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Sushi Damo
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Damo
7.9
Neighborhood sushi bar near 58th Street serving creative maki and nigiri in a modern, no‑frills setting — decent for a casual dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Specialty Maki Rolls, Chef’s Nigiri Selection, Spicy Tuna Roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Unpretentious sushi spot with modest prices and solid roll variety.
Who should go: Locals and casual sushi eaters
When to visit: Evening, after 6 pm
What to order: Specialty Maki, Nigiri Selection, Spicy Tuna Roll
Insider tip: Weeknights tend to be quieter — better for lingering.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be challenging after 6pm, but there are nearby parking garages ($30-40 for 2-3 hours).
Dress code: Smart casual, jeans are acceptable but lean toward dressier for a more comfortable dining experience.
Noise level: Moderate - conversation is easy to maintain, though it can get a bit lively on weekends.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, ideal for a quick stop.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - a variety of vegetable rolls and some tofu options.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options like vegetable rolls and avocado-based dishes.
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate prep area to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s a cozy and low-key spot, perfect for intimate conversation, without the formality of fancier sushi bars.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect a wait, especially during peak hours on weekends. Reservations are recommended to avoid disappointment.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s a casual spot, but the ambiance is better suited for older kids or adults. There’s no dedicated kids’ menu.
Best For
Better for: This place is perfect for a casual, unpretentious sushi experience with a solid variety of rolls at affordable prices.
Skip if: If you're looking for an upscale or traditional sushi experience with a more refined atmosphere, you may want to consider alternatives like Sushi Yasuda or Sushi Zo.
Sushi Damo
8.3
A comfortable, unpretentious sushi spot near Columbus Circle offering well‑made nigiri and classic rolls — good for a relaxed date night without the fuss. It hits a sweet spot balancing quality and value for Midtown standards. Customers appreciate the modern yet approachable vibe and consistent sushi execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s Nigiri Selection, Spicy Tuna Roll, Salmon Sashimi Platter
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Solid sushi and nigiri in a relaxed, no‑frills setting near Columbus Circle.
Who should go: Couples seeking solid sushi without high-end price.
When to visit: Early evening weekdays to avoid crowd.
What to order: Chefs Nigiri Selection, Spicy Tuna Roll, Salmon Sashimi Platter
Insider tip: Go around opening time for freshest fish and easier seating.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be challenging after 6pm. Consider using nearby parking garages for convenience.
Dress code: Smart casual – jeans are fine, but lean towards dressier attire for a more polished look.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation is easy, though can get a bit louder during peak times.
Weekend wait: Expect a wait of 45-60 minutes without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait during lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – there are a few vegetarian options, like avocado rolls and vegetable hand rolls.
Vegan options: Limited – about 2-3 vegan-friendly options, such as avocado rolls or veggie sushi.
Gluten-free options: Yes – the restaurant offers gluten-free options, and they take care to avoid cross-contamination with a separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, Sushi Damo is perfect for a low-pressure first date. The relaxed vibe and quality sushi make it an ideal spot for getting to know someone without the fuss of a high-end setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. During the weekdays, you can usually walk in, but there may still be a short wait during peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Sushi Damo is not specifically tailored for kids, but it can be suitable for older children who are comfortable with sushi. The vibe is relaxed, though younger kids might not fully appreciate the menu.
Best For
Better for: Sushi Damo is better for a more laid-back, unpretentious sushi experience. It provides a comfortable atmosphere for those looking for quality sushi without the high-end price tag.
Skip if: Skip Sushi Damo if you’re looking for a more extravagant or upscale sushi experience, as the atmosphere and menu are simple and focus on comfort over luxury.