Edo Rolls Past the Average Sushi House

In Timonium, where sushi restaurants are plentiful, one three-letter name sticks out among the rest.

Edo Sushi is situated in the Padonia Village shopping center on the corner of Padonia and York roads.  The restaurant's modest storefront along with its proximity to the popular Padonia Station Bar and Grille make Edo a hidden gem.

Once inside, the sleek, modern décor of the dining room will completely dispel any notions of mediocrity that the exterior may present.  The dining area is quaint and cozy, lined by walls of wood paneling adorned with traditional Japanese artwork.  The seating area is small. However, unlike many establishments with a lack of space, Edo does not attempt to cram the dining room with tables. Instead it spaces them throughout the area, creating a comfortable dining experience.

The staff alone is almost worth a visit.  Along with three sushi chefs working in the front of the house, the restaurant staffs an abundance of servers who are extremely polite and prompt.  Old world hospitality is certainly not lost on Edo's employees. Upon arrival you will be greeted warmly and offered a complimentary hot towel.

As far as beverages go, Edo's selection is slim.  Aside from a house sake, the restaurant is spirit-free. But do not worry. Edo Sushi is located directly next to Padonia Liquors, and the restaurant is BYOB friendly.  Not only will Edo allow outside beverages, they'll even go so far as to offer a complimentary ice bucket for your convenience.

The main attraction at Edo speaks for itself. The menu is very large and offers a host of items for both sushi lovers and casual eaters alike.  Any sushi expert will tell you that great sushi starts with great rice, and the chefs at Edo know it.

The delicate but firm rice is complimented by fresh fish, both raw and cooked, as well as quality produce.  The stunning presentation of Edo's sushi will blow you away, and while some sushi joints will use presentation to hide dull flavor, Edo certainly does not.  

The sushi is perfectly seasoned with layered flavors that do not disappoint nor do they rely on heavy, unnecessary sauces that work only to drown out the flavor of the real star of the dish: the fish.  I recommend trying some of Edo's maki rolls as well as sampling one of their daily specials.

For non-sushi lovers, Edo has something for everyone: Noodle dishes, teriyaki selections, grilled baby octopus appetizer.

If there is one element of Edo that may disappoint, it is likely the prices.  If you aren't careful at Edo, your bill will quickly mount as many rolls stretch into the $15 to $20 range.  The portions are relatively generous.

Finding a really great sushi stop is no easy task, so when a place like Edo comes along it is worth checking out.  Stop in before you head to Padonia Station, or make a night of it.  Unless money is no object, I wouldn't recommend Edo as a nightly stop, but if you're in the mood to treat yourself to a relaxing dining experience and some absolutely top-quality Japanese fare, then Edo Sushi is a must.