The restaurant seldom advertises, though it boasts a loyal local following and a prime location across from the Convention Center. Too bad, because Otani is that exceptional place, at once elegant and intimate, which has transformed leisurely dining into fine art. Otani stands as a testimony to the art of architecture in perfect ying-yang proportions. Its soaring ceiling of woven twigs lets in filtered light to play over the shadowy granite floors. Cozy garden courtyards offer vistas into the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa mountains.
Every view is spectacular, be it mountain, garden or steam-filled courtyard.
And the overall feeling is exotic, like visiting a faraway continent. Otani's centerpiece is its circular sushi-sashimi bar, always wrapped with sushi aficionados. The more private windowside tables offer splendid views where you can peer through cool fountains and watch the desert sunset. Be assured the entire presentation will be exquisite, a model of Oriental artistry. With an abundance of combination dinners and assortments on the menu, Otani makes it easy to sample a range of foods.