Best Date Night Sushi Restaurants in East Village (10003)
6 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: January 2026
Our Top Pick
Kanoyama
Michelin-recognized pedigree translated into everyday rolls.
Essential Picks
#1
Kanoyama
9.1
A refined East Village sushi counter with an intimate omakase focus and quietly confident technique. Fish selection leans classic Edomae with careful knife work and pristine rice, making it an easy splurge for a special night. The room stays calm and polished even when the neighborhood gets loud.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Taku Roll, Spicy Scallop Roll, Chef’s Omakase + One Roll
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized pedigree translated into everyday rolls.
Notable Picks
#2
Hasaki
8.6
A long-running East Village institution (since 1984) that keeps things traditional with reliable Edomae-style sushi and a low-lit, wood-toned dining room. The fish quality and breadth of seasonal specials make it feel elevated without losing neighborhood warmth. Great for dates that want authenticity over flash.
Must-Try Dishes:
Edomae omakase, Salmon and amberjack sashimi, Grilled miso black cod
What makes it special: A decades-old Edomae sushi counter that locals trust.
#3
Moko
8.4
A compact omakase bar delivering a polished 15-course progression at a relatively approachable price. The chefs mix tradition with small creative touches, and the pacing feels tailored for couples lingering over sake. Ideal for a ‘special but not ultra-formal’ sushi night.
Must-Try Dishes:
15-course omakase, Smoked trout nigiri, Toro with yuzu kosho
What makes it special: Affordable omakase with creative seasoning.
8.3
A newer East Village counter that keeps omakase energetic and interactive while staying technique-forward. Fish selections skew modern Edomae with clean seasoning and thoughtful textures. The close quarters make it feel like a shared experience—great for a fun, food-focused date.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal omakase, Kohada (gizzard shad), Uni tasting bite
What makes it special: Edomae-style omakase with meticulous aging and balance.
8.1
An omakase-only room with a slightly experimental streak—think classic nigiri foundations with bright, modern accents. The vibe is intimate and contemporary, and the shorter menus are a solid gateway to tasting-format sushi.
Must-Try Dishes:
12-course omakase, Truffle toro bite, Uni hand roll
What makes it special: Omakase-only with subtle modern flourishes.
Worthy Picks
#6
Shirokuro
7.8
NYC’s first full-service 2D-themed Japanese spot pairs playful visuals with a solid, affordable omakase. The food is straightforward and fresh, while the black-and-white sketchbook interior makes it feel like a mini event. Best for dates wanting something a little different from the usual sushi counter.
Must-Try Dishes:
16-course omakase, Ika fried squid starter, Caviar-topped tuna bites
What makes it special: Immersive 2D dining with accessible sushi omakase.