Conveyor-belt sushi might sound gimmicky, but it’s actually been around since 1958, when Yoshiaki Shiraishi invented the system for his Higashiosaka sushi restaurant. Now it has arrived in Vegas with the opening of Sapporo Revolving Sushi on Spring Mountain. Here are some helpful hints for navigating a visit there.
Face in the direction of belt travel. As you walk to your booth, take note of the belt direction, as it differs depending on which side of the belt your booth is located. Sit facing the direction the sushi comes from or risk a kink in your neck when scouting out your food.
Go early but not too early. This sushi joint is pretty popular, so if you go during peak dining times, be prepared to wait. That said, if you go too early, conveyor belt selections are limited, so the sweet spot is right before the room gets hectic.
Circumvent the conveyor altogether. Only a portion of the menu is sent out on belts. The remainder comes from the kitchen, so if you don’t see something you need, order it fresh. Bonus: It’s sent to you on a robot cart!
Conveyor-belt sushi isn’t for everyone. Kabuto or Yui Edomae, this is not, although the sushi is very approachable. Pastrami-esque pepper tuna and a mildly smoky salmon are highlights, as are deep-fried Brussels sprouts. But for an affordable, festive meal with friends and robots alike, Sapporo is a treat.
SAPPORO REVOLVING SUSHI 4671 Spring Mountain Road, 702-915-7500. Sunday-Thursday, 11:30 a.m.-midnight; Friday & Saturday, 11:30 a.m.-2 a.m.
