Imperia, Austin

- 95% 

Took a first date to Imperia Saturday night hoping to impress, and thanks to the great sushi and accomadating service, I did. more»

Everything she recommended was delicious, especially the chipotle sushi with lemon. more»

Also, I like the service at Imperia, although that ' s probably aided by the fact that I would label servers as people before I would label them as servers. more»

The food, atmosphere, and service are generally exceptional, and I ' ll gladly keep returning. more»

Complemented by elaborate chandeliers, provocative murals, onyx stone panels and a golden Buddha statue, the restaurant's deep reds and dark woods bring to mind the pomp and polish of an imagined Hong Kong supper club. But the warm and friendly staff is purely Austin. Despite excessively dark corners, pristine padded booths and high-backed leather chairs, the pretty staff dispels any notion of caste systems with their conversation and genuine enthusiasm for the menu. Complex and flavorful dishes, such as firecracker shrimp and mussels with wasabi mashers, combine flavors popular in Southeast Asia, Japan, Thailand and other Pacific ports of call. The distinct flavors found in a single yuzu-crusted oyster, served in a nest of candied hijiki salad and wasabi crème, are reason enough to visit. Entrees such as Chilean sea bass glazed in Miso (it melts on your tongue), lobster and shrimp pad Thai, and Korean rib-eye with chive blossoms are available for those seeking a full meal