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Nikko Sushi Izakaya
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Nikko Sushi Izakaya
8.0
Nikko Sushi Izakaya brings a full Japanese izakaya experience to Division Street with maki, sashimi, and grilled skewers served in a multi-level, softly lit space. Locals use it for casual date nights and small groups who want an all-you-can-eat option but with a little more atmosphere than classic AYCE joints.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Bulls Roll, Pork Belly & Scallion Yakitori, Assorted Nigiri Plate
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: A modern izakaya where AYCE sushi meets skewers, cocktails, and a multi-level dining room.
Who should go: Small groups and couples wanting livelier sushi nights.
When to visit: Evenings when the bar and upper floors feel most active.
What to order: The Bulls Roll, pork belly yakitori, assorted nigiri plate.
Insider tip: Book ahead and ask to sit upstairs if you want a cozier, more izakaya-like feel.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Division and nearby residential streets; it can be competitive during peak dining hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans and sneakers are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy at night.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational at early seatings, livelier later in the evening.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak prime-time hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though service leans dinner-focused so hours may vary.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — veggie rolls, tempura, tofu dishes, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited but possible — a few vegetable rolls and sides if you confirm ingredients.
Gluten-free options: Some options available like sashimi and select rolls, but cross-contact is likely in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the lighting is warm, the atmosphere relaxed but lively, and the menu is easy to share, making conversation flow naturally.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weeknights or early evenings, but weekends book up — expect a wait if you walk in during peak dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Older kids and teens should be fine, but the vibe leans more toward adults, date nights, and small groups rather than young families.
Best For
Better for: Groups or date nights that want AYCE sushi in a setting that feels more stylish and atmospheric than basic takeout or buffet-style sushi spots.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional omakase, quiet fine dining, or strictly gluten-free food preparation.
Nikko Sushi Izakaya
8.0
Nikko Sushi Izakaya is a newer Division Street izakaya where an all-you-can-eat option, cocktails, and signature rolls like Dragon On Fire and The Bulls meet a compact hot-food menu. It’s a solid choice for groups who want contemporary maki and drinks in a lively but not clubby setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dragon On Fire Roll, The Bulls Roll, Godzilla Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 6.6
What makes it special: All-you-can-eat-friendly sushi bar with a long signature-roll list and cocktails.
Who should go: Friends planning sushi-first nights with a side of drinks.
When to visit: Prime weekend evenings or later seatings once Division heats up.
What to order: Dragon On Fire Roll, The Bulls Roll, one crispy appetizer.
Insider tip: AYCE works best if you build the first round around favorite signatures, not filler.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Division and nearby residential streets; it can be competitive during peak evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but many guests lean slightly dressy for night-out vibes.
Noise level: Moderate — lively room energy but you can usually hold a normal conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait (if open during lunch service).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage — multiple veggie rolls and appetizers available.
Vegan options: Limited — a few rolls and sides may work, but check sauces and toppings.
Gluten-free options: Some options — sushi rice is fine, but soy sauce and tempura contain gluten; ask for GF substitutes where available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s lively but not overwhelming, with shareable plates and cocktails that help keep the mood fun and relaxed.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes — but expect a wait on weekend evenings. Arriving early or later in the night improves your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s better suited to adults and older teens due to the bar-forward, evening-out atmosphere rather than family dining.
Best For
Better for: Groups who want modern signature rolls, cocktails, and a social atmosphere without going full party-scene.
Skip if: You’re seeking ultra-traditional sushi, omakase-style dining, or a very quiet, minimalist environment.
Nikko Sushi Izakaya
7.8
Nikko Sushi Izakaya is a newer Division Street spot mixing all-you-can-eat sushi with izakaya-style small plates in a sleek, clubby setting. It’s a modern pick for couples who want a livelier date night built around sharing rolls, carpaccio, and cocktails.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Wrap, Tuna Tartare, Green Devil Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.2
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: Modern AYCE sushi-and-izakaya spot where signature rolls share the spotlight with crudo-style plates.
Who should go: Couples wanting energetic, modern sushi with lively music.
When to visit: Weekend evenings with a reservation to avoid peak waits.
What to order: Toro Wrap, Tuna Tartare, Green Devil or other signature rolls.
Insider tip: Use the AYCE format to try more small crudo and carpaccio plates early in the meal before filling up on rolls.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Division and nearby residential blocks; it can be competitive after 6pm. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Trendy casual to smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean a bit dressy for date night.
Noise level: Moderate-to-loud — conversation is doable but expect music and crowd buzz during peak times.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation during prime hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait (limited daytime hours; check schedule).
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good selection — plenty of veggie rolls and small plates.
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be modified but options are not extensive.
Gluten-free options: Some sashimi and simple rolls may work, but cross-contact is likely; confirm with staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want an energetic modern vibe rather than a quiet, intimate setting. The variety of small plates makes sharing easy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes on weekdays, but weekends fill up quickly. Walk-ins may face a wait — reservations are best for prime dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? It’s more geared toward adults and date nights. Older teens are fine, but it’s not set up for small children or toddlers.
Best For
Better for: Lively date nights with cocktails, AYCE sushi value, and modern atmosphere.
Skip if: You prefer a quiet, traditional omakase-style sushi experience or have strict dietary restrictions.