Kusshi Silver Spring Downtown — Restaurant in Silver Spring

I was in downtown Silver Spring to see a movie, and took the opportunity to check out the Kusshi Sushi around the corner to the Regal Majestic theater. I go to the Kusshi location at Pike and Rose in North Bethesda frecuently, but I had not tried this other site of the Kusshi empire. Kusshi Sushi Silver Spring is tucked away in a recessed store front, so you have to look for it carefully, otherwise you may miss it. There are some tables outside to dine al fresco, but the main seating in inside. You have to go to the main register to "check in" and then seat at a table for service. I found this a little bit odd since the decor gives more of a take-out/casual fast service vibe; it is sparse and practical, with many two seater tables, but every seat has already a set up (glass, chopstick and napkin). Kusshi serves popular Japanese dishes, like sushi, sashimi, rolls, katsu (chicken, pork cutlets),various noodle dishes, etc. I decided to splurge and ordered the "deluxe" sushi/sashimi combination, which included more expensive fish like toro tuna, fatty salmon, Japanese mackerel. I also added an order of uni (sea urchin roe) because I just love it. The order came in a traditional, old-fashion giant sushi boat, which was fun. There was a great variety of both sushi and sashimi(fish only), including ebi(raw shrimp), fatty tuna belly (toro), and various salmon cuts. There was a higher sashimi ratio, which it typically makes a sushi serving more expensive. I got the sea urchin order (2 pieces) as a separate at the end and they were small but super fresh and delicious. The freshness of the fish was a characteristic of all the fish included! The rice was soft and not overly seasoned with vinegar, which is a trick used by restaurants when they are serving not-so-fresh fish. I also ordered a Sapporo Black Japanese beer, which was served in a frosty tall glass, and it was much appreciated! The service was incredibly attentive and friendly, which was also greatly appreciated. The only negative issue that I noted was that their air conditioning was making a horrible noise and there was a drip from the ceiling being caught by a bucket at the very entrance, which I hope is a transitory situation in an otherwise perfectitly acceptable restaurant offering fresh fish at a good value....

When I first arrived there were 4 families (2 large ones and 2 small ones). There was 1 host, 1 server, 3 sushi chefs about 2-3 people in the kitchen. I assumed that this would be quick meal due to it not being busy.

Unfortunately I was incorrect. After being seated it took well over 15 minutes for my order to be taken. I ordered the following:

Drinks Social Hibisicus Cucumber Sake Appetizer Miso Soup Entree Nigiris (Salmon Roe, Sea Urchin, Surf Clam, Fatty Salmon, Tuna) Sashimi (Wagyu)

They don't have warm sake, if you want to get that they don't offer it at this location. As I was waiting the music was a bit off. They played some nice pop music and then it would turn to some intimate R&B and then some vulgar rap music. There was kids present so I was kind of surprised that they played Tomorrow by Glorilla. I love her music but not when I am trying to eat sushi. After placing my order 15+ minutes pass and I am still waiting for my miso soup. At this point I can safely assume that it was forgotten and it will come out the same time as my entree. Unfortunately, I was correct. I had to remind the server about it after I got entree.

My rating for the food: OK Miso soup Sea Urchin Salmon Roe Tuna

Great Wagyu Fatty Salmon Surf Clam

My entire experience at this place was a bit disappointing. Mainly due to the service. I would rate the food to be a 7/10 and service to be a 3/10. I would only order out from here versus dine in. All together including tip and the extra treats I got came...

If you're looking for a review to help decide where to eat, look no further. Head over to Kusshi Sushi with the knowledge that you're in for impeccable quality Japanese fare and great service.

The tonkotsu ramen is the best bowl of ramen in Silver Spring, hands down. Woodear, bamboo, and other veg were snappy rather than over-cooked and wilted or raw and too stiff. Heaping portion of noddles I could not finish in one sitting and that held up very well after a few hours in the fridge. Chashu was immaculate, two thick slices of juicy pork seared to perfection with fat caps that melted in your mouth. Most importantly, the broth was a luxurious, silky gift of the umami gods to humanity. Absolutely packed with flavor and richness without being overwhelming. You will slurp every last drop, and you will mourn when it is gone.

Other dishes were of similar quality, with two satisfied vegetarian diners. One diner who is a stickler for tamago, a benchmark for a good sushi restaurant, was very impressed with Kushi's delicately cooked and well seasoned omelette. I would report myself, but by the time I looked up from my bowl, all three pieces had disappeared.

Given the quality of ingredients and attention to detail in preparation, I am very excited to try the rest of the menu, from the donburi to the sushi and...