Refreshed Sushi Lounge & Izakaya Set for Shopping Center

The restaurant group behind Love Boat Sushi, who successfully opened a new concept, Carlsbad's Blue Ocean Robata and Sushi Bar, earlier this year, is now focusing on a revamp of their other eateries, starting with Fashion Valley's Love Boat Sushi, which has been in the mall since 2011.

It'll reopen in mid-September as Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge. The 70-seat eatery will still include a sushi bar, but the focus will be on Japanese izakaya-style small plates and interactive dining, from wagyu beef cooked on hot stones to fresh tofu made table-side and chili-orange chocolate fondue.

The menu will also include skewered items from the robata grill and some of the most popular entrees from sister restaurant Blue Ocean. Lucien Conner of the Queen-Conner-Ward Collective, who designed Blue Ocean's cocktail program, will craft a list of sake and soju cocktails; there will also be craft beer on tap.

The group will next tackle their Love Boat Sushi outpost in Rancho Bernardo, a refresh is planned later this year.
· Blue Smoke Sushi Lounge [Facebook]
· All Switcheroos on Eater [~ESD~]