A Taste of Tokyo in Mt. Vernon Square!

Last week, I had the great pleasure of discovering DC’s newest concept in Japanese dining. Kushi, located on 5th and K Street in the CityVista building, brings not only a fresh new look to the growing Mt. Vernon Triangle area, but some of the freshest nigiri I’ve ever had!

Spending my last “official” night of living in the DC area, my friends and I attempted to make Kushi’s Happy Hour on a bustling Friday night.  Sadly, the rainy weather and habitual tardiness of large groups caused us to miss our 6:30pm reservation. However, after speaking with the very gracious and accommodating staff (who I later learned were the owners!) we were able to seat our complete party, and even add on a couple extra people!  This was no easy feat on a busy Friday night, but the staff truly went above and beyond to accommodate our party!

Once we were seated, we perused the menu, which offered quite a variety!  Promoting the first Japanese Izakaya-style restaurant in DC, Kushi includes a variety of grilled meats, vegetables, bar snacks and of course, fresh, fresh sushi!   The name “izakaya” is a a combination of the Japanese words “i ” (to sit) and “sakaya” (sake shop).  And to label Kushi as a “sake shop” is quite an understatement!  From sashimi to sake, Kushi definitely offers it all!  Such a huge selection of Japan’s finest, you’ll want to try every last bite!

As we were quite a large group, we opted to try a bit of everything, and were nothing short of impressed!  Though the portions can be smaller than expected, the flavors make up for it in abundance!  The idea of an izakaya is to offer a wide variety of small snacks with your choice of sake, beer or any libation!  And, since portions are smaller– so is the price!  Prepare to order in parts and gradually end up with a complete and satisfying meal!

We sampled succulent pork belly, wasabi chicken skewers, crispy chicken skin and just about every nigiri on the menu.  And, I must say, I’m a HUGE fan!   The freshest catches of the day are available from their small, but distinguished fish market– complete with lobster and fresh Kumamoto oysters!

Word to the wise, if you’re looking for creative, trendy sushi rolls, Kushi is not the place for you.   You’ll find no average sushi bar here.  Think and expect authentic, simple, delicious dishes made from the freshest ingredients!

As I mentioned before, I had the wonderful pleasure of meeting the co-owners, husband and wife team, Darren and Ari.  Hailing from New York City, this dynamic duo certainly knows how to make a guest feel welcome and taken care of!   They have managed to bring a neighborhood feel with a chic and stylish scene to DC’s up and coming Mt. Vernon Square.   If you find yourself scouring the streets of Gallery Place looking for something new, head just a few short blocks north and discover the wonder within Kushi Izakaya & Sushi!  You’ll be wondering where DC’s Japanese cuisine has been hiding!

Kushi Izakaya & Sushi

465 K Street, NW

Washington, DC 21001

202.682.3123

*Reservations highly recommended