Ichiro's town: In Seattle, Japanese culture, art, and food are as popular as the Mariners' right fielder - Japanese Seattle, Washington; baseball player Ichiro Suzuki - Brief Article

Sunset, April, 2002 by Steven R. Lorton

Seattle Japanese Garden. Closed Mon; $3. In Washington Park Arboretum, 1075 Lake Washington Blvd. E; (206) 684-4725.

Dining

Arita Japanese Restaurant. A hole-in-the-wall wonder on Phinney Ridge, Arita's fare ranges from tonkatsu (fried pork cutlets) to undon; generous servings are inexpensive and delicious. Closed Sun. 8202 Greenwood Ave. N; (206) 784-2625.

Chiso. Chef-owner Taichi Kitamura's new high-style restaurant in Fremont is the place for small dishes, like asparagus and tofu toji, that complement sake. 3520 Fremont Ave. N; (206) 632-3430.

I Love Sushi. Crowded, noisy, and on Lake Union, this is one of the city's top spots for sushi. 1001 Fairview Ave. N; (206) 625-9604.

Nishino. Classic Japanese food elegantly presented makes this a favorite watering hole for Japanese businessmen. 3130 E Madison St.; (206) 322-5800.

Saito's Japanese Cafe & Bar. An excellent stop in Belltown for sushi and sashimi. Closed Sun-Mon. 2122 Second Ave.; (206) 728-1333.