Quote: Maki Maki describes itself as "Californian Japanese Cuisine". That didn't say much to us, and we had no idea what Californian Japanese cuisine was or is. So we headed down to The River complex in Rancho Mirage to see what all the buzz was about.

Maki Maki is located in the back of the The River complex and is a bit hard to spot or find right off the bat. I suggest looking at one of the maps of the complex or parking in the far back lot to find this restaurant.

When you do find it, you will be impressed. It's a brand new, very shiny, very hip building. It has a small outside area and inside it's very sleek and modern. The hostesses will give you a big welcome as you come in through the door.

The menu is fun and a bit unusual. They do have all your standard sushi and rolls, plus they have added a lot more. They also have other Japanese standards like shabu shabu.

We shared a spicy Lobster Dyna roll and it was great. It's a basic California roll with spicy lobster added and boy is it good! I had the shabu shabu and it also was very good. The price was $15.95, which is a little high but the quality was worth the price. Chris had the Kobe Filet that came with a sweet potato cake and the filet was topped with a white truffle and sake sauce that was out of this world. The steak was $23.95 and worth every penny!

The service was good. We were there during a busy time and everything ran very smooth. The meal was well paced and the bus staff kept our water and ice tea glasses filled.

This is a fun addition to Palm Springs. It by no means is a true Japanese restaurant. However, they do not bill themselves as one either. When you leave you will understand what Californian Japanese Cuisine is and I think you will be a fan!

From journals Palm Springs