Mt. Fuji Brings Quality and Expertise in Japanese Cuisine

When the Sze family of Massapequa left the business they built up for more than 20 years, they had a new concept in mind for Wantagh.

Mt. Fuji, a Japanese eatery specializing in sushi and hibachi, opened in the Cherrywood Shopping Center on 1170 Wantagh Ave. last March and has since drawn a loyal customer base, which Thomas Sze believes stems from their quality product and personal service.

According to Sze, who operates the restaurant alongside his parents, many of their customers from Da Hang, the Chinese take out restaurant his family owned for two decades in Massapequa, are now frequent diners at Mt. Fuji, along with several new patrons who have made it a point to return.

"We see a lot of the same people once they try our food," said Sze. "We make sure we have the freshest product and a lot of options to choose from."

Mt. Fuji can accommodate patrons and parties of any size, especially at the hibachi stations which serve as a great choice for birthdays or large group outings. A full sized bar also decorates the dining room along with an ample amount of tables and private booths for smaller parties.

Specialty rolls are a popular item for both appetizers and entrees at Mt. Fuji. Ranging from $12-$14, they are certainly affordable for the quantity and quality. The Diamond Roll, filled with tuna, yellowtail, cucumber, avocado and wrapped in salmon is a satisfying choice served often.

Mt. Fuji's menu also boasts a sea of sushi entrees for those looking for something more fulfilling and à la carte options for those who just can't decide. The Love Boat for Two ($50), served with a soup or salad, is the perfect idea if you're craving variety. Make sure you're hungry, and pick and choose from 10 pieces of sushi, 25 pieces of sashimi and two rolls to share with your date.

The hibachi list at Mt. Fuji may appear a bit limited compared to the sushi menu, but still provides a selection to please any palate. Hibachi dinners are great for groups as stations can seat large numbers and the hibachi chefs generally provide an interactive and entertaining experience. Different options include Vegetable Hibachi ($14), Chicken Hibachi ($15), Lobster Tails Hibachi ($28), Shrimp Hibachi ($19) and more. Combination platters are available as well.

Monday through Saturday customers can take advantage of a lunch special until 3 p.m. where sushi bar options and specialty lunch rolls are available at a discounted price.

Though still new to the community, Sze hopes that Mt. Fuji becomes a staple in dining and can continue to separate themselves from local competitors.

"A lot of similar restaurants offer Chinese and Japanese style food and we specialize in just one," Sze said. "A lot of our business comes from word of mouth after people eat here and we hope to continue that."