RA Sushi Rolls Out Summer Menu: Skinny Cocktails & A Watermelon Pairing
With new skinny cocktails and a major menu overhaul, RA Sushi in Fells Point has stepped up its food and drink game just in time for summer.
On the drink side, there are six new additions, three of which are “skinny” cocktails — all made with sugar-free syrup and under 200 calories each. The best of the group by far is the Lichitini (Voli Lemon vodka, lychee juice, lemon juice and sweetener; $9) which keeps a strong bite despite the skinny title. The Cucumber Collins (Effen Cucumber vodka, cucumber, lime juice, sweetener and soda; $8) is the lightest tasting, with muddled cucumbers and very refreshing taste. The Kiwi-Berry Kiss (Voli Lemon vodka, kiwi, strawberry, plus fresh citrus and sweetener and soda; $8) has a distinct strawberry flavor and is the sweetest of the three.
Already featured in our roundup of summertime sips, the Strawberry Sakitini (Svedka Citron, Nigori sake, strawberry purée and lemon juice; $9) is the breakout star of the bunch. Strawberry puree thickens the drink — in a good way — and the sake flavor is a great twist on the martini standard. Also sure to be a big hit is the Coconut Mojito (Cruzan Estate Light rum, lime, sugar, soda and fresh mint, plus coconut flavor; $8), with a coconut-minty flavor that transports you to an far-away isle.
The final new entry is the Melon-Kiwi Tini, which makes up one half of the RA June/July food and drink pairing. Made with Monin Watermelon, Svedka Citron, shochu (a Japanese wine that’s stronger than sake), and a splash of citrus soda, the cocktail is well-matched with the watermelon kiwi shrimp salad (which is almost too pretty to eat). The duo ($18 for both) makes for a satisfyingly sweet summer snack.
The list of food upgrades is long, but our favorite new bite is the creamy edamame and spinach dip, served warm with wonton chips ($5.25) — think a creative spin on the classic spinach-artichoke version, with an intense garlic kick. Winning major points for originality are the crispy Asian tacos, made with a rice paper shell and various ingredients. Of the group, the spicy salmon and shredded sake-steamed chicken stood out the most in terms of flavor, but all were well received.
Photos courtesy RA Sushi