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Kaki
Master Critic Review
Kaki
8.6
Kaki is a small LES sushi counter where omakase sets lean focused and generous for the price, spotlighting cuts like toro, king salmon, and Spanish mackerel. The room is compact and understated, but regulars come for the fish quality and relaxed, neighborhood feel.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Nigiri, King Salmon Nigiri, Spanish Mackerel Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 6.9
What makes it special: Tight, value-forward omakase that overachieves on ingredient quality for the price.
Who should go: Sushi fans wanting serious fish without formality
When to visit: Weeknights and early weekends for easier reservations
What to order: Omakase set, toro, Spanish mackerel
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to watch the full omakase flow up close.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; can be tight after 6pm on weeknights and especially difficult on weekends. Nearby garages on Delancey and Ludlow are the most reliable paid options.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests wear neat jeans, button-downs, or casual dresses. No need for formal wear, but avoid overly casual gym attire.
Noise level: Moderate; the small room has steady conversation hum, but you can easily hold a one-on-one conversation at the counter.
Weekend wait: 10–25 minutes if you walk in right at opening; otherwise expect waits of 30–45 minutes without a reservation due to the compact counter.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Kaki focuses on dinner service and typically has no lunch hours.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited; a few vegetable nigiri pieces or side items may be available, but there is no full vegetarian omakase.
Vegan options: Not suitable; core menu centers on seafood with no structured vegan substitutes.
Gluten-free options: Manageable with communication; soy sauce can be swapped for gluten-free tamari on request, and most nigiri is naturally gluten-free. Avoid marinated items unless clarified with the chef.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes; the counter setup encourages easy conversation, and the intimate room feels warm without being overly formal. It works especially well for dates who appreciate sushi or trying omakase for the first time.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes; arriving within the first 30 minutes of opening gives you the best chance. Later in the evening, the small space fills up fast, so reservations are strongly recommended.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the compact counter, quiet pacing, and raw-fish focus make it better suited for adults or older teens familiar with sushi.
Best For
Better for: Value-driven omakase where ingredient quality outperforms the price point. Great for relaxed sushi nights without the ceremony of pricier LES counters.
Skip if: You want a long, theatrical omakase experience with premium extras, or need extensive vegetarian or kid-friendly options.