You’re seriously craving a toro scallion roll from Sushi of Gari, but you know your bank account can’t handle it.
Correction: you can’t handle your dad calling you for the fourth time this month about your “out of control” spending habits.
A woman on a mission, you scroll through Uber Eats for a cheaper alternative.
You find a hole-in-the-wall sushi spot, but they don’t even have Naruto rolls. The horror!
See Also: The Best Sushi In NYC, From Omakase To A La Carte
Besides, their spicy scallop looks like something you bought at the gas station on the way to Syracuse.
Life is seriously so hard.
Just as you’re about to throw in the towel and order Thai, you decide to scout out the best casual sushi spots in the neighborhood.
After all, momma didn’t raise a quitter.
Here is what you found.
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15 W 28th St, Manhattan/Website
Kazunori is to sushi as Sweetgreen is to salad. Simply put, Kazunori (or as the cool kids call it “Kazu”) is the mecca of high-quality sushi that doesn’t break the bank. Known as the “original handroll bar,” this cult-favorite chain breaks the mold of a traditional dining experience. Alternatively, diners sit around a large communal table as the chef passes out handrolls one by one. Patrons are encouraged to indulge in the mouthwatering fish, intoxicatingly sweet rice, and crispy nori the moment the handroll hits your plate. PSA: you know the fish is good when they advise you to use soy sauce with caution.
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29 E 20th St, Manhattan/Website
A staple to many, Mizu Sushi is the perfect place to dine on a lowkey Sunday night. The popular Flatiron joint offers regular sushi and omakase (a new addition!), along with Thai and Japanese fare. Diners can choose two rolls with a soup or salad option for just $14, or three rolls with a soup or salad option for $18. Talk about a steal! We can’t promise you won’t run into your ex’s sister’s cousin's dog here, but hey, it’s worth it for the crunchy spicy tuna roll.
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231 Sullivan St, Manhattan/Website
Just a three-minute walk from Washington Park, Soho Sushi is a great place to pick up some rolls and people-watch in the park. Everything on the menu is good, but we’re in it for the eel and avocado and spicy scallop (with crunch obv). It’s not Nobu, but for a hole-in-the-wall sushi place, it’s pretty good! And this is coming from the biggest sushi snobs of all. In the mood for sushi on a lazy night in? Put Soho Sushi on speed dial.
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122 E 17th St, Manhattan
Known as one of the city's most historic sushi restaurants, Yama was around before sushi was the “it thing” to eat. AKA, when your parents are telling their “in my day” stories, they were probably pounding sake shots at Yama over pieces of salmon nigiri. Everything about this storied spot is authentic and no-frills, making it the perfect place to grab some rolls before stumbling into a dive bar with some friends. With every restaurant trying to be the “next big thing,” there’s something charming about Yama staying true to its old-fashioned roots.
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56 3rd Ave, Manhattan/Website
If you’re down for sushi, but not in the mood for some fancy schmancy omakase, Kotobuki is always a safe bet. We guarantee Jenna will slip in this is her absolute favorite restaurant in Roslyn, but hey, it’s better than mentioning she went to Tyler Hill for the tenth time today. If you’re coming here, you’re obviously ordering the spicy tuna pizza and mouthwatering rock shrimp. Jenna will probably order the riceless Pink Lady roll, because #grainfree.
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251 W 72nd St, Manhattan/Website
Located on the Upper West Side, Sushi Yasaka is the perfect excuse to escape Murray Hill for some good #eats. Unlike other places on this list, we recommend making a reservation in advance. You probably can get in without one, but nobody likes waiting when they’re haaaangry. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu, but if you’re feeling adventurous, order their version of omakase.
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172 Thompson St, Manhattan/Website
Arguably the nicest place on this list, Tomo21 is where you go when you’re craving high-end sushi, but can’t swing the high-end prices. Simply put, it’s nicer than your average neighborhood spot, but not nearly as expensive as the Yasuda’s, Seki’s, or Noz’s of the world. If you’re looking for the best deal, get the Sushi Deluxe ($43) which comes with ten pieces and 1 roll. Oh, and the toro scallion roll is chef's kiss. Sushi of Gari who?
86 W Broadway, Manhattan/Website
It’s no secret that everything in Tribeca is a zillion dollars, which makes places like JR sushi all the more refreshing. This snug sushi spot is exactly as it's advertised as: pretty good sushi at pretty good prices. Are you writing home to mom and dad about it? No, but if you’re craving sushi, everything here hits the spot. When we’re tyring to be low-carb (rolls eyes), the sashimi platter is a great option. Plus, the bubble tea is on point.
Photography by: Getty Images
