It's an odd irony that sushi is not more often enjoyed on the waterfront.

Here to change that is Kaijou, a relaxed sushi spot downtown that's been open about a month but is still under the radar. If you find yourself by Battery Park City and feel the itch for fresh fish under the sky and out on the water (frankly, where those fish always wanted to be), head to this modest little spot.

Bypass the nondescript hotel lobby decor and head to the outdoor patio, which showcases clear, expansive views of the Hudson, Statue of Liberty and South Cove (that should take the edge off any kind of day you've been having). It's not a bad backdrop for the food—incredibly fresh sushi, uniquely presented, and creative entrees like Wok-Fried Lobster flash-cooked in sake (at least the guy went out happy) and the all-American Eel Burger—BBQ unagi between rice-nori buns with veggie tempura "fries." The rolls are plentiful, tasty and unique—try the Volcano (spicy tuna, spicy scallop, spicy crab), Sushi Dumpling (tuna, salmon and shrimp wrapped in soy paper instead of seaweed) or, for a little meat with your fish, Chicken or Spicy Ham Sushi Rolls.

Even better, they're BYO for now, so the staff is ready with pint glasses, sake cups and mixers like watermelon lemonade to serve anything you can think of (we have a few ideas).

Because in a restaurant on the water, there's just no reason to go dry.