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ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Chinatown
Best Sushi Rolls in Chinatown
Best Japanese in Chinatown
Master Critic Review
Maru Sushi
7.9
Casual Powell Street standby turning out classic rolls, bento, and nigiri near the cable car line. Friendly service and fair prices make it a reliable downtown sushi stop.
Must-Try Dishes:
49er Roll, Rainbow Roll, Salmon Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Old-school menu breadth with dependable execution steps from Union Square.
Who should go: Office crowds and casual sushi eaters
When to visit: Early lunch before noon or after 8pm
What to order: 49er roll; rainbow roll; salmon nigiri
Insider tip: Grab counter seats for quicker turns during peak hours.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: No dedicated parking; closest option is Union Square Garage (about $5–$7 per hour). Street parking is scarce, especially evenings.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and work attire all fit in. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—can comfortably hold a conversation, though peak lunch hours bring some bustle.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes without a reservation, depending on theater and tourist traffic nearby.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before noon; short waits after 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plenty of veggie rolls, tofu teriyaki, and sides like edamame.
Vegan options: Limited—basic cucumber/avocado rolls and seaweed salad available.
Gluten-free options: Some options like sashimi and simple rolls, but no dedicated prep area—cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works for a casual date—easygoing setting with reliable sushi, though not the most romantic choice.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most diners walk in. Reservations aren’t common, but expect a brief wait at peak times.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are welcome. The menu has simple rolls and bento boxes that work well for children.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable sushi with dependable service right by the cable car line—ideal for downtown workers and casual meals.
Skip if: You’re looking for creative rolls, omakase experiences, or a high-design atmosphere—other Union Square sushi spots deliver more on that front.
Hours
Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 10pm