Sakura Terrace

A CLOSER LOOK AT THIS WEEK’S HOUSE SPECIAL: SAKURA CHIRASHI ($21; FOR TWO)

In Japanese culture, every Girls’ Day (March 3) brings chirashi, a traditional dish consisting of sushi rice and a mix of cooked and raw ingredients, to the table. Sushi — served in a variety of ways, including chirashi — is still considered a celebratory dish, so the Japanese specifically like to enjoy chirashi’s use of dainty ingredients and array of colors on this special day.

Among the items that Sakura Terrace Japanese Cafe does extremely well, the quaint eatery takes particular pride in its selection of chirashi — and Sakura Chirashi ($21; for two people) is no exception.

Aside from being the latest specialty offered at the restaurant, “This is also available for to-go (orders), and is good for parties and as a side dish,” says general manager Daisuke Arai.

And if you’re not making a to-go order or taking advantage of Sakura Terrace’s catering options (come by the restaurant or call for more info), dining in, especially during happy hour, is a real treat.

Unlike most establishments, Sakura Terrace hosts its nightly happy hour at a later time, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Select from $5 appetizers like Mac Nuts Tofu, Chicken Karaage, Agedashi Tofu, Special Poke and more, while sipping on an elite selection of discounted sakes and draft beers.

Sea treasures

Little gems of fresh and vibrant ikura and masago are scattered on the rice, adding delightful, surprising bursts of ocean flavors.

And don’t forget …

The dish includes a sprinkling of kizami nori (shredded dried seaweed), thinly sliced tomago and boiled ebi for added color, flavor and texture.

All about rice

Chirashi is only as good as its rice, and Sakura Terrace uses a type of grain from Hokkaido, Japan that has been cooked and mixed with vinegar for a memorable, fluffy bite every time.

Savory selections

Kanpyo, or dried gourd, and shiitake mushrooms offer both sweet and savory flavors, thanks to a simple soy sauce and sugar marinade.