We had some friends staying with us, and we had always thought the name of the restaurant was interesting. So we decided to give Sushi Elephant a try.

Parking in that mini strip mall is always terrible, with the Pho 99, and the Insadong Korean restaurant, parking is always scarce. We lucked out with someone who was just leaving.

As we walked in, we were hit with a harsh bright turquoise decor. As we were seated we found the decor more and more odd. Pillars intentionally put everywhere (perhaps to give the facade of privacy) a mish mash of art work (everything from japanese to european, to women breast feeding..)

The server mentioned their specials for the evening (discounts on a few sashimi items) and we took a look at the menu. We were quite taken aback at the prices. It was probably the priciest sushi we've seen in Coquitlam! Everything was a good 20-30% more expensive than any other sushi place we've been... and we go to a lot of sushi places.

We fought the urge to be rude and just walk out, and ordered a few items. A few special rolls, a few staple foods like sashimi and tempura. The food was decent. Everything was well prepared and well presented and seemed quite fresh.

Service was reasonable as well. Friendly and helpful. We had to keep asking for tea though, as the cups they give you are more like sake cups, so one gulp and it's gone. Larger cups or a pot of tea would certainly make more sense.

Overall it was a mixed experience. The food was decent, service was good, but parking, decor and prices will certainly keep us from coming again.