NOTE: This establishment has since changed its name to Sushi Sapa.
Located at 223 South Elm Street in Downtown Greensboro, Tunazilla serves sushi and Japanese cuisine for lunch and dinner seven days a week. There is a full bar, and a recent special featured half off sushi rolls between 5 and 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
A sushi spot seems like a no-brainer for Downtown Greensboro - College Hill has one as does Old Irving Park – and Tunazilla could not have picked a better location. While it has several other virtues, two visits (one dine-in and one takeout) have convinced me that it is very much still a work in progress.
Like most Elm Street eateries, Tunazilla is deceptively deep. But thanks to its bright, handsome interior and high ceilings, it doesn’t feel as narrow as some of its streetmates. The menu is appealing as well, offering both classic rolls and some more innovative (though not to the level of It’s Your Roll, RIP) variations.
Beyond that, however, things get quite iffy. Bartenders and servers are quite friendly and seem capable, but service is slow even when Tunazilla isn’t remotely crowded. The rolls are reasonably priced (many can be had for under $10 each) and are a downright bargain on half-off nights, but the hibachi entrees that start in the mid-teens are a reach to say the least.
Flavors were another mixed bag. The sushi seemed fresh, and though none of the rolls disappointed, the Rock and Roll (California roll topped with crab, eel, and sauce) may be a favorite. On the other hand, the vegetable dim sum are overpriced, bland, and come with an overpowering sauce.
By virtue of being a sushi spot in the heart of Greensboro, Tunazilla will probably continue to do brisk business. But while the owner/chef has some commendable sushi skills, the rest of the restaurant seems to be playing catch-up.
7.25/10
Excellent review.
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