SUSHI SNOB — Restaurant in Washington

As someone with a self-admitted sushi snobbery, I decided to give "Sushi Snob" a try for lunch, eager to see if it could dethrone my go-to spot, Toryumon (Pennsylvania Ave NW), located an equal distance from my office.

The ambience at Sushi Snob was inviting, the service was commendable, and the quality of the food was undeniably good. My order comprised a Sashimi Combo (accompanied by miso soup), an added Spicy Tuna Roll, and a soda. While the flavors were on point, the overall experience didn't quite hit the mark for what I was seeking in a lunchtime sushi escape.

One stark difference was the price point. My meal at Sushi Snob tallied up to over $40, a substantial leap from the approximately $23 I'm accustomed to at Toryumon for a similar set. While the quality of the sushi at both establishments was comparable, Toryumon takes the lead in terms of the generosity of the sashimi portions.

Sushi Snob does have its unique charms, notably its more open and well-lit setting with enjoyable window views, in contrast to Toryumon's basement location. However, Toryumon offers a more traditional sit-down experience with a full bar, adding to the overall dining ambiance.

While Sushi Snob offers a decent sushi experience, especially for those who prefer a quick counter service setup, it doesn't quite surpass the value for money and portion size offered by Toryumon. The quest continues for a sushi lunch spot that can outshine Toryumon in terms of both...

Some of the most outstanding fish I've ever had. I came here because I had been craving salmon for a few days (got the combo) and was not at all disappointed. The fish was incredibly fresh and the perfect thickness. On a budget, I am used to choosing between the quality of the fish I eat and how much the food will actually fill me. Sushi Snob left me more than satisfied in both regards. The quality and amount for the price, especially in DC, blew me away.

I normally don't comment on service since I don't mind how quickly or slowly I get the check, when my food comes out, how upbeat or reserved the waiters are, etcetera. European mindset, I suppose. That being said, the seating staff and the chefs behind the bar were great to be around and managed to somehow alleviate the awkwardness I ALWAYS feel while eating out by myself. (This is even despite me screwing up and trying to sit at a seat I was just told was reserved...I felt so stupid, but the host reassured me.)

The space is quite small, so it's very good for one-on-one or solo meals. For ~4-6-person parties, the omakase seems popular. Definitely not for large or loud groups. The fact that it doesn't look like anything special on the outside nor inside made the absolutely perfect meal I had here all the more appreciated.

Will definitely be coming back once my budget increases, and I hope to one day treat friends and family to...

Absolutely enchanted by my omakase experience!

Steer clear of other spots; this one transcends expectations. Having explored omakase across the states, even the renowned ones fall short of this hidden gem, breaking free from sushi snobbery.

The highlight? Undeniably the superbly curated fish selection. Each piece, a testament to culinary artistry, surpassed my expectations. What set this experience apart were the exquisite hot dishes seamlessly woven between courses, elevating the tasting journey.

The owners and chefs? They're the cherries on top, sealing the experience like a wax-sealed envelope—sophisticated and perfect. Can't contain my excitement to introduce this culinary haven to all my friends. It's a gastronomic adventure that deserves...