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Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)
7.7
Union Square staple serving a broad sushi menu with house-named rolls and dependable nigiri at approachable prices. Good for a casual pre-show date or low-key sushi night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mason Street Roll, Toro Special Roll, Lion King Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Big menu with signature rolls at fair prices downtown.
Who should go: Budget-minded sushi dates
When to visit: Early evening before theater rush
What to order: Mason Street roll, toro special, lion king roll
Insider tip: Sit at the sushi bar for faster turns and better pacing.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Closest option is the Union Square Garage (about 2 blocks away, $5–8 per hour). Street parking is scarce, especially after 6pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and sneakers are fine, but many theatergoers dress a bit sharper.
Noise level: Moderate — conversation is doable but the small dining room fills with chatter at peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; small room means waits can stretch longer after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, though service is brisk to accommodate office workers.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — avocado, cucumber, veggie rolls and a few cooked items are available.
Vegan options: Limited — about 2–3 rolls without fish or mayo; best to confirm ingredients with the chef.
Gluten-free options: Yes — sushi and sashimi are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce is not; gluten-free tamari available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the casual atmosphere and approachable prices make it low-pressure, though the space is more cozy than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but expect to wait during peak dinner hours. Arrive before 6pm or after 8:30pm for better chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially — the dining room is small and geared toward adults. Fine for older kids comfortable with sushi but not ideal for toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Broad sushi roll menu at wallet-friendlier prices compared to high-end omakase spots nearby.
Skip if: You want an upscale, atmospheric sushi date night — try Elephant Sushi or Akiko’s (New Location) instead.
Akiko’s Sushi Bar (Mason Street)
8.2
Tiny Union Square stalwart focused on straightforward nigiri, hand rolls, and a few house specials. Efficient service and tight quarters make it a reliable pre-theater stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Special Roll, Mason Street Roll, Hamachi Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Compact counter spot delivering classic nigiri and signature rolls fast.
Who should go: Pre-show sushi seekers
When to visit: Early dinner before curtain time
What to order: Toro Special; Mason Street Roll; hamachi nigiri
Insider tip: Space is tight—arrive early or plan for takeout.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Union Square is limited and metered; nearby paid garages like the Sutter-Stockton Garage are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; theatergoers often lean a bit dressy, but jeans and a nice top are fine.
Noise level: Moderate; the small space hums with activity but you can still hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes if you arrive without a reservation, especially pre-theater.
Weekday lunch: Usually minimal wait, with turnover staying quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—avocado, cucumber, and vegetable rolls are available.
Vegan options: Limited—simple veggie rolls are possible, but most menu items feature seafood.
Gluten-free options: Yes—nigiri and sashimi are naturally gluten-free; request no soy sauce or ask for tamari packets.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual or low-key dates—the space is tiny and not private, but it works if you both love sushi and plan to see a show nearby.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but space is very limited. Arrive early (before 6pm) to secure a spot, or plan for quick counter dining or takeout.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids—the seating is tight and geared toward adults grabbing sushi quickly. Older kids or teens who enjoy sushi may be fine.
Best For
Better for: Faster, more affordable sushi near Union Square compared to upscale omakase options.
Skip if: You want a lingering, romantic dinner or a large-group outing—opt for larger sushi restaurants instead.