Share the Love

River City locals are already feeling the love for Sushi I, with the same logo familiar to Spokane sushi fans when the restaurant was located on the South Hill: a heart, followed by the words Sushi I (symbolizing ai, the Japanese word for love).

Newly relocated to Coeur d'Alene's Riverstone complex, Sushi I features the same generous, full-service menu. Head chef and owner Jay Shin oversees three chefs totaling 20 years of experience in New York, California and Miami who will be the core of Sushi I when it opens this week south of Regal Cinema. Main dishes, including Japanese classics like chicken katsu ($12) and shrimp tempura ($13), will be served in large wooden "love" boats.

Sushi I seats more than 50 people — 42 at tables and another dozen at a bar overlooking the kitchen. There are also a few tables outside.

Heading to the nearby cinema and in need of a quick bite? Look for appetizers from $5 to $12, ranging from hearty stuffed mushrooms with a spicy chili glaze ($6) to grilled squid ($11) to delicate tuna tataki ($12). Add a glass of wine ($7), beer ($5 to $8) or sake ($5-$7.50/glass).

Seating includes the patio and sushi bar, where you can watch Shin finesse his way through fresh tuna, salmon, and escolar to make a South Beach roll ($13), which also includes crab and cucumber. Other premium roles include the Casanova (avocado, cucumber, crab, yellowtail; $13) and the Happiness (cream cheese, avocado, shrimp tempura, seared beef; $12). Larger sushi orders are served in "love" boats full of nigiri and sashimi-style treats ($49-$95).

Lunch entrées offer a variety in bento-style trays (weekdays until 3 pm), from chicken, beef and salmon teriyaki to sashimi and sushi ($11-$14). As the weather turns cooler, soup is what satisfies. Try the ramen ($12) or udon, with thick, chewy noodles ($12-$13).

Parents will love the availability of a kids' menu, featuring teriyaki ($6-$7), tempura ($6-$8) and sushi ($8). ♦