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Keep On Rolling: Sushi Ai

Sushi Ai opened this spring in the strip mall at the intersection of Dorsett and McKelvey roads, just west of Interstate 270. Its appearance is essentially the same as every other strip-mall sushi joint in America, from the neon Sapporo sign in the front window to the glossy picture-menu on each table. Though only a few months old, Sushi Ai has a lived-in, if not secondhand, vibe: The restaurant feels as if it has been here for years. Click here to read more from Ian Froeb's reviews of Sushi Ai. Photos by Jennifer Silverberg.

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On left, one of the owners, Zhen Sun and on right, Sushi chef, Qi Don who is a cousin of the owners.

On left, one of the owners, Zhen Sun and on right, Sushi chef, Qi Don who is a cousin of the owners.

The welcoming cat, Maneki Neko, on the front counter of the restaurant.

The welcoming cat, Maneki Neko, on the front counter of the restaurant.

Sushi chef Qi Dong at work while his cousin, and one of the owners of the restaurant, Jake Dong is working at the other counter behind the sushi bar.

Sushi chef Qi Dong at work while his cousin, and one of the owners of the restaurant, Jake Dong is working at the other counter behind the sushi bar.

Sushi Ai, on Dorsett Road in Maryland Heights, has been open for almost four months.

Sushi Ai, on Dorsett Road in Maryland Heights, has been open for almost four months.

Tuna and salmon ready for slicing.

Tuna and salmon ready for slicing.

Sushi Chef Qi Dong making a roll with the typical bamboo mat.

Sushi Chef Qi Dong making a roll with the typical bamboo mat.

Qi Dong, after having rolled the Green Dragon Roll, continues to build the plate.

Qi Dong, after having rolled the Green Dragon Roll, continues to build the plate.

One of the owners, Jake Dong plating at the sushi bar.

One of the owners, Jake Dong plating at the sushi bar.

The Green Dragon Roll is eel, cucumber and avocado topped with masago and tepura flakes.

The Green Dragon Roll is eel, cucumber and avocado topped with masago and tepura flakes.

A closer shot of the Green Dragon Roll, which is eel, cucumber and avocado topped with masago and tepura flakes.

A closer shot of the Green Dragon Roll, which is eel, cucumber and avocado topped with masago and tepura flakes.

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September 20, 2023

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