The renkon no hasamiage at Taro Sushi is quite a surprise. When it comes to pre-sushi appetizers, it’s best not to get anything too heavy so as not to ruin your palate for the purity of the fish to come, and the renkon no hasamiage is a perfect choice. While it’s deep-fried, the batter is thin and, like any good tempura, not greasy. The lotus root is light and refreshing in taste but hard and crunchy in texture, perfect for sandwiching the tender minced shrimp and leek filling. The shiso leaf wrapped around the sandwich emanates a pungent yet fresh scent that completes this delicious starter that’s light on the palate but fulfilling to the taste buds.