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Ajisai
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Ajisai
7.5
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
This intimate neighborhood gem since 2002 specializes in traditional sushi and bento boxes with a focus on quality ingredients. The quiet atmosphere and reasonable prices make it perfect for low-key business lunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bento Box, Sushi Lunch Special, Teriyaki Chicken
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Neighborhood institution serving traditional Japanese comfort food since 2002
Who should go: Local professionals seeking quiet, affordable Japanese meals
When to visit: Lunch service Tuesday-Friday 11:30am-2pm
What to order: Bento box combinations, fresh sushi, miso soup
Insider tip: Perfect for private conversations in intimate setting
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, metered during business hours. Small lot behind building with 8 spaces
Dress code: Business casual to smart casual - this is where executives grab lunch
Noise level: Quiet - perfect for business conversations and confidential discussions
Weekend wait: Closed weekends
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, but peak lunch rush (12-1pm) may have 10-15 min wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable sushi rolls, tofu teriyaki, vegetable tempura in bento boxes
Vegan options: Limited - vegetable rolls without mayo, miso soup, edamame
Gluten-free options: Some options - sashimi, rice bowls without sauce, but limited due to traditional preparation
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for established relationships - the intimate setting and business crowd make it less romantic, more professional
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes for lunch, but call ahead during busy periods. Only 20 seats total
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal - no kids menu, business atmosphere, and limited lunch-only hours make it adult-focused
Best For
Better for: Private business meetings, solo dining, authentic traditional Japanese without the markup
Skip if: You want dinner service, trendy atmosphere, or large group dining (8+ people)
Ajisai
7.8
Since 2002, this reliable neighborhood institution has been serving traditional Japanese fare with consistent quality. Known for accommodating large parties and catering, it's where locals go for dependable sushi without pretense.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sushi Lunch Special, Chirashi Bowl, Tempura Combination
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: 22-year neighborhood staple with consistent quality
Who should go: Locals seeking reliable weeknight sushi
When to visit: Tuesday-Friday lunch for best deals
What to order: Lunch specials, chirashi, party platters
Insider tip: They excel at catering and large group orders
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking usually available, easier during lunch hours, can be tight during dinner rush after 7pm
Dress code: Come as you are - locals show up in everything from workout gear to business casual
Noise level: Moderate - comfortable for conversation, gets livelier when families arrive around 6:30pm
Weekend wait: 15-30 min typical, call ahead for parties over 4
Weekday lunch: No wait, immediate seating most days
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable rolls, tempura, agedashi tofu, inari
Vegan options: Limited - cucumber/avocado rolls, edamame, seaweed salad
Gluten-free options: Possible with modifications - staff knowledgeable about soy sauce alternatives
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd or 4th date - it's casual and family-oriented rather than romantic. The reliable quality means no surprises, but also no wow factor.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weeknights. Friday/Saturday after 7pm can mean a 20-minute wait. They prioritize regulars, so calling ahead helps.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, patient staff, chicken teriyaki and tempura that kids love. Peak family time is 5:30-7:30pm.
Best For
Better for: Feeding a group without breaking the bank, reliable catering orders, and when you want consistent quality over trendy presentations
Skip if: You're seeking innovative rolls, omakase experience, or Instagram-worthy presentations - head to Matsuhisa or Nobu instead