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Sushi Lin - Brooklyn Heights
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Lin - Brooklyn Heights
8.1
Sushi Lin brings a slightly more refined, omakase-leaning approach to the Clark Street strip, with a tight space centered around carefully plated nigiri and chef-driven specials. It’s a step up in polish from most neighborhood spots while still feeling intimate rather than formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s omakase nigiri flight, Fatty tuna nigiri, Seasonal maki roll special
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.4
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Small, chef-focused sushi bar emphasizing nigiri quality and omakase-style experiences.
Who should go: Couples and sushi purists willing to pay for better fish.
When to visit: Later seatings on weeknights for a quieter, more focused bar.
What to order: Omakase nigiri set, fatty tuna, and any seasonal maki special.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter and let the chef guide your order rather than defaulting to standard rolls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Clark Street and nearby side streets is limited; expect circling after 6pm. Several paid garages within a 5–7 minute walk.
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy-casual. Nice jeans and a clean jacket work, but many diners lean polished.
Noise level: Low to moderate – intimate and quiet enough for easy conversation at the counter or tables.
Weekend wait: 60–90 minutes without a reservation, especially for counter seating
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or a short 5–10 minute wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but available – cucumber, avocado, vegetable rolls, and some cooked vegetable apps.
Vegan options: Very limited – a few simple vegetable rolls and edamame work.
Gluten-free options: Yes, with guidance – sashimi, some nigiri without sauce, and certain appetizers work if you communicate needs.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—it's intimate, softly lit, and conversation-friendly, with food that feels special without being intimidatingly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes on weeknights or at lunch, but weekend evenings are risky—reservations are strongly recommended if timing matters.
Is it kid-friendly? Best for older kids or teens who enjoy sushi; the atmosphere is quiet and the menu leans adult-focused rather than family-oriented.
Best For
Better for: More refined nigiri quality, chef interaction, and a true omakase-leaning experience compared to most casual neighborhood sushi spots.
Skip if: You want big group energy, heavy specialty rolls, or budget-friendly combo platters—those are better found at larger, casual sushi houses.
Sushi Lin - Brooklyn Heights
8.9
Sushi Lin Brooklyn Heights is an intimate omakase-focused counter where chefs work directly in front of guests, serving pristine nigiri and seasonal plates. Low lighting, a small room, and focused service make it one of the most romantic sushi options in the neighborhood for serious fish lovers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri flight, Toro scallion roll, Seared salmon aburi
Scores:
Value: 7.3
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Omakase-driven sushi bar with chef interaction in a cozy room.
Who should go: Couples seeking intimate omakase with serious, chef-driven sushi.
When to visit: Book evening omakase seatings for lingering, unhurried dinners.
What to order: Omakase progression, fatty tuna nigiri, seared salmon bites.
Insider tip: Reserve counter seats for the best chef interaction and pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Brooklyn Heights is limited; meter spots open slightly more after 7pm, but expect to circle. No valet service available.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale; dark denim is fine but most guests opt for elevated date-night outfits.
Noise level: Low to moderate; soft background conversation makes it easy to speak quietly with your date.
Weekend wait: Omakase seatings are reservation-only; walk-ins are rarely accommodated.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; all visits require pre-booked evening seatings.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited; omakase format is fish-focused with only occasional vegetable bites.
Vegan options: Not suitable; the menu centers on seafood with no vegan omakase alternative.
Gluten-free options: Generally workable; most nigiri is naturally gluten-free, but alert the chef about soy sauce substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a refined, quiet setting where the chef-driven pacing gives structure to the evening. It’s ideal for serious sushi fans but may feel too intimate for a casual first meet.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely. The counter has limited seats and fills weeks out; only rare early-evening cancellations allow walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for young children; the tasting format and quiet room suit adults or older teens comfortable with omakase dining.
Best For
Better for: Exceptional fish quality, intimate counter interaction, and a more romantic, focused atmosphere than larger, busier omakase spots nearby.
Skip if: You prefer à la carte sushi, need flexible dietary substitutions, or want a more casual, high-energy environment.