If there is a benchmark for what a good restaurant should do in order to become great, then Bonjung is that example. Established in 2005 and successfully completing their fifth year, this Japanese restaurant is doing everything right, in my opinion, to survive the tough, uncertain economic times and provide an excellent product and atmosphere.

The name "Bonjung" has a multitude of meanings, but all arrive at the core of what they offer. "Bon," the Japanese word for true or real, and "jung," meaning great love, epitomizes how the food is prepared, the restaurant is decorated and the atmosphere in place that will surround your experience.

With the restaurant's Zagat rating and several positive reviews on the Internet and printed press, I recommend readers experiencing this place for themselves. Open for lunch and dinner with a break in between services, the restaurant is adorned with rich wood textures, softened by low and natural lighting and wrapped in soft music. Once at your table, the tension will begin to melt away from the body.

The menu is complete with multiple selections at both lunch and dinner. Lunch offers combination dishes, a traditional bento box $10 (traditional all-in-one platter) or sushi a la carte at around $2-$5 per piece. I found everything perfectly presented and suggest the sushi deluxe, a seven-piece assorted selection with miso soup and salad at $15. You can get in and out more quickly by sitting at the sushi bar, or enjoy a longer lunch with friends at a table. Private dining space for larger groups is also available. Beverages include soft drinks and bottled water as well as a selection of specialty teas; try the jasmine cha, my favorite.

Dinner service is stepped up a bit more with an identical array of sushi offerings, tempura platters and traditional hibachi grilled items. Those patrons who aren't lovers of raw fish will find the teriyaki chicken $18, steak and lobster $28.50 or tempura shrimp $19.50 great options. Party trays, preselected combination dinners and a kids menu round out the larger dinner menu selections. While the restaurant does not have a liquor license, beverage service is available for your special bottle of wine or saki.

More information is available on their website, which is updated regularly. You may also follow them on Facebook and Twitter for happenings and updates. The restaurant kindly requests patrons call ahead for groups more than four, but on successive visits for lunch and dinner I found it easy to get a seat for one or two guests.

Ciao!

When you visit:

Lunch: Monday – Friday 11:30 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.

Dinner: Monday – Thursday 5– 9 p.m.; Saturday 4 –10 p.m.; Sunday 4–8:30 p.m.

BYOB

Kids Menu Party Trays

Cost: Lunch - $10 - $16   Dinner - $ 30 - $45+