Best Sushi in DC
Sushi is life. I truly believe sushi should be its own food group. I’m known for having a limitless sushi stomach. If you take me a sushi conveyer belt, I’ll pile the plates so high, it’ll take 2 rounds for the servers to take it all away. I have never had “enough” sushi, but these sushi spots in DC have kept my love of sushi alive.
Why is this list short? Once I’ve found a great sushi spot, I don’t want to risk having sub-par sushi! I’ve experimented at some sushi happy hours around town but just like how I’ve read Lord of the Rings or Harry Potter endless times, I find comfort in the known.
I’ll update the list as I explore more now that I’ve returned to DC after 3 years away.
Best Happy Hour Sushi
Asia Nine
Asia Nine is my absolute favorite, cheap, and easy happy hour spot. I went through a big Asia Nine phase because the happy hour specials with the Hibiscus Mojitos are a winning combo. It’s also located near both Chinatown and Metro Center metro stops. So it’s easy to have friends from all over the city meet for happy hour; at least for pre-covid, not working from home times… I’ve taken my mom, siblings, random friend groups… and it has always been a good time. They were able to seat 10 of us for happy hour. The service is great. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to Asia Nine, but my credit card could. Update: There is a sign that says “no sushi” outside of Asia Nine. I’m not sure if this is permanent or not so please call in advance to check.
Perry’s Restaurant
Perry’s Restaurant is located in Adam’s Morgan. The rooftop drinks and Japanese fare food are excellent. It’s got a casual-chic vibe and a ton of sushi options. Happy hour prices are good here too. I like that it’s a little bit off the main AdMo strip so it feels hidden.
Best Sushi for Date Night
O-Ku
O-Ku is a modern Japanese restaurant in Union Market. The rooftop is intimate and the sushi is amazing.
I’d suggest going here for a nice dinner out or a date night happy hour as the prices mid-range. Besides the sushi, also try the Yellowtail Serrano Carpaccio and the Scallop Kun.
During COVID times in 2020, we visited Oku for date night when restaurants started opening up again.
Almost 3 years later we returned with friends and it was just as delicious. Plan to spend $50 per person (with tip) if you don’t come during happy hour. A 20% tip is included on all bills. The charred broccoli and cauliflower dishes are also great.
Sushi around Town
Momiji
Momiji is one of the few spots I like in DC’s Chinatown. Great for dine-in if you’re in the area. Good for lunch, happy hour, and dinner. Takeaway and delivery services are also super reliable.
Sushi Taro
Go to Sushi Taro for fussy sushi. This place has people lining up around the block in Dupont. Honestly, I have never been even though I worked (almost) right across from it for 2 years. Most things with a line deter me from ever going but everyone says it has some of the best sushi in DC! They don’t take reservations. That being said, I’ve heard the best things about the sushi and so it still makes the list as a DC classic.
Kaz Sushi Bistro
If you’re downtown for lunch, check out Kaz Bistro. I suggest you get one of the lunch specials for around $22 which also includes a bowl of miso soup. I got the trio of handrolls. A roll of sushi (6 rolls) goes for about $10. I met with my friend Abbas for lunch during our workday in Farragut Square. Besides the hand roll trio for me, we got edamame and a roll to share. Abbas got the Kaz nigiri special. We spent $70 for two people. I felt full after the handroll trio and it’s literally the same amount as having 3 rolls (18 pieces).
