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Sushi Rush
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Rush
7.6
Grand Central Market's casual sushi counter led by Chef Tomo Kawamura with 20+ years experience. Machine-formed nigiri ensures consistency while handrolls stay fresh with plant-derived film wrapping, offering quality fast-casual sushi in a shared food hall setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
SushiRush Set, Rush Roll, Toro with Caviar Handroll
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.6
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Accessible quality sushi in Grand Central Market with innovative packaging
Who should go: Budget-conscious downtown workers and market shoppers
When to visit: Lunch hours for freshest preparation, avoid weekend crowds
What to order: SushiRush 8-piece set, Rush Roll, Japanese shaved ice
Insider tip: Handrolls wrapped in plant film maintain crispy nori for takeout
Sushi Rush
7.7
Inside Grand Central Market, this counter from Tomo Kawamura and Nao Kikuchi delivers high-quality sushi in a casual format. The open handroll sets showcase fresh fish at accessible prices amid the historic market's energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Rush Roll Set, Sushi Rush Combo, Salmon Zukushi
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.3
What makes it special: Quality sushi inside iconic Grand Central Market environment
Who should go: Daytime dates exploring downtown wanting quick quality bite
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner before market closes
What to order: Rush Roll set ($28) for variety of open handrolls
Insider tip: Look for Jonas Never's Shohei Ohtani mural to find the stall
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Grand Central Market parking lot $10 flat rate, or paid street parking $3-4/hr - arrive early for spots
Dress code: Totally casual - it's a market counter. Jeans, sneakers, whatever
Noise level: Loud - food hall acoustics with 30+ vendors. Not ideal for deep conversation
Weekend wait: 5-10 min counter line, then hunt for communal seating
Weekday lunch: Peak lunch rush 12-1pm has lines, otherwise walk right up
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - cucumber roll, avocado roll, veggie handroll options available
Vegan options: Very limited - cucumber roll only, most items have fish or mayo
Gluten-free options: Possible - they can use tamari instead of soy sauce, rice-based
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better as a 2nd or 3rd date. The food hall vibe is fun and casual but loud with communal seating - not romantic or private. Great if you're doing a downtown walking date and want a quick quality bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No tables or reservations - it's a counter service stall. You order at the counter, grab your food, then find open seating in the market's communal areas. Weekend lunch is when seating gets competitive.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes - food hall setting means casual chaos is fine. Kids can explore other stalls if sushi doesn't appeal. Just keep an eye on them in the crowded market space.
Best For
Better for: Affordable quality sushi in a unique historic setting. Best when you want the Grand Central Market experience with solid food - exploring downtown, catching vibes, not spending $50+ per person
Skip if: You want intimate conversation, table service, or a quiet romantic atmosphere. If you need privacy or full attention on your date, go to a traditional restaurant instead