Rock shrimp tempura: 4 Long Island picks

Although the notion of pairing tempura-fried rock shrimp with a spicy creamy sauce may not have originated with world-renowned chef Nobu Matsuhisa, chances are the dish became an Asian-fusion classic because of its popularity at his first Manhattan restaurant, Nobu, which opened in TriBeCa in 1993.

These days on Long Island, it's a challenge finding an Asian-fusion restaurant that doesn't have rock shrimp tempura on its menu. The following three do it justice, each in its own way

At this friendly fusion spot, the light, crunchy rock shrimp tempura drizzled with spicy mayo is a good way to begin a meal.

This chic Asian venue plays crunch against softness in its fine version of the Nobu classic, wherein batter-fried shellfish is lightly glazed with spicy mayonnaise.

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The kitchen at this sophisticated Asian spot redefines rock shrimp tempura with a drizzle of chili sauce instead of the usual mayo.

While waiting for your sushi, the "rockies shrimp" is a creditable rendition, featuring batter-fried shellfish drizzled with spicy mayo.