Longtime Mount Vernon favorite Minato has always been a go-to place for excellent sushi and Japanese cuisine. Now it has moved out of its subterranean quarters just off Mount Vernon Square, and three blocks north on Charles Street into a majestic townhouse mansion. The fresh-looking, inviting interiors take advantage of the grand, ornate flourishes of the vintage space, but update them with sleek, modern touches. The sushi bar is centrally located in the middle of the front dining room, and complemented by architectural lighting fixtures, bright green dining chairs and a large, multi-colored, wave-like sculpture overhead. The spacious rear dining room offers more seating, some cozy banquettes and more sculptural wall hangings. The feeling is light, breezy and thoroughly up-to-date. And the food and service are as good as ever. 1013 N. Charles St., 410-332-0332.
