Head to CityNorth for Saito's happy hour

At Saito's. (Credit: Megan Finnerty/Metromix)

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Is it just me, or is going to CityNorth, like, one of the most disorienting experiences in the Valley?

It's not quite as head-rearranging as touring the Boulders neighborhood in north Scottsdale, but the half-empty mixed-use, faux-urban live-where-you-shop place always makes me feel like I'm hanging out on the set of a movie about my own life.

Like, everything's so shiny and new and clean and perfectly landscaped and decorated. It's very much like being on a movie set—there's even a “soundtrack” of music on outdoor speakers. The only people there look handpicked for attractiveness, and there are often only a few of them.

That's really the thing about CityNorth—it always feels like I have the place (almost) to myself, which is a little weird. This is why I want you to come up Loop 101 and check out happy hour at the new Saito's Japanese Steakhouse. This way, I won't feel so alone up there.

The bar and restaurant is glossy, spacious and done in maize and coral colors, with frosted glass and dark wood accents. (Yeah, the chain is based in Florida, and that aesthetic is clear in the décor.)

The happy hour is filled with Japanese-style appetizers, such as spare ribs, Yakitori skewers, chicken tempura and edamame, all from $2 to $3.50 each.

Saito also offers a selection of at least five signature rolls, including the Tampa Roll, made of fried grouper, onion, “special sauce,” sesame seeds and topped with eel sauce, $5; and the Hawaii Roll, made of tempura shrimp, cream cheese, avocado, pineapple and spicy mayo, $6.

Draft beers are $3, sake bombers are $7, and margaritas are $5. House wines and well drinks are half off.

Details: 5310 E. High St., Phoenix, 480-563-7788, saitosteakhouse.com.