I've been hearing the complaints about the pedestrian nature of Japanese menus in Victoria for quite some time. I agree for the most part, but I also know that it's hard to mix up the menu, when it appears to be the consumer, not the provider, who is perpetuating the menu rerun. That said, maybe the winds of change are among us. Sen Sushi appears to be on this track. They have seasonal specials and a selection of Asian wines, that exceeded my expectations (although, my expectations are pretty depressed these days).
We tried the trumpet mushroom fried in butter and soy ($4.95), a seasonal special. It was really good. We then had the Samurai and Shogun Special ($12.95/$13.95). I felt like a bit of a doorknob ordering them by name, but they were tasty and great value - salad, miso soup, two pieces of sushi, tempura and an entree - ginger pork and tonkatsu, respectively. I was delighted to see the various items coursed, instead of being presented as a table full of food to consume.
As it wasn't a special occasion, I didn't order any of the fancier sakes, but ordered a hot bottle of draught sake instead. They did however have, three different kinds of premium sake, soju, plum and barley wine. In addition to the wines, they had three import Japanese beers, Vancouver Island Brewery beer and four selections of perfectly acceptable European style wine.
The Sushi Bar at the Marina Restaurant, compares somewhat, in that you can order wines off the dining room menu and finish your meal with sweets from the restaurant (pastry chef Brian Bradley, is one of the few people who's desserts can consistently tempt me). They also carry basic Japanese selections of sake, beer and plum wine.
My search continues for fun Japanese food and booze, but I'm feeling a little more inspired now.