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Kimu Sushi
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Kimu Sushi
8.3
Vibrant izakaya experience featuring a sushi bar styled like a Japanese street-side restaurant complete with roof overhang. Creative specialty rolls blend traditional techniques with modern presentations, while the yakitori and small plates program appeals to groups seeking variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Star Roll, Grilled Skewers, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Authentic izakaya atmosphere with theatrical sushi bar design transports diners to Tokyo
Who should go: Groups wanting traditional izakaya experience with creative sushi
When to visit: Evening for full izakaya vibe with sake
What to order: Star Roll, any grilled yakitori, izakaya small plates
Insider tip: April provides exceptional service and menu guidance
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available but competitive evenings; paid lot at 2nd & Alamitos (2 blocks) $8 flat rate after 5pm
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans welcome but the trendy crowd leans stylish
Noise level: Lively izakaya energy - conversation-friendly but not quiet dining
Weekend wait: 45-60 minutes without reservation after 7pm, bar seating often available
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, walk-ins typically seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - solid selection including vegetable tempura, mushroom yakitori, avocado rolls, and edamame preparations
Vegan options: Limited - cucumber rolls, edamame, and select vegetable yakitori can be prepared without butter
Gluten-free options: Possible with modifications - tamari available, avoid tempura and most sauces, inform server
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - the theatrical sushi bar provides natural conversation starters, lighting is flattering, and sharing small plates creates interactive dining without formality. Request April as your server for attentive but not intrusive service.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible weeknights before 7pm or after 9pm. Weekends are risky - if you arrive without one, put your name in and grab drinks at the bar where you can also order full menu. Solo diners and couples can often snag bar seats.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens and older kids who appreciate sushi - the izakaya vibe skews adult and lively. Younger children may enjoy yakitori and California rolls, but this isn't a family-focused atmosphere. Pre-7pm dinner is your best bet if bringing kids.
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting variety beyond just sushi - the yakitori and izakaya small plates program gives non-sushi lovers plenty to enjoy. Also superior for atmosphere seekers who want Instagram-worthy aesthetics and energetic Tokyo street vibes over quiet traditional omakase.
Skip if: You want intimate quiet conversation or traditional high-end omakase experience. Also skip if your group is strictly vegan or requires extensive gluten-free options - better choices exist for those needs in East Village.
Kimu Sushi
8.6
Downtown izakaya that opened in 2024, bringing authentic Japanese street-food energy to the former Maru Maki space. The sushi bar features a distinctive overhead roof styled like a Tokyo street vendor, while the kitchen turns out yakitori skewers, hand rolls, and izakaya small plates alongside creative specialty rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Stinky Roll, Kimu Roll, Hand Rolls
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Downtown's newest izakaya with authentic street-side sushi bar design and grilled skewers
Who should go: Sushi lovers seeking authentic izakaya atmosphere and creativity
When to visit: Friday-Saturday evenings for the full izakaya experience
What to order: Stinky roll, hand rolls from the bar, yakitori skewers
Insider tip: Sit at the sushi bar under the Japanese street-style roof overhang