Nino's is...god, how should I put this...interesting to say the very least. I think most people who don't know about it or see it everyday may just pass it off as a typically cruddy little pizza joint, and that's not to say that it isn't. At times your experience will be really shady. It's often hard to tell who works there and who doesn't, and if they do, what their job might or might not be. The place is totally run down and outdated. And I'm not going to promise that you're always going to feel 100% safe if you're in there by yourself.

BUT

Nino's has half decent food and is open late and sometimes that's all you need. Despite the ambiguity of whatever it is that they do there, the person serving you is always polite and will hand you your food with a smile. It may not be the best looking place on the block but it's on the block and seems to have been there for quite some time. Definitely worth a look if you're ever in the neighborhood.

Great space and nice staff, but overall a pass if you're looking for a relaxing time or the ability to converse with anyone you're dining with. It often felt like I was eating on the set of rap video as the music was INCREDIBLY loud. Maybe a good place to go with a large group of people but I wouldn't recommend it to couples or small groups.

I found Minato simply walking down Charles Street one day. It took me a few weeks before I decided to go it, but I am so glad that I did. First and foremost the staff at Minato is outrageously polite and friendly. They have a great dynamic and make you feel like a friend from the moment you step in. The food is also extremely good. Their shrimp wontons are the perfect appetizer. My favorite sushi selection has to be the Arizona roll or the Tsunami roll (it has mango on it!). Try this place out. You will not regret it. By far the most customer friendly and high quality sushi place in Charm City.