Sugarfish

Walking into Sugarfish feels like stepping into a clean, modern sanctuary dedicated to one thing: quality sushi without the fuss. This LA transplant has finally landed in Manhattan’s Flatiron district, bringing its no-frills approach to omakase-style dining to the East Coast. Forget the elaborate sushi bar theatrics—here, everything happens behind closed kitchen doors, letting the food speak for itself.

The concept is refreshingly simple: choose from one of three “Trust Me” menus and let the kitchen take care of the rest. Each meal kicks off with edamame and silky tuna sashimi in ponzu, followed by a parade of generously sized nigiri. The rice runs warm and distinctly tangy, a departure from the more delicate preparations at traditional high-end spots, but undeniably satisfying in its own right. Whether you opt for the lighter option or go all in, you’ll encounter pristine cuts of albacore, salmon, and yellowtail, each piece reflecting the kitchen’s commitment to consistency.

The real showstopper is the blue crab handroll—creamy, rich, and nothing like anything you’d expect from a seafood dish. It’s become something of a signature, and for good reason. For those keeping it light, the toro handroll delivers that buttery richness that tuna belly lovers crave.

Fair warning: the lines here can be legendary, especially during prime dinner hours. Plan to arrive early or prepare for a significant wait. But once you’re seated with a plate of warm-rice sushi in front of you, it’s easy to understand why people keep coming back. For anyone craving reliable, well-executed sushi at a reasonable price point, Sugarfish delivers exactly what it promises—no more, no less.