Sushiya — Restaurant in North Liberty

First, let me start by saying that the food here is awesome. I've been coming to Sushiya every other week since I first tried it in February. I always get two rolls of sushi, and have never been disappointed with the food. However, the service could definitely use some improvement.

I came in for lunch yesterday, by myself, looking to enjoy a quiet meal and read my book. It took several minutes for me to be seated, which is pretty typical. It then took another five minutes before the server finally came over to greet me and take my order. I had to repeat myself multiple times, which is pretty frustrating. I could tell that the server had several other tables, but she wasn't moving with any sort of hurry, at all. I always let the server know that I just want to be left alone to read my book, but the server yesterday thought it was necessary to interrupt my reading so she could put down my water. Not only was that totally unnecessary, but it was infuriating that it happened so soon after I asked for 'silent service'. When the food arrived, she interrupted me again, so I went ahead and asked for my check. When she finally brought the check, I immediately put my card on it, and went back to reading, but she interrupted me again to hand the the stick of gum that they give out. First off, I have braces, so gum isn't even an option for me, but even if it was, she could leave it on the freaking table. My water glass was empty at this point, and she had even brought the water pitcher with her, but then said "Oh, it was no ice" and left. This would have been fine if she had brought another water with her when she dropped off my card, but she didn't. At this point, I was so irritated that I quickly finished my meal and left.

I have had enjoyable service here before, but it's on the rare occasion that I get a server who understands me. Overall, the staff has no ability to read the guests, and is way too overly attentive. Even if I didn't want to read, I would be annoyed with the number of people who check on the table, and the frequency of those visits. On a visit two months ago, I had someone checking on me every five minutes. That's not an exaggeration. Like I said, the food here is awesome, but I'm at the point where it's just not worth it anymore. I want to be able to relax on my lunch break, not be...

I've gone into this establishment two times ever. Both times I've ever gone in there the service has been extremely rude. The last time I went in there, and I'm never going in there again, a waiter came up and asked everybody at the table what they wanted to drink. One of the young adults with us ordered a drink. I typically order for my small child. I told the waiter what I wanted before I had the chance to ask my child about what she wanted and order it for her (it usually takes her longer to decide). In a very rude tone the waiter said "I wasn't asking you. I was asking her." Factually, this was not correct because he'd asked the table and accepted the young adults drink. As well, I'm ordering in the most timely way possible to help him out and was treated like a shameful person as the adult for "going first". My young daughter does not order by herself anyway but the man insisted, coercing her into ordering anything she wanted with or without my permission for her drink, as though she'd be buying it! I have never before had a waiter tell me that they would not take my drink order right after asking me for it and then say they were not talking to me when they asked the whole table, especially when I am the person buying. I have also never had a waiter insist on what order my table must go in to get drinks. I got up, walked out and will not waste my money on people who have no courtesy or respect or who maybe only do for some people they choose to like. It was beyond dismissive, it was intentionally rude and I feel like it is because I'm a white older female. Not the kind anyone would be interested in hearing anything from. He basically just said "Shut up, no one asked you about your drink order," literally right after he did ask me for it and I felt humiliated in front of everyone there. I had a similar experience before another time when I went there to order and had not even stayed. I barely put one foot in the door and they were very rude that time too and I won't be going ever again. They pick and choose who they like, and I won't spend my...

As Seattle natives, we know how tough it is to find fresh seafood in the Midwest. Most places here are just okay, but Sushiya? It’s a total standout. Their sashimi is hands down the best in the area—fresh, clean, and beautifully presented every single time.

I PROMISE YOU—order the hamachi kama!!! You will not regret it. It’s one of the only things I’ve had in Iowa that tastes close to the best I’ve had in Seattle, if not better, depending on the fish they have in stock.

The restaurant is owned by Taiwanese owners, and they’ve nailed the perfect mix of authentic Japanese cuisine with a little Taiwanese flair. I’m obsessed with their Taiwanese chicken—it’s crispy, flavorful, and so addictive. The sashimi platters are a must-try, and their rolls are just as great, balancing creativity with traditional flavors. On cold Iowa days, their hot sake is my go-to—it’s warm, comforting, and pairs perfectly with their menu.

The ambiance is cozy but modern, and you can even watch the sushi chef in action, which makes it feel extra special. Plus, it’s close to a cute man-made pond where you can take a nice walk after your meal. Parking is easy too, which is always a win.

Service is usually fantastic. There’s one waitress who’s a friend of the owner, and she’s the absolute best—she remembers our orders, is super sweet, and knows just when to check in. That said, when they’re busy, the service can slow down a bit, but it’s totally understandable for a small restaurant.

Sushiya has become our go-to spot when we’re craving authentic Japanese food and fresh seafood. It’s a rare gem in the Midwest, and I’d happily brave an Iowa winter just for their sashimi and hot sake. Highly recommend—just be ready to wait a little during peak hours, but trust me,...