This sushi buffet in Coral Springs strikes a perfect balance, appealing to both sushi aficionados and novices. Open about six months, it's a northern outpost of the Miami original.

What impresses about Shinju is the quality of the sushi, including rolls, nigri and sashimi. It's a definite upgrade from most sushi buffets and on par with many full-service restaurants.

Owner Karen Chen hopes her restaurant will expand diners' horizons.

"A lot of people are starting to learn how to eat sushi, but they're afraid to go into an a la carte restaurant because they don't know what they're eating, " Chen said. "We can present the sushi in front of you so you know what you're getting."

Each item is clearly labeled as to whether it is cooked or raw, though some could use a better explanation of what's inside. The Saturday night we visited, several chefs worked constantly behind the counter, restocking.

If you have a non-sushi eater in your party, Shinju's buffet includes a wide selection of hot Chinese and Japanese dishes plus a made-to-order hibachi station. There's also a raw bar with crab legs, oysters, shrimp and mussels.

It's a bargain, too with all-you-can-eat dinner prices that are about what you would pay for a couple sushi rolls at a sit-down restaurant.

Broward diners have discovered Shinju. There are no reservations, so arrive early on weekends or expect to wait for a table.