303 Magazine
Blofish Sushi makes perfect sense. From Instagram-worthy takeout boxes to Tokyo-style dining – this pocket-sized sushi bar is setting a new standard for downtown Boulder. Co-owners, Avi Scheinbaum and Curtis Gardner, appear to have things dialed in. Literally – Scheinbaum has demonstrated the ability to order bluefin tuna, Tasmanian salmon and other delectable fish at the touch of a button. “We get sent pictures of fish as it comes in off the boat, we choose our cuts and get it the next day,” said Scheinbaum. In addition to a rare connection with international fish markets, Scheinbaum’s sharp eye for design, alongside Gardner’s two decades of experience making sushi, appear to comprise the ingredients for a perfect concept.
At first glance, Blofish resembles the kind of efficiency-focused space that would cater to business travelers or a big city lunch crowd. However, what sets this concept apart is an emphasis on creating an exceptional experience. “We want people to have a little sense of happiness when they leave with one of our boxes,” said Scheinbaum. Furthermore, offering high-quality fish in eye-popping packaging is merely a segment of this modern business model. The 12-seat space aspires to be a destination for intimate, chef-driven Japanese dining for walk-in guests and private parties alike. While social-distancing measures in accordance with COVID-19 have severely impacted the restaurant industry, the streamlined service at Blofish shall make impeccably fresh fish accessible regardless of the situation.
A “grab-n-go” case of carefully packaged sushi selections will be available as well as customized takeout ordering through an online platform. The primary menu will consist of simple Japanese staples and fresh, sustainable catches. From the kitchen, expect miso soup ($4), seaweed salad ($6)– among other traditional dishes. Meanwhile, the sushi bar’s core menu will include hamachi ($10), Japanese tako ($10) and toro ($22); a California roll with real crab ($12), a spicy bluefin tuna roll ($10) and vegetarian rolls from ($8-$10). Poke bowls ($16) may satisfy heartier appetites. Multiple flavors of The Crispery ($6), mochidoki ($5) and root beer floats ($6) make for a sweet finale.