When you think of upscale sushi around Fenway, you think... actually, you don't think of anything.

That's about to change.

Say konnichiwa to the sleek, humongous new Japanese brasserie Basho, an unusually grandiose sushi haven that's almost as big as Fenway itself (okay, not really, but it's big), soft-open now.

Brought to you by the folks behind the Back Bay's Douzo and just about a block away from the instant-classic Jerry Remy's, Basho feels like the kind of minimalist LA sushi house where Michael Bay would be found downing oyster shooters while pitching his newest explosion-fest to a group of investors (we hear oyster shooters are responsible for the existence of Bad Boys II).

For you, though, this is prime (if unorthodox) pregame territory for throwing back a few Sapporos at the wraparound bar and devouring appetizers both cold (Smoked Hamachi) and hot (Foie Gras Teriyaki). The place seats 250, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding a chair.

You'll also appreciate it after Sox victories (it's open until 1am nightly) and for date nights—for the latter, take her back to one of three private dining areas for sake bombs and Japanese Eggplant, or guide her out onto the 48-seat front patio for Fenway Rolls (seared tuna and asparagus).

Think of it as sushi going yard.