CENTRAL. Located in the heart of one of Hong Hong's most active business districts, Benkay combines traditional, yet simplistic Japanese décor. Its fairly extensive menu includes such nicely done staples as usuyake, sashimi, sushi, and tempura. For dessert, the wasabi is a good choice. METRO: Central.

CENTRAL. Located in an ideal spot for people watching, this casual Japanese restaurant draws in the crowd due as much to its location as to its great food. The staff here is knowledgeable and extremely friendly. Hanagushi offers more varieties of grilled meat skewers than you can imagine, as well as some rather tasty sashimi. Reservations are recommended. METRO: Central.

TSIM SHA TSUI. Located at the famous Peninsula Hotel, Imasa's is a lunchtime favorite in the Central area for two reasons: the prices are fairly reasonable, and the sushi buffet is outstanding. Imasa's also offers a regular menu that features such dishes as miso soup, beef teriyaki, and several good salad plates. The décor in this modern-looking restaurant hints at a traditional Japanese influence, creating a very comfortable dining environment. Reservations are recommended. MTR: Tsim Sha Tsui

WAN CHAI. This dimly lit restaurant, which is a popular lunch destination for the business crowd, provides an intimate, yet sophisticated environment for a pleasant, traditional Japanese meal. The sake bar is rumored to be one of the best in Hong Kong, and the noodle buffet table is hard to pass up. An á la carte menu also is available. Reservations are essential. METRO: Wan Chai.

KOWLOON. Internationally known chef Nobu Matsuhisa has acclaimed restaurants in world-class cities such as New York City, London, Las Vegas, Miami, Dallas, Milan and Tokyo. Add Hong Kong to the list! Opened at the end of 2006, this outpost is every bit as elegant, sleek and wonderful as its brothers and sisters, and the food is just as fabulous. Sushi and sashimi make up most of the menu, but there are several additional options as well, including steaks, tempura and a host of cooked Japanese dishes. Not to be missed!