Happy Hour Hunt: Sushi Den

The Place: Sushi Den, 1487 South Pearl Street; 303-777-0826

The Hours: Monday through Friday from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

The Deal: Specialty happy hour sushi menu includes hand rolls, nigiri, tempura rolls, hot plates, platters and Japanese fish priced between $2.50 and $14; Select hot sake is half price.

The Digs: Sushi Den is an institution in Denver, a legend in and of itself, with an atmosphere as clean and fresh as the deliciousness coming off of the sushi line. There are multiple dining rooms in which to nosh; we prefer the west-facing middle room, which boasts a small cocktail bar at the head and large garage doors that open to the sidewalk when the temperatures rise.

The Verdict: Happy hour at Sushi Den isn't the cheapest place in town to enjoy good eats and libations after a long day at the office. That said, you get what you pay for, and the sushi will quickly remind you why Sushi Den continues to lead Denver's raw fish wars.The House Roll with eel and avocado is a sweet treat bolstered by a beautiful presentation, and the Rocky Mountain Roll -- eight pieces of smoked trout complemented by sliced cucumber -- is wonderful if you're in the mood for something different. The happy hour drink selection could be better, since hot sake isn't something we're always in the mood for. And on this particular occasion, the bar service made us feel as though we were more of an inconvenience than a welcomed business opportunity.

Overall Grade: B