If you’re looking for sushi in Manhattan, you probably don’t have to travel all that far. However, if you really want quality, you know there are only a few places where you can truly get your sashimi on. Here are a few of the tastier and trendier sushi venues in New York City.
Azuki – 239 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
Other than the usual long waits by the incredibly small entrance, there isn’t anything to dislike about Azuki Sushi. This gem, located just above Union Square, serves up some of the best sushi in New York City, and the atmosphere is second to none. The sushi rolls taste like gourmet delicacies that tantalize your palate throughout the meal. Azuki’s Miso Soup is as good as anyone’s, and its Nabeyaki Udon is hard to beat. The bento boxes are very affordable and come in portions that can satisfy the biggest of appetites. While I personally tend to go for several rolls of Shrimp Tempura, prepared to perfection, just about everytime I go. The restaurant is dimly lit, and they will serve you free sake until you practically drop—although, you have to be persistent in asking for it. It’s a great place for groups for two reasons: one, the free flowing sake can make a group night out dreadfully interesting; and two, the wait by the door generally isn’t as long for larger groups of eaters.
Ruby Foo’s – 1626 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
Ruby Foo’s is quite the experience. With tons of pre-theater gatherings going on all of the time, you can imagine just how lively this place gets at time. However, Ruby Foo’s doesn’t let that take away from serving you some of the most delicately prepared sushi in town. Many people recommend the Salmon Roe, and I am a big fan of their Smoked Salmon sushi. Their dim sum and calamari are also worth trying, however, I would stay away from just about every other non-sushi dish on the menu, since they tend not to get such rave reviews. Ruby Foo’s is a little pricey, and given its location just outside of Times Square, that’s expected. Nevertheless, the portions are fairly representative of their costs, and you have the option to eat family-style as well. The service at Ruby Foo’s is well-prepped to get you to your show on time, so think about making reservations the next time you buy your theater tickets.
SushiSamba – 87 7th Avenue South, New York, NY (Plus 2 other locations)
I recommend Sushi Samba for anyone who thinks that Latin-Asian fusion is a good idea—and all things considered, who doesn’t? SushiSamba is one of the most happening sushi places you will ever see. Although it is not as “Sex and the City” as it used to be, it still draws in your typical no-name big wigs. Located in the West Village, SushiSamba has two floors, and if you want to do yourself a favor, always call ahead and reserve a spot on the roof (don’t worry, it’s covered), because eating inside SushiSamba makes for an awfully unpleasant “eating atmosphere.” That said, the food is unbelievable no matter where you sit. Their Wasabi Leaf Tempura is incredible, and that’s big props coming from me, a 150% carnivore. And don’t shy away from the tart yellowtail seviche or the raninbow dragon roll. As for their Latin-Asian-fused delicacies, try the Bobo Brazil, which is seared kobe beef, avocado, kaiware, shiso, red onion and chimichurri ponzu. And if you’re big balling, go for the Omakase menu, which is a 5 or 7-course meal providing the full Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian experience that SushiSamba is known for. Be warned, they will rush you out of this place for the next customer, but the food just might be worth it.
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