Residents of ever-expanding Parker can rejoice: Junz has arrived, bringing fresh sushi and elegant Japanese meals to Parker. Transforming a normally abysmal strip mall location into something special is no small feat, but owner Jun Makino is up to the task. Encased in windows, the corner spot goes modern with warm woods, mustard paint and a gracefully long sushi bar.

Lunch and dinner are served daily with a nice surprise of traditional Japanese with French influences (reflecting Makino's training). Along with generous sushi servings, Junz offers top-shelf interpretations of the standard fish (swordfish, salmon, tuna, halibut), beef, lamb and seafood entrees. To get diners in the proper mood, Junz rolls out the martini specials on Mondays. Upscale sushi, a full bar and ample free parking will keep Parker residents happy to stick close to home. -- Drew Myron