetizers include steamed beef and vegetable dumplings called gyoza($4.95) and an assortment of salads.

Shady Grove station - Momo Taro Sushi

Photo: A customer enjoys dinner at Momo Taro Sushi while chefs prepare the food.

A customer enjoys dinner at Momo Taro Sushi while chefs prepare the food. Photo courtesy of June Hu.

Sushi can be ordered in individual pieces ($1.95 a piece) or in sushi or sashimi (sushi without rice) assortments. Momo Taro does not disappoint with their sushi or sashimi, and its freshness and flavor can satisfy all aficionados.

Though self-described as a sushi restaurant, all of Momo Taro's wide variety of other selections are equally well prepared and delicious. The tempura, fried shrimp, soft shell crabs, and vegetables in dough are all excellent. Udon soup, served in a big bowl, is brimming with meat, seaweed, vegetables, and slippery noodles, is a challenge to eat, but well worth the trouble.

For a variety of different foods in one meal, try one of the boxes ($14.95-19.95), which contain various things, including teriyaki, California rolls, tempura, sushi and sashimi. This and all other entrées come with salad and miso soup.

For dessert, try mochi ice cream ($2.50). These round desserts consist of strawberry, vanilla, green tea, or raspberry-like red bean ice cream encased in rice dough.

The service is prompt, and the servers are courteous and are very attentive. Instead of mints or candy with the bill, expect a small box of Japanese gum, which comes in grape, melon, orange, or strawberry. This gum is also available for purchase.

The name of Momo Taro Sushi means the "peach boy" and though it may not have anything to do with sushi, this peach boy has excellent sushi and Japanese food.

Momo Taro (301-963-6868) is located at 16051 Frederick Rd., Rockville, MD 20855 and is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and dinner only on Sunday.