Food Review: Fukulala
The Messenger’s monthly digest
Pictured is Fukulala's “Rock and Roll”. A riceless, sweet and spicy dish topped with mangoes, cucumbers, and shrimp tempura and drizzled with sweet chili dressing.
Photo by Brandon Tung, Staff Writer
Brandon Tung, Staff Writer and Anshi Vajpayee, Opinions Editor
Tucked away in a busy intersection at a strip mall, Fukulala, a quiet, cozy sushi restaurant is exactly what every sushi lover needs to endeavor next. The surprisingly pleasant restaurant itself is small, but the comfortable kind of small that immediately makes you feel as if you’ve been there for the past 20 years. With soft, yellow lighting and small, wooden tables encompassing the premises, feeling out of place would’ve been virtually impossible. Although we were not able to physically dine-in, the omnipresent sense of comfort and care was evident. Like people, restaurants have personalities that transcend their physical attributes. Fukulala’s was apparent- a caring, older type that would likely have refilled your drink before you’re halfway done with it. The sushi and quality of the fish later confirmed this.
The kitchen itself was open, and we were able to watch the chefs continue their detailed craft as we paid for our takeout- social distancing, of course. The packaging was sleek, tightly wrapped, and overdone- exactly the kind you’d expect from a top tier sushi restaurant.
Our overall impression of the food was that it was very presentable. Their variation of sushi was a refreshing change from the same old bland sushi that other restaurants offer. We ordered several rolls, each with their unique personality.
Photos by Brandon Tung, Staff Writer
The first roll we ordered was the Sexy on the Beach; the name was exceptionally creative and it fits in perfectly with the roll. The fresh salmon on the roll provides an elegant and fresh texture that’s not too chewy but not too soft, as well. It also doesn’t have that fishy aftertaste that smoked or cured salmon has. The spicy tuna gave the roll a much-needed dose of spice, and the shrimp tempura added extra texture. The fish roe on top added a delightful pop to the dish. The pink soybean paper and delectable taste all reminded me of the beach; the soft rippling waves, the pink glimmer on the surface of the ocean as the sun sets, the fish swimming eagerly to catch small fry, and the shrimp dwelling in the corals.
One of the most arresting dishes from the menu was aptly titled the Haru roll. The roll itself consisted of shrimp, avocado, squash, and sea scallop. The squash provided a new flavor profile alongside the vibrant sea scallop, tender shrimp, and fresh avocado which joined together to form a harmonious choir of food.
Next was the American Dream- both literally and metaphorically. The rock shrimp was different from the other shrimp dishes as it was a bit sweeter and more firm. The crab meat salad adds a chewy texture that fits perfectly with the shrimp, and the sweet and spicy coconut mayo gives the dish the brightness it needs.
We then ordered the Rock and Roll which was different from all the other dishes because it did not have rice. Instead, the shrimp tempura, fresh salad, mango, and cucumbers were wrapped inside a rice paper roll. This dish was healthy and delicious. The sweetness of the mango and the freshness of the greens are perfect with the chewiness of the rice paper and the crunchiness of the shrimp. The sauce is a must-have, as it enhances the flavors of the dish tenfold. Last was the Dynamite roll, which was our favorite. The crunchiness that the fried roll gave, combined with the delicateness of the filling and the spiciness of the chili sauce made the dish taste like a bite-sized Japanese chicken wing.
The serious yet tranquil persona only amplified our views on Fukulala, erasing the chaos amidst the pandemic entirely, temporarily setting it aside as something not worth our utmost worry anymore. The best way to describe this encompassing phenomenon is to experience it in the moment, as nothing else truly matters but each and every Fukulala bite. In fact, eating sushi in the comfort of our own homes was an experience we surely will never forget. Regardless of what you eat, Fukulala, the epitome of Japanese simplicity and grace, is bound to ensure you enjoy your stay.
(678) 765-65681039 Peachtree Industrial Blvd a108, Suwanee, GA 30024*This article is not sponsored by Fukulala
