0 Followers
Sushi Hayashi
ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Midtown East
Best Sushi Rolls in Midtown East
Best Date Night Sushi in Midtown East
Master Critic Review
Sushi Hayashi
8.3
Sushi Hayashi is a lively omakase spot known for its all-you-can-eat nigiri format with included beer and sake, keeping the room loud and celebratory. The 14-course progression leans on fatty cuts, salmon, and shellfish, drawing enthusiastic repeaters who value quantity without sacrificing fish quality.
Must-Try Dishes:
AYCE Omakase Nigiri (14-course), Toro Nigiri, Wagyu Beef Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: An unusually value-forward omakase where AYCE nigiri and free-flow sake make it feel like a party rather than a ceremony.
Who should go: Groups and couples wanting fun omakase without white-tablecloth stiffness.
When to visit: Prime-time evenings for full energy or later seatings for slower pacing.
What to order: Lean-to-fatty tuna progression, wagyu bites, extra eel and salmon.
Insider tip: Pace yourself—save room for second rounds of your favorite nigiri toward the end.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Turtle Bay and competitive after 6pm; no valet. Paid garages within 1–2 blocks are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most guests lean slightly dressy for omakase, but clean jeans and a nice top are fully acceptable.
Noise level: Loud and energetic—conversation is possible but not intimate; expect celebratory chatter throughout the seating.
Weekend wait: With a reservation, seating is punctual. Without one, waits can run 30–60 minutes depending on demand.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins are usually accommodated immediately.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited. A few vegetable maki or tamago pieces may be offered, but omakase is fish-forward and not optimized for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Not suitable. Components like fish, eggs, and sauces containing bonito or soy-marinated elements are unavoidable.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance notice. Staff can avoid soy-based marinades and provide gluten-free soy sauce, though cross-contact is likely in a fast-paced service.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you prefer a lively, high-energy setting over a quiet, romantic one. The AYCE format and flowing sake make it fun and interactive but not ideal for deep conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, but expect variable wait times during prime dinner hours. Walk-ins fare best at early openings or post-8:30pm seatings.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The loud room and raw-fish focus skew adult-oriented. Teens comfortable with sushi are fine; younger children may find limited suitable options.
Best For
Better for: Quantity-plus-quality omakase, social energy, and value-driven dining with inclusive sake—rare for Midtown’s sushi scene.
Skip if: You want hushed, traditional omakase; require robust vegetarian/vegan accommodations; or prefer quieter, chef-focused interactions.