VIBE

Ushiwakamaru is giving New York’s sushi powerhouses a run for their money. Tucked away in an unassuming subterranean space, this Village gem serves up fabulously fresh fish at unbeatable prices. Chef Hideo Kuribara excels with his choice assortments like toro, yellowtail, and sazae, all painstakingly arranged to meet the exacting standards of the sushi snobs that crowd the bar. The superior quality of the fare transforms this would-be-underdog into a noteworthy sushi destination.

CROWD

The expected mix of Village folk, sushi snobs, and Japanese expats.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

We’d go casual with a shirt and sleek pants, flats, and fun accessories.

GO HERE WITH

A small group of friends; significant other; a date; yourself

WHY WE LIKE IT

In this city, you’d be hard-pressed to find sushi of this quality at such great prices. (But note that the portions are traditionally delicate.) Plus, this place is also about as unpretentious as they come.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

If you aren’t an expert on Japanese cuisine, you might struggle to follow the menu, as many of the seafood picks are rare Japanese varieties you’ve probably never heard of.

GOOD TO KNOW

As with all other sushi joints, the seats at the bar are the best in the house. If you’re willing to go all out, definitely opt for the chef’s assortment (omakase).

CLOSEST COMPS

Soto (New York); Sasabune (New York)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.