Restaurant Review: Nano Offers Delicious Sushi With Relaxing Views Of Downtown Annapolis

Editor's Note: Patch Field Editor Jacob Baumgart recently visited Nano Asian Dining in downtown Annapolis to review the restaurant. This story includes Baumgart's personal opinions. The article is not sponsored by Nano. Patch paid for Baumgart's meal, and Nano did not know they were serving a member of the press.

ANNAPOLIS, MD —Dozens of restaurants line the streets of Annapolis. Hungry visitors can feast on seafood, enjoy a high-end steak or chow down on quick bar food.

I decided to shake up my usual chicken sandwich or crab soup and try some sushi. I don't know much about the delicacy, so I visited Nano Asian Dining to sample a few items on Nov. 10.

I walked in around 1:45 p.m. With the Thursday lunch rush over, I had my pick of any seat in the eatery. I chose the only window booth, which overlooks Main Street.

A waiter immediately approached and gave me a glass of water. I ordered a California roll and asked for the server's suggestion on another dish. He suggested a shrimp tempura roll, and I took his advice.

As I waited for my lunch, I immediately noticed the clean and welcoming nature of the establishment. A small waterfall trickled near the front vestibule, dressed figurines lined the built-in shelves toward the back and the open kitchen on the side created a spacious floor plan.

Serene paintings adorned the walls. The artwork included realistic depictions of a volcano and a cityscape. A set of more traditional paintings decorated the middle of the restaurant, showing bright fish swimming about.

The peaceful art created an authentic appearance while pop music played over the speakers. Tunes from singers like Katy Perry, Sia and John Legend appealed to the masses.

I whipped out my laptop to work on other stories while I waited. Without asking, the staff gave me the WiFi password.

I didn't get very far with my work because my lunch arrived in a few short minutes.

The food presentation was exceptionally photogenic. The chef carefully plated my two sushi rolls, which were cut into eight pieces each. Pickled ginger garnished the side of the ornate white plate with a painted blue branch.

The freshness of the California roll impressed me with my first bite. I was worried that the quick meal preparation time would compromise the quality, but I was completely wrong.

The rice was fresh, and the seaweed held the sushi together in a cohesive package. The real crab meat, avocado and cucumber complimented each other with their unique textures.

The tempura roll was next up with its fried shrimp tail sticking out of two slices. Crunchy flakes were sprinkled atop every bite, and a thin layer of brown sauce was drizzled over the whole roll.

The rolls were both so tasty on their own that I hardly used any soy sauce.

Of the two, I preferred the California roll because the pieces stuck together better with each bite. The California roll was also lighter than the shrimp tempura roll, but I expected that going in.

I would order both rolls again. I may get less food next time, however. I am a big eater, but the two rolls filled me up well into the evening.

I would suggest ordering one roll for light eaters and one roll plus a small appetizer for those with larger appetites.

My bill came to $14.84, and I left a $4 tip on top of that.

I stayed in the restaurant for a few hours after my meal to continue working. The staff graciously refilled my water several times, even though I had already paid.

I will return to Nano again in the future. The food was delicious and reasonably priced, the staff was attentive and the decorations were beautifully curated.

Customers can visit Nano at 189 Main St., Suite A. Patrons can learn more by visiting nanoasian.com or calling (410) 267-6688.

Related:

• Capital Teas Reopens Brick-And-Mortar Shop At Westfield Annapolis Mall
• New Live Music Venue Opens In Annapolis Town Center
• Christmas Pop-Up Shop Opens In Annapolis With New Approach To Retail