Monday, June 7, 2021

South Reno’s Hidden Sushi Gem: Miyabi

 They have some of the BEST nigiri in Reno.

Miyabi Sushi is one of the only sushi spots in Reno that doesn't offer all you can eat sushi.  As much as I love AYCE, it does present some limitations in terms of quality.  When you're pumping out so much sushi (let's face it, humans will always find ways to defeat the system), you just can't invest too much money on quality ingredients.  And yes, Miyabi takes advantage of their a la cart menu.  I do feel like they serve more quality food than other spots.

Before diving into the food and restaurant, I'd like to point out how the location of Miyabi serves as one of its strongest selling points.  Located in Shayden Summit (formerly Summit Mall... yep, new management called for a new name), the restaurant is surrounded by a handful of attractions that could make for an ideal & fun extended visit.

Nearby Attractions in the Same Mall
X - Golf - Golf Simulator

Now, about the food...
I love that their menu isn't too crazy, yet includes enough options that highlights their amazing fresh fish and offers just enough extras to leave you satisfied and wanting more.  

On the menu you can find ramen options, well-known hot plates (chicken teriyaki, chicken katsu, pork tonkatsu), appetizers, combination platters (different combinations of rolls+nigiri), and desserts.

I remember on my first visit years ago when I celebrate my dear dad's birthday and the chef was more than willing to create a custom vegetarian roll on top of the amazing Vege roll already on the menu to accommodate his dietary needs.  Flexibility is one of the best traits a business can practice.  We're just such demanding creatures, right? LOL  And you can bet I don't forget when a restaurant is accommodating.

I've tried pretty much everything on the menu.  The nigiri comes with toppings and is some of the best in town.  The appetizers are always nicely presented and top-notch in quality.  Their hamachi kama can basically count as an entree (just as for a scoop of rice on the side).  I also love their seasoned edamame, fried mushrooms, and miso soup.  For rolls, their Fire Ocean, Ryu (dragon), & Mt. Rose roll are popular options, all approved, and all so drool worthy.  Even my father's vegetarian rolls were the bomb!  You really can't go wrong with anything on the menu.

EXCITING NEWS!
The restaurant has undergone a serious transformation and has recently re-opened in March, 2025.  They purchased the shop next to them (formerly Color Me Mine), knocked down a wall or two, and completely redid the whole place.  

The new and improve restaurant features darker theming, tons more seating than the former setup, a bar that showcases the sushi chefs and drink offerings, and some Japanese accents that make the dining experience feel just a bit more authentic.

NOTES
*Parking is plentiful 
*Restaurant closes mid-day before their transition to dinner
*If you're looking for bomb all you can eat sushi, Hinoki is one of the best in Reno
*If you're looking for value, check out the Platter section of the menu. Includes different combinations of nigiri, rolls, and shashimi

Mt. Rose is sushi perfection topped with light tempura fried onions.

Dragon Roll (Ryu) is unagi perfection!

Fire Ocean was FIRE!  Great for tuna lovers.
One of the best tasting Vege rolls in town.

*Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own.*

Categorized Under "Good Eats"

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

Baby Animals & Tulip Festival at Andelin Farm - A Must See Attraction During Spring in Sparks, Nevada


Baby Animal & Tulip Festival, 2025
April 9th to May 10th
Wednesday - Thursday, 3pm - 7pm
Friday - Saturday, 10am - 7pm
Andelin Farm's Annual Festivals

There's nothing quite as enjoyable as spending time with adorable baby animals, surrounded by laughter and joy in the delightful spring weather, munching on kettle corn, and savoring the scent of fresh-cut tulips.

At Andelin Farm's Baby Animals & Tulip Festival event, you can immerse yourself in all of these wonderful experiences and more.

This cherished farm, managed by a warm family and dedicated staff, consistently goes above and beyond to ensure their guests have the best possible time.

Over the years of my visits, I've witnessed numerous positive changes that have made the farm even more enjoyable than before.

As the kids grow, they dive deeper into the farm's fun, delighting in running around with their friends. 

Parents also find joy in visiting, knowing their kids are in safe hands while they make memories together with adult friends of their own.

There's been so many housing developments in their area, and I'm so grateful they've chosen to stick around, keeping the doors open to the ultimate destination for seasonal joy.

Activities Available (as of 2024):
-Zip line (weight limit of 135 pounds), 38'' requires assistance, 44" unassisted
-Jump pad for bouncing fun.
-Hamster wheel for playful spinning.
-Pony and horse rides (adults & children) - additional $5 per person per ride or one ride included with a Seasonal Plus Pass.
-Chick holding experience
-Barrel train ride
-Hayride (tractor-pulled) for a scenic tour.
-Baby animal petting with supervised access by staff.
-Feeding goats and chickens (additional fee for food or included in Seasonal Plus Pass).
-Gem mining sluice with fees based on the size of the mining bag.
-Gift shop offering trail mix, snacks, crafts, ice cream, pantry items, and affordable drinks
-Duck races with water pumps 
-Hay maze
-Play fishing
-U-pick flower section 
-Lassoing 
-Rabbit hole slides 


Notes
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in person or online, with online tickets being $2 cheaper.

Opening Times for the Farm
Opening dates vary. For the latest updates, follow Andelin's Instagram page.

Checking Weather Ahead of Time
Check hourly reports to plan your day accordingly. I recommend applying sunscreen to the kids throughout the day, especially given the heightened sun intensity at our elevation.

Animals to See
Explore a variety of animals including camels, llamas, alpacas, emus, sheep, goats, peacocks, turkey, horses, ponies, calves, and chickens.

Food
Admission is not required to access the food trucks located at the farm entrance, with plenty of picnic tables available. Food trucks are generally open during business hours.
*Island Hot Dog Truck serves delicious hot dogs.
*Slushies & ice cream from their trailer are always a must, especially in fall when they make their apple slushies made with real apple cider.

Safety
*Hand sanitizer stations are available throughout the farm for your convenience.

Shop
*Visit the farm store located in the barn for homemade goods and crafts, including jams, baking mixes, hot sauces, snacks, kettle corn, sweet caramel nuggets, trail mix, yogurt pretzels, Andelin-branded merchandise, hats, jewelry, soaps, and more.
*affordable cold drinks and ice cream available for purchase at the farm store

Private Events and Rentable Spaces
*Private group tours are available, and the barn and pavilions can be rented for weddings and events.

Photo Opportunities
Capture memorable moments around the farm with numerous photo opportunities including flower picking, baby animal petting, horse and pony rides for both adults and kids, and fun photo cutouts.

Footwear
Proper footwear is essential as the farm grounds are primarily dirt

Parking:
The parking lot offers ample grass/dirt space.  Expect for your vehicle to get a little dusty.

Strollers:
Umbrella strollers are not recommended due to the dirt and rock terrain. Jogging and larger strollers are preferable.

Restrooms
Porta Potties are available both inside and outside the farm for your convenience.


Categorized Under "Season/Holidays" and "Birthday/Event Venues"

Photography
©Katherine Fung,
All rights reserved

***Information subject to change. All opinions are my own.