Got a 15 piece sashimi dinner and 4 of the pieces were omlette. Spicy roll was not even a little spicy at all. Got no soy sauce or ginger. Only upside was good quality of fish - but not better than many others. Huge rip off, I am not difficult to please.
(1)
Eileen Z.
I live by a number of sushi spots near Harvard Ave, but still drive out to Asahi for all my sushi. The space is small, but the proprietors are really nice and the sushi is quality for the price. Very satisfied!
(4)
Kaitlyn S.
Delicious and underrated ..awesome service and amazing sushi
(5)
Joanna M.
After seeing other yelp reviews figured this place had to be ok and decide to give it a try. I was shocked because most times yelp gives a pretty good description of how the place actually is..that was not the case for this place. I've had my share of sushi and so I at least know when the sushi is decent. Yes, the sushi was fresh but it wasn't good. There was no flavor which is what sushi is all about. The rolls were very small and not put together well (I had to be extra careful when picking them up to make sure they didn't fall apart). Most shocking part? I was the only one there so it's not like the sushi "master" had to rush to put my order together. I was very disappointed. The place itself was cozy, and the sushi chef was friendly but that doesn't make up for bad sushi unfortunately.
(1)
Eunice E.
I love when little hole-in-the-wall places rock your socks off, and Asahi does just that! There's not a lot of space inside (one table with four chairs and then a sushi bar with seats for maybe up to ten?), but what it lacks in space, it makes up for in terms of flavor and service. Fresh sushi made to order, reasonable prices, and awesome sides like miso soup and seaweed salad. Standard Japanese fare done really, really well.
(4)
Lisa H.
My boyfriend and I ordered takeout from here the other night because of Asahi's location and positive Yelp reviews. We experienced both poor customer service and poor food quality. We ordered 6 rolls that should have cost about $35 based on the takeout menu. When we called in our order, they explained that we would get a free spicy tuna roll because our order exceeded $25. Great! When the food arrived an hour later, the total had come out to be more than $10 greater than expected. When we asked the delivery person about the unanticipated cost, they kept repeating that the price was correct and the tuna roll was free. They could not supply us with a receipt that had all of the items broken down- only a total price receipt. We let it go out of restlessness and hunger and assumed they had charged us for the "free" spicy tuna roll. I ordered a volcano roll and after eating two pieces of the roll, I felt incredibly ill. My boyfriend, not realizing that I was feeling so terrible, tried a piece of the volcano roll and also fell incredibly ill. Not only did we get overcharged with no reasonable explanation, but the food caused us to be physically ill for the next 24 hours. Needless to say, I will not be returning to Asahi.
(1)
Evan L.
Ordered the $20 chefs selection of Sashimi. Unfortunately, the chef did not seem to take care when cutting my fish, and as a result many of the cuts were very tough. They were generally hacked to pieces. That being said, all of the meals that my friends had during this sitting were well done and they all enjoyed the experience. Personally, I will be trying somewhere else the next time I am craving raw fish.
(3)
J. C.
Ate here tonight for the first time after being a loyal fins customer for years. I really enjoyed my dinner here, the sushi was amazingly fresh. The portions are a little smaller but it is still a great value. I love how small the restaurant is and the owners are incredibly nice. For the people who complain that the owners aren't nice because they aren't very talkative you must understand that the husband and wife do all of the cooking, serving and deliveries by themselves. They are very nice once you get to know them. We got free sushi at the end of our meal which was a very nice gesture. There is a reason why this place has been here for over 11 years. Try it. One pieve of advice I would give to the owners is that you should not use CFL bulbs with a dimmer because they flicker, this goes for the lights over the sushi bar. It's not a deal breaker but it would make a difference. Also some music in the background would be nice.
(4)
Peter D.
Excellent local sushi joint! Chef gave us a bonus sample of the bluefin sushi after we had finished our order. We always leave here happy and without breaking the bank!
(5)
Brian D.
I still love Asahi for what it is: very good sushi, in a charming, intimate little place. The Saba last night was excellent, the Spicy Scallop sushi was very good, and they always have an interesting special dish. The chef and his partner (wife?) have a nice little rhythm going behind the counter and manage to take care of a few diners and lots of take out orders. I've had (slightly) better fish or rice occasionally, and I've seen a few places with bigger menus and more creative rolls. But for a small, neighborhood sushi place Asahi is excellent. And for the quality of the sushi the prices are very reasonable!
(4)
Kimberly S.
Sushi was definitely not fresh when I went. I ordered a roll with white tuna and the white tuna was dried out with brown streaks. Very nasty. I have never seen white tuna look like that before. I did not eat the roll. Overall none of our sushi was fresh. Definitely pass.
(1)
Cynthia B.
I ordered (for delivery) the spider roll and the spicy tuna roll. Both were not great. The Spider roll, while yummy, was also strangely salty. The tuna was not very firm. It tasted "good" but that taste and texture that makes you say "yummm...sushi" was not there. Would not order again. It is cheaper, and it shows. Fin is definitely better for the $$. Delivery was great, though! Very quick and nice.
(3)
Chris H.
I ordered a bunch of sushi rools with a group and was a bit underwhelmed. The spicy tuna roll was the best - it did not have too much mayonnaise. The sushi is pretty cheap, so don't expect too much from it. The seaweed salad was very good, but lets be honest, you are not coming here just for that. They also do give you a free roll if you meet an order minimum ($25, I believe) The biggest problem with this place is their delivery service. We have ordered from here a couple times and the delivery always takes over an hour (we are about one mile away) - sometimes much more than an hour. They've also accidentally given the food to the wrong people before, so do not pay in advance. For some reason, they don't always call.
(2)
Julie T.
This place is great! I'm rating this place based on a take-out scale, not a restaurant scale. I've overlooked this place for years before my sister randomly decided she wanted to check the place out and offered to pay. Well, I'm not turning down a free meal so of course I went. This place is really small and I'm guessing people usually just order out but we decided to be different and sit down and eat. Since there was literally just one guy making all the sushi, it took a while for our sushi to come but the woman, who I'm guessing owns the place along with the one chef, was so sweet that I wasn't even upset about the wait. But let me tell you, it was worth it! The sushi was delicious and fresh! Did not expect it to be that good for a place that's legit a hole in the wall. And as we were finishing up and complimenting the chef, he gave us a couple more pieces of sushi. He's the man! Food was awesome and so was the service! And the best part is, it's probably the closest sushi joint in my area. Win!
(5)
Conor F.
I still think Asahi is the best I've had. fresh and tasty, good technique. Only "limitation" is it is better for take-out which requires you to live near by.
(5)
Abigail A.
We had a very pleasant experience tonight jan 25, 2014. Our waitress Haeli was full of great recommendations The sushi was excellent. This is a must try.
(5)
Stephanie H.
So my review is based on their delivered food & its service. Food. + Masago. Delicious, can't go wrong with it. Masago itself was fresh & loved the rice. + Spicy Tuna Roll. Pretty good. BUT, I'm not a fan of using spicy mayo for spicy rolls + Philly Roll. a bit salty, but its smoked salmon. & it was amazing and fresh. The rolls aren't big but they're yummy and the place definitely won't come close to killing your wallet if you just order rolls. Their Delivery - My friends & I ordered delivery to a dorm in Boston College. Its really NOT that difficult. We order all the time and this is the first time that it took 10 minutes to tell them where to deliver to us. We almost just called it quits, but right when we said we'd order from another place they said to not worry and they've figured it out. Then, when they get to BC, they were incredibly lost and my friend went outside, found them, and got the delivery -not even close to our dorm. Maybe we were unlucky, maybe they always have bad delivery, but that was our experience. So unless you live somewhere with a"number" address -not simply building name - I'd suggest not ordering delivery. - Also, their online "discount code" doesn't work. - Delivery rating? ONE star.
(3)
Jessica L.
The sushi was really fresh, and the owners really sweet!
(4)
Vien N.
Love this place! Wish I could live here. Any tempura roll is great, best I've ever had. Honestly I've never had anything bad here, they can do no wrong.
(5)
Mary K.
reliable delivery, excellent rice to fish ratio. dont really undertand the pricing on various rolls, but there is a deal for a free spicy tuna roll when you spend $25 (which is easy to do!) its my go to sushi delivery!
(4)
Stacy B.
Don't be alarmed by the small, claustrophobic-looking exterior, this place is YUMMY! Inside is some exceptionally fresh sushi (reasonably priced), and service, run by a sushi chef/host - husband/wife duo. Started with some miso soup, made to order (and right in front of us), and enjoyed a mix of sashimi and sushi afterwards -- enough to feed two very hungry people. The bill came to $30.13. Can't beat that. Looks like they get most of their business from take out though. At 7pm on a Tuesday, we were the only ones in there, but there was plenty of sushi being made. Good to know! I happily took a menu on my way out, and anticipate my next lazy evening on the couch, eating sushi instead of something terribly bad for my heart (and soul). Wanted a bit more from the atmosphere. Maybe some music? It was pin drop quiet in there. Was more than happy with being able to watch them both prepare our meals. Transparency is key with sushi places. Takeout? Yes. Dining in? Try it, and let me know what you think.
(3)
Maya T.
Excellent, fresh sushi! Only reason I didn't give them five stars is the place is tiny. My friend and I sat at the bar area and it was fun to see the chef make our sushi. I'll definitely go back, and they have take out, which is even better.
(4)
Peter B.
This place is great. The owner is the chef, and he makes tremendous sushi. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly and unobtrusive. Also, they almost always give me "bonus sushi" at the end of my meal when I go with a friend. The only reason they don't get five stars is because there's no booze.
(4)
Leslie W.
Great inexpensive, laid back little sushi joint. The people who run the place are very nice and are generally quick with take out orders.
(5)
Natalie K.
I have ordered delivery from many other sushi places in Brighton and Allston and this has been the best BY FAR! The food is fresh and delicious, the service is quick, and the delivery person each time has been incredibly friendly! If you want to order quick, affordable, tasty sushi in the area- order here!
(5)
Nicole L.
The place is great if you are getting take out as it is rather small. Although they do have one table (besides the bar) and that can be nice to sit at. The couple that runs the place is very nice though and after we had been going for awhile, he would always give us a little "extra" and we loved that. The sushi is as good as any place we order from and we eat a ton of sushi all around the area. I'd highly recommend!
(5)
Rob G.
I lived in Brighton for over 7 years and unfortunately did not find this place until three years ago. What a hidden gem! The owner and chef is friendly and talented. I have loved every single order I have made at this place. The quality of the food is amazing. Few places can produce a spider roll (soft shell crab) as fine as Asahi. Although I no longer live in the neighborhood, I will definitely travel to visit Asahi!
(5)
Nick D.
As current foursquare mayor of this fine establishment, I would be remiss to not put a good word in for this great sushi place. Of all the moderately priced sushi places I have gone to, this one definitely stands out. The fish here is always fresh, always tasty. The single sushi chef in the place is deliberate in his craft. Some would call him slow (I would, if the sushi wasn't so crazy good), but I like to think of him as being very attentive, perfecting the sashimi in succulent morsels of fish goodness. I try to go at least once a week and sometimes even more. Just this week i have gone there for dinner, dessert (what... Sushi after Korean BBQ isn't a normal dessert?), and am actually going to go again for dinner tonight. It is just that good. Everything on the menu is tasty, but I have a particularly soft spot for the following items: 1). Salmon - I have not had salmon that had such a great fresh taste anywhere else. The mouth feel of the fish is also great as well - not too firm that it feels like you need to keep chewing, but not so soft or soggy that it feels like it has been sitting in water all day long. I get at least 2 orders of sashimi each time I go. 2). Spider roll - crunchy yet not completely covered in tempura. Not an overwhelmingly sized roll that you find at other sushi joints. The crab is sweet and the roll is perfect. 3). Salmon belly - if you haven't yet tried this, you need to. It is listed on the daily special board when he has it. It is quite possibly the best thing I have had at Asahi. In both sashimi form or maki, the fish quality really shines through. Like salmon on steroids (but the kind that makes you fat as opposed to muscle), the fish is a very tender, almost melt in your mouth morsel of smooth fatty fish. Amazing. 4). Toro - He has a couple different varieties of the toro, but my favorite is the bluefin toro he serves. Last night's was strikingly fresh, very clean, and quite tasty. Not overpriced like places I have seen, the quality is well worth the wait. And now on to the wait - when i go in, if it is not busy, I usually can get my sushi within maybe 30 minutes or so. But that is because I order at least 60 dollars of sushi as a normal meal each time. So my platter is literally singing with fish. Last night, I got an order with 4 things and it took about 20 minutes. If the place looks busy, you might have to wait a bit. I enjoy the anticipation and the fact that I get to watch the care the chef takes while preparing my dinner. Water is usually served right away, and I vaguely remember getting a soda once. But I don't like to drink anything but water (usually) when I eat sushi. If the sushi is good, it should be the only thing of the meal I want to taste. And by golly, the sushi is great. Trust me, I'm the mayor.
(5)
Dara M.
This looks like a hole-in-the wall, as one other reviewer mentioned, and it's true. The sushi is ok. I didn't get sick the next day, and it tasted great. I got the spicy yellowtail and it was nice, I saw him slice a piece of the fish right in front of me. The spicy rolls have whole pieces of fish in them, not the minced kind like they serve at Fin's. I believe the owners (a couple) are Chinese, as I think they were speaking Mandarin to each other, but you don't have to be Japanese to make good sushi. And that's just what it was. It was good. Not spectacular, but good. They don't have a liquor license, nor are they open for lunch, but if you want a quick to-go meal in Brighton center, it's ok.
(3)
Matthew P.
I feel bad for giving them a two but it really is the epitome of "Meh. I've experienced better." And I have. Much better. First off, my biggest gripe is that they were slow as MOLASSES. We came in to order two maki rolls. There were only two people eating together so we thought it couldn't take any longer than 5-10 minutes. We waited close to half an hour. In the meantime the phone never rang and people never came in. I realize he was probably making to-go orders and that's fine. But we only had two very simple maki rolls (and i know how to make maki rolls). Couldn't he just have quickly made them? I watched him our rolls (when he finally got to it) and it just took a few minutes. I know I'm being overly sensitive about it but I'm just an impatient person. Unfortunately, the maki rolls were just not that good. They were poorly made and fell apart while I was trying to eat it. There was absolutely nothing special about the way it tasted either and the ingredients were very standard. I expect better from a sushi buffet. The couple that own the place are really nice and they are running a very decent business. It's clean and nice looking with what I am sure is a very loyal following. I've worked at many restaurants and to-go areas and I can tell you they really need to manage their orders better. You just can't go in order of what was called in. There aren't many (are there any?) sushi places around the area so if you have a major jones for it go here. But expect standard sushi and extremely long wait times. At least it's relatively cheap!
(2)
Island Boy B.
Asahi is a little hole in the wall. Typical of what you would find in Japan - you wouldn't think its much, but the food is fresh and the wait can be long. Its a one man show, so on a nice night, there can be a wait. I rarely mind since I'm not in such a rush. I usually order an appetizer or salad to hold me over. The one thing about Asahi I like most is that, he always has blue fin toro. Everywhere else I go, they seem to always be out of best part of the fish. I never tried white fin tuna until Long (the owner) gave me some for free. Very fresh and tasty. I have always exchanged pleasantries with him and his wife which put me on his good side. He has the demeanor of the "soup nazi", but he really is a nice gentleman. I had a conversation with one of my other buddies who is a sushi snob (worked in Tokyo for a year, eats sushi at least twice a week). We both agreed, "hands down", Long has some of the best sushi for the price and quality. I should rate it a 4.5 because the bathroom facilities are shared with the building. Wish he would do a groupon or buywith me deal...but I don't think he needs to.
(5)
Matthew D.
The food is outstanding, and the service is excellent. I've eaten at Asahi at least 10 times, and I keep coming back, despite sushi places closer to where I live. I know some people have said that the fish didn't seem fresh- all I can say is that I've never had that experience. Additionally, the delivery (one of the owners driving your food to you) is as prompt as any sushi I've had in Boston. The only reason I wouldn't give it five stars is that it gets expensive if you're looking to get pleasantly full, or if you're here in a group. That said, I'll keep coming back.
(4)
K.C. K.
Asahi is always fresh and delicious, the two main appellations you want in sushi. Highlights include the scallop and red snapper maki and nigiri. The place is small and often my husband and I are in there by ourselves, with maybe one or two other parties. I'm not sure why, given that Asahi is really good. They do seem to do a brisk take-out business, though. Often they'll have white tuna as the special -- definitely try it if it is available. My only pet peeves about Asahi: the miso and edamame are microwaved to approximately a billion degrees (it has happened more than once right in front of us) and I wish they delivered because I am clearly too lazy to order take-out. Also, they are only open for dinner. Asahi is our go-to neighborhood sushi -- it isn't the most creative sushi you'll have but again, it is always fresh and delicious. I've tried more expensive options in Boston (I'm looking at you, Fugakyu) and Asahi is better and much less expensive.
(4)
Lauren V.
Inevitably when eating sushi, my mouth goes "yum!" but my brain goes "eek! raw fish! eject, eject!". Yet, I still crave it, and often. Last week such a craving hit so my sister and I decided to place an order at nearby Asahi. Miso soup, spider roll, tempura roll (for the skittish boyfriend), spicy scallops roll and spicy tuna roll were all called into action to fight my fish hankering. Fifteen minutes later we were making our way up the street to pick up our order. The woman working alongside the man behind the counter had a little trouble with the order before us, but with his gruff direction (literally grunts and gestures) she figured it out soon enough (mixed orders) and within a few minutes we were paid and on our way. ($10 minimum to use a credit card, by the way.) Now for the food. Although certainly not the best I have had, it was pretty fresh and satisfied my hunger pangs. The miso soup was a little too salty and synthetically smoky for my liking. The spider roll was definitely the standout of the bunch with the perfect mix of smooth fish, sticky rice and savory flavors. The tuna and spicy scallops roll were pretty standard and the tempura roll was un-daunting enough that my boyfriend tried it. Crunchy but slightly bland, it probably won't do much for those who are sushi-aficionados. For about $35, it was a pretty reasonably priced meal too. I doubt I will be visiting for a sit-down dinner as it is so close to my warmer and much more comfortable (and spacious) apartment, but Asahi will undoubtedly be playing a role in all future sushi cravings.
(3)
Hungry B.
This is my favorite place for sushi in Boston. It's just very well made, always delicious, and the couple that runs the place is very nice to every one. It's just a great place, never had anything bad here at all.
(4)
Marissa S.
I really love this place. I've never dined in, but have gotten take out and delivery. I'll be totally honest: I was a bit nervous about getting raw fish from such a little hole-in-the-wall place, but I am consistently impressed with how fresh and delicious everything is there. I've only ever had a long wait there once, which is pretty reasonable considering that it's only a two-person staff. Actually, I'm surprised I haven't waited longer. They are always very friendly and professional and the prices are reasonable. I would highly recommend Asahi.
(4)
Cara P.
Ewww Some of you are a bunch of needy bitches. Who cares that the dude (ONLY DUDE) working here wasn't talkative? He is serving, checking people out, cutting fish, and pouring water and tea. He is the ONLY person here. I came here on a girl date and it was amazing. The Sushi is fresh and cheap. I tried some squid and other fun stuff for the first time. It's a small place and has no alcohol, but I would recommend it 10 times over! Obviously those that complained don't have that certain je ne sais quoi, because the dude loved Devon and I. He even gave us free sushi to try. I found him pleasant, dare I say hilarious!?! Try putting a smile on your face, chilling out, and enjoying some good Sushi.
(5)
Ryan K.
Very good Sushi. Is it the best I have had? No, but everything else makes up for it. The owners are extremely nice, delivery if you need it is prompt. Just keep in mind that there is on table and the sushi bar sits about 10... so dont show up with a big party.
(3)
Bethany F.
Though this place is super small (we opt for takeout most of the time) the sushi is delicious and the dude behind the counter is awesome. Yes, sometimes there is a wait. If you call ahead it's ready for you! The sushi itself is fresh, extremely tasty (try the yellowtail with scallions mmm) and definitely worth the price. I haven't been to many other sushi places in the area but I go back here all the time and am never disappointed!
(4)
Sara A.
My husband and I have been going to Asahi for years now. We have had sushi in many places and still find Asahi to be the best in Boston, hands down. As others have noted in their reviews, this is a sushi bar, not a Japanese restaurant; don't bring a friend who hates sushi and expects to order teriyaki or noodles. Also, this is not fast food, proper sushi takes time to prepare. The proprietor is the only sushi chef, and so if you go during peak times the service may be slow (they get a lot of take-out business, so even if the place is empty there may be a wait for the food). The chef takes pride in his sushi and so he doesn't throw it together in 30 seconds. For me this isn't a problem, I know not to go here if I'm in a dire hurry. My favorite part is that the chef and his wife always recognize us when we come in and greet us warmly. I don't mind a bit of a wait for more personalized service. Bottom line: great sushi that is worth the wait.
(5)
thermopylae x.
excellent sush with free dishes (just don't get the uni) semi-mediocre service with long prep times (eh) street parking one table (fits only three diners, maybe) this place is at its best for takeout, only
(4)
Anon A.
If you are getting for delivery, there are much better places at a cheaper price. The rolls are small and not even close to being average in area with TONS of better of options
(1)
Emily F.
From the outside, Asahi looks a lot like Chestnut Hill's Oishii - tiny little sushi bar. Unfortunately I was disappointed by everything. 1. They had all sorts of promotional materials for beer around, but they don't have any! What a tease! 2. Service is realllllly slow and impersonal. There are only two people working and I never saw either of them diddle around, but still...reallllllly slow. 3. The maki fell apart. 4. Non-fish ingredients didn't seem super fresh. The food was meh, the service was boo. Okay to fill a soosh craving if you're unwilling to leave Brighton Center, otherwise, PASS.
(2)
Trish F.
I totally agree with Stephen when he says that Asahi is reliable sushi. I don't think they have the "freshest fish in Boston" when I eat their stuff but I do think they're pretty good and satisfy a craving Although I'm the kind of person that loves variety so their menu is a little too minimal for me. But with their prices, you're definitely getting a good deal. Service is usually pretty good. There's one woman who is always in there and she's nothing but smiles. Whenever I ask a question the sushi chef pipes up. I wouldn't say he was mean.. or friendly.. more curt and to the point. I can see why he's trying to be focused though since he's the only one that I've ever see making the food. I like him though. He's made suggestions about things and subbed things out when he's heard I didn't like something. The atmosphere isn't much. This place is kind of on the teeny side. Definitely not good for groups or loud conversation. I usually come in the evenings and they have whatever's on NBC. I don't know.. I totally feel like a Debbie Downer for not giving them 5 stars. I definitely pop in when I'm in the area and have craving but this place is definitely not on my "must go to" list.
(3)
Mary M.
All day yesterday, my friend kept IMing me: "fishez". I'm in a meeting, *bing* "fishez". I'm working on a report, *bing* "fishez". So we ended up at Asahi last night. Later she told me why: she'd been to Fugakyu the night before, and wanted to do a comparison to Asahi. Guess what? Asahi wins, hands down. I hadn't been to Fugakyu the night before, but I had to agree. Nowhere in Boston can beat this place on straight-up fish quality: not Fugakyu, not the much-praised Oiishi, none of 'em. The hamachi nigiri and salmon nigiri, both sushi bar staples, were some of the most beautiful looking fish I'd ever seen, clearly excellent quality and at the peak of freshness. That would have been good enough, but the specials board had several specials made with bluefin toro or fatty salmon, so of course we went there. The sushi chef approved. "The fatty salmon is--" and he paused, trying for a superlative that fit, and finally saying firmly, "--very very good." This isn't a guy who's given to effusive praise of his own handiwork (or effusive anything), so we knew we'd picked right, and we weren't disappointed. Both fatty salmon and toro were everything we could have hoped for, with a buttery smooth texture and rich taste that said, "Order another round." So we did. With Asahi's prices, you can do that. The next time you're looking for a great sushi experience, ask yourself: do I want something that's been deep-fried or made up to look like a giant centipede, or do I just want the best fish I can get? If the latter, consider making the trip to Asahi. No beer, no large tables for parties of twelve, no maki with the names of local celebrities...just the fish, ma'am. But it's the best in town.
(5)
D M.
I have a crush on this place. My only issue with my neighborhood is that there's NO SUSHI, and that's makes me cry a little, but now with my new commute, I get to pick up the bus right in front of Asahi! Score! I picked up Sushi to go one night last week and was wowed at how tiny this place is. I got five or six different types of rolls, and within ten or so minutes, I was out of there. I was wowed at the beautiful maki rolls that the chef prepared, and he literally prepared and sliced and diced everything for my rolls fresh. I also ordered a soft shell crab roll, and he fried it fresh, and honestly, it was beautiful. Everything tasted so very fresh and perfect. I will absolutely be getting take out from here again. The service was very friendly and fast, the sushi is very reasonably priced ($38 or so for a lot of sushi) and it's on the way home! So yummy!
(5)
Barney B.
I hadn't been here in years. I don't know - I guess Brighton Center is just not what pops into my head when I think of grabbing sushi. Brookline? yes. Downtown? sure. But Brighton Center not so much. But this place is pretty solid, if terribly tiny. the rolls, average sized and priced. the service, pretty quick given it's just one dude, and he seems to get a lot of calls for 'to go' orders. the fish, fairly fresh. it's not going to knock your socks off like some places, but it will satisy if you are in the mood for standard nigiri, sashimi and rolls.
(4)
Peter W.
If you want sushi from Brighton Center, then here you go...there's no competition in the area. Sushi was decent; place is cramped; and location is good for walking if you are from Brighton.
(3)
Em E.
Good sushi, great service, even better prices! I can't say this place is an authentic sushi bar (i mean, they don't have uni!! and the sushi chef is really nice but he isn't trained in the Japanese way), but for Boston it's one of the best I've seen so far and for the price I ain't complainin'!
(4)
Mike A.
7:15pm. Sit down with girlfriend. Handed paper menu check list. 7:20pm. Put checklist up on counter. Checklist includes 2 miso appetizer. 7:35pm. Get ice water delivered. 7:40pm. Checklist still not "looked at". Ask for miso app directly. Sushi-ya guy nods. He is the only one working. Watch him gracefully finish up an order-to-go carefully into plastic boxes while the 5 others in the restaurant (who were there before us, even) still have not been served either. 7:45pm. No miso. He hadn't even looked our order yet, 25mins later. Get up and leave (politely). Feel bad. But not that bad. Very hungry now and wish they at least had beer that I could have been sipping. Asahi Super Dry would be great. Especially since a nice photo pint of it teases you on their dinner mats. Migrate to Washington Square. 8pm - Entered Super Fusion (Wash Sq) 8:30pm - ordered same dinner, ate it (oishii!), sat and digested a bit, paid bill and left, all without feeling rushed or needy. Noted that there were 7 people working, and with turnover of seated guests plus those quietly picking up their take-out, at least 20 people were served including myself and date in that same time frame (30 minutes). Establishment is maybe 10% bigger but serves 100% more volume without being "fast-food" by any means. Also noted that staff aren't speaking Japanese. Verdict: Won't bother with Asahi again, even if they do have fresh fish and a zen-like sushi-ya. I'll pay an extra dollar or two for the service any day from Fusion over Asahi...
(1)
Valerie V.
Totally respectable sushi option if you are in Brighton center. Prices are not as low as I'd like them but not crazy either. Rolls don't seem particularly creative, but I normally stick with sashimi anyway. Service is fast and the counter is comfortable. Hit Asahi when you want a relaxed and quick bite of sushi or takeout in Brighton Center.
(3)
Kelly B.
My roommate and I ordered take-out from here, I got a vegetarian roll and a sweet potato tempura roll, she got a California and a Boston. Ours were both very fresh and very delicious, plus the food was delivered pretty fast. Beats Mr. Sushi (eh) by a landslide. And thumbs up for them having more than two vegetarian options.
(4)
Laura M.
I love this place. First of all, I could care less that there is only person that works in here. To me, it only means that the sushi is going to be consistent. If he seems busy, I'll get some edamame to hold me over. Long, is an artisan, loves his craft - and is really good at it too! I got a spicy tuna, eel/avocado, and a tiger roll. I decided that that wasn't enough (I really love sushi) so I got some salmon belly sashimi. Long (the owner) even gave me some toro for free. Both sashimis liiterally melted in my mouth...as they should. Yes, it's not the fanciest place. Yes, he doesn't have the fanciest rolls. But- if you can appreciate just amazingly fresh fish, you'll love this place. You'll never get any old, fishy sushi here.
(5)
Stephen P.
When I lived in Brighton I would pick up a snack at Asahi every Friday right after work... Reliably good sushi... cordial staff who know a customers' face and order after the first visit... small but passable dining area... If you can't get out of Brighton or just want acceptable sushi in a timely fashion Asahi is the place to go...
(3)
Mariko W.
I like everything about this place. So basic no frills just sooosh. Walk in sit down get served fresh food. That's about it. It's a REAL sushi bar. Don't bring friends who can't stomach raw fish and expect to order chicken teriyaki. There's only sushi. I'm really glad that this place is a two minute walk from my house. The chef is a good guy and i want to support him.
(5)
Katie W.
The sushi here is really super basic but very consistent. It's perfect to take out for a low-key night. I don't love eating-in there, they don't have a liquor license and you can't BYOB (I even called to check one on particularly desperate evening). Definitely leave plenty of time when you're going to pick up your order. I sometimes get the feeling that the sushi chef starts on your order when you walk in the door. The prices are pretty good, and the sushi chef sometimes sends you on your way with a little extra treat to thank you for your wait :)
(4)
Pizza W.
This place is amazing. Hole in the wall, but the food is always of great quality and super fresh. My favorite is their toro (fatty tuna) and salmon. I always get the salmon sashimi and toro sashimi. You can never go wrong. They also have very good rolls, like the spider roll and volcano rolls. If you haven't tried, their sweet shrimp maki and scallop maki are also very good. The food is very fresh. I have to say that the place is very busy, especially Friday nights and Saturday nights. So the wait time is longer. There's only one chef, so if you are in hurry or have a large group, probably best to order pick up. Regardless, the food is amazing. Definitely worth a try.
(5)
Samantha M.
Not the most creative sushi I've ever had, but decent. The white tuna sushi I had was pretty good. The volcano roll was awkward, I didn't like the texture and I usually love volcano rolls. I'm still on a quest for the best sushi in town..
(3)
Erica Y.
Hidden little sushi restaurant in Brighton Center. Really small restaurant, with few seats. It appears that the majority of patrons are of the take-out origin. When I was there, the sushi bar was pretty full and the sushi chef was doing everything from taking orders to making the tea. I wouldn't say the fish is the freshest ever, as I was a little weary when my salmon roe came from a tightly wrapped saran package, and the unagi looked a little dry, but all is well since I had a craving for sushi and didn't want to drive. The sushi is average-good, and I'm very happy to report that the chef washed his hands after handling cash transactions before handling the food. One other note, despite the asahi-sponsored place mats, this little restaurant does not hold a liquor license.
(3)
Beth J.
A brighten sushi hidden gem! Although first impressions presents a small understated sushi restaurant the taste is anything but. I have been a number of times and have always had delicious fresh tasting sushi. I will say if you are looking for creative and different combinations this is not the place to go. When you are having a craving for fresh sushi or sashimi this is a hidden gem! I have been the only person in the restaurant at times and other times had to wait for a seat. There often seems to be a good amount of takeout orders being placed so its hard to say what you will find for service and wait time bout again I will say the fish is great. The man who makes the sushi is also very friendly and will recommend what is good.
(5)
D A.
Usually I am a little skeptical about take out sushi, but this place is AWESOME! The place only has about 10 chairs (1 table and the bar), but the sushi is the best. The food that comes out of this place rivals anything that you can get in the upscale sushi restaurants in the area. There is only one guy rolling the sushi, so on busy nights it can take a little bit, but the wait is nothing once you taste the fresh, well-made sushi that he puts together. I honestly can't say enough good things about this place.
(5)
harry n.
im not a sushi snob also never been here when its busy the novia is a big fan so we have been a couple of times since relocating consistent does get me a-hankerin for some super-dry, but recently heard you can bring your own? siguoy you go in on a tuesday, the couple do everything, no frills and the tv is blasting its weird. i like
(4)
Catherine S.
So I'm not a sushi expert, which is why I didn't feel quite qualified enough to give them a five, but I was impressed with Asahi. It's a cute little mom-and-pop shop that reminded me of my visit to Asia; the ambience wasn't anything fancy or spacious, but very genuine. To add to the convenience, they have online ordering, so it's easy for me to pick up on the way home. As I said before, I'm not a sushi expert, but I've walked in to pick it up and he's typically right in the middle of making it; can't get any more fresh than that! My only tiny little complaint is that their online menu doesn't decipher which sushi uses raw meat and which doesn't. That's probably my own fault since I'm an amateur, but for the newbies, it would be helpful (they do have it on the print menu, though). Either way, I recommend them!
(4)
Chuckert B.
This is a basic, no bullshit sushi bar. That's it! Nothing else on the menu! You want a drink? How about some water. That's what they've got here. The sushi is excellent and the prices are very reasonable. The chef is very fast. I used to live across the street and go here alot, he would occasionally toss a few extra complementary chunks of sashimi my way. Awsome. This is a tiny little family run buisness and I support it. Lunch menu has a pretty nice discount too. Weird hours sometimes, though.
(5)
Steven G.
I had a good experience here. The fish was nothing less than perfect and fresh, the service was not fast but not slow, and the sushi chef was a good guy. I would recommend this, but I could see how the service would lag if the place was full. I would definitely go back.
(4)
Leah G.
So fresh. So delicious. So going back there at least 3x a week! I love the fact that I can get off the bus, get some of the most fresh, tasty sushi I've ever eaten, and walk up the hill to my apartment. The sushi chef at Asahi is friendly and fast. He uses real, meaty chunks of tuna in the spicy tuna roll, as opposed to shredded, weak chunks of tuna. The miso soup is delicious and the edamame is too. This is my new hot spot, fo sho.
(5)
Kirsten S.
This is by far my favorite place to eat in Boston. The owners are so friendly, the atmosphere is cozy, it has a real neighborhood restaurant feel, and the food is absolutely delicious. The fish is extremely fresh and it's cut very generously - the sushi has an excellent fish to rice ratio. I don't know where to begin for specific dishes because everything is so good. Well, actually, I do - WHITE TUNA! It's the best thing in the world. But you can't really go wrong with anything on the menu, and the specials are always an excellent choice. Even the soy sauce seems to taste better here than anywhere else! The prices are also quite reasonable. (And I've never been for lunch, but they do have lunch specials.) True, there's no alcohol served here, but since this is the freshest and most delicious sushi in all of Boston, you will not miss it, I promise.
(5)
Domenico B.
Asahi is a small place, you could almost call it intimate, but I'd have to go in the evening with my wife to use that term. I went for lunch. It's small. You'll sit at the sushi bar because there are no tables, which is a good thing. If you want to experience sushi you should sit at the bar, face to face with the chef and eat and order like the sushi experts do. The fish was fresh and tasty, of course. One of my favorite maki (rolls) is spicy tuna. I use that as my bellwether for any sushi place. Not as good as my favorite local sushi (Asahi in Salem; no relation I'm pretty sure), but still tasty. It's certainly different, not as powerful. And you can get more than one kind of spicy tuna: toro, maguro, a couple others. I also chose some mackerel, which had a very interesting sauce and eel (unagi), again very good. I tend not to use the extra wasabi or add soy sauce because I want to taste the fish so it also means that you will immediately taste any flaws. No flaws here. Just good fresh flavors. The miso soup was excellent, but it's such a simple dish that if you get the dashi right, it's hard to screw it up. The chef chopped up the other ingredients right before adding them to the bowl, so it was fresh. I arrived at 12:15 and no one was there except the chef and a deliveryman. I was a little worried: shouldn't it be busier at lunch time? Another couple came in while I was eating, but that was it. Maybe Tuesday is a slow day. I didn't interact much with the chef. I'm not much of an extrovert in that way and prefer just to read my book. Maybe once I get to know him and he recognizes me. In many ways that the best part of sushi--when the chef gets to know you and your taste and introduces you to something new you might like. The prices were decent for sushi, not at all expensive. I won't be going every day, but I think I'll be coming back. I'm glad to find a good place near work, especially since with my wife being pregnant we won't be going out for raw fish anytime soon.
(3)
Adam W.
The quality of the sushi is pretty good. The prices are pretty good. However, the size of the sushi roll is incredibly small. You could probably eat 4 maki rolls and be just satisified. You know those little trays of sushi they sell at supermarkets for $9-$14? That was the amount of sushi I got for $25. The food was all good, but you just don't get much for your money. We had to get some shrimp fried rice at China Maxim III after we ate.
(3)
Lauren T.
If you're looking for a quiet place for dinner to chit chat for a couple hours with no pressure, Asahi is the place. The one room sushi bar has the bar minimum in restaurant frivolity, but when you want good sushi and a place to talk, who cares? The white tuna and yellow tail are always fat, lusty looking pieces. The Caterpillar Roll ALWAYS makes my eyes jump with excitement. Asahi is owned and run by a super nice couple. He's the sushi chef and she's your tea server. They are always there and smiling. If you don't have time for a drawn out dinner, the lunch specials are quick and yummy. Not too bad for Brighton Center.
(3)
Jose T.
ME GUSTA When you see the name of this little sushi bar in Brighton Center you think of an ice cold Japanese brewsky in your hand while eating a spicy tuna roll. Then reality hits.....they have no liquor license....ah well at least the sushi is fresh and a little green tea is always good for the soul. The place is a bit Spartan. I thought the sushi was a good value and the owner/chef frequently has toro (fatty tuna to die for) on the menu which is a definite plus. I would recommend for take out or when you have a group that is boisterous enough to overcome the drab ambiance.
(3)
Christopher F.
This place is great. Once I tasted there salmon and tuna I realized that not all sushi is cut from the same cloth, this stuff is fresh. Comes from good "farms" I'm told. Kinda believe this because I've had sushi at Whole Foods and the Star at Chestnut Hill, no comparison... The owner is jovial and is extremely talented at his craft. Check this place out.
(4)
Amelia L.
I love Asahi. It's such a hole in the wall kind of place, which for sushi sometimes makes me nervous, but I had been dying for sushi and kind of happened upon it... so glad I did. The guy making sushi has a no-nonsense vibe. He's not in it for chit chat that's for sure but let the man work because he turns out great sushi. I always do takeout and my order is ready within 10/15 minutes. It's even better when you remember to call it in - always ready when you get there. I like the spicy rolls because they use a whole piece of fish instead of the mashed filling some places use (does that make sense..? don't know...). Their shrimp tempura roll is the best I've had from anywhere. Seriously. Oh man I want some right now... I wonder if they're open at 8am. Anyway go to Asahi. Don't expect a chat. Just expect good sushi.
(4)
Stephanie F.
Nothing really mind-blowing. Went there on a Sunday night and felt like the fish wasn't as fresh as it could be. I've had better sushi, but it pleased my sushi craving.
(3)
Nicole B.
Tiny sushi bar with just a few tables and counter, also delivers. I generally get mine to go, so I can't really comment on staff. But the fish is always fresh and well prepared and they offer brown rice, which is a bonus for me. In general, a great place to get sushi out to the neighborhood and a healthy delivery option in a land of pub food and pizza.
(4)
Courtney T.
I'm not a sushi connoisseur, but have liked everything I have tried here and have decided to make it my go-to-neighborhood-sushi-place. It's right down the street from my apartment so it's really easy to walk to now that the weather is nice. I have eaten in the restaurant a couple times and ordered take-out just once. The take-out was ready by the time I walked there (about 10 minutes). Eating in the restaurant has taken between 20 minutes and one hour. The restaurant is clean and has a nice, laid-back atmosphere. I am pretty sure that the chef and other woman who helps to serve are the owners of the restaurant and they have always been very friendly to my friends and me. The fish tastes very fresh and I've haven't been disappointed by anything I've ordered. The prices are also extremely reasonable compared to a lot of other sushi places in the Boston area. I'd definitely recommend Asahi.
(4)
Emily L.
I really love this place. My boyfriend and I usually go here once a week or so, get the vegetable salad, white tuna sushi, alaska roll, unagi roll, spicy yellow fin roll, and a fun surprise! The sushi chef will usually give us some delicious sushi treat free of charge. That's how we were turned on to white tuna. He has also given us blue fin toro (AMAZING) and fatty salmon, for free! It seems like he does this with most regulars that he recognizes. He is a lovely man and I am so into supporting his business. Everybody should go here, or at least get takeout.
(5)
Kelly P.
Asahi is the best in the area, fresh and fast! I used to live right around the corner so it became my go-to Sushi spot. When i moved to Watertown, i tried some new places but always left wishing i just went to Asahi!! The fish is very fresh. Always tastes very good and never too fishy or off. Its run by a family of 2 and ive never seen anyone but them working there. The Chef is very fast and the service is cordial. They have specials that are always changing listed of the white board and sometimes he even lets customers sample them! :) It is very cozy inside as well. Small but inviting. In the summer, they leave the door open and you get a nice breeze. Overall, my favorite sushi spot. I recomend the volcano roll and the rainbow roll :)
(5)
Ethan M.
I hate to give this mom and pop place two stars but I have to. I was hoping that this would become my local Sushi restaurant but the sushi was not on par. I ordered the Sabah and it tasted so slimy and gamy. I think that it was sitting there for a while and they just gave me the last couple of pieces that were left. I even swear that they talked it over on whether they should serve it to me or not. The people are really sweet and the place is nice and cozy but they lost a lot of points when it comes to serving me bad food. I wanted to give three stars but just the thought of bad sushi makes me want to gag.
(2)
Renee F.
This is the BEST restaurant in town. Great service, great food, and the sushi chef is fabulous. I go there about every week. And every week it is packed with people! Also whenever I go the sushi chef is so friendly, and he gives me a welcome, and smile every time I walk in! It is such a successful restaurant for two people to work in. They are fast sufficient and such awesome people. Best restaurant in Boston hands down. Everything is fresh, and inexpensive! I never go anywhere else. And now there's delivery. After I tried so many places This is the best one so far.
(5)
Ryan M.
I love Asahi. I keep meaning to try out other sushi spots in Brighton, but I haven't got around to it because Asahi is cheap and reliable. I've never been disappointed by my food from here. It always tastes fresh and is nicely made. I prefer to order out rather than eat in because the place is small and doesn't serve booze. Whenever we call to order our food is ready in 30 mins. One time there was a small mix up and the guy was very nice and apologetic and gave us some extra sushi in our order! I did eat in the restaurant once and that was a good experience too. Overall, i"d like it if they had some more interesting/creative rolls like I've had at other sushi places, but for what they do offer it's perfect. White tuna and spicey yellow tail are the best!
(4)
Ellen F.
Pretty decent sushi place right in Brighton Center. It's tiny, and the seating options are either at the counter, or at a small table that seats 2-4 people. I've had prompt service both eating in and taking out. The sushi is good...not the best I've ever had, but definitely reasonable for the prices ($5-12 for maki rolls). My favorites are the sweet potato tempura, spicy white tuna (fairly spicy, though it doesn't come with the little dollops of spicy mayo, usually my favorite part), and unagi maki.
(4)
Kristen F.
This is where 1/2 stars would be good. 3.5 stars for this place. Got some take out here Saturday night. 2 rolls - spicy salmon and Manhattan Roll (crab meat with tobiko on the outside) and both were really good. The edamamme was okay, but got a little mushy and could have used some more salt. The prices were great. Most inexpensive sushi around. I'd recommend this place and I'll be back.
(3)
Erik O.
stopped in here on a whim, and was very pleased. good portions, very friendly service. the prices, eh, possibly slightly higher than i thought the food was worth. but the food was very good, not complaining. good atmosphere. i think its BYOB. but i'm not sure. also, they deliver. so i might be hitting that option up soon.
(4)
Alex B.
Sometimes I like to slag down a couple glasses of water. When I do that - I like to do that with a coupla old bites of sushi at Asahi. Come after 5pm and the water is all you can drink. TSSSIP AHHHHHHHH!!!
(5)
Anthony B.
Asahi is one of my local neighborhood favorites. It is a small place with just one table and a sushi bar. No alcohol is served here, but that hasn't kept me away. It is run by the sushi chef and his wife (I think), and like most small restaurants, after a few visits, you begin to feel like you've made a new friend. The fish itself has been great. There are a few daily specials which are always worth a look at. Because it is such a small place, and they fill a lot of take-out orders, it is tough to quickly pop in and out if you plan sitting down. The variety of fish available varies on a daily basis, but they always seem to have great hotategai. If the chef still has some salmon skin from the last piece of salmon he prepared, you can ask him to make a delicious salmon skin handroll. If you're willing to roll with what is fresh and available on any given day, and aren't going to be thoroughly disappointed if there is no giant clam available, then you will walk away from Asahi full and content. Be sure to chat up the chef. He is generally very quiet, but is always very helpful and kind and will eagerly steer you towards what looks great that day if you just ask.
(4)
Danielle K.
As everyone else has said, Asahi is TINY!! Its nothing more than a small sushi bar and one table off to the side. I'm assuming this is more of a take out place. Nevertheless I was very impressed. I agree with other reviews... this is a great no frills sushi place. If you want exotic and crazy creative rolls, this is not the place for you. But if you are having a basic sushi craving in the Brighton area and want some some VERY DELICIOUS and HIGH QUALITY sushi, then this is a great place to go! I am a Philadephia Roll connoisseur and they make a great one! Their fish is very fresh and is like butter in your mouth! I am very excited that this place is within walking distance to my apartment, and I definitely WILL come back!!
(5)
Rebecca Y.
I was so excited when this place opened - a sushi bar in Brighton Center! And that's where my excitement ends. The prices are average, but the sushi doesn't taste as fresh as it should.
(2)
Jean Z.
I think this place is great - really good, fresh Sushi, with no frills, the way real sushi is supposed to be. Try the white tuna - rare to find on a menu around here, especially at a low price. I think this place is really cheap for how good it is, just as good quality as expensive places like Jae's. The owner is always there, and he will get to know you if you come in enough, as it is so small.
(5)
Sean C.
I went to Asahi last Sat around 12:10 pm, and the restaurant was still closed - which should be open at 11:45 am. It is a very bad experience for going a place and be blocked outside without any reasons.
(1)
P'raka ..
My new favourite sushi place! Tastes fresh and yummy; I'm constantly craving salmon sashimi from here. The place is pretty small. There is one 4-person table, and then a few (7-8?) seats along the sushi bar. No fancy/crazy rolls, just the basics.
(5)
Tom K.
Best hidden gem sushi house. The restaurant is small and intimate which lets you see how your food is prepared. The sushi is so fresh and flavorful we knew after our first roll that this would be our favorite sushi restaurant. Oh, and the prices are really great!
(4)
Pat S.
Great sushi and very affordable. I leave with 2 tasty rolls for under $10. You can't beat that! Owners are very nice too. Always accommodating when dining in, and they set you up nicely if you take it to go. Highly recommend stopping in!
(5)
Lynne M.
This was the first place I got my husband to eat sushi and we have been coming here for years now. The owner is always having us try new things. It is run by a husband and wife duo who always make you feel welcome. The place is small but even if every seat is taken your are treated like you are the only one in the restaurant. Everything is made fresh. The prices are amazing and the sushi is delicious.
(5)
Amy H.
I was super disappointed with my experience here. The ingredients were clearly old and not very fresh. The seaweed was grey and the wasabi brown. The overall taste was just bland. Maybe I have high standards but I was unimpressed.
(2)
Jim B.
Fantastic fish. Mr. Wen and his wife have owned and run this small sushi restaurant for the last 14 years, certainly a hidden gem. He selects the fish himself and is extremely friendly. Lots of new Sushi places are still popping up around Brighton - none of them are close.
(5)
Jessica L.
Amazing sushi. The miso soup is also unreal! Their cash deal is pretty good - $4.50 for a roll if you pay in cash. I would highly recommend!
(5)
Elaine M.
Fantastic. Have been eating here since they opened. Owner operated business. Can get busy Thurs thru Sat evenings. I have found allowing for a few extra minutes works perfectly. Mr. Wen is the proprietor as well as the chef. Often you will see his wife there helping take and pack orders. They take GREAT pride in their product and it shows. Incredibly fresh fish and often with throw in a little extra something for us to try. I LOVE the Spicy Maki Three ways, my kids love the Shrimp Tempura rolls, Vege rolls, & sweet potato rolls. My husband really enjoys the Tuna Tata. Love the NOT chain, tiny feel of the place and look forward to the once every couple weeks treat of having sushi.
(5)
David Z.
Went here for takeout - one tuna maki and salmon maki. The fish were both not fresh at all! They were way too fishy. I couldn't even finish them without soaking the sushi in soy sauce and wasabi. Will not come here again.
(1)
Harvard P.
Thought we would give this sushi place a try since it's relatively close to our home. We got 4 maki rolls via takeout, with the California Roll being free because we spent over $25. I was a bit underwhelmed with the sushi. It was only ok tasting. At the same time, it was also a bit small. They fit 4 rolls into two rectangular boxes with plenty of room to spare. The maki's consistency was such that it took a bit of effort to keep everything together as you were eating it. All in all, just a decent place, nothing special. You can definitely get better, tastier deals elsewhere.
(3)
Andre S.
Wow! My wife and I walked in at this restaurant and saw it was a small location. We ended up ordering the California roll and shrimp tempura roll to give the place a try and we were amazed at how delicious it was! Best shrimp tempura roll we've ever had!!! A must go to in the Brighton/Boston area! The owner was very friendly and this will definitely be our new sushi spot!
(4)
Alana F.
Usually when people say "this is the worst X I've ever had" they're exaggerating to make a point. When I say this is the worst sushi I've ever had, I'm not. And there's something especially egregious about bad sushi: the feeling that you might be reintroduced to it later than night in a not-so-pleasant way, the odd texture that makes your tongue want to recoil in your mouth. Maybe this was an off day for them, but....ew.
(1)
Ambrose C.
To be honest, I actually liked eating at this place as long as you are not in a hurry and just want to relax in a very quiet atmosphere. The place is fairly small, and the people who run this place are really nice. I got the Spicy Maki dinner special, which consists of miso soup, spicy tuna maki, spicy salmon maki, and a spicy white tuna maki. I also got a tuna (tekka) roll, and a couple pieces of Yellowtail sushi. The miso soup was good, needed some more tofu and wakame, but it was a good appetizer. As for the the Spicy maki rolls, I thought all the fish was really good, but needed more flavor. As for the tuna roll, I thought it was a simple but fairly tasty sushi, and it can be a great afternoon snack. The Yellowtail was really fresh, and was also tasty after mixing some soy sauce and some wasabi. The wasabi they serve here is a little bit gooier than some of the wasabi I had at other Japanese influenced restaurants but it is a fairly strong wasabi. I also had the uni sushi here, which is sea urchin. The urchin meat melted in my mouth when I ate it, and the cold softness combined with the warm rice and soy sauce made this a tasty sushi dish despite the high price of $6.50 for two pieces. Another dinner special I got at this place was the Regular Sushi Dinner with miso soup. This dinner at about $20, gives you a tuna (tekka) roll, and eight pieces of sushi, which include tamago (egg), shrimp, salmon, and tuna. This is a very basic sushi set, and I would say it is a great choice for someone who has not eaten sushi before. All the fish was freshly good, but not the best sushi I had, and it is enough for a light dinner. Prices are moderate for sushi, and definitely not inexpensive, be prepared to have about $25 ready if you plan on ordering at sushi dinner at this place. Overall, this is not my biggest recommendation for sushi, but they can get the job done well as long as you have patience and the people there are nice. The quality is slightly better than the sushi I have eaten in buffets in the somewhat decent suburban areas of the somewhat decent state of Massachusetts. Since I live near this place, this is probably one the sushi places I would go to if I wanted to order take away sushi.
(4)
Danielle M.
Terrible choice... Quick deliver but very average sushi. Wouldn't recommend better off going to a grocery store
(1)
Mike T.
A hidden gem! Best sushi quality in Boston and very reasonable price. Nice family owned place, friendly chef and you can see the sushi expertly prepared right in front of you. I highly recommend the white tuna, the salmon belly sushi, the dragon roll, and the bluefin (a special today). Went with my wife, both enjoyed the high quality sushi. Dragon roll was very artistically prepared and very tasty. The place feels authentic - it's been owned by the same couple for 15 years. The chef has been a sushi chef for 20 years. Will bring friends next time :)
(5)
Fun Night S.
I ordered delivery on a Friday night. I got 2 rolls: Spicy Tuna Maki and sweet potato maki. The tuna was a weird grey color and tasted off. The sweet potato to tempura ratio was unpleasant. The food came in the appropriate amount of time. The price was okay. The maki was gross. Order from ANYWHERE else. Even my cat was disinterested. And he eats QTips.
(1)
Tom K.
Best hidden gem sushi house. The restaurant is small and intimate which lets you see how your food is prepared. The sushi is so fresh and flavorful we knew after our first roll that this would be our favorite sushi restaurant. Oh, and the prices are really great!
(4)
Pat S.
Great sushi and very affordable. I leave with 2 tasty rolls for under $10. You can't beat that! Owners are very nice too. Always accommodating when dining in, and they set you up nicely if you take it to go. Highly recommend stopping in!
(5)
Lynne M.
This was the first place I got my husband to eat sushi and we have been coming here for years now. The owner is always having us try new things. It is run by a husband and wife duo who always make you feel welcome. The place is small but even if every seat is taken your are treated like you are the only one in the restaurant. Everything is made fresh. The prices are amazing and the sushi is delicious.
(5)
Amy H.
I was super disappointed with my experience here. The ingredients were clearly old and not very fresh. The seaweed was grey and the wasabi brown. The overall taste was just bland. Maybe I have high standards but I was unimpressed.
(2)
Jim B.
Fantastic fish. Mr. Wen and his wife have owned and run this small sushi restaurant for the last 14 years, certainly a hidden gem. He selects the fish himself and is extremely friendly. Lots of new Sushi places are still popping up around Brighton - none of them are close.
(5)
Jessica L.
Amazing sushi. The miso soup is also unreal! Their cash deal is pretty good - $4.50 for a roll if you pay in cash. I would highly recommend!
(5)
Elaine M.
Fantastic. Have been eating here since they opened. Owner operated business. Can get busy Thurs thru Sat evenings. I have found allowing for a few extra minutes works perfectly. Mr. Wen is the proprietor as well as the chef. Often you will see his wife there helping take and pack orders. They take GREAT pride in their product and it shows. Incredibly fresh fish and often with throw in a little extra something for us to try. I LOVE the Spicy Maki Three ways, my kids love the Shrimp Tempura rolls, Vege rolls, & sweet potato rolls. My husband really enjoys the Tuna Tata. Love the NOT chain, tiny feel of the place and look forward to the once every couple weeks treat of having sushi.
(5)
David Z.
Went here for takeout - one tuna maki and salmon maki. The fish were both not fresh at all! They were way too fishy. I couldn't even finish them without soaking the sushi in soy sauce and wasabi. Will not come here again.
(1)
Harvard P.
Thought we would give this sushi place a try since it's relatively close to our home. We got 4 maki rolls via takeout, with the California Roll being free because we spent over $25. I was a bit underwhelmed with the sushi. It was only ok tasting. At the same time, it was also a bit small. They fit 4 rolls into two rectangular boxes with plenty of room to spare. The maki's consistency was such that it took a bit of effort to keep everything together as you were eating it. All in all, just a decent place, nothing special. You can definitely get better, tastier deals elsewhere.
(3)
Andre S.
Wow! My wife and I walked in at this restaurant and saw it was a small location. We ended up ordering the California roll and shrimp tempura roll to give the place a try and we were amazed at how delicious it was! Best shrimp tempura roll we've ever had!!! A must go to in the Brighton/Boston area! The owner was very friendly and this will definitely be our new sushi spot!
(4)
Alana F.
Usually when people say "this is the worst X I've ever had" they're exaggerating to make a point. When I say this is the worst sushi I've ever had, I'm not. And there's something especially egregious about bad sushi: the feeling that you might be reintroduced to it later than night in a not-so-pleasant way, the odd texture that makes your tongue want to recoil in your mouth. Maybe this was an off day for them, but....ew.
(1)
Ambrose C.
To be honest, I actually liked eating at this place as long as you are not in a hurry and just want to relax in a very quiet atmosphere. The place is fairly small, and the people who run this place are really nice. I got the Spicy Maki dinner special, which consists of miso soup, spicy tuna maki, spicy salmon maki, and a spicy white tuna maki. I also got a tuna (tekka) roll, and a couple pieces of Yellowtail sushi. The miso soup was good, needed some more tofu and wakame, but it was a good appetizer. As for the the Spicy maki rolls, I thought all the fish was really good, but needed more flavor. As for the tuna roll, I thought it was a simple but fairly tasty sushi, and it can be a great afternoon snack. The Yellowtail was really fresh, and was also tasty after mixing some soy sauce and some wasabi. The wasabi they serve here is a little bit gooier than some of the wasabi I had at other Japanese influenced restaurants but it is a fairly strong wasabi. I also had the uni sushi here, which is sea urchin. The urchin meat melted in my mouth when I ate it, and the cold softness combined with the warm rice and soy sauce made this a tasty sushi dish despite the high price of $6.50 for two pieces. Another dinner special I got at this place was the Regular Sushi Dinner with miso soup. This dinner at about $20, gives you a tuna (tekka) roll, and eight pieces of sushi, which include tamago (egg), shrimp, salmon, and tuna. This is a very basic sushi set, and I would say it is a great choice for someone who has not eaten sushi before. All the fish was freshly good, but not the best sushi I had, and it is enough for a light dinner. Prices are moderate for sushi, and definitely not inexpensive, be prepared to have about $25 ready if you plan on ordering at sushi dinner at this place. Overall, this is not my biggest recommendation for sushi, but they can get the job done well as long as you have patience and the people there are nice. The quality is slightly better than the sushi I have eaten in buffets in the somewhat decent suburban areas of the somewhat decent state of Massachusetts. Since I live near this place, this is probably one the sushi places I would go to if I wanted to order take away sushi.
(4)
Danielle M.
Terrible choice... Quick deliver but very average sushi. Wouldn't recommend better off going to a grocery store
(1)
Mike T.
A hidden gem! Best sushi quality in Boston and very reasonable price. Nice family owned place, friendly chef and you can see the sushi expertly prepared right in front of you. I highly recommend the white tuna, the salmon belly sushi, the dragon roll, and the bluefin (a special today). Went with my wife, both enjoyed the high quality sushi. Dragon roll was very artistically prepared and very tasty. The place feels authentic - it's been owned by the same couple for 15 years. The chef has been a sushi chef for 20 years. Will bring friends next time :)
(5)
Fun Night S.
I ordered delivery on a Friday night. I got 2 rolls: Spicy Tuna Maki and sweet potato maki. The tuna was a weird grey color and tasted off. The sweet potato to tempura ratio was unpleasant. The food came in the appropriate amount of time. The price was okay. The maki was gross. Order from ANYWHERE else. Even my cat was disinterested. And he eats QTips.
(1)
Danny K.
Got a 15 piece sashimi dinner and 4 of the pieces were omlette. Spicy roll was not even a little spicy at all. Got no soy sauce or ginger. Only upside was good quality of fish - but not better than many others. Huge rip off, I am not difficult to please.
(1)
Eileen Z.
I live by a number of sushi spots near Harvard Ave, but still drive out to Asahi for all my sushi. The space is small, but the proprietors are really nice and the sushi is quality for the price. Very satisfied!
(4)
Kaitlyn S.
Delicious and underrated ..awesome service and amazing sushi
(5)
Joanna M.
After seeing other yelp reviews figured this place had to be ok and decide to give it a try. I was shocked because most times yelp gives a pretty good description of how the place actually is..that was not the case for this place. I've had my share of sushi and so I at least know when the sushi is decent. Yes, the sushi was fresh but it wasn't good. There was no flavor which is what sushi is all about. The rolls were very small and not put together well (I had to be extra careful when picking them up to make sure they didn't fall apart). Most shocking part? I was the only one there so it's not like the sushi "master" had to rush to put my order together. I was very disappointed. The place itself was cozy, and the sushi chef was friendly but that doesn't make up for bad sushi unfortunately.
(1)
Eunice E.
I love when little hole-in-the-wall places rock your socks off, and Asahi does just that! There's not a lot of space inside (one table with four chairs and then a sushi bar with seats for maybe up to ten?), but what it lacks in space, it makes up for in terms of flavor and service. Fresh sushi made to order, reasonable prices, and awesome sides like miso soup and seaweed salad. Standard Japanese fare done really, really well.
(4)
Lisa H.
My boyfriend and I ordered takeout from here the other night because of Asahi's location and positive Yelp reviews. We experienced both poor customer service and poor food quality. We ordered 6 rolls that should have cost about $35 based on the takeout menu. When we called in our order, they explained that we would get a free spicy tuna roll because our order exceeded $25. Great! When the food arrived an hour later, the total had come out to be more than $10 greater than expected. When we asked the delivery person about the unanticipated cost, they kept repeating that the price was correct and the tuna roll was free. They could not supply us with a receipt that had all of the items broken down- only a total price receipt. We let it go out of restlessness and hunger and assumed they had charged us for the "free" spicy tuna roll. I ordered a volcano roll and after eating two pieces of the roll, I felt incredibly ill. My boyfriend, not realizing that I was feeling so terrible, tried a piece of the volcano roll and also fell incredibly ill. Not only did we get overcharged with no reasonable explanation, but the food caused us to be physically ill for the next 24 hours. Needless to say, I will not be returning to Asahi.
(1)
Evan L.
Ordered the $20 chefs selection of Sashimi. Unfortunately, the chef did not seem to take care when cutting my fish, and as a result many of the cuts were very tough. They were generally hacked to pieces. That being said, all of the meals that my friends had during this sitting were well done and they all enjoyed the experience. Personally, I will be trying somewhere else the next time I am craving raw fish.
(3)
J. C.
Ate here tonight for the first time after being a loyal fins customer for years. I really enjoyed my dinner here, the sushi was amazingly fresh. The portions are a little smaller but it is still a great value. I love how small the restaurant is and the owners are incredibly nice. For the people who complain that the owners aren't nice because they aren't very talkative you must understand that the husband and wife do all of the cooking, serving and deliveries by themselves. They are very nice once you get to know them. We got free sushi at the end of our meal which was a very nice gesture. There is a reason why this place has been here for over 11 years. Try it. One pieve of advice I would give to the owners is that you should not use CFL bulbs with a dimmer because they flicker, this goes for the lights over the sushi bar. It's not a deal breaker but it would make a difference. Also some music in the background would be nice.
(4)
Peter D.
Excellent local sushi joint! Chef gave us a bonus sample of the bluefin sushi after we had finished our order. We always leave here happy and without breaking the bank!
(5)
Brian D.
I still love Asahi for what it is: very good sushi, in a charming, intimate little place. The Saba last night was excellent, the Spicy Scallop sushi was very good, and they always have an interesting special dish. The chef and his partner (wife?) have a nice little rhythm going behind the counter and manage to take care of a few diners and lots of take out orders. I've had (slightly) better fish or rice occasionally, and I've seen a few places with bigger menus and more creative rolls. But for a small, neighborhood sushi place Asahi is excellent. And for the quality of the sushi the prices are very reasonable!
(4)
Kimberly S.
Sushi was definitely not fresh when I went. I ordered a roll with white tuna and the white tuna was dried out with brown streaks. Very nasty. I have never seen white tuna look like that before. I did not eat the roll. Overall none of our sushi was fresh. Definitely pass.
(1)
Cynthia B.
I ordered (for delivery) the spider roll and the spicy tuna roll. Both were not great. The Spider roll, while yummy, was also strangely salty. The tuna was not very firm. It tasted "good" but that taste and texture that makes you say "yummm...sushi" was not there. Would not order again. It is cheaper, and it shows. Fin is definitely better for the $$. Delivery was great, though! Very quick and nice.
(3)
Chris H.
I ordered a bunch of sushi rools with a group and was a bit underwhelmed. The spicy tuna roll was the best - it did not have too much mayonnaise. The sushi is pretty cheap, so don't expect too much from it. The seaweed salad was very good, but lets be honest, you are not coming here just for that. They also do give you a free roll if you meet an order minimum ($25, I believe) The biggest problem with this place is their delivery service. We have ordered from here a couple times and the delivery always takes over an hour (we are about one mile away) - sometimes much more than an hour. They've also accidentally given the food to the wrong people before, so do not pay in advance. For some reason, they don't always call.
(2)
Julie T.
This place is great! I'm rating this place based on a take-out scale, not a restaurant scale. I've overlooked this place for years before my sister randomly decided she wanted to check the place out and offered to pay. Well, I'm not turning down a free meal so of course I went. This place is really small and I'm guessing people usually just order out but we decided to be different and sit down and eat. Since there was literally just one guy making all the sushi, it took a while for our sushi to come but the woman, who I'm guessing owns the place along with the one chef, was so sweet that I wasn't even upset about the wait. But let me tell you, it was worth it! The sushi was delicious and fresh! Did not expect it to be that good for a place that's legit a hole in the wall. And as we were finishing up and complimenting the chef, he gave us a couple more pieces of sushi. He's the man! Food was awesome and so was the service! And the best part is, it's probably the closest sushi joint in my area. Win!
(5)
Conor F.
I still think Asahi is the best I've had. fresh and tasty, good technique. Only "limitation" is it is better for take-out which requires you to live near by.
(5)
Peter B.
This place is great. The owner is the chef, and he makes tremendous sushi. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly and unobtrusive. Also, they almost always give me "bonus sushi" at the end of my meal when I go with a friend. The only reason they don't get five stars is because there's no booze.
(4)
Leslie W.
Great inexpensive, laid back little sushi joint. The people who run the place are very nice and are generally quick with take out orders.
(5)
Stephanie H.
So my review is based on their delivered food & its service. Food. + Masago. Delicious, can't go wrong with it. Masago itself was fresh & loved the rice. + Spicy Tuna Roll. Pretty good. BUT, I'm not a fan of using spicy mayo for spicy rolls + Philly Roll. a bit salty, but its smoked salmon. & it was amazing and fresh. The rolls aren't big but they're yummy and the place definitely won't come close to killing your wallet if you just order rolls. Their Delivery - My friends & I ordered delivery to a dorm in Boston College. Its really NOT that difficult. We order all the time and this is the first time that it took 10 minutes to tell them where to deliver to us. We almost just called it quits, but right when we said we'd order from another place they said to not worry and they've figured it out. Then, when they get to BC, they were incredibly lost and my friend went outside, found them, and got the delivery -not even close to our dorm. Maybe we were unlucky, maybe they always have bad delivery, but that was our experience. So unless you live somewhere with a"number" address -not simply building name - I'd suggest not ordering delivery. - Also, their online "discount code" doesn't work. - Delivery rating? ONE star.
(3)
Abigail A.
We had a very pleasant experience tonight jan 25, 2014. Our waitress Haeli was full of great recommendations The sushi was excellent. This is a must try.
(5)
Jessica L.
The sushi was really fresh, and the owners really sweet!
(4)
Vien N.
Love this place! Wish I could live here. Any tempura roll is great, best I've ever had. Honestly I've never had anything bad here, they can do no wrong.
(5)
Mary K.
reliable delivery, excellent rice to fish ratio. dont really undertand the pricing on various rolls, but there is a deal for a free spicy tuna roll when you spend $25 (which is easy to do!) its my go to sushi delivery!
(4)
Stacy B.
Don't be alarmed by the small, claustrophobic-looking exterior, this place is YUMMY! Inside is some exceptionally fresh sushi (reasonably priced), and service, run by a sushi chef/host - husband/wife duo. Started with some miso soup, made to order (and right in front of us), and enjoyed a mix of sashimi and sushi afterwards -- enough to feed two very hungry people. The bill came to $30.13. Can't beat that. Looks like they get most of their business from take out though. At 7pm on a Tuesday, we were the only ones in there, but there was plenty of sushi being made. Good to know! I happily took a menu on my way out, and anticipate my next lazy evening on the couch, eating sushi instead of something terribly bad for my heart (and soul). Wanted a bit more from the atmosphere. Maybe some music? It was pin drop quiet in there. Was more than happy with being able to watch them both prepare our meals. Transparency is key with sushi places. Takeout? Yes. Dining in? Try it, and let me know what you think.
(3)
Maya T.
Excellent, fresh sushi! Only reason I didn't give them five stars is the place is tiny. My friend and I sat at the bar area and it was fun to see the chef make our sushi. I'll definitely go back, and they have take out, which is even better.
(4)
Natalie K.
I have ordered delivery from many other sushi places in Brighton and Allston and this has been the best BY FAR! The food is fresh and delicious, the service is quick, and the delivery person each time has been incredibly friendly! If you want to order quick, affordable, tasty sushi in the area- order here!
(5)
Nick D.
As current foursquare mayor of this fine establishment, I would be remiss to not put a good word in for this great sushi place. Of all the moderately priced sushi places I have gone to, this one definitely stands out. The fish here is always fresh, always tasty. The single sushi chef in the place is deliberate in his craft. Some would call him slow (I would, if the sushi wasn't so crazy good), but I like to think of him as being very attentive, perfecting the sashimi in succulent morsels of fish goodness. I try to go at least once a week and sometimes even more. Just this week i have gone there for dinner, dessert (what... Sushi after Korean BBQ isn't a normal dessert?), and am actually going to go again for dinner tonight. It is just that good. Everything on the menu is tasty, but I have a particularly soft spot for the following items: 1). Salmon - I have not had salmon that had such a great fresh taste anywhere else. The mouth feel of the fish is also great as well - not too firm that it feels like you need to keep chewing, but not so soft or soggy that it feels like it has been sitting in water all day long. I get at least 2 orders of sashimi each time I go. 2). Spider roll - crunchy yet not completely covered in tempura. Not an overwhelmingly sized roll that you find at other sushi joints. The crab is sweet and the roll is perfect. 3). Salmon belly - if you haven't yet tried this, you need to. It is listed on the daily special board when he has it. It is quite possibly the best thing I have had at Asahi. In both sashimi form or maki, the fish quality really shines through. Like salmon on steroids (but the kind that makes you fat as opposed to muscle), the fish is a very tender, almost melt in your mouth morsel of smooth fatty fish. Amazing. 4). Toro - He has a couple different varieties of the toro, but my favorite is the bluefin toro he serves. Last night's was strikingly fresh, very clean, and quite tasty. Not overpriced like places I have seen, the quality is well worth the wait. And now on to the wait - when i go in, if it is not busy, I usually can get my sushi within maybe 30 minutes or so. But that is because I order at least 60 dollars of sushi as a normal meal each time. So my platter is literally singing with fish. Last night, I got an order with 4 things and it took about 20 minutes. If the place looks busy, you might have to wait a bit. I enjoy the anticipation and the fact that I get to watch the care the chef takes while preparing my dinner. Water is usually served right away, and I vaguely remember getting a soda once. But I don't like to drink anything but water (usually) when I eat sushi. If the sushi is good, it should be the only thing of the meal I want to taste. And by golly, the sushi is great. Trust me, I'm the mayor.
(5)
Missy P.
This place is great! Such a gem right in Brighton Center. Food is good, and the people are really nice. I almost don't want to give them 5 stars because I don't want it to get crowded - man this place is tiny! Cramped interior aside, I definitely will be going back.
(5)
Matthew P.
I feel bad for giving them a two but it really is the epitome of "Meh. I've experienced better." And I have. Much better. First off, my biggest gripe is that they were slow as MOLASSES. We came in to order two maki rolls. There were only two people eating together so we thought it couldn't take any longer than 5-10 minutes. We waited close to half an hour. In the meantime the phone never rang and people never came in. I realize he was probably making to-go orders and that's fine. But we only had two very simple maki rolls (and i know how to make maki rolls). Couldn't he just have quickly made them? I watched him our rolls (when he finally got to it) and it just took a few minutes. I know I'm being overly sensitive about it but I'm just an impatient person. Unfortunately, the maki rolls were just not that good. They were poorly made and fell apart while I was trying to eat it. There was absolutely nothing special about the way it tasted either and the ingredients were very standard. I expect better from a sushi buffet. The couple that own the place are really nice and they are running a very decent business. It's clean and nice looking with what I am sure is a very loyal following. I've worked at many restaurants and to-go areas and I can tell you they really need to manage their orders better. You just can't go in order of what was called in. There aren't many (are there any?) sushi places around the area so if you have a major jones for it go here. But expect standard sushi and extremely long wait times. At least it's relatively cheap!
(2)
Island Boy B.
Asahi is a little hole in the wall. Typical of what you would find in Japan - you wouldn't think its much, but the food is fresh and the wait can be long. Its a one man show, so on a nice night, there can be a wait. I rarely mind since I'm not in such a rush. I usually order an appetizer or salad to hold me over. The one thing about Asahi I like most is that, he always has blue fin toro. Everywhere else I go, they seem to always be out of best part of the fish. I never tried white fin tuna until Long (the owner) gave me some for free. Very fresh and tasty. I have always exchanged pleasantries with him and his wife which put me on his good side. He has the demeanor of the "soup nazi", but he really is a nice gentleman. I had a conversation with one of my other buddies who is a sushi snob (worked in Tokyo for a year, eats sushi at least twice a week). We both agreed, "hands down", Long has some of the best sushi for the price and quality. I should rate it a 4.5 because the bathroom facilities are shared with the building. Wish he would do a groupon or buywith me deal...but I don't think he needs to.
(5)
Matthew D.
The food is outstanding, and the service is excellent. I've eaten at Asahi at least 10 times, and I keep coming back, despite sushi places closer to where I live. I know some people have said that the fish didn't seem fresh- all I can say is that I've never had that experience. Additionally, the delivery (one of the owners driving your food to you) is as prompt as any sushi I've had in Boston. The only reason I wouldn't give it five stars is that it gets expensive if you're looking to get pleasantly full, or if you're here in a group. That said, I'll keep coming back.
(4)
K.C. K.
Asahi is always fresh and delicious, the two main appellations you want in sushi. Highlights include the scallop and red snapper maki and nigiri. The place is small and often my husband and I are in there by ourselves, with maybe one or two other parties. I'm not sure why, given that Asahi is really good. They do seem to do a brisk take-out business, though. Often they'll have white tuna as the special -- definitely try it if it is available. My only pet peeves about Asahi: the miso and edamame are microwaved to approximately a billion degrees (it has happened more than once right in front of us) and I wish they delivered because I am clearly too lazy to order take-out. Also, they are only open for dinner. Asahi is our go-to neighborhood sushi -- it isn't the most creative sushi you'll have but again, it is always fresh and delicious. I've tried more expensive options in Boston (I'm looking at you, Fugakyu) and Asahi is better and much less expensive.
(4)
Hungry B.
This is my favorite place for sushi in Boston. It's just very well made, always delicious, and the couple that runs the place is very nice to every one. It's just a great place, never had anything bad here at all.
(4)
Lauren V.
Inevitably when eating sushi, my mouth goes "yum!" but my brain goes "eek! raw fish! eject, eject!". Yet, I still crave it, and often. Last week such a craving hit so my sister and I decided to place an order at nearby Asahi. Miso soup, spider roll, tempura roll (for the skittish boyfriend), spicy scallops roll and spicy tuna roll were all called into action to fight my fish hankering. Fifteen minutes later we were making our way up the street to pick up our order. The woman working alongside the man behind the counter had a little trouble with the order before us, but with his gruff direction (literally grunts and gestures) she figured it out soon enough (mixed orders) and within a few minutes we were paid and on our way. ($10 minimum to use a credit card, by the way.) Now for the food. Although certainly not the best I have had, it was pretty fresh and satisfied my hunger pangs. The miso soup was a little too salty and synthetically smoky for my liking. The spider roll was definitely the standout of the bunch with the perfect mix of smooth fish, sticky rice and savory flavors. The tuna and spicy scallops roll were pretty standard and the tempura roll was un-daunting enough that my boyfriend tried it. Crunchy but slightly bland, it probably won't do much for those who are sushi-aficionados. For about $35, it was a pretty reasonably priced meal too. I doubt I will be visiting for a sit-down dinner as it is so close to my warmer and much more comfortable (and spacious) apartment, but Asahi will undoubtedly be playing a role in all future sushi cravings.
(3)
Marissa S.
I really love this place. I've never dined in, but have gotten take out and delivery. I'll be totally honest: I was a bit nervous about getting raw fish from such a little hole-in-the-wall place, but I am consistently impressed with how fresh and delicious everything is there. I've only ever had a long wait there once, which is pretty reasonable considering that it's only a two-person staff. Actually, I'm surprised I haven't waited longer. They are always very friendly and professional and the prices are reasonable. I would highly recommend Asahi.
(4)
Nicole L.
The place is great if you are getting take out as it is rather small. Although they do have one table (besides the bar) and that can be nice to sit at. The couple that runs the place is very nice though and after we had been going for awhile, he would always give us a little "extra" and we loved that. The sushi is as good as any place we order from and we eat a ton of sushi all around the area. I'd highly recommend!
(5)
Rob G.
I lived in Brighton for over 7 years and unfortunately did not find this place until three years ago. What a hidden gem! The owner and chef is friendly and talented. I have loved every single order I have made at this place. The quality of the food is amazing. Few places can produce a spider roll (soft shell crab) as fine as Asahi. Although I no longer live in the neighborhood, I will definitely travel to visit Asahi!
(5)
Dara M.
This looks like a hole-in-the wall, as one other reviewer mentioned, and it's true. The sushi is ok. I didn't get sick the next day, and it tasted great. I got the spicy yellowtail and it was nice, I saw him slice a piece of the fish right in front of me. The spicy rolls have whole pieces of fish in them, not the minced kind like they serve at Fin's. I believe the owners (a couple) are Chinese, as I think they were speaking Mandarin to each other, but you don't have to be Japanese to make good sushi. And that's just what it was. It was good. Not spectacular, but good. They don't have a liquor license, nor are they open for lunch, but if you want a quick to-go meal in Brighton center, it's ok.
(3)
Cara P.
Ewww Some of you are a bunch of needy bitches. Who cares that the dude (ONLY DUDE) working here wasn't talkative? He is serving, checking people out, cutting fish, and pouring water and tea. He is the ONLY person here. I came here on a girl date and it was amazing. The Sushi is fresh and cheap. I tried some squid and other fun stuff for the first time. It's a small place and has no alcohol, but I would recommend it 10 times over! Obviously those that complained don't have that certain je ne sais quoi, because the dude loved Devon and I. He even gave us free sushi to try. I found him pleasant, dare I say hilarious!?! Try putting a smile on your face, chilling out, and enjoying some good Sushi.
(5)
Ryan K.
Very good Sushi. Is it the best I have had? No, but everything else makes up for it. The owners are extremely nice, delivery if you need it is prompt. Just keep in mind that there is on table and the sushi bar sits about 10... so dont show up with a big party.
(3)
Bethany F.
Though this place is super small (we opt for takeout most of the time) the sushi is delicious and the dude behind the counter is awesome. Yes, sometimes there is a wait. If you call ahead it's ready for you! The sushi itself is fresh, extremely tasty (try the yellowtail with scallions mmm) and definitely worth the price. I haven't been to many other sushi places in the area but I go back here all the time and am never disappointed!
(4)
Sara A.
My husband and I have been going to Asahi for years now. We have had sushi in many places and still find Asahi to be the best in Boston, hands down. As others have noted in their reviews, this is a sushi bar, not a Japanese restaurant; don't bring a friend who hates sushi and expects to order teriyaki or noodles. Also, this is not fast food, proper sushi takes time to prepare. The proprietor is the only sushi chef, and so if you go during peak times the service may be slow (they get a lot of take-out business, so even if the place is empty there may be a wait for the food). The chef takes pride in his sushi and so he doesn't throw it together in 30 seconds. For me this isn't a problem, I know not to go here if I'm in a dire hurry. My favorite part is that the chef and his wife always recognize us when we come in and greet us warmly. I don't mind a bit of a wait for more personalized service. Bottom line: great sushi that is worth the wait.
(5)
thermopylae x.
excellent sush with free dishes (just don't get the uni) semi-mediocre service with long prep times (eh) street parking one table (fits only three diners, maybe) this place is at its best for takeout, only
(4)
Anon A.
If you are getting for delivery, there are much better places at a cheaper price. The rolls are small and not even close to being average in area with TONS of better of options
(1)
Emily F.
From the outside, Asahi looks a lot like Chestnut Hill's Oishii - tiny little sushi bar. Unfortunately I was disappointed by everything. 1. They had all sorts of promotional materials for beer around, but they don't have any! What a tease! 2. Service is realllllly slow and impersonal. There are only two people working and I never saw either of them diddle around, but still...reallllllly slow. 3. The maki fell apart. 4. Non-fish ingredients didn't seem super fresh. The food was meh, the service was boo. Okay to fill a soosh craving if you're unwilling to leave Brighton Center, otherwise, PASS.
(2)
Trish F.
I totally agree with Stephen when he says that Asahi is reliable sushi. I don't think they have the "freshest fish in Boston" when I eat their stuff but I do think they're pretty good and satisfy a craving Although I'm the kind of person that loves variety so their menu is a little too minimal for me. But with their prices, you're definitely getting a good deal. Service is usually pretty good. There's one woman who is always in there and she's nothing but smiles. Whenever I ask a question the sushi chef pipes up. I wouldn't say he was mean.. or friendly.. more curt and to the point. I can see why he's trying to be focused though since he's the only one that I've ever see making the food. I like him though. He's made suggestions about things and subbed things out when he's heard I didn't like something. The atmosphere isn't much. This place is kind of on the teeny side. Definitely not good for groups or loud conversation. I usually come in the evenings and they have whatever's on NBC. I don't know.. I totally feel like a Debbie Downer for not giving them 5 stars. I definitely pop in when I'm in the area and have craving but this place is definitely not on my "must go to" list.
(3)
Mary M.
All day yesterday, my friend kept IMing me: "fishez". I'm in a meeting, *bing* "fishez". I'm working on a report, *bing* "fishez". So we ended up at Asahi last night. Later she told me why: she'd been to Fugakyu the night before, and wanted to do a comparison to Asahi. Guess what? Asahi wins, hands down. I hadn't been to Fugakyu the night before, but I had to agree. Nowhere in Boston can beat this place on straight-up fish quality: not Fugakyu, not the much-praised Oiishi, none of 'em. The hamachi nigiri and salmon nigiri, both sushi bar staples, were some of the most beautiful looking fish I'd ever seen, clearly excellent quality and at the peak of freshness. That would have been good enough, but the specials board had several specials made with bluefin toro or fatty salmon, so of course we went there. The sushi chef approved. "The fatty salmon is--" and he paused, trying for a superlative that fit, and finally saying firmly, "--very very good." This isn't a guy who's given to effusive praise of his own handiwork (or effusive anything), so we knew we'd picked right, and we weren't disappointed. Both fatty salmon and toro were everything we could have hoped for, with a buttery smooth texture and rich taste that said, "Order another round." So we did. With Asahi's prices, you can do that. The next time you're looking for a great sushi experience, ask yourself: do I want something that's been deep-fried or made up to look like a giant centipede, or do I just want the best fish I can get? If the latter, consider making the trip to Asahi. No beer, no large tables for parties of twelve, no maki with the names of local celebrities...just the fish, ma'am. But it's the best in town.
(5)
D M.
I have a crush on this place. My only issue with my neighborhood is that there's NO SUSHI, and that's makes me cry a little, but now with my new commute, I get to pick up the bus right in front of Asahi! Score! I picked up Sushi to go one night last week and was wowed at how tiny this place is. I got five or six different types of rolls, and within ten or so minutes, I was out of there. I was wowed at the beautiful maki rolls that the chef prepared, and he literally prepared and sliced and diced everything for my rolls fresh. I also ordered a soft shell crab roll, and he fried it fresh, and honestly, it was beautiful. Everything tasted so very fresh and perfect. I will absolutely be getting take out from here again. The service was very friendly and fast, the sushi is very reasonably priced ($38 or so for a lot of sushi) and it's on the way home! So yummy!
(5)
Barney B.
I hadn't been here in years. I don't know - I guess Brighton Center is just not what pops into my head when I think of grabbing sushi. Brookline? yes. Downtown? sure. But Brighton Center not so much. But this place is pretty solid, if terribly tiny. the rolls, average sized and priced. the service, pretty quick given it's just one dude, and he seems to get a lot of calls for 'to go' orders. the fish, fairly fresh. it's not going to knock your socks off like some places, but it will satisy if you are in the mood for standard nigiri, sashimi and rolls.
(4)
Peter W.
If you want sushi from Brighton Center, then here you go...there's no competition in the area. Sushi was decent; place is cramped; and location is good for walking if you are from Brighton.
(3)
Em E.
Good sushi, great service, even better prices! I can't say this place is an authentic sushi bar (i mean, they don't have uni!! and the sushi chef is really nice but he isn't trained in the Japanese way), but for Boston it's one of the best I've seen so far and for the price I ain't complainin'!
(4)
Mike A.
7:15pm. Sit down with girlfriend. Handed paper menu check list. 7:20pm. Put checklist up on counter. Checklist includes 2 miso appetizer. 7:35pm. Get ice water delivered. 7:40pm. Checklist still not "looked at". Ask for miso app directly. Sushi-ya guy nods. He is the only one working. Watch him gracefully finish up an order-to-go carefully into plastic boxes while the 5 others in the restaurant (who were there before us, even) still have not been served either. 7:45pm. No miso. He hadn't even looked our order yet, 25mins later. Get up and leave (politely). Feel bad. But not that bad. Very hungry now and wish they at least had beer that I could have been sipping. Asahi Super Dry would be great. Especially since a nice photo pint of it teases you on their dinner mats. Migrate to Washington Square. 8pm - Entered Super Fusion (Wash Sq) 8:30pm - ordered same dinner, ate it (oishii!), sat and digested a bit, paid bill and left, all without feeling rushed or needy. Noted that there were 7 people working, and with turnover of seated guests plus those quietly picking up their take-out, at least 20 people were served including myself and date in that same time frame (30 minutes). Establishment is maybe 10% bigger but serves 100% more volume without being "fast-food" by any means. Also noted that staff aren't speaking Japanese. Verdict: Won't bother with Asahi again, even if they do have fresh fish and a zen-like sushi-ya. I'll pay an extra dollar or two for the service any day from Fusion over Asahi...
(1)
Valerie V.
Totally respectable sushi option if you are in Brighton center. Prices are not as low as I'd like them but not crazy either. Rolls don't seem particularly creative, but I normally stick with sashimi anyway. Service is fast and the counter is comfortable. Hit Asahi when you want a relaxed and quick bite of sushi or takeout in Brighton Center.
(3)
Kelly B.
My roommate and I ordered take-out from here, I got a vegetarian roll and a sweet potato tempura roll, she got a California and a Boston. Ours were both very fresh and very delicious, plus the food was delivered pretty fast. Beats Mr. Sushi (eh) by a landslide. And thumbs up for them having more than two vegetarian options.
(4)
Laura M.
I love this place. First of all, I could care less that there is only person that works in here. To me, it only means that the sushi is going to be consistent. If he seems busy, I'll get some edamame to hold me over. Long, is an artisan, loves his craft - and is really good at it too! I got a spicy tuna, eel/avocado, and a tiger roll. I decided that that wasn't enough (I really love sushi) so I got some salmon belly sashimi. Long (the owner) even gave me some toro for free. Both sashimis liiterally melted in my mouth...as they should. Yes, it's not the fanciest place. Yes, he doesn't have the fanciest rolls. But- if you can appreciate just amazingly fresh fish, you'll love this place. You'll never get any old, fishy sushi here.
(5)
Stephen P.
When I lived in Brighton I would pick up a snack at Asahi every Friday right after work... Reliably good sushi... cordial staff who know a customers' face and order after the first visit... small but passable dining area... If you can't get out of Brighton or just want acceptable sushi in a timely fashion Asahi is the place to go...
(3)
Mariko W.
I like everything about this place. So basic no frills just sooosh. Walk in sit down get served fresh food. That's about it. It's a REAL sushi bar. Don't bring friends who can't stomach raw fish and expect to order chicken teriyaki. There's only sushi. I'm really glad that this place is a two minute walk from my house. The chef is a good guy and i want to support him.
(5)
Katie W.
The sushi here is really super basic but very consistent. It's perfect to take out for a low-key night. I don't love eating-in there, they don't have a liquor license and you can't BYOB (I even called to check one on particularly desperate evening). Definitely leave plenty of time when you're going to pick up your order. I sometimes get the feeling that the sushi chef starts on your order when you walk in the door. The prices are pretty good, and the sushi chef sometimes sends you on your way with a little extra treat to thank you for your wait :)
(4)
Pizza W.
This place is amazing. Hole in the wall, but the food is always of great quality and super fresh. My favorite is their toro (fatty tuna) and salmon. I always get the salmon sashimi and toro sashimi. You can never go wrong. They also have very good rolls, like the spider roll and volcano rolls. If you haven't tried, their sweet shrimp maki and scallop maki are also very good. The food is very fresh. I have to say that the place is very busy, especially Friday nights and Saturday nights. So the wait time is longer. There's only one chef, so if you are in hurry or have a large group, probably best to order pick up. Regardless, the food is amazing. Definitely worth a try.
(5)
Samantha M.
Not the most creative sushi I've ever had, but decent. The white tuna sushi I had was pretty good. The volcano roll was awkward, I didn't like the texture and I usually love volcano rolls. I'm still on a quest for the best sushi in town..
(3)
Erica Y.
Hidden little sushi restaurant in Brighton Center. Really small restaurant, with few seats. It appears that the majority of patrons are of the take-out origin. When I was there, the sushi bar was pretty full and the sushi chef was doing everything from taking orders to making the tea. I wouldn't say the fish is the freshest ever, as I was a little weary when my salmon roe came from a tightly wrapped saran package, and the unagi looked a little dry, but all is well since I had a craving for sushi and didn't want to drive. The sushi is average-good, and I'm very happy to report that the chef washed his hands after handling cash transactions before handling the food. One other note, despite the asahi-sponsored place mats, this little restaurant does not hold a liquor license.
(3)
Beth J.
A brighten sushi hidden gem! Although first impressions presents a small understated sushi restaurant the taste is anything but. I have been a number of times and have always had delicious fresh tasting sushi. I will say if you are looking for creative and different combinations this is not the place to go. When you are having a craving for fresh sushi or sashimi this is a hidden gem! I have been the only person in the restaurant at times and other times had to wait for a seat. There often seems to be a good amount of takeout orders being placed so its hard to say what you will find for service and wait time bout again I will say the fish is great. The man who makes the sushi is also very friendly and will recommend what is good.
(5)
D A.
Usually I am a little skeptical about take out sushi, but this place is AWESOME! The place only has about 10 chairs (1 table and the bar), but the sushi is the best. The food that comes out of this place rivals anything that you can get in the upscale sushi restaurants in the area. There is only one guy rolling the sushi, so on busy nights it can take a little bit, but the wait is nothing once you taste the fresh, well-made sushi that he puts together. I honestly can't say enough good things about this place.
(5)
harry n.
im not a sushi snob also never been here when its busy the novia is a big fan so we have been a couple of times since relocating consistent does get me a-hankerin for some super-dry, but recently heard you can bring your own? siguoy you go in on a tuesday, the couple do everything, no frills and the tv is blasting its weird. i like
(4)
Catherine S.
So I'm not a sushi expert, which is why I didn't feel quite qualified enough to give them a five, but I was impressed with Asahi. It's a cute little mom-and-pop shop that reminded me of my visit to Asia; the ambience wasn't anything fancy or spacious, but very genuine. To add to the convenience, they have online ordering, so it's easy for me to pick up on the way home. As I said before, I'm not a sushi expert, but I've walked in to pick it up and he's typically right in the middle of making it; can't get any more fresh than that! My only tiny little complaint is that their online menu doesn't decipher which sushi uses raw meat and which doesn't. That's probably my own fault since I'm an amateur, but for the newbies, it would be helpful (they do have it on the print menu, though). Either way, I recommend them!
(4)
Chuckert B.
This is a basic, no bullshit sushi bar. That's it! Nothing else on the menu! You want a drink? How about some water. That's what they've got here. The sushi is excellent and the prices are very reasonable. The chef is very fast. I used to live across the street and go here alot, he would occasionally toss a few extra complementary chunks of sashimi my way. Awsome. This is a tiny little family run buisness and I support it. Lunch menu has a pretty nice discount too. Weird hours sometimes, though.
(5)
Steven G.
I had a good experience here. The fish was nothing less than perfect and fresh, the service was not fast but not slow, and the sushi chef was a good guy. I would recommend this, but I could see how the service would lag if the place was full. I would definitely go back.
(4)
Leah G.
So fresh. So delicious. So going back there at least 3x a week! I love the fact that I can get off the bus, get some of the most fresh, tasty sushi I've ever eaten, and walk up the hill to my apartment. The sushi chef at Asahi is friendly and fast. He uses real, meaty chunks of tuna in the spicy tuna roll, as opposed to shredded, weak chunks of tuna. The miso soup is delicious and the edamame is too. This is my new hot spot, fo sho.
(5)
Kirsten S.
This is by far my favorite place to eat in Boston. The owners are so friendly, the atmosphere is cozy, it has a real neighborhood restaurant feel, and the food is absolutely delicious. The fish is extremely fresh and it's cut very generously - the sushi has an excellent fish to rice ratio. I don't know where to begin for specific dishes because everything is so good. Well, actually, I do - WHITE TUNA! It's the best thing in the world. But you can't really go wrong with anything on the menu, and the specials are always an excellent choice. Even the soy sauce seems to taste better here than anywhere else! The prices are also quite reasonable. (And I've never been for lunch, but they do have lunch specials.) True, there's no alcohol served here, but since this is the freshest and most delicious sushi in all of Boston, you will not miss it, I promise.
(5)
Domenico B.
Asahi is a small place, you could almost call it intimate, but I'd have to go in the evening with my wife to use that term. I went for lunch. It's small. You'll sit at the sushi bar because there are no tables, which is a good thing. If you want to experience sushi you should sit at the bar, face to face with the chef and eat and order like the sushi experts do. The fish was fresh and tasty, of course. One of my favorite maki (rolls) is spicy tuna. I use that as my bellwether for any sushi place. Not as good as my favorite local sushi (Asahi in Salem; no relation I'm pretty sure), but still tasty. It's certainly different, not as powerful. And you can get more than one kind of spicy tuna: toro, maguro, a couple others. I also chose some mackerel, which had a very interesting sauce and eel (unagi), again very good. I tend not to use the extra wasabi or add soy sauce because I want to taste the fish so it also means that you will immediately taste any flaws. No flaws here. Just good fresh flavors. The miso soup was excellent, but it's such a simple dish that if you get the dashi right, it's hard to screw it up. The chef chopped up the other ingredients right before adding them to the bowl, so it was fresh. I arrived at 12:15 and no one was there except the chef and a deliveryman. I was a little worried: shouldn't it be busier at lunch time? Another couple came in while I was eating, but that was it. Maybe Tuesday is a slow day. I didn't interact much with the chef. I'm not much of an extrovert in that way and prefer just to read my book. Maybe once I get to know him and he recognizes me. In many ways that the best part of sushi--when the chef gets to know you and your taste and introduces you to something new you might like. The prices were decent for sushi, not at all expensive. I won't be going every day, but I think I'll be coming back. I'm glad to find a good place near work, especially since with my wife being pregnant we won't be going out for raw fish anytime soon.
(3)
Adam W.
The quality of the sushi is pretty good. The prices are pretty good. However, the size of the sushi roll is incredibly small. You could probably eat 4 maki rolls and be just satisified. You know those little trays of sushi they sell at supermarkets for $9-$14? That was the amount of sushi I got for $25. The food was all good, but you just don't get much for your money. We had to get some shrimp fried rice at China Maxim III after we ate.
(3)
Lauren T.
If you're looking for a quiet place for dinner to chit chat for a couple hours with no pressure, Asahi is the place. The one room sushi bar has the bar minimum in restaurant frivolity, but when you want good sushi and a place to talk, who cares? The white tuna and yellow tail are always fat, lusty looking pieces. The Caterpillar Roll ALWAYS makes my eyes jump with excitement. Asahi is owned and run by a super nice couple. He's the sushi chef and she's your tea server. They are always there and smiling. If you don't have time for a drawn out dinner, the lunch specials are quick and yummy. Not too bad for Brighton Center.
(3)
Jose T.
ME GUSTA When you see the name of this little sushi bar in Brighton Center you think of an ice cold Japanese brewsky in your hand while eating a spicy tuna roll. Then reality hits.....they have no liquor license....ah well at least the sushi is fresh and a little green tea is always good for the soul. The place is a bit Spartan. I thought the sushi was a good value and the owner/chef frequently has toro (fatty tuna to die for) on the menu which is a definite plus. I would recommend for take out or when you have a group that is boisterous enough to overcome the drab ambiance.
(3)
Christopher F.
This place is great. Once I tasted there salmon and tuna I realized that not all sushi is cut from the same cloth, this stuff is fresh. Comes from good "farms" I'm told. Kinda believe this because I've had sushi at Whole Foods and the Star at Chestnut Hill, no comparison... The owner is jovial and is extremely talented at his craft. Check this place out.
(4)
Amelia L.
I love Asahi. It's such a hole in the wall kind of place, which for sushi sometimes makes me nervous, but I had been dying for sushi and kind of happened upon it... so glad I did. The guy making sushi has a no-nonsense vibe. He's not in it for chit chat that's for sure but let the man work because he turns out great sushi. I always do takeout and my order is ready within 10/15 minutes. It's even better when you remember to call it in - always ready when you get there. I like the spicy rolls because they use a whole piece of fish instead of the mashed filling some places use (does that make sense..? don't know...). Their shrimp tempura roll is the best I've had from anywhere. Seriously. Oh man I want some right now... I wonder if they're open at 8am. Anyway go to Asahi. Don't expect a chat. Just expect good sushi.
(4)
Stephanie F.
Nothing really mind-blowing. Went there on a Sunday night and felt like the fish wasn't as fresh as it could be. I've had better sushi, but it pleased my sushi craving.
(3)
Nicole B.
Tiny sushi bar with just a few tables and counter, also delivers. I generally get mine to go, so I can't really comment on staff. But the fish is always fresh and well prepared and they offer brown rice, which is a bonus for me. In general, a great place to get sushi out to the neighborhood and a healthy delivery option in a land of pub food and pizza.
(4)
Courtney T.
I'm not a sushi connoisseur, but have liked everything I have tried here and have decided to make it my go-to-neighborhood-sushi-place. It's right down the street from my apartment so it's really easy to walk to now that the weather is nice. I have eaten in the restaurant a couple times and ordered take-out just once. The take-out was ready by the time I walked there (about 10 minutes). Eating in the restaurant has taken between 20 minutes and one hour. The restaurant is clean and has a nice, laid-back atmosphere. I am pretty sure that the chef and other woman who helps to serve are the owners of the restaurant and they have always been very friendly to my friends and me. The fish tastes very fresh and I've haven't been disappointed by anything I've ordered. The prices are also extremely reasonable compared to a lot of other sushi places in the Boston area. I'd definitely recommend Asahi.
(4)
Emily L.
I really love this place. My boyfriend and I usually go here once a week or so, get the vegetable salad, white tuna sushi, alaska roll, unagi roll, spicy yellow fin roll, and a fun surprise! The sushi chef will usually give us some delicious sushi treat free of charge. That's how we were turned on to white tuna. He has also given us blue fin toro (AMAZING) and fatty salmon, for free! It seems like he does this with most regulars that he recognizes. He is a lovely man and I am so into supporting his business. Everybody should go here, or at least get takeout.
(5)
Kelly P.
Asahi is the best in the area, fresh and fast! I used to live right around the corner so it became my go-to Sushi spot. When i moved to Watertown, i tried some new places but always left wishing i just went to Asahi!! The fish is very fresh. Always tastes very good and never too fishy or off. Its run by a family of 2 and ive never seen anyone but them working there. The Chef is very fast and the service is cordial. They have specials that are always changing listed of the white board and sometimes he even lets customers sample them! :) It is very cozy inside as well. Small but inviting. In the summer, they leave the door open and you get a nice breeze. Overall, my favorite sushi spot. I recomend the volcano roll and the rainbow roll :)
(5)
Ethan M.
I hate to give this mom and pop place two stars but I have to. I was hoping that this would become my local Sushi restaurant but the sushi was not on par. I ordered the Sabah and it tasted so slimy and gamy. I think that it was sitting there for a while and they just gave me the last couple of pieces that were left. I even swear that they talked it over on whether they should serve it to me or not. The people are really sweet and the place is nice and cozy but they lost a lot of points when it comes to serving me bad food. I wanted to give three stars but just the thought of bad sushi makes me want to gag.
(2)
Renee F.
This is the BEST restaurant in town. Great service, great food, and the sushi chef is fabulous. I go there about every week. And every week it is packed with people! Also whenever I go the sushi chef is so friendly, and he gives me a welcome, and smile every time I walk in! It is such a successful restaurant for two people to work in. They are fast sufficient and such awesome people. Best restaurant in Boston hands down. Everything is fresh, and inexpensive! I never go anywhere else. And now there's delivery. After I tried so many places This is the best one so far.
(5)
Ryan M.
I love Asahi. I keep meaning to try out other sushi spots in Brighton, but I haven't got around to it because Asahi is cheap and reliable. I've never been disappointed by my food from here. It always tastes fresh and is nicely made. I prefer to order out rather than eat in because the place is small and doesn't serve booze. Whenever we call to order our food is ready in 30 mins. One time there was a small mix up and the guy was very nice and apologetic and gave us some extra sushi in our order! I did eat in the restaurant once and that was a good experience too. Overall, i"d like it if they had some more interesting/creative rolls like I've had at other sushi places, but for what they do offer it's perfect. White tuna and spicey yellow tail are the best!
(4)
Ellen F.
Pretty decent sushi place right in Brighton Center. It's tiny, and the seating options are either at the counter, or at a small table that seats 2-4 people. I've had prompt service both eating in and taking out. The sushi is good...not the best I've ever had, but definitely reasonable for the prices ($5-12 for maki rolls). My favorites are the sweet potato tempura, spicy white tuna (fairly spicy, though it doesn't come with the little dollops of spicy mayo, usually my favorite part), and unagi maki.
(4)
Kristen F.
This is where 1/2 stars would be good. 3.5 stars for this place. Got some take out here Saturday night. 2 rolls - spicy salmon and Manhattan Roll (crab meat with tobiko on the outside) and both were really good. The edamamme was okay, but got a little mushy and could have used some more salt. The prices were great. Most inexpensive sushi around. I'd recommend this place and I'll be back.
(3)
Erik O.
stopped in here on a whim, and was very pleased. good portions, very friendly service. the prices, eh, possibly slightly higher than i thought the food was worth. but the food was very good, not complaining. good atmosphere. i think its BYOB. but i'm not sure. also, they deliver. so i might be hitting that option up soon.
(4)
Alex B.
Sometimes I like to slag down a couple glasses of water. When I do that - I like to do that with a coupla old bites of sushi at Asahi. Come after 5pm and the water is all you can drink. TSSSIP AHHHHHHHH!!!
(5)
Anthony B.
Asahi is one of my local neighborhood favorites. It is a small place with just one table and a sushi bar. No alcohol is served here, but that hasn't kept me away. It is run by the sushi chef and his wife (I think), and like most small restaurants, after a few visits, you begin to feel like you've made a new friend. The fish itself has been great. There are a few daily specials which are always worth a look at. Because it is such a small place, and they fill a lot of take-out orders, it is tough to quickly pop in and out if you plan sitting down. The variety of fish available varies on a daily basis, but they always seem to have great hotategai. If the chef still has some salmon skin from the last piece of salmon he prepared, you can ask him to make a delicious salmon skin handroll. If you're willing to roll with what is fresh and available on any given day, and aren't going to be thoroughly disappointed if there is no giant clam available, then you will walk away from Asahi full and content. Be sure to chat up the chef. He is generally very quiet, but is always very helpful and kind and will eagerly steer you towards what looks great that day if you just ask.
(4)
Danielle K.
As everyone else has said, Asahi is TINY!! Its nothing more than a small sushi bar and one table off to the side. I'm assuming this is more of a take out place. Nevertheless I was very impressed. I agree with other reviews... this is a great no frills sushi place. If you want exotic and crazy creative rolls, this is not the place for you. But if you are having a basic sushi craving in the Brighton area and want some some VERY DELICIOUS and HIGH QUALITY sushi, then this is a great place to go! I am a Philadephia Roll connoisseur and they make a great one! Their fish is very fresh and is like butter in your mouth! I am very excited that this place is within walking distance to my apartment, and I definitely WILL come back!!
(5)
Rebecca Y.
I was so excited when this place opened - a sushi bar in Brighton Center! And that's where my excitement ends. The prices are average, but the sushi doesn't taste as fresh as it should.
(2)
Jean Z.
I think this place is great - really good, fresh Sushi, with no frills, the way real sushi is supposed to be. Try the white tuna - rare to find on a menu around here, especially at a low price. I think this place is really cheap for how good it is, just as good quality as expensive places like Jae's. The owner is always there, and he will get to know you if you come in enough, as it is so small.
(5)
Sean C.
I went to Asahi last Sat around 12:10 pm, and the restaurant was still closed - which should be open at 11:45 am. It is a very bad experience for going a place and be blocked outside without any reasons.
(1)
P'raka ..
My new favourite sushi place! Tastes fresh and yummy; I'm constantly craving salmon sashimi from here. The place is pretty small. There is one 4-person table, and then a few (7-8?) seats along the sushi bar. No fancy/crazy rolls, just the basics.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : Yes Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : No Good for Groups : No Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : Yes
Danny K.
Got a 15 piece sashimi dinner and 4 of the pieces were omlette. Spicy roll was not even a little spicy at all. Got no soy sauce or ginger. Only upside was good quality of fish - but not better than many others. Huge rip off, I am not difficult to please.
(1)Eileen Z.
I live by a number of sushi spots near Harvard Ave, but still drive out to Asahi for all my sushi. The space is small, but the proprietors are really nice and the sushi is quality for the price. Very satisfied!
(4)Kaitlyn S.
Delicious and underrated ..awesome service and amazing sushi
(5)Joanna M.
After seeing other yelp reviews figured this place had to be ok and decide to give it a try. I was shocked because most times yelp gives a pretty good description of how the place actually is..that was not the case for this place. I've had my share of sushi and so I at least know when the sushi is decent. Yes, the sushi was fresh but it wasn't good. There was no flavor which is what sushi is all about. The rolls were very small and not put together well (I had to be extra careful when picking them up to make sure they didn't fall apart). Most shocking part? I was the only one there so it's not like the sushi "master" had to rush to put my order together. I was very disappointed. The place itself was cozy, and the sushi chef was friendly but that doesn't make up for bad sushi unfortunately.
(1)Eunice E.
I love when little hole-in-the-wall places rock your socks off, and Asahi does just that! There's not a lot of space inside (one table with four chairs and then a sushi bar with seats for maybe up to ten?), but what it lacks in space, it makes up for in terms of flavor and service. Fresh sushi made to order, reasonable prices, and awesome sides like miso soup and seaweed salad. Standard Japanese fare done really, really well.
(4)Lisa H.
My boyfriend and I ordered takeout from here the other night because of Asahi's location and positive Yelp reviews. We experienced both poor customer service and poor food quality. We ordered 6 rolls that should have cost about $35 based on the takeout menu. When we called in our order, they explained that we would get a free spicy tuna roll because our order exceeded $25. Great! When the food arrived an hour later, the total had come out to be more than $10 greater than expected. When we asked the delivery person about the unanticipated cost, they kept repeating that the price was correct and the tuna roll was free. They could not supply us with a receipt that had all of the items broken down- only a total price receipt. We let it go out of restlessness and hunger and assumed they had charged us for the "free" spicy tuna roll. I ordered a volcano roll and after eating two pieces of the roll, I felt incredibly ill. My boyfriend, not realizing that I was feeling so terrible, tried a piece of the volcano roll and also fell incredibly ill. Not only did we get overcharged with no reasonable explanation, but the food caused us to be physically ill for the next 24 hours. Needless to say, I will not be returning to Asahi.
(1)Evan L.
Ordered the $20 chefs selection of Sashimi. Unfortunately, the chef did not seem to take care when cutting my fish, and as a result many of the cuts were very tough. They were generally hacked to pieces. That being said, all of the meals that my friends had during this sitting were well done and they all enjoyed the experience. Personally, I will be trying somewhere else the next time I am craving raw fish.
(3)J. C.
Ate here tonight for the first time after being a loyal fins customer for years. I really enjoyed my dinner here, the sushi was amazingly fresh. The portions are a little smaller but it is still a great value. I love how small the restaurant is and the owners are incredibly nice. For the people who complain that the owners aren't nice because they aren't very talkative you must understand that the husband and wife do all of the cooking, serving and deliveries by themselves. They are very nice once you get to know them. We got free sushi at the end of our meal which was a very nice gesture. There is a reason why this place has been here for over 11 years. Try it. One pieve of advice I would give to the owners is that you should not use CFL bulbs with a dimmer because they flicker, this goes for the lights over the sushi bar. It's not a deal breaker but it would make a difference. Also some music in the background would be nice.
(4)Peter D.
Excellent local sushi joint! Chef gave us a bonus sample of the bluefin sushi after we had finished our order. We always leave here happy and without breaking the bank!
(5)Brian D.
I still love Asahi for what it is: very good sushi, in a charming, intimate little place. The Saba last night was excellent, the Spicy Scallop sushi was very good, and they always have an interesting special dish. The chef and his partner (wife?) have a nice little rhythm going behind the counter and manage to take care of a few diners and lots of take out orders. I've had (slightly) better fish or rice occasionally, and I've seen a few places with bigger menus and more creative rolls. But for a small, neighborhood sushi place Asahi is excellent. And for the quality of the sushi the prices are very reasonable!
(4)Kimberly S.
Sushi was definitely not fresh when I went. I ordered a roll with white tuna and the white tuna was dried out with brown streaks. Very nasty. I have never seen white tuna look like that before. I did not eat the roll. Overall none of our sushi was fresh. Definitely pass.
(1)Cynthia B.
I ordered (for delivery) the spider roll and the spicy tuna roll. Both were not great. The Spider roll, while yummy, was also strangely salty. The tuna was not very firm. It tasted "good" but that taste and texture that makes you say "yummm...sushi" was not there. Would not order again. It is cheaper, and it shows. Fin is definitely better for the $$. Delivery was great, though! Very quick and nice.
(3)Chris H.
I ordered a bunch of sushi rools with a group and was a bit underwhelmed. The spicy tuna roll was the best - it did not have too much mayonnaise. The sushi is pretty cheap, so don't expect too much from it. The seaweed salad was very good, but lets be honest, you are not coming here just for that. They also do give you a free roll if you meet an order minimum ($25, I believe) The biggest problem with this place is their delivery service. We have ordered from here a couple times and the delivery always takes over an hour (we are about one mile away) - sometimes much more than an hour. They've also accidentally given the food to the wrong people before, so do not pay in advance. For some reason, they don't always call.
(2)Julie T.
This place is great! I'm rating this place based on a take-out scale, not a restaurant scale. I've overlooked this place for years before my sister randomly decided she wanted to check the place out and offered to pay. Well, I'm not turning down a free meal so of course I went. This place is really small and I'm guessing people usually just order out but we decided to be different and sit down and eat. Since there was literally just one guy making all the sushi, it took a while for our sushi to come but the woman, who I'm guessing owns the place along with the one chef, was so sweet that I wasn't even upset about the wait. But let me tell you, it was worth it! The sushi was delicious and fresh! Did not expect it to be that good for a place that's legit a hole in the wall. And as we were finishing up and complimenting the chef, he gave us a couple more pieces of sushi. He's the man! Food was awesome and so was the service! And the best part is, it's probably the closest sushi joint in my area. Win!
(5)Conor F.
I still think Asahi is the best I've had. fresh and tasty, good technique. Only "limitation" is it is better for take-out which requires you to live near by.
(5)Abigail A.
We had a very pleasant experience tonight jan 25, 2014. Our waitress Haeli was full of great recommendations The sushi was excellent. This is a must try.
(5)Stephanie H.
So my review is based on their delivered food & its service. Food. + Masago. Delicious, can't go wrong with it. Masago itself was fresh & loved the rice. + Spicy Tuna Roll. Pretty good. BUT, I'm not a fan of using spicy mayo for spicy rolls + Philly Roll. a bit salty, but its smoked salmon. & it was amazing and fresh. The rolls aren't big but they're yummy and the place definitely won't come close to killing your wallet if you just order rolls. Their Delivery - My friends & I ordered delivery to a dorm in Boston College. Its really NOT that difficult. We order all the time and this is the first time that it took 10 minutes to tell them where to deliver to us. We almost just called it quits, but right when we said we'd order from another place they said to not worry and they've figured it out. Then, when they get to BC, they were incredibly lost and my friend went outside, found them, and got the delivery -not even close to our dorm. Maybe we were unlucky, maybe they always have bad delivery, but that was our experience. So unless you live somewhere with a"number" address -not simply building name - I'd suggest not ordering delivery. - Also, their online "discount code" doesn't work. - Delivery rating? ONE star.
(3)Jessica L.
The sushi was really fresh, and the owners really sweet!
(4)Vien N.
Love this place! Wish I could live here. Any tempura roll is great, best I've ever had. Honestly I've never had anything bad here, they can do no wrong.
(5)Mary K.
reliable delivery, excellent rice to fish ratio. dont really undertand the pricing on various rolls, but there is a deal for a free spicy tuna roll when you spend $25 (which is easy to do!) its my go to sushi delivery!
(4)Stacy B.
Don't be alarmed by the small, claustrophobic-looking exterior, this place is YUMMY! Inside is some exceptionally fresh sushi (reasonably priced), and service, run by a sushi chef/host - husband/wife duo. Started with some miso soup, made to order (and right in front of us), and enjoyed a mix of sashimi and sushi afterwards -- enough to feed two very hungry people. The bill came to $30.13. Can't beat that. Looks like they get most of their business from take out though. At 7pm on a Tuesday, we were the only ones in there, but there was plenty of sushi being made. Good to know! I happily took a menu on my way out, and anticipate my next lazy evening on the couch, eating sushi instead of something terribly bad for my heart (and soul). Wanted a bit more from the atmosphere. Maybe some music? It was pin drop quiet in there. Was more than happy with being able to watch them both prepare our meals. Transparency is key with sushi places. Takeout? Yes. Dining in? Try it, and let me know what you think.
(3)Maya T.
Excellent, fresh sushi! Only reason I didn't give them five stars is the place is tiny. My friend and I sat at the bar area and it was fun to see the chef make our sushi. I'll definitely go back, and they have take out, which is even better.
(4)Peter B.
This place is great. The owner is the chef, and he makes tremendous sushi. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly and unobtrusive. Also, they almost always give me "bonus sushi" at the end of my meal when I go with a friend. The only reason they don't get five stars is because there's no booze.
(4)Leslie W.
Great inexpensive, laid back little sushi joint. The people who run the place are very nice and are generally quick with take out orders.
(5)Natalie K.
I have ordered delivery from many other sushi places in Brighton and Allston and this has been the best BY FAR! The food is fresh and delicious, the service is quick, and the delivery person each time has been incredibly friendly! If you want to order quick, affordable, tasty sushi in the area- order here!
(5)Nicole L.
The place is great if you are getting take out as it is rather small. Although they do have one table (besides the bar) and that can be nice to sit at. The couple that runs the place is very nice though and after we had been going for awhile, he would always give us a little "extra" and we loved that. The sushi is as good as any place we order from and we eat a ton of sushi all around the area. I'd highly recommend!
(5)Rob G.
I lived in Brighton for over 7 years and unfortunately did not find this place until three years ago. What a hidden gem! The owner and chef is friendly and talented. I have loved every single order I have made at this place. The quality of the food is amazing. Few places can produce a spider roll (soft shell crab) as fine as Asahi. Although I no longer live in the neighborhood, I will definitely travel to visit Asahi!
(5)Nick D.
As current foursquare mayor of this fine establishment, I would be remiss to not put a good word in for this great sushi place. Of all the moderately priced sushi places I have gone to, this one definitely stands out. The fish here is always fresh, always tasty. The single sushi chef in the place is deliberate in his craft. Some would call him slow (I would, if the sushi wasn't so crazy good), but I like to think of him as being very attentive, perfecting the sashimi in succulent morsels of fish goodness. I try to go at least once a week and sometimes even more. Just this week i have gone there for dinner, dessert (what... Sushi after Korean BBQ isn't a normal dessert?), and am actually going to go again for dinner tonight. It is just that good. Everything on the menu is tasty, but I have a particularly soft spot for the following items: 1). Salmon - I have not had salmon that had such a great fresh taste anywhere else. The mouth feel of the fish is also great as well - not too firm that it feels like you need to keep chewing, but not so soft or soggy that it feels like it has been sitting in water all day long. I get at least 2 orders of sashimi each time I go. 2). Spider roll - crunchy yet not completely covered in tempura. Not an overwhelmingly sized roll that you find at other sushi joints. The crab is sweet and the roll is perfect. 3). Salmon belly - if you haven't yet tried this, you need to. It is listed on the daily special board when he has it. It is quite possibly the best thing I have had at Asahi. In both sashimi form or maki, the fish quality really shines through. Like salmon on steroids (but the kind that makes you fat as opposed to muscle), the fish is a very tender, almost melt in your mouth morsel of smooth fatty fish. Amazing. 4). Toro - He has a couple different varieties of the toro, but my favorite is the bluefin toro he serves. Last night's was strikingly fresh, very clean, and quite tasty. Not overpriced like places I have seen, the quality is well worth the wait. And now on to the wait - when i go in, if it is not busy, I usually can get my sushi within maybe 30 minutes or so. But that is because I order at least 60 dollars of sushi as a normal meal each time. So my platter is literally singing with fish. Last night, I got an order with 4 things and it took about 20 minutes. If the place looks busy, you might have to wait a bit. I enjoy the anticipation and the fact that I get to watch the care the chef takes while preparing my dinner. Water is usually served right away, and I vaguely remember getting a soda once. But I don't like to drink anything but water (usually) when I eat sushi. If the sushi is good, it should be the only thing of the meal I want to taste. And by golly, the sushi is great. Trust me, I'm the mayor.
(5)Dara M.
This looks like a hole-in-the wall, as one other reviewer mentioned, and it's true. The sushi is ok. I didn't get sick the next day, and it tasted great. I got the spicy yellowtail and it was nice, I saw him slice a piece of the fish right in front of me. The spicy rolls have whole pieces of fish in them, not the minced kind like they serve at Fin's. I believe the owners (a couple) are Chinese, as I think they were speaking Mandarin to each other, but you don't have to be Japanese to make good sushi. And that's just what it was. It was good. Not spectacular, but good. They don't have a liquor license, nor are they open for lunch, but if you want a quick to-go meal in Brighton center, it's ok.
(3)Matthew P.
I feel bad for giving them a two but it really is the epitome of "Meh. I've experienced better." And I have. Much better. First off, my biggest gripe is that they were slow as MOLASSES. We came in to order two maki rolls. There were only two people eating together so we thought it couldn't take any longer than 5-10 minutes. We waited close to half an hour. In the meantime the phone never rang and people never came in. I realize he was probably making to-go orders and that's fine. But we only had two very simple maki rolls (and i know how to make maki rolls). Couldn't he just have quickly made them? I watched him our rolls (when he finally got to it) and it just took a few minutes. I know I'm being overly sensitive about it but I'm just an impatient person. Unfortunately, the maki rolls were just not that good. They were poorly made and fell apart while I was trying to eat it. There was absolutely nothing special about the way it tasted either and the ingredients were very standard. I expect better from a sushi buffet. The couple that own the place are really nice and they are running a very decent business. It's clean and nice looking with what I am sure is a very loyal following. I've worked at many restaurants and to-go areas and I can tell you they really need to manage their orders better. You just can't go in order of what was called in. There aren't many (are there any?) sushi places around the area so if you have a major jones for it go here. But expect standard sushi and extremely long wait times. At least it's relatively cheap!
(2)Island Boy B.
Asahi is a little hole in the wall. Typical of what you would find in Japan - you wouldn't think its much, but the food is fresh and the wait can be long. Its a one man show, so on a nice night, there can be a wait. I rarely mind since I'm not in such a rush. I usually order an appetizer or salad to hold me over. The one thing about Asahi I like most is that, he always has blue fin toro. Everywhere else I go, they seem to always be out of best part of the fish. I never tried white fin tuna until Long (the owner) gave me some for free. Very fresh and tasty. I have always exchanged pleasantries with him and his wife which put me on his good side. He has the demeanor of the "soup nazi", but he really is a nice gentleman. I had a conversation with one of my other buddies who is a sushi snob (worked in Tokyo for a year, eats sushi at least twice a week). We both agreed, "hands down", Long has some of the best sushi for the price and quality. I should rate it a 4.5 because the bathroom facilities are shared with the building. Wish he would do a groupon or buywith me deal...but I don't think he needs to.
(5)Matthew D.
The food is outstanding, and the service is excellent. I've eaten at Asahi at least 10 times, and I keep coming back, despite sushi places closer to where I live. I know some people have said that the fish didn't seem fresh- all I can say is that I've never had that experience. Additionally, the delivery (one of the owners driving your food to you) is as prompt as any sushi I've had in Boston. The only reason I wouldn't give it five stars is that it gets expensive if you're looking to get pleasantly full, or if you're here in a group. That said, I'll keep coming back.
(4)K.C. K.
Asahi is always fresh and delicious, the two main appellations you want in sushi. Highlights include the scallop and red snapper maki and nigiri. The place is small and often my husband and I are in there by ourselves, with maybe one or two other parties. I'm not sure why, given that Asahi is really good. They do seem to do a brisk take-out business, though. Often they'll have white tuna as the special -- definitely try it if it is available. My only pet peeves about Asahi: the miso and edamame are microwaved to approximately a billion degrees (it has happened more than once right in front of us) and I wish they delivered because I am clearly too lazy to order take-out. Also, they are only open for dinner. Asahi is our go-to neighborhood sushi -- it isn't the most creative sushi you'll have but again, it is always fresh and delicious. I've tried more expensive options in Boston (I'm looking at you, Fugakyu) and Asahi is better and much less expensive.
(4)Lauren V.
Inevitably when eating sushi, my mouth goes "yum!" but my brain goes "eek! raw fish! eject, eject!". Yet, I still crave it, and often. Last week such a craving hit so my sister and I decided to place an order at nearby Asahi. Miso soup, spider roll, tempura roll (for the skittish boyfriend), spicy scallops roll and spicy tuna roll were all called into action to fight my fish hankering. Fifteen minutes later we were making our way up the street to pick up our order. The woman working alongside the man behind the counter had a little trouble with the order before us, but with his gruff direction (literally grunts and gestures) she figured it out soon enough (mixed orders) and within a few minutes we were paid and on our way. ($10 minimum to use a credit card, by the way.) Now for the food. Although certainly not the best I have had, it was pretty fresh and satisfied my hunger pangs. The miso soup was a little too salty and synthetically smoky for my liking. The spider roll was definitely the standout of the bunch with the perfect mix of smooth fish, sticky rice and savory flavors. The tuna and spicy scallops roll were pretty standard and the tempura roll was un-daunting enough that my boyfriend tried it. Crunchy but slightly bland, it probably won't do much for those who are sushi-aficionados. For about $35, it was a pretty reasonably priced meal too. I doubt I will be visiting for a sit-down dinner as it is so close to my warmer and much more comfortable (and spacious) apartment, but Asahi will undoubtedly be playing a role in all future sushi cravings.
(3)Hungry B.
This is my favorite place for sushi in Boston. It's just very well made, always delicious, and the couple that runs the place is very nice to every one. It's just a great place, never had anything bad here at all.
(4)Marissa S.
I really love this place. I've never dined in, but have gotten take out and delivery. I'll be totally honest: I was a bit nervous about getting raw fish from such a little hole-in-the-wall place, but I am consistently impressed with how fresh and delicious everything is there. I've only ever had a long wait there once, which is pretty reasonable considering that it's only a two-person staff. Actually, I'm surprised I haven't waited longer. They are always very friendly and professional and the prices are reasonable. I would highly recommend Asahi.
(4)Cara P.
Ewww Some of you are a bunch of needy bitches. Who cares that the dude (ONLY DUDE) working here wasn't talkative? He is serving, checking people out, cutting fish, and pouring water and tea. He is the ONLY person here. I came here on a girl date and it was amazing. The Sushi is fresh and cheap. I tried some squid and other fun stuff for the first time. It's a small place and has no alcohol, but I would recommend it 10 times over! Obviously those that complained don't have that certain je ne sais quoi, because the dude loved Devon and I. He even gave us free sushi to try. I found him pleasant, dare I say hilarious!?! Try putting a smile on your face, chilling out, and enjoying some good Sushi.
(5)Ryan K.
Very good Sushi. Is it the best I have had? No, but everything else makes up for it. The owners are extremely nice, delivery if you need it is prompt. Just keep in mind that there is on table and the sushi bar sits about 10... so dont show up with a big party.
(3)Bethany F.
Though this place is super small (we opt for takeout most of the time) the sushi is delicious and the dude behind the counter is awesome. Yes, sometimes there is a wait. If you call ahead it's ready for you! The sushi itself is fresh, extremely tasty (try the yellowtail with scallions mmm) and definitely worth the price. I haven't been to many other sushi places in the area but I go back here all the time and am never disappointed!
(4)Sara A.
My husband and I have been going to Asahi for years now. We have had sushi in many places and still find Asahi to be the best in Boston, hands down. As others have noted in their reviews, this is a sushi bar, not a Japanese restaurant; don't bring a friend who hates sushi and expects to order teriyaki or noodles. Also, this is not fast food, proper sushi takes time to prepare. The proprietor is the only sushi chef, and so if you go during peak times the service may be slow (they get a lot of take-out business, so even if the place is empty there may be a wait for the food). The chef takes pride in his sushi and so he doesn't throw it together in 30 seconds. For me this isn't a problem, I know not to go here if I'm in a dire hurry. My favorite part is that the chef and his wife always recognize us when we come in and greet us warmly. I don't mind a bit of a wait for more personalized service. Bottom line: great sushi that is worth the wait.
(5)thermopylae x.
excellent sush with free dishes (just don't get the uni) semi-mediocre service with long prep times (eh) street parking one table (fits only three diners, maybe) this place is at its best for takeout, only
(4)Anon A.
If you are getting for delivery, there are much better places at a cheaper price. The rolls are small and not even close to being average in area with TONS of better of options
(1)Emily F.
From the outside, Asahi looks a lot like Chestnut Hill's Oishii - tiny little sushi bar. Unfortunately I was disappointed by everything. 1. They had all sorts of promotional materials for beer around, but they don't have any! What a tease! 2. Service is realllllly slow and impersonal. There are only two people working and I never saw either of them diddle around, but still...reallllllly slow. 3. The maki fell apart. 4. Non-fish ingredients didn't seem super fresh. The food was meh, the service was boo. Okay to fill a soosh craving if you're unwilling to leave Brighton Center, otherwise, PASS.
(2)Trish F.
I totally agree with Stephen when he says that Asahi is reliable sushi. I don't think they have the "freshest fish in Boston" when I eat their stuff but I do think they're pretty good and satisfy a craving Although I'm the kind of person that loves variety so their menu is a little too minimal for me. But with their prices, you're definitely getting a good deal. Service is usually pretty good. There's one woman who is always in there and she's nothing but smiles. Whenever I ask a question the sushi chef pipes up. I wouldn't say he was mean.. or friendly.. more curt and to the point. I can see why he's trying to be focused though since he's the only one that I've ever see making the food. I like him though. He's made suggestions about things and subbed things out when he's heard I didn't like something. The atmosphere isn't much. This place is kind of on the teeny side. Definitely not good for groups or loud conversation. I usually come in the evenings and they have whatever's on NBC. I don't know.. I totally feel like a Debbie Downer for not giving them 5 stars. I definitely pop in when I'm in the area and have craving but this place is definitely not on my "must go to" list.
(3)Mary M.
All day yesterday, my friend kept IMing me: "fishez". I'm in a meeting, *bing* "fishez". I'm working on a report, *bing* "fishez". So we ended up at Asahi last night. Later she told me why: she'd been to Fugakyu the night before, and wanted to do a comparison to Asahi. Guess what? Asahi wins, hands down. I hadn't been to Fugakyu the night before, but I had to agree. Nowhere in Boston can beat this place on straight-up fish quality: not Fugakyu, not the much-praised Oiishi, none of 'em. The hamachi nigiri and salmon nigiri, both sushi bar staples, were some of the most beautiful looking fish I'd ever seen, clearly excellent quality and at the peak of freshness. That would have been good enough, but the specials board had several specials made with bluefin toro or fatty salmon, so of course we went there. The sushi chef approved. "The fatty salmon is--" and he paused, trying for a superlative that fit, and finally saying firmly, "--very very good." This isn't a guy who's given to effusive praise of his own handiwork (or effusive anything), so we knew we'd picked right, and we weren't disappointed. Both fatty salmon and toro were everything we could have hoped for, with a buttery smooth texture and rich taste that said, "Order another round." So we did. With Asahi's prices, you can do that. The next time you're looking for a great sushi experience, ask yourself: do I want something that's been deep-fried or made up to look like a giant centipede, or do I just want the best fish I can get? If the latter, consider making the trip to Asahi. No beer, no large tables for parties of twelve, no maki with the names of local celebrities...just the fish, ma'am. But it's the best in town.
(5)D M.
I have a crush on this place. My only issue with my neighborhood is that there's NO SUSHI, and that's makes me cry a little, but now with my new commute, I get to pick up the bus right in front of Asahi! Score! I picked up Sushi to go one night last week and was wowed at how tiny this place is. I got five or six different types of rolls, and within ten or so minutes, I was out of there. I was wowed at the beautiful maki rolls that the chef prepared, and he literally prepared and sliced and diced everything for my rolls fresh. I also ordered a soft shell crab roll, and he fried it fresh, and honestly, it was beautiful. Everything tasted so very fresh and perfect. I will absolutely be getting take out from here again. The service was very friendly and fast, the sushi is very reasonably priced ($38 or so for a lot of sushi) and it's on the way home! So yummy!
(5)Barney B.
I hadn't been here in years. I don't know - I guess Brighton Center is just not what pops into my head when I think of grabbing sushi. Brookline? yes. Downtown? sure. But Brighton Center not so much. But this place is pretty solid, if terribly tiny. the rolls, average sized and priced. the service, pretty quick given it's just one dude, and he seems to get a lot of calls for 'to go' orders. the fish, fairly fresh. it's not going to knock your socks off like some places, but it will satisy if you are in the mood for standard nigiri, sashimi and rolls.
(4)Peter W.
If you want sushi from Brighton Center, then here you go...there's no competition in the area. Sushi was decent; place is cramped; and location is good for walking if you are from Brighton.
(3)Em E.
Good sushi, great service, even better prices! I can't say this place is an authentic sushi bar (i mean, they don't have uni!! and the sushi chef is really nice but he isn't trained in the Japanese way), but for Boston it's one of the best I've seen so far and for the price I ain't complainin'!
(4)Mike A.
7:15pm. Sit down with girlfriend. Handed paper menu check list. 7:20pm. Put checklist up on counter. Checklist includes 2 miso appetizer. 7:35pm. Get ice water delivered. 7:40pm. Checklist still not "looked at". Ask for miso app directly. Sushi-ya guy nods. He is the only one working. Watch him gracefully finish up an order-to-go carefully into plastic boxes while the 5 others in the restaurant (who were there before us, even) still have not been served either. 7:45pm. No miso. He hadn't even looked our order yet, 25mins later. Get up and leave (politely). Feel bad. But not that bad. Very hungry now and wish they at least had beer that I could have been sipping. Asahi Super Dry would be great. Especially since a nice photo pint of it teases you on their dinner mats. Migrate to Washington Square. 8pm - Entered Super Fusion (Wash Sq) 8:30pm - ordered same dinner, ate it (oishii!), sat and digested a bit, paid bill and left, all without feeling rushed or needy. Noted that there were 7 people working, and with turnover of seated guests plus those quietly picking up their take-out, at least 20 people were served including myself and date in that same time frame (30 minutes). Establishment is maybe 10% bigger but serves 100% more volume without being "fast-food" by any means. Also noted that staff aren't speaking Japanese. Verdict: Won't bother with Asahi again, even if they do have fresh fish and a zen-like sushi-ya. I'll pay an extra dollar or two for the service any day from Fusion over Asahi...
(1)Valerie V.
Totally respectable sushi option if you are in Brighton center. Prices are not as low as I'd like them but not crazy either. Rolls don't seem particularly creative, but I normally stick with sashimi anyway. Service is fast and the counter is comfortable. Hit Asahi when you want a relaxed and quick bite of sushi or takeout in Brighton Center.
(3)Kelly B.
My roommate and I ordered take-out from here, I got a vegetarian roll and a sweet potato tempura roll, she got a California and a Boston. Ours were both very fresh and very delicious, plus the food was delivered pretty fast. Beats Mr. Sushi (eh) by a landslide. And thumbs up for them having more than two vegetarian options.
(4)Laura M.
I love this place. First of all, I could care less that there is only person that works in here. To me, it only means that the sushi is going to be consistent. If he seems busy, I'll get some edamame to hold me over. Long, is an artisan, loves his craft - and is really good at it too! I got a spicy tuna, eel/avocado, and a tiger roll. I decided that that wasn't enough (I really love sushi) so I got some salmon belly sashimi. Long (the owner) even gave me some toro for free. Both sashimis liiterally melted in my mouth...as they should. Yes, it's not the fanciest place. Yes, he doesn't have the fanciest rolls. But- if you can appreciate just amazingly fresh fish, you'll love this place. You'll never get any old, fishy sushi here.
(5)Stephen P.
When I lived in Brighton I would pick up a snack at Asahi every Friday right after work... Reliably good sushi... cordial staff who know a customers' face and order after the first visit... small but passable dining area... If you can't get out of Brighton or just want acceptable sushi in a timely fashion Asahi is the place to go...
(3)Mariko W.
I like everything about this place. So basic no frills just sooosh. Walk in sit down get served fresh food. That's about it. It's a REAL sushi bar. Don't bring friends who can't stomach raw fish and expect to order chicken teriyaki. There's only sushi. I'm really glad that this place is a two minute walk from my house. The chef is a good guy and i want to support him.
(5)Katie W.
The sushi here is really super basic but very consistent. It's perfect to take out for a low-key night. I don't love eating-in there, they don't have a liquor license and you can't BYOB (I even called to check one on particularly desperate evening). Definitely leave plenty of time when you're going to pick up your order. I sometimes get the feeling that the sushi chef starts on your order when you walk in the door. The prices are pretty good, and the sushi chef sometimes sends you on your way with a little extra treat to thank you for your wait :)
(4)Pizza W.
This place is amazing. Hole in the wall, but the food is always of great quality and super fresh. My favorite is their toro (fatty tuna) and salmon. I always get the salmon sashimi and toro sashimi. You can never go wrong. They also have very good rolls, like the spider roll and volcano rolls. If you haven't tried, their sweet shrimp maki and scallop maki are also very good. The food is very fresh. I have to say that the place is very busy, especially Friday nights and Saturday nights. So the wait time is longer. There's only one chef, so if you are in hurry or have a large group, probably best to order pick up. Regardless, the food is amazing. Definitely worth a try.
(5)Samantha M.
Not the most creative sushi I've ever had, but decent. The white tuna sushi I had was pretty good. The volcano roll was awkward, I didn't like the texture and I usually love volcano rolls. I'm still on a quest for the best sushi in town..
(3)Erica Y.
Hidden little sushi restaurant in Brighton Center. Really small restaurant, with few seats. It appears that the majority of patrons are of the take-out origin. When I was there, the sushi bar was pretty full and the sushi chef was doing everything from taking orders to making the tea. I wouldn't say the fish is the freshest ever, as I was a little weary when my salmon roe came from a tightly wrapped saran package, and the unagi looked a little dry, but all is well since I had a craving for sushi and didn't want to drive. The sushi is average-good, and I'm very happy to report that the chef washed his hands after handling cash transactions before handling the food. One other note, despite the asahi-sponsored place mats, this little restaurant does not hold a liquor license.
(3)Beth J.
A brighten sushi hidden gem! Although first impressions presents a small understated sushi restaurant the taste is anything but. I have been a number of times and have always had delicious fresh tasting sushi. I will say if you are looking for creative and different combinations this is not the place to go. When you are having a craving for fresh sushi or sashimi this is a hidden gem! I have been the only person in the restaurant at times and other times had to wait for a seat. There often seems to be a good amount of takeout orders being placed so its hard to say what you will find for service and wait time bout again I will say the fish is great. The man who makes the sushi is also very friendly and will recommend what is good.
(5)D A.
Usually I am a little skeptical about take out sushi, but this place is AWESOME! The place only has about 10 chairs (1 table and the bar), but the sushi is the best. The food that comes out of this place rivals anything that you can get in the upscale sushi restaurants in the area. There is only one guy rolling the sushi, so on busy nights it can take a little bit, but the wait is nothing once you taste the fresh, well-made sushi that he puts together. I honestly can't say enough good things about this place.
(5)harry n.
im not a sushi snob also never been here when its busy the novia is a big fan so we have been a couple of times since relocating consistent does get me a-hankerin for some super-dry, but recently heard you can bring your own? siguoy you go in on a tuesday, the couple do everything, no frills and the tv is blasting its weird. i like
(4)Catherine S.
So I'm not a sushi expert, which is why I didn't feel quite qualified enough to give them a five, but I was impressed with Asahi. It's a cute little mom-and-pop shop that reminded me of my visit to Asia; the ambience wasn't anything fancy or spacious, but very genuine. To add to the convenience, they have online ordering, so it's easy for me to pick up on the way home. As I said before, I'm not a sushi expert, but I've walked in to pick it up and he's typically right in the middle of making it; can't get any more fresh than that! My only tiny little complaint is that their online menu doesn't decipher which sushi uses raw meat and which doesn't. That's probably my own fault since I'm an amateur, but for the newbies, it would be helpful (they do have it on the print menu, though). Either way, I recommend them!
(4)Chuckert B.
This is a basic, no bullshit sushi bar. That's it! Nothing else on the menu! You want a drink? How about some water. That's what they've got here. The sushi is excellent and the prices are very reasonable. The chef is very fast. I used to live across the street and go here alot, he would occasionally toss a few extra complementary chunks of sashimi my way. Awsome. This is a tiny little family run buisness and I support it. Lunch menu has a pretty nice discount too. Weird hours sometimes, though.
(5)Steven G.
I had a good experience here. The fish was nothing less than perfect and fresh, the service was not fast but not slow, and the sushi chef was a good guy. I would recommend this, but I could see how the service would lag if the place was full. I would definitely go back.
(4)Leah G.
So fresh. So delicious. So going back there at least 3x a week! I love the fact that I can get off the bus, get some of the most fresh, tasty sushi I've ever eaten, and walk up the hill to my apartment. The sushi chef at Asahi is friendly and fast. He uses real, meaty chunks of tuna in the spicy tuna roll, as opposed to shredded, weak chunks of tuna. The miso soup is delicious and the edamame is too. This is my new hot spot, fo sho.
(5)Kirsten S.
This is by far my favorite place to eat in Boston. The owners are so friendly, the atmosphere is cozy, it has a real neighborhood restaurant feel, and the food is absolutely delicious. The fish is extremely fresh and it's cut very generously - the sushi has an excellent fish to rice ratio. I don't know where to begin for specific dishes because everything is so good. Well, actually, I do - WHITE TUNA! It's the best thing in the world. But you can't really go wrong with anything on the menu, and the specials are always an excellent choice. Even the soy sauce seems to taste better here than anywhere else! The prices are also quite reasonable. (And I've never been for lunch, but they do have lunch specials.) True, there's no alcohol served here, but since this is the freshest and most delicious sushi in all of Boston, you will not miss it, I promise.
(5)Domenico B.
Asahi is a small place, you could almost call it intimate, but I'd have to go in the evening with my wife to use that term. I went for lunch. It's small. You'll sit at the sushi bar because there are no tables, which is a good thing. If you want to experience sushi you should sit at the bar, face to face with the chef and eat and order like the sushi experts do. The fish was fresh and tasty, of course. One of my favorite maki (rolls) is spicy tuna. I use that as my bellwether for any sushi place. Not as good as my favorite local sushi (Asahi in Salem; no relation I'm pretty sure), but still tasty. It's certainly different, not as powerful. And you can get more than one kind of spicy tuna: toro, maguro, a couple others. I also chose some mackerel, which had a very interesting sauce and eel (unagi), again very good. I tend not to use the extra wasabi or add soy sauce because I want to taste the fish so it also means that you will immediately taste any flaws. No flaws here. Just good fresh flavors. The miso soup was excellent, but it's such a simple dish that if you get the dashi right, it's hard to screw it up. The chef chopped up the other ingredients right before adding them to the bowl, so it was fresh. I arrived at 12:15 and no one was there except the chef and a deliveryman. I was a little worried: shouldn't it be busier at lunch time? Another couple came in while I was eating, but that was it. Maybe Tuesday is a slow day. I didn't interact much with the chef. I'm not much of an extrovert in that way and prefer just to read my book. Maybe once I get to know him and he recognizes me. In many ways that the best part of sushi--when the chef gets to know you and your taste and introduces you to something new you might like. The prices were decent for sushi, not at all expensive. I won't be going every day, but I think I'll be coming back. I'm glad to find a good place near work, especially since with my wife being pregnant we won't be going out for raw fish anytime soon.
(3)Adam W.
The quality of the sushi is pretty good. The prices are pretty good. However, the size of the sushi roll is incredibly small. You could probably eat 4 maki rolls and be just satisified. You know those little trays of sushi they sell at supermarkets for $9-$14? That was the amount of sushi I got for $25. The food was all good, but you just don't get much for your money. We had to get some shrimp fried rice at China Maxim III after we ate.
(3)Lauren T.
If you're looking for a quiet place for dinner to chit chat for a couple hours with no pressure, Asahi is the place. The one room sushi bar has the bar minimum in restaurant frivolity, but when you want good sushi and a place to talk, who cares? The white tuna and yellow tail are always fat, lusty looking pieces. The Caterpillar Roll ALWAYS makes my eyes jump with excitement. Asahi is owned and run by a super nice couple. He's the sushi chef and she's your tea server. They are always there and smiling. If you don't have time for a drawn out dinner, the lunch specials are quick and yummy. Not too bad for Brighton Center.
(3)Jose T.
ME GUSTA When you see the name of this little sushi bar in Brighton Center you think of an ice cold Japanese brewsky in your hand while eating a spicy tuna roll. Then reality hits.....they have no liquor license....ah well at least the sushi is fresh and a little green tea is always good for the soul. The place is a bit Spartan. I thought the sushi was a good value and the owner/chef frequently has toro (fatty tuna to die for) on the menu which is a definite plus. I would recommend for take out or when you have a group that is boisterous enough to overcome the drab ambiance.
(3)Christopher F.
This place is great. Once I tasted there salmon and tuna I realized that not all sushi is cut from the same cloth, this stuff is fresh. Comes from good "farms" I'm told. Kinda believe this because I've had sushi at Whole Foods and the Star at Chestnut Hill, no comparison... The owner is jovial and is extremely talented at his craft. Check this place out.
(4)Amelia L.
I love Asahi. It's such a hole in the wall kind of place, which for sushi sometimes makes me nervous, but I had been dying for sushi and kind of happened upon it... so glad I did. The guy making sushi has a no-nonsense vibe. He's not in it for chit chat that's for sure but let the man work because he turns out great sushi. I always do takeout and my order is ready within 10/15 minutes. It's even better when you remember to call it in - always ready when you get there. I like the spicy rolls because they use a whole piece of fish instead of the mashed filling some places use (does that make sense..? don't know...). Their shrimp tempura roll is the best I've had from anywhere. Seriously. Oh man I want some right now... I wonder if they're open at 8am. Anyway go to Asahi. Don't expect a chat. Just expect good sushi.
(4)Stephanie F.
Nothing really mind-blowing. Went there on a Sunday night and felt like the fish wasn't as fresh as it could be. I've had better sushi, but it pleased my sushi craving.
(3)Nicole B.
Tiny sushi bar with just a few tables and counter, also delivers. I generally get mine to go, so I can't really comment on staff. But the fish is always fresh and well prepared and they offer brown rice, which is a bonus for me. In general, a great place to get sushi out to the neighborhood and a healthy delivery option in a land of pub food and pizza.
(4)Courtney T.
I'm not a sushi connoisseur, but have liked everything I have tried here and have decided to make it my go-to-neighborhood-sushi-place. It's right down the street from my apartment so it's really easy to walk to now that the weather is nice. I have eaten in the restaurant a couple times and ordered take-out just once. The take-out was ready by the time I walked there (about 10 minutes). Eating in the restaurant has taken between 20 minutes and one hour. The restaurant is clean and has a nice, laid-back atmosphere. I am pretty sure that the chef and other woman who helps to serve are the owners of the restaurant and they have always been very friendly to my friends and me. The fish tastes very fresh and I've haven't been disappointed by anything I've ordered. The prices are also extremely reasonable compared to a lot of other sushi places in the Boston area. I'd definitely recommend Asahi.
(4)Emily L.
I really love this place. My boyfriend and I usually go here once a week or so, get the vegetable salad, white tuna sushi, alaska roll, unagi roll, spicy yellow fin roll, and a fun surprise! The sushi chef will usually give us some delicious sushi treat free of charge. That's how we were turned on to white tuna. He has also given us blue fin toro (AMAZING) and fatty salmon, for free! It seems like he does this with most regulars that he recognizes. He is a lovely man and I am so into supporting his business. Everybody should go here, or at least get takeout.
(5)Kelly P.
Asahi is the best in the area, fresh and fast! I used to live right around the corner so it became my go-to Sushi spot. When i moved to Watertown, i tried some new places but always left wishing i just went to Asahi!! The fish is very fresh. Always tastes very good and never too fishy or off. Its run by a family of 2 and ive never seen anyone but them working there. The Chef is very fast and the service is cordial. They have specials that are always changing listed of the white board and sometimes he even lets customers sample them! :) It is very cozy inside as well. Small but inviting. In the summer, they leave the door open and you get a nice breeze. Overall, my favorite sushi spot. I recomend the volcano roll and the rainbow roll :)
(5)Ethan M.
I hate to give this mom and pop place two stars but I have to. I was hoping that this would become my local Sushi restaurant but the sushi was not on par. I ordered the Sabah and it tasted so slimy and gamy. I think that it was sitting there for a while and they just gave me the last couple of pieces that were left. I even swear that they talked it over on whether they should serve it to me or not. The people are really sweet and the place is nice and cozy but they lost a lot of points when it comes to serving me bad food. I wanted to give three stars but just the thought of bad sushi makes me want to gag.
(2)Renee F.
This is the BEST restaurant in town. Great service, great food, and the sushi chef is fabulous. I go there about every week. And every week it is packed with people! Also whenever I go the sushi chef is so friendly, and he gives me a welcome, and smile every time I walk in! It is such a successful restaurant for two people to work in. They are fast sufficient and such awesome people. Best restaurant in Boston hands down. Everything is fresh, and inexpensive! I never go anywhere else. And now there's delivery. After I tried so many places This is the best one so far.
(5)Ryan M.
I love Asahi. I keep meaning to try out other sushi spots in Brighton, but I haven't got around to it because Asahi is cheap and reliable. I've never been disappointed by my food from here. It always tastes fresh and is nicely made. I prefer to order out rather than eat in because the place is small and doesn't serve booze. Whenever we call to order our food is ready in 30 mins. One time there was a small mix up and the guy was very nice and apologetic and gave us some extra sushi in our order! I did eat in the restaurant once and that was a good experience too. Overall, i"d like it if they had some more interesting/creative rolls like I've had at other sushi places, but for what they do offer it's perfect. White tuna and spicey yellow tail are the best!
(4)Ellen F.
Pretty decent sushi place right in Brighton Center. It's tiny, and the seating options are either at the counter, or at a small table that seats 2-4 people. I've had prompt service both eating in and taking out. The sushi is good...not the best I've ever had, but definitely reasonable for the prices ($5-12 for maki rolls). My favorites are the sweet potato tempura, spicy white tuna (fairly spicy, though it doesn't come with the little dollops of spicy mayo, usually my favorite part), and unagi maki.
(4)Kristen F.
This is where 1/2 stars would be good. 3.5 stars for this place. Got some take out here Saturday night. 2 rolls - spicy salmon and Manhattan Roll (crab meat with tobiko on the outside) and both were really good. The edamamme was okay, but got a little mushy and could have used some more salt. The prices were great. Most inexpensive sushi around. I'd recommend this place and I'll be back.
(3)Erik O.
stopped in here on a whim, and was very pleased. good portions, very friendly service. the prices, eh, possibly slightly higher than i thought the food was worth. but the food was very good, not complaining. good atmosphere. i think its BYOB. but i'm not sure. also, they deliver. so i might be hitting that option up soon.
(4)Alex B.
Sometimes I like to slag down a couple glasses of water. When I do that - I like to do that with a coupla old bites of sushi at Asahi. Come after 5pm and the water is all you can drink. TSSSIP AHHHHHHHH!!!
(5)Anthony B.
Asahi is one of my local neighborhood favorites. It is a small place with just one table and a sushi bar. No alcohol is served here, but that hasn't kept me away. It is run by the sushi chef and his wife (I think), and like most small restaurants, after a few visits, you begin to feel like you've made a new friend. The fish itself has been great. There are a few daily specials which are always worth a look at. Because it is such a small place, and they fill a lot of take-out orders, it is tough to quickly pop in and out if you plan sitting down. The variety of fish available varies on a daily basis, but they always seem to have great hotategai. If the chef still has some salmon skin from the last piece of salmon he prepared, you can ask him to make a delicious salmon skin handroll. If you're willing to roll with what is fresh and available on any given day, and aren't going to be thoroughly disappointed if there is no giant clam available, then you will walk away from Asahi full and content. Be sure to chat up the chef. He is generally very quiet, but is always very helpful and kind and will eagerly steer you towards what looks great that day if you just ask.
(4)Danielle K.
As everyone else has said, Asahi is TINY!! Its nothing more than a small sushi bar and one table off to the side. I'm assuming this is more of a take out place. Nevertheless I was very impressed. I agree with other reviews... this is a great no frills sushi place. If you want exotic and crazy creative rolls, this is not the place for you. But if you are having a basic sushi craving in the Brighton area and want some some VERY DELICIOUS and HIGH QUALITY sushi, then this is a great place to go! I am a Philadephia Roll connoisseur and they make a great one! Their fish is very fresh and is like butter in your mouth! I am very excited that this place is within walking distance to my apartment, and I definitely WILL come back!!
(5)Rebecca Y.
I was so excited when this place opened - a sushi bar in Brighton Center! And that's where my excitement ends. The prices are average, but the sushi doesn't taste as fresh as it should.
(2)Jean Z.
I think this place is great - really good, fresh Sushi, with no frills, the way real sushi is supposed to be. Try the white tuna - rare to find on a menu around here, especially at a low price. I think this place is really cheap for how good it is, just as good quality as expensive places like Jae's. The owner is always there, and he will get to know you if you come in enough, as it is so small.
(5)Sean C.
I went to Asahi last Sat around 12:10 pm, and the restaurant was still closed - which should be open at 11:45 am. It is a very bad experience for going a place and be blocked outside without any reasons.
(1)P'raka ..
My new favourite sushi place! Tastes fresh and yummy; I'm constantly craving salmon sashimi from here. The place is pretty small. There is one 4-person table, and then a few (7-8?) seats along the sushi bar. No fancy/crazy rolls, just the basics.
(5)Tom K.
Best hidden gem sushi house. The restaurant is small and intimate which lets you see how your food is prepared. The sushi is so fresh and flavorful we knew after our first roll that this would be our favorite sushi restaurant. Oh, and the prices are really great!
(4)Pat S.
Great sushi and very affordable. I leave with 2 tasty rolls for under $10. You can't beat that! Owners are very nice too. Always accommodating when dining in, and they set you up nicely if you take it to go. Highly recommend stopping in!
(5)Lynne M.
This was the first place I got my husband to eat sushi and we have been coming here for years now. The owner is always having us try new things. It is run by a husband and wife duo who always make you feel welcome. The place is small but even if every seat is taken your are treated like you are the only one in the restaurant. Everything is made fresh. The prices are amazing and the sushi is delicious.
(5)Amy H.
I was super disappointed with my experience here. The ingredients were clearly old and not very fresh. The seaweed was grey and the wasabi brown. The overall taste was just bland. Maybe I have high standards but I was unimpressed.
(2)Jim B.
Fantastic fish. Mr. Wen and his wife have owned and run this small sushi restaurant for the last 14 years, certainly a hidden gem. He selects the fish himself and is extremely friendly. Lots of new Sushi places are still popping up around Brighton - none of them are close.
(5)Jessica L.
Amazing sushi. The miso soup is also unreal! Their cash deal is pretty good - $4.50 for a roll if you pay in cash. I would highly recommend!
(5)Elaine M.
Fantastic. Have been eating here since they opened. Owner operated business. Can get busy Thurs thru Sat evenings. I have found allowing for a few extra minutes works perfectly. Mr. Wen is the proprietor as well as the chef. Often you will see his wife there helping take and pack orders. They take GREAT pride in their product and it shows. Incredibly fresh fish and often with throw in a little extra something for us to try. I LOVE the Spicy Maki Three ways, my kids love the Shrimp Tempura rolls, Vege rolls, & sweet potato rolls. My husband really enjoys the Tuna Tata. Love the NOT chain, tiny feel of the place and look forward to the once every couple weeks treat of having sushi.
(5)David Z.
Went here for takeout - one tuna maki and salmon maki. The fish were both not fresh at all! They were way too fishy. I couldn't even finish them without soaking the sushi in soy sauce and wasabi. Will not come here again.
(1)Harvard P.
Thought we would give this sushi place a try since it's relatively close to our home. We got 4 maki rolls via takeout, with the California Roll being free because we spent over $25. I was a bit underwhelmed with the sushi. It was only ok tasting. At the same time, it was also a bit small. They fit 4 rolls into two rectangular boxes with plenty of room to spare. The maki's consistency was such that it took a bit of effort to keep everything together as you were eating it. All in all, just a decent place, nothing special. You can definitely get better, tastier deals elsewhere.
(3)Andre S.
Wow! My wife and I walked in at this restaurant and saw it was a small location. We ended up ordering the California roll and shrimp tempura roll to give the place a try and we were amazed at how delicious it was! Best shrimp tempura roll we've ever had!!! A must go to in the Brighton/Boston area! The owner was very friendly and this will definitely be our new sushi spot!
(4)Alana F.
Usually when people say "this is the worst X I've ever had" they're exaggerating to make a point. When I say this is the worst sushi I've ever had, I'm not. And there's something especially egregious about bad sushi: the feeling that you might be reintroduced to it later than night in a not-so-pleasant way, the odd texture that makes your tongue want to recoil in your mouth. Maybe this was an off day for them, but....ew.
(1)Ambrose C.
To be honest, I actually liked eating at this place as long as you are not in a hurry and just want to relax in a very quiet atmosphere. The place is fairly small, and the people who run this place are really nice. I got the Spicy Maki dinner special, which consists of miso soup, spicy tuna maki, spicy salmon maki, and a spicy white tuna maki. I also got a tuna (tekka) roll, and a couple pieces of Yellowtail sushi. The miso soup was good, needed some more tofu and wakame, but it was a good appetizer. As for the the Spicy maki rolls, I thought all the fish was really good, but needed more flavor. As for the tuna roll, I thought it was a simple but fairly tasty sushi, and it can be a great afternoon snack. The Yellowtail was really fresh, and was also tasty after mixing some soy sauce and some wasabi. The wasabi they serve here is a little bit gooier than some of the wasabi I had at other Japanese influenced restaurants but it is a fairly strong wasabi. I also had the uni sushi here, which is sea urchin. The urchin meat melted in my mouth when I ate it, and the cold softness combined with the warm rice and soy sauce made this a tasty sushi dish despite the high price of $6.50 for two pieces. Another dinner special I got at this place was the Regular Sushi Dinner with miso soup. This dinner at about $20, gives you a tuna (tekka) roll, and eight pieces of sushi, which include tamago (egg), shrimp, salmon, and tuna. This is a very basic sushi set, and I would say it is a great choice for someone who has not eaten sushi before. All the fish was freshly good, but not the best sushi I had, and it is enough for a light dinner. Prices are moderate for sushi, and definitely not inexpensive, be prepared to have about $25 ready if you plan on ordering at sushi dinner at this place. Overall, this is not my biggest recommendation for sushi, but they can get the job done well as long as you have patience and the people there are nice. The quality is slightly better than the sushi I have eaten in buffets in the somewhat decent suburban areas of the somewhat decent state of Massachusetts. Since I live near this place, this is probably one the sushi places I would go to if I wanted to order take away sushi.
(4)Danielle M.
Terrible choice... Quick deliver but very average sushi. Wouldn't recommend better off going to a grocery store
(1)Mike T.
A hidden gem! Best sushi quality in Boston and very reasonable price. Nice family owned place, friendly chef and you can see the sushi expertly prepared right in front of you. I highly recommend the white tuna, the salmon belly sushi, the dragon roll, and the bluefin (a special today). Went with my wife, both enjoyed the high quality sushi. Dragon roll was very artistically prepared and very tasty. The place feels authentic - it's been owned by the same couple for 15 years. The chef has been a sushi chef for 20 years. Will bring friends next time :)
(5)Fun Night S.
I ordered delivery on a Friday night. I got 2 rolls: Spicy Tuna Maki and sweet potato maki. The tuna was a weird grey color and tasted off. The sweet potato to tempura ratio was unpleasant. The food came in the appropriate amount of time. The price was okay. The maki was gross. Order from ANYWHERE else. Even my cat was disinterested. And he eats QTips.
(1)Tom K.
Best hidden gem sushi house. The restaurant is small and intimate which lets you see how your food is prepared. The sushi is so fresh and flavorful we knew after our first roll that this would be our favorite sushi restaurant. Oh, and the prices are really great!
(4)Pat S.
Great sushi and very affordable. I leave with 2 tasty rolls for under $10. You can't beat that! Owners are very nice too. Always accommodating when dining in, and they set you up nicely if you take it to go. Highly recommend stopping in!
(5)Lynne M.
This was the first place I got my husband to eat sushi and we have been coming here for years now. The owner is always having us try new things. It is run by a husband and wife duo who always make you feel welcome. The place is small but even if every seat is taken your are treated like you are the only one in the restaurant. Everything is made fresh. The prices are amazing and the sushi is delicious.
(5)Amy H.
I was super disappointed with my experience here. The ingredients were clearly old and not very fresh. The seaweed was grey and the wasabi brown. The overall taste was just bland. Maybe I have high standards but I was unimpressed.
(2)Jim B.
Fantastic fish. Mr. Wen and his wife have owned and run this small sushi restaurant for the last 14 years, certainly a hidden gem. He selects the fish himself and is extremely friendly. Lots of new Sushi places are still popping up around Brighton - none of them are close.
(5)Jessica L.
Amazing sushi. The miso soup is also unreal! Their cash deal is pretty good - $4.50 for a roll if you pay in cash. I would highly recommend!
(5)Elaine M.
Fantastic. Have been eating here since they opened. Owner operated business. Can get busy Thurs thru Sat evenings. I have found allowing for a few extra minutes works perfectly. Mr. Wen is the proprietor as well as the chef. Often you will see his wife there helping take and pack orders. They take GREAT pride in their product and it shows. Incredibly fresh fish and often with throw in a little extra something for us to try. I LOVE the Spicy Maki Three ways, my kids love the Shrimp Tempura rolls, Vege rolls, & sweet potato rolls. My husband really enjoys the Tuna Tata. Love the NOT chain, tiny feel of the place and look forward to the once every couple weeks treat of having sushi.
(5)David Z.
Went here for takeout - one tuna maki and salmon maki. The fish were both not fresh at all! They were way too fishy. I couldn't even finish them without soaking the sushi in soy sauce and wasabi. Will not come here again.
(1)Harvard P.
Thought we would give this sushi place a try since it's relatively close to our home. We got 4 maki rolls via takeout, with the California Roll being free because we spent over $25. I was a bit underwhelmed with the sushi. It was only ok tasting. At the same time, it was also a bit small. They fit 4 rolls into two rectangular boxes with plenty of room to spare. The maki's consistency was such that it took a bit of effort to keep everything together as you were eating it. All in all, just a decent place, nothing special. You can definitely get better, tastier deals elsewhere.
(3)Andre S.
Wow! My wife and I walked in at this restaurant and saw it was a small location. We ended up ordering the California roll and shrimp tempura roll to give the place a try and we were amazed at how delicious it was! Best shrimp tempura roll we've ever had!!! A must go to in the Brighton/Boston area! The owner was very friendly and this will definitely be our new sushi spot!
(4)Alana F.
Usually when people say "this is the worst X I've ever had" they're exaggerating to make a point. When I say this is the worst sushi I've ever had, I'm not. And there's something especially egregious about bad sushi: the feeling that you might be reintroduced to it later than night in a not-so-pleasant way, the odd texture that makes your tongue want to recoil in your mouth. Maybe this was an off day for them, but....ew.
(1)Ambrose C.
To be honest, I actually liked eating at this place as long as you are not in a hurry and just want to relax in a very quiet atmosphere. The place is fairly small, and the people who run this place are really nice. I got the Spicy Maki dinner special, which consists of miso soup, spicy tuna maki, spicy salmon maki, and a spicy white tuna maki. I also got a tuna (tekka) roll, and a couple pieces of Yellowtail sushi. The miso soup was good, needed some more tofu and wakame, but it was a good appetizer. As for the the Spicy maki rolls, I thought all the fish was really good, but needed more flavor. As for the tuna roll, I thought it was a simple but fairly tasty sushi, and it can be a great afternoon snack. The Yellowtail was really fresh, and was also tasty after mixing some soy sauce and some wasabi. The wasabi they serve here is a little bit gooier than some of the wasabi I had at other Japanese influenced restaurants but it is a fairly strong wasabi. I also had the uni sushi here, which is sea urchin. The urchin meat melted in my mouth when I ate it, and the cold softness combined with the warm rice and soy sauce made this a tasty sushi dish despite the high price of $6.50 for two pieces. Another dinner special I got at this place was the Regular Sushi Dinner with miso soup. This dinner at about $20, gives you a tuna (tekka) roll, and eight pieces of sushi, which include tamago (egg), shrimp, salmon, and tuna. This is a very basic sushi set, and I would say it is a great choice for someone who has not eaten sushi before. All the fish was freshly good, but not the best sushi I had, and it is enough for a light dinner. Prices are moderate for sushi, and definitely not inexpensive, be prepared to have about $25 ready if you plan on ordering at sushi dinner at this place. Overall, this is not my biggest recommendation for sushi, but they can get the job done well as long as you have patience and the people there are nice. The quality is slightly better than the sushi I have eaten in buffets in the somewhat decent suburban areas of the somewhat decent state of Massachusetts. Since I live near this place, this is probably one the sushi places I would go to if I wanted to order take away sushi.
(4)Danielle M.
Terrible choice... Quick deliver but very average sushi. Wouldn't recommend better off going to a grocery store
(1)Mike T.
A hidden gem! Best sushi quality in Boston and very reasonable price. Nice family owned place, friendly chef and you can see the sushi expertly prepared right in front of you. I highly recommend the white tuna, the salmon belly sushi, the dragon roll, and the bluefin (a special today). Went with my wife, both enjoyed the high quality sushi. Dragon roll was very artistically prepared and very tasty. The place feels authentic - it's been owned by the same couple for 15 years. The chef has been a sushi chef for 20 years. Will bring friends next time :)
(5)Fun Night S.
I ordered delivery on a Friday night. I got 2 rolls: Spicy Tuna Maki and sweet potato maki. The tuna was a weird grey color and tasted off. The sweet potato to tempura ratio was unpleasant. The food came in the appropriate amount of time. The price was okay. The maki was gross. Order from ANYWHERE else. Even my cat was disinterested. And he eats QTips.
(1)Danny K.
Got a 15 piece sashimi dinner and 4 of the pieces were omlette. Spicy roll was not even a little spicy at all. Got no soy sauce or ginger. Only upside was good quality of fish - but not better than many others. Huge rip off, I am not difficult to please.
(1)Eileen Z.
I live by a number of sushi spots near Harvard Ave, but still drive out to Asahi for all my sushi. The space is small, but the proprietors are really nice and the sushi is quality for the price. Very satisfied!
(4)Kaitlyn S.
Delicious and underrated ..awesome service and amazing sushi
(5)Joanna M.
After seeing other yelp reviews figured this place had to be ok and decide to give it a try. I was shocked because most times yelp gives a pretty good description of how the place actually is..that was not the case for this place. I've had my share of sushi and so I at least know when the sushi is decent. Yes, the sushi was fresh but it wasn't good. There was no flavor which is what sushi is all about. The rolls were very small and not put together well (I had to be extra careful when picking them up to make sure they didn't fall apart). Most shocking part? I was the only one there so it's not like the sushi "master" had to rush to put my order together. I was very disappointed. The place itself was cozy, and the sushi chef was friendly but that doesn't make up for bad sushi unfortunately.
(1)Eunice E.
I love when little hole-in-the-wall places rock your socks off, and Asahi does just that! There's not a lot of space inside (one table with four chairs and then a sushi bar with seats for maybe up to ten?), but what it lacks in space, it makes up for in terms of flavor and service. Fresh sushi made to order, reasonable prices, and awesome sides like miso soup and seaweed salad. Standard Japanese fare done really, really well.
(4)Lisa H.
My boyfriend and I ordered takeout from here the other night because of Asahi's location and positive Yelp reviews. We experienced both poor customer service and poor food quality. We ordered 6 rolls that should have cost about $35 based on the takeout menu. When we called in our order, they explained that we would get a free spicy tuna roll because our order exceeded $25. Great! When the food arrived an hour later, the total had come out to be more than $10 greater than expected. When we asked the delivery person about the unanticipated cost, they kept repeating that the price was correct and the tuna roll was free. They could not supply us with a receipt that had all of the items broken down- only a total price receipt. We let it go out of restlessness and hunger and assumed they had charged us for the "free" spicy tuna roll. I ordered a volcano roll and after eating two pieces of the roll, I felt incredibly ill. My boyfriend, not realizing that I was feeling so terrible, tried a piece of the volcano roll and also fell incredibly ill. Not only did we get overcharged with no reasonable explanation, but the food caused us to be physically ill for the next 24 hours. Needless to say, I will not be returning to Asahi.
(1)Evan L.
Ordered the $20 chefs selection of Sashimi. Unfortunately, the chef did not seem to take care when cutting my fish, and as a result many of the cuts were very tough. They were generally hacked to pieces. That being said, all of the meals that my friends had during this sitting were well done and they all enjoyed the experience. Personally, I will be trying somewhere else the next time I am craving raw fish.
(3)J. C.
Ate here tonight for the first time after being a loyal fins customer for years. I really enjoyed my dinner here, the sushi was amazingly fresh. The portions are a little smaller but it is still a great value. I love how small the restaurant is and the owners are incredibly nice. For the people who complain that the owners aren't nice because they aren't very talkative you must understand that the husband and wife do all of the cooking, serving and deliveries by themselves. They are very nice once you get to know them. We got free sushi at the end of our meal which was a very nice gesture. There is a reason why this place has been here for over 11 years. Try it. One pieve of advice I would give to the owners is that you should not use CFL bulbs with a dimmer because they flicker, this goes for the lights over the sushi bar. It's not a deal breaker but it would make a difference. Also some music in the background would be nice.
(4)Peter D.
Excellent local sushi joint! Chef gave us a bonus sample of the bluefin sushi after we had finished our order. We always leave here happy and without breaking the bank!
(5)Brian D.
I still love Asahi for what it is: very good sushi, in a charming, intimate little place. The Saba last night was excellent, the Spicy Scallop sushi was very good, and they always have an interesting special dish. The chef and his partner (wife?) have a nice little rhythm going behind the counter and manage to take care of a few diners and lots of take out orders. I've had (slightly) better fish or rice occasionally, and I've seen a few places with bigger menus and more creative rolls. But for a small, neighborhood sushi place Asahi is excellent. And for the quality of the sushi the prices are very reasonable!
(4)Kimberly S.
Sushi was definitely not fresh when I went. I ordered a roll with white tuna and the white tuna was dried out with brown streaks. Very nasty. I have never seen white tuna look like that before. I did not eat the roll. Overall none of our sushi was fresh. Definitely pass.
(1)Cynthia B.
I ordered (for delivery) the spider roll and the spicy tuna roll. Both were not great. The Spider roll, while yummy, was also strangely salty. The tuna was not very firm. It tasted "good" but that taste and texture that makes you say "yummm...sushi" was not there. Would not order again. It is cheaper, and it shows. Fin is definitely better for the $$. Delivery was great, though! Very quick and nice.
(3)Chris H.
I ordered a bunch of sushi rools with a group and was a bit underwhelmed. The spicy tuna roll was the best - it did not have too much mayonnaise. The sushi is pretty cheap, so don't expect too much from it. The seaweed salad was very good, but lets be honest, you are not coming here just for that. They also do give you a free roll if you meet an order minimum ($25, I believe) The biggest problem with this place is their delivery service. We have ordered from here a couple times and the delivery always takes over an hour (we are about one mile away) - sometimes much more than an hour. They've also accidentally given the food to the wrong people before, so do not pay in advance. For some reason, they don't always call.
(2)Julie T.
This place is great! I'm rating this place based on a take-out scale, not a restaurant scale. I've overlooked this place for years before my sister randomly decided she wanted to check the place out and offered to pay. Well, I'm not turning down a free meal so of course I went. This place is really small and I'm guessing people usually just order out but we decided to be different and sit down and eat. Since there was literally just one guy making all the sushi, it took a while for our sushi to come but the woman, who I'm guessing owns the place along with the one chef, was so sweet that I wasn't even upset about the wait. But let me tell you, it was worth it! The sushi was delicious and fresh! Did not expect it to be that good for a place that's legit a hole in the wall. And as we were finishing up and complimenting the chef, he gave us a couple more pieces of sushi. He's the man! Food was awesome and so was the service! And the best part is, it's probably the closest sushi joint in my area. Win!
(5)Conor F.
I still think Asahi is the best I've had. fresh and tasty, good technique. Only "limitation" is it is better for take-out which requires you to live near by.
(5)Peter B.
This place is great. The owner is the chef, and he makes tremendous sushi. The prices are reasonable, and the service is friendly and unobtrusive. Also, they almost always give me "bonus sushi" at the end of my meal when I go with a friend. The only reason they don't get five stars is because there's no booze.
(4)Leslie W.
Great inexpensive, laid back little sushi joint. The people who run the place are very nice and are generally quick with take out orders.
(5)Stephanie H.
So my review is based on their delivered food & its service. Food. + Masago. Delicious, can't go wrong with it. Masago itself was fresh & loved the rice. + Spicy Tuna Roll. Pretty good. BUT, I'm not a fan of using spicy mayo for spicy rolls + Philly Roll. a bit salty, but its smoked salmon. & it was amazing and fresh. The rolls aren't big but they're yummy and the place definitely won't come close to killing your wallet if you just order rolls. Their Delivery - My friends & I ordered delivery to a dorm in Boston College. Its really NOT that difficult. We order all the time and this is the first time that it took 10 minutes to tell them where to deliver to us. We almost just called it quits, but right when we said we'd order from another place they said to not worry and they've figured it out. Then, when they get to BC, they were incredibly lost and my friend went outside, found them, and got the delivery -not even close to our dorm. Maybe we were unlucky, maybe they always have bad delivery, but that was our experience. So unless you live somewhere with a"number" address -not simply building name - I'd suggest not ordering delivery. - Also, their online "discount code" doesn't work. - Delivery rating? ONE star.
(3)Abigail A.
We had a very pleasant experience tonight jan 25, 2014. Our waitress Haeli was full of great recommendations The sushi was excellent. This is a must try.
(5)Jessica L.
The sushi was really fresh, and the owners really sweet!
(4)Vien N.
Love this place! Wish I could live here. Any tempura roll is great, best I've ever had. Honestly I've never had anything bad here, they can do no wrong.
(5)Mary K.
reliable delivery, excellent rice to fish ratio. dont really undertand the pricing on various rolls, but there is a deal for a free spicy tuna roll when you spend $25 (which is easy to do!) its my go to sushi delivery!
(4)Stacy B.
Don't be alarmed by the small, claustrophobic-looking exterior, this place is YUMMY! Inside is some exceptionally fresh sushi (reasonably priced), and service, run by a sushi chef/host - husband/wife duo. Started with some miso soup, made to order (and right in front of us), and enjoyed a mix of sashimi and sushi afterwards -- enough to feed two very hungry people. The bill came to $30.13. Can't beat that. Looks like they get most of their business from take out though. At 7pm on a Tuesday, we were the only ones in there, but there was plenty of sushi being made. Good to know! I happily took a menu on my way out, and anticipate my next lazy evening on the couch, eating sushi instead of something terribly bad for my heart (and soul). Wanted a bit more from the atmosphere. Maybe some music? It was pin drop quiet in there. Was more than happy with being able to watch them both prepare our meals. Transparency is key with sushi places. Takeout? Yes. Dining in? Try it, and let me know what you think.
(3)Maya T.
Excellent, fresh sushi! Only reason I didn't give them five stars is the place is tiny. My friend and I sat at the bar area and it was fun to see the chef make our sushi. I'll definitely go back, and they have take out, which is even better.
(4)Natalie K.
I have ordered delivery from many other sushi places in Brighton and Allston and this has been the best BY FAR! The food is fresh and delicious, the service is quick, and the delivery person each time has been incredibly friendly! If you want to order quick, affordable, tasty sushi in the area- order here!
(5)Nick D.
As current foursquare mayor of this fine establishment, I would be remiss to not put a good word in for this great sushi place. Of all the moderately priced sushi places I have gone to, this one definitely stands out. The fish here is always fresh, always tasty. The single sushi chef in the place is deliberate in his craft. Some would call him slow (I would, if the sushi wasn't so crazy good), but I like to think of him as being very attentive, perfecting the sashimi in succulent morsels of fish goodness. I try to go at least once a week and sometimes even more. Just this week i have gone there for dinner, dessert (what... Sushi after Korean BBQ isn't a normal dessert?), and am actually going to go again for dinner tonight. It is just that good. Everything on the menu is tasty, but I have a particularly soft spot for the following items: 1). Salmon - I have not had salmon that had such a great fresh taste anywhere else. The mouth feel of the fish is also great as well - not too firm that it feels like you need to keep chewing, but not so soft or soggy that it feels like it has been sitting in water all day long. I get at least 2 orders of sashimi each time I go. 2). Spider roll - crunchy yet not completely covered in tempura. Not an overwhelmingly sized roll that you find at other sushi joints. The crab is sweet and the roll is perfect. 3). Salmon belly - if you haven't yet tried this, you need to. It is listed on the daily special board when he has it. It is quite possibly the best thing I have had at Asahi. In both sashimi form or maki, the fish quality really shines through. Like salmon on steroids (but the kind that makes you fat as opposed to muscle), the fish is a very tender, almost melt in your mouth morsel of smooth fatty fish. Amazing. 4). Toro - He has a couple different varieties of the toro, but my favorite is the bluefin toro he serves. Last night's was strikingly fresh, very clean, and quite tasty. Not overpriced like places I have seen, the quality is well worth the wait. And now on to the wait - when i go in, if it is not busy, I usually can get my sushi within maybe 30 minutes or so. But that is because I order at least 60 dollars of sushi as a normal meal each time. So my platter is literally singing with fish. Last night, I got an order with 4 things and it took about 20 minutes. If the place looks busy, you might have to wait a bit. I enjoy the anticipation and the fact that I get to watch the care the chef takes while preparing my dinner. Water is usually served right away, and I vaguely remember getting a soda once. But I don't like to drink anything but water (usually) when I eat sushi. If the sushi is good, it should be the only thing of the meal I want to taste. And by golly, the sushi is great. Trust me, I'm the mayor.
(5)Missy P.
This place is great! Such a gem right in Brighton Center. Food is good, and the people are really nice. I almost don't want to give them 5 stars because I don't want it to get crowded - man this place is tiny! Cramped interior aside, I definitely will be going back.
(5)Matthew P.
I feel bad for giving them a two but it really is the epitome of "Meh. I've experienced better." And I have. Much better. First off, my biggest gripe is that they were slow as MOLASSES. We came in to order two maki rolls. There were only two people eating together so we thought it couldn't take any longer than 5-10 minutes. We waited close to half an hour. In the meantime the phone never rang and people never came in. I realize he was probably making to-go orders and that's fine. But we only had two very simple maki rolls (and i know how to make maki rolls). Couldn't he just have quickly made them? I watched him our rolls (when he finally got to it) and it just took a few minutes. I know I'm being overly sensitive about it but I'm just an impatient person. Unfortunately, the maki rolls were just not that good. They were poorly made and fell apart while I was trying to eat it. There was absolutely nothing special about the way it tasted either and the ingredients were very standard. I expect better from a sushi buffet. The couple that own the place are really nice and they are running a very decent business. It's clean and nice looking with what I am sure is a very loyal following. I've worked at many restaurants and to-go areas and I can tell you they really need to manage their orders better. You just can't go in order of what was called in. There aren't many (are there any?) sushi places around the area so if you have a major jones for it go here. But expect standard sushi and extremely long wait times. At least it's relatively cheap!
(2)Island Boy B.
Asahi is a little hole in the wall. Typical of what you would find in Japan - you wouldn't think its much, but the food is fresh and the wait can be long. Its a one man show, so on a nice night, there can be a wait. I rarely mind since I'm not in such a rush. I usually order an appetizer or salad to hold me over. The one thing about Asahi I like most is that, he always has blue fin toro. Everywhere else I go, they seem to always be out of best part of the fish. I never tried white fin tuna until Long (the owner) gave me some for free. Very fresh and tasty. I have always exchanged pleasantries with him and his wife which put me on his good side. He has the demeanor of the "soup nazi", but he really is a nice gentleman. I had a conversation with one of my other buddies who is a sushi snob (worked in Tokyo for a year, eats sushi at least twice a week). We both agreed, "hands down", Long has some of the best sushi for the price and quality. I should rate it a 4.5 because the bathroom facilities are shared with the building. Wish he would do a groupon or buywith me deal...but I don't think he needs to.
(5)Matthew D.
The food is outstanding, and the service is excellent. I've eaten at Asahi at least 10 times, and I keep coming back, despite sushi places closer to where I live. I know some people have said that the fish didn't seem fresh- all I can say is that I've never had that experience. Additionally, the delivery (one of the owners driving your food to you) is as prompt as any sushi I've had in Boston. The only reason I wouldn't give it five stars is that it gets expensive if you're looking to get pleasantly full, or if you're here in a group. That said, I'll keep coming back.
(4)K.C. K.
Asahi is always fresh and delicious, the two main appellations you want in sushi. Highlights include the scallop and red snapper maki and nigiri. The place is small and often my husband and I are in there by ourselves, with maybe one or two other parties. I'm not sure why, given that Asahi is really good. They do seem to do a brisk take-out business, though. Often they'll have white tuna as the special -- definitely try it if it is available. My only pet peeves about Asahi: the miso and edamame are microwaved to approximately a billion degrees (it has happened more than once right in front of us) and I wish they delivered because I am clearly too lazy to order take-out. Also, they are only open for dinner. Asahi is our go-to neighborhood sushi -- it isn't the most creative sushi you'll have but again, it is always fresh and delicious. I've tried more expensive options in Boston (I'm looking at you, Fugakyu) and Asahi is better and much less expensive.
(4)Hungry B.
This is my favorite place for sushi in Boston. It's just very well made, always delicious, and the couple that runs the place is very nice to every one. It's just a great place, never had anything bad here at all.
(4)Lauren V.
Inevitably when eating sushi, my mouth goes "yum!" but my brain goes "eek! raw fish! eject, eject!". Yet, I still crave it, and often. Last week such a craving hit so my sister and I decided to place an order at nearby Asahi. Miso soup, spider roll, tempura roll (for the skittish boyfriend), spicy scallops roll and spicy tuna roll were all called into action to fight my fish hankering. Fifteen minutes later we were making our way up the street to pick up our order. The woman working alongside the man behind the counter had a little trouble with the order before us, but with his gruff direction (literally grunts and gestures) she figured it out soon enough (mixed orders) and within a few minutes we were paid and on our way. ($10 minimum to use a credit card, by the way.) Now for the food. Although certainly not the best I have had, it was pretty fresh and satisfied my hunger pangs. The miso soup was a little too salty and synthetically smoky for my liking. The spider roll was definitely the standout of the bunch with the perfect mix of smooth fish, sticky rice and savory flavors. The tuna and spicy scallops roll were pretty standard and the tempura roll was un-daunting enough that my boyfriend tried it. Crunchy but slightly bland, it probably won't do much for those who are sushi-aficionados. For about $35, it was a pretty reasonably priced meal too. I doubt I will be visiting for a sit-down dinner as it is so close to my warmer and much more comfortable (and spacious) apartment, but Asahi will undoubtedly be playing a role in all future sushi cravings.
(3)Marissa S.
I really love this place. I've never dined in, but have gotten take out and delivery. I'll be totally honest: I was a bit nervous about getting raw fish from such a little hole-in-the-wall place, but I am consistently impressed with how fresh and delicious everything is there. I've only ever had a long wait there once, which is pretty reasonable considering that it's only a two-person staff. Actually, I'm surprised I haven't waited longer. They are always very friendly and professional and the prices are reasonable. I would highly recommend Asahi.
(4)Nicole L.
The place is great if you are getting take out as it is rather small. Although they do have one table (besides the bar) and that can be nice to sit at. The couple that runs the place is very nice though and after we had been going for awhile, he would always give us a little "extra" and we loved that. The sushi is as good as any place we order from and we eat a ton of sushi all around the area. I'd highly recommend!
(5)Rob G.
I lived in Brighton for over 7 years and unfortunately did not find this place until three years ago. What a hidden gem! The owner and chef is friendly and talented. I have loved every single order I have made at this place. The quality of the food is amazing. Few places can produce a spider roll (soft shell crab) as fine as Asahi. Although I no longer live in the neighborhood, I will definitely travel to visit Asahi!
(5)Dara M.
This looks like a hole-in-the wall, as one other reviewer mentioned, and it's true. The sushi is ok. I didn't get sick the next day, and it tasted great. I got the spicy yellowtail and it was nice, I saw him slice a piece of the fish right in front of me. The spicy rolls have whole pieces of fish in them, not the minced kind like they serve at Fin's. I believe the owners (a couple) are Chinese, as I think they were speaking Mandarin to each other, but you don't have to be Japanese to make good sushi. And that's just what it was. It was good. Not spectacular, but good. They don't have a liquor license, nor are they open for lunch, but if you want a quick to-go meal in Brighton center, it's ok.
(3)Cara P.
Ewww Some of you are a bunch of needy bitches. Who cares that the dude (ONLY DUDE) working here wasn't talkative? He is serving, checking people out, cutting fish, and pouring water and tea. He is the ONLY person here. I came here on a girl date and it was amazing. The Sushi is fresh and cheap. I tried some squid and other fun stuff for the first time. It's a small place and has no alcohol, but I would recommend it 10 times over! Obviously those that complained don't have that certain je ne sais quoi, because the dude loved Devon and I. He even gave us free sushi to try. I found him pleasant, dare I say hilarious!?! Try putting a smile on your face, chilling out, and enjoying some good Sushi.
(5)Ryan K.
Very good Sushi. Is it the best I have had? No, but everything else makes up for it. The owners are extremely nice, delivery if you need it is prompt. Just keep in mind that there is on table and the sushi bar sits about 10... so dont show up with a big party.
(3)Bethany F.
Though this place is super small (we opt for takeout most of the time) the sushi is delicious and the dude behind the counter is awesome. Yes, sometimes there is a wait. If you call ahead it's ready for you! The sushi itself is fresh, extremely tasty (try the yellowtail with scallions mmm) and definitely worth the price. I haven't been to many other sushi places in the area but I go back here all the time and am never disappointed!
(4)Sara A.
My husband and I have been going to Asahi for years now. We have had sushi in many places and still find Asahi to be the best in Boston, hands down. As others have noted in their reviews, this is a sushi bar, not a Japanese restaurant; don't bring a friend who hates sushi and expects to order teriyaki or noodles. Also, this is not fast food, proper sushi takes time to prepare. The proprietor is the only sushi chef, and so if you go during peak times the service may be slow (they get a lot of take-out business, so even if the place is empty there may be a wait for the food). The chef takes pride in his sushi and so he doesn't throw it together in 30 seconds. For me this isn't a problem, I know not to go here if I'm in a dire hurry. My favorite part is that the chef and his wife always recognize us when we come in and greet us warmly. I don't mind a bit of a wait for more personalized service. Bottom line: great sushi that is worth the wait.
(5)thermopylae x.
excellent sush with free dishes (just don't get the uni) semi-mediocre service with long prep times (eh) street parking one table (fits only three diners, maybe) this place is at its best for takeout, only
(4)Anon A.
If you are getting for delivery, there are much better places at a cheaper price. The rolls are small and not even close to being average in area with TONS of better of options
(1)Emily F.
From the outside, Asahi looks a lot like Chestnut Hill's Oishii - tiny little sushi bar. Unfortunately I was disappointed by everything. 1. They had all sorts of promotional materials for beer around, but they don't have any! What a tease! 2. Service is realllllly slow and impersonal. There are only two people working and I never saw either of them diddle around, but still...reallllllly slow. 3. The maki fell apart. 4. Non-fish ingredients didn't seem super fresh. The food was meh, the service was boo. Okay to fill a soosh craving if you're unwilling to leave Brighton Center, otherwise, PASS.
(2)Trish F.
I totally agree with Stephen when he says that Asahi is reliable sushi. I don't think they have the "freshest fish in Boston" when I eat their stuff but I do think they're pretty good and satisfy a craving Although I'm the kind of person that loves variety so their menu is a little too minimal for me. But with their prices, you're definitely getting a good deal. Service is usually pretty good. There's one woman who is always in there and she's nothing but smiles. Whenever I ask a question the sushi chef pipes up. I wouldn't say he was mean.. or friendly.. more curt and to the point. I can see why he's trying to be focused though since he's the only one that I've ever see making the food. I like him though. He's made suggestions about things and subbed things out when he's heard I didn't like something. The atmosphere isn't much. This place is kind of on the teeny side. Definitely not good for groups or loud conversation. I usually come in the evenings and they have whatever's on NBC. I don't know.. I totally feel like a Debbie Downer for not giving them 5 stars. I definitely pop in when I'm in the area and have craving but this place is definitely not on my "must go to" list.
(3)Mary M.
All day yesterday, my friend kept IMing me: "fishez". I'm in a meeting, *bing* "fishez". I'm working on a report, *bing* "fishez". So we ended up at Asahi last night. Later she told me why: she'd been to Fugakyu the night before, and wanted to do a comparison to Asahi. Guess what? Asahi wins, hands down. I hadn't been to Fugakyu the night before, but I had to agree. Nowhere in Boston can beat this place on straight-up fish quality: not Fugakyu, not the much-praised Oiishi, none of 'em. The hamachi nigiri and salmon nigiri, both sushi bar staples, were some of the most beautiful looking fish I'd ever seen, clearly excellent quality and at the peak of freshness. That would have been good enough, but the specials board had several specials made with bluefin toro or fatty salmon, so of course we went there. The sushi chef approved. "The fatty salmon is--" and he paused, trying for a superlative that fit, and finally saying firmly, "--very very good." This isn't a guy who's given to effusive praise of his own handiwork (or effusive anything), so we knew we'd picked right, and we weren't disappointed. Both fatty salmon and toro were everything we could have hoped for, with a buttery smooth texture and rich taste that said, "Order another round." So we did. With Asahi's prices, you can do that. The next time you're looking for a great sushi experience, ask yourself: do I want something that's been deep-fried or made up to look like a giant centipede, or do I just want the best fish I can get? If the latter, consider making the trip to Asahi. No beer, no large tables for parties of twelve, no maki with the names of local celebrities...just the fish, ma'am. But it's the best in town.
(5)D M.
I have a crush on this place. My only issue with my neighborhood is that there's NO SUSHI, and that's makes me cry a little, but now with my new commute, I get to pick up the bus right in front of Asahi! Score! I picked up Sushi to go one night last week and was wowed at how tiny this place is. I got five or six different types of rolls, and within ten or so minutes, I was out of there. I was wowed at the beautiful maki rolls that the chef prepared, and he literally prepared and sliced and diced everything for my rolls fresh. I also ordered a soft shell crab roll, and he fried it fresh, and honestly, it was beautiful. Everything tasted so very fresh and perfect. I will absolutely be getting take out from here again. The service was very friendly and fast, the sushi is very reasonably priced ($38 or so for a lot of sushi) and it's on the way home! So yummy!
(5)Barney B.
I hadn't been here in years. I don't know - I guess Brighton Center is just not what pops into my head when I think of grabbing sushi. Brookline? yes. Downtown? sure. But Brighton Center not so much. But this place is pretty solid, if terribly tiny. the rolls, average sized and priced. the service, pretty quick given it's just one dude, and he seems to get a lot of calls for 'to go' orders. the fish, fairly fresh. it's not going to knock your socks off like some places, but it will satisy if you are in the mood for standard nigiri, sashimi and rolls.
(4)Peter W.
If you want sushi from Brighton Center, then here you go...there's no competition in the area. Sushi was decent; place is cramped; and location is good for walking if you are from Brighton.
(3)Em E.
Good sushi, great service, even better prices! I can't say this place is an authentic sushi bar (i mean, they don't have uni!! and the sushi chef is really nice but he isn't trained in the Japanese way), but for Boston it's one of the best I've seen so far and for the price I ain't complainin'!
(4)Mike A.
7:15pm. Sit down with girlfriend. Handed paper menu check list. 7:20pm. Put checklist up on counter. Checklist includes 2 miso appetizer. 7:35pm. Get ice water delivered. 7:40pm. Checklist still not "looked at". Ask for miso app directly. Sushi-ya guy nods. He is the only one working. Watch him gracefully finish up an order-to-go carefully into plastic boxes while the 5 others in the restaurant (who were there before us, even) still have not been served either. 7:45pm. No miso. He hadn't even looked our order yet, 25mins later. Get up and leave (politely). Feel bad. But not that bad. Very hungry now and wish they at least had beer that I could have been sipping. Asahi Super Dry would be great. Especially since a nice photo pint of it teases you on their dinner mats. Migrate to Washington Square. 8pm - Entered Super Fusion (Wash Sq) 8:30pm - ordered same dinner, ate it (oishii!), sat and digested a bit, paid bill and left, all without feeling rushed or needy. Noted that there were 7 people working, and with turnover of seated guests plus those quietly picking up their take-out, at least 20 people were served including myself and date in that same time frame (30 minutes). Establishment is maybe 10% bigger but serves 100% more volume without being "fast-food" by any means. Also noted that staff aren't speaking Japanese. Verdict: Won't bother with Asahi again, even if they do have fresh fish and a zen-like sushi-ya. I'll pay an extra dollar or two for the service any day from Fusion over Asahi...
(1)Valerie V.
Totally respectable sushi option if you are in Brighton center. Prices are not as low as I'd like them but not crazy either. Rolls don't seem particularly creative, but I normally stick with sashimi anyway. Service is fast and the counter is comfortable. Hit Asahi when you want a relaxed and quick bite of sushi or takeout in Brighton Center.
(3)Kelly B.
My roommate and I ordered take-out from here, I got a vegetarian roll and a sweet potato tempura roll, she got a California and a Boston. Ours were both very fresh and very delicious, plus the food was delivered pretty fast. Beats Mr. Sushi (eh) by a landslide. And thumbs up for them having more than two vegetarian options.
(4)Laura M.
I love this place. First of all, I could care less that there is only person that works in here. To me, it only means that the sushi is going to be consistent. If he seems busy, I'll get some edamame to hold me over. Long, is an artisan, loves his craft - and is really good at it too! I got a spicy tuna, eel/avocado, and a tiger roll. I decided that that wasn't enough (I really love sushi) so I got some salmon belly sashimi. Long (the owner) even gave me some toro for free. Both sashimis liiterally melted in my mouth...as they should. Yes, it's not the fanciest place. Yes, he doesn't have the fanciest rolls. But- if you can appreciate just amazingly fresh fish, you'll love this place. You'll never get any old, fishy sushi here.
(5)Stephen P.
When I lived in Brighton I would pick up a snack at Asahi every Friday right after work... Reliably good sushi... cordial staff who know a customers' face and order after the first visit... small but passable dining area... If you can't get out of Brighton or just want acceptable sushi in a timely fashion Asahi is the place to go...
(3)Mariko W.
I like everything about this place. So basic no frills just sooosh. Walk in sit down get served fresh food. That's about it. It's a REAL sushi bar. Don't bring friends who can't stomach raw fish and expect to order chicken teriyaki. There's only sushi. I'm really glad that this place is a two minute walk from my house. The chef is a good guy and i want to support him.
(5)Katie W.
The sushi here is really super basic but very consistent. It's perfect to take out for a low-key night. I don't love eating-in there, they don't have a liquor license and you can't BYOB (I even called to check one on particularly desperate evening). Definitely leave plenty of time when you're going to pick up your order. I sometimes get the feeling that the sushi chef starts on your order when you walk in the door. The prices are pretty good, and the sushi chef sometimes sends you on your way with a little extra treat to thank you for your wait :)
(4)Pizza W.
This place is amazing. Hole in the wall, but the food is always of great quality and super fresh. My favorite is their toro (fatty tuna) and salmon. I always get the salmon sashimi and toro sashimi. You can never go wrong. They also have very good rolls, like the spider roll and volcano rolls. If you haven't tried, their sweet shrimp maki and scallop maki are also very good. The food is very fresh. I have to say that the place is very busy, especially Friday nights and Saturday nights. So the wait time is longer. There's only one chef, so if you are in hurry or have a large group, probably best to order pick up. Regardless, the food is amazing. Definitely worth a try.
(5)Samantha M.
Not the most creative sushi I've ever had, but decent. The white tuna sushi I had was pretty good. The volcano roll was awkward, I didn't like the texture and I usually love volcano rolls. I'm still on a quest for the best sushi in town..
(3)Erica Y.
Hidden little sushi restaurant in Brighton Center. Really small restaurant, with few seats. It appears that the majority of patrons are of the take-out origin. When I was there, the sushi bar was pretty full and the sushi chef was doing everything from taking orders to making the tea. I wouldn't say the fish is the freshest ever, as I was a little weary when my salmon roe came from a tightly wrapped saran package, and the unagi looked a little dry, but all is well since I had a craving for sushi and didn't want to drive. The sushi is average-good, and I'm very happy to report that the chef washed his hands after handling cash transactions before handling the food. One other note, despite the asahi-sponsored place mats, this little restaurant does not hold a liquor license.
(3)Beth J.
A brighten sushi hidden gem! Although first impressions presents a small understated sushi restaurant the taste is anything but. I have been a number of times and have always had delicious fresh tasting sushi. I will say if you are looking for creative and different combinations this is not the place to go. When you are having a craving for fresh sushi or sashimi this is a hidden gem! I have been the only person in the restaurant at times and other times had to wait for a seat. There often seems to be a good amount of takeout orders being placed so its hard to say what you will find for service and wait time bout again I will say the fish is great. The man who makes the sushi is also very friendly and will recommend what is good.
(5)D A.
Usually I am a little skeptical about take out sushi, but this place is AWESOME! The place only has about 10 chairs (1 table and the bar), but the sushi is the best. The food that comes out of this place rivals anything that you can get in the upscale sushi restaurants in the area. There is only one guy rolling the sushi, so on busy nights it can take a little bit, but the wait is nothing once you taste the fresh, well-made sushi that he puts together. I honestly can't say enough good things about this place.
(5)harry n.
im not a sushi snob also never been here when its busy the novia is a big fan so we have been a couple of times since relocating consistent does get me a-hankerin for some super-dry, but recently heard you can bring your own? siguoy you go in on a tuesday, the couple do everything, no frills and the tv is blasting its weird. i like
(4)Catherine S.
So I'm not a sushi expert, which is why I didn't feel quite qualified enough to give them a five, but I was impressed with Asahi. It's a cute little mom-and-pop shop that reminded me of my visit to Asia; the ambience wasn't anything fancy or spacious, but very genuine. To add to the convenience, they have online ordering, so it's easy for me to pick up on the way home. As I said before, I'm not a sushi expert, but I've walked in to pick it up and he's typically right in the middle of making it; can't get any more fresh than that! My only tiny little complaint is that their online menu doesn't decipher which sushi uses raw meat and which doesn't. That's probably my own fault since I'm an amateur, but for the newbies, it would be helpful (they do have it on the print menu, though). Either way, I recommend them!
(4)Chuckert B.
This is a basic, no bullshit sushi bar. That's it! Nothing else on the menu! You want a drink? How about some water. That's what they've got here. The sushi is excellent and the prices are very reasonable. The chef is very fast. I used to live across the street and go here alot, he would occasionally toss a few extra complementary chunks of sashimi my way. Awsome. This is a tiny little family run buisness and I support it. Lunch menu has a pretty nice discount too. Weird hours sometimes, though.
(5)Steven G.
I had a good experience here. The fish was nothing less than perfect and fresh, the service was not fast but not slow, and the sushi chef was a good guy. I would recommend this, but I could see how the service would lag if the place was full. I would definitely go back.
(4)Leah G.
So fresh. So delicious. So going back there at least 3x a week! I love the fact that I can get off the bus, get some of the most fresh, tasty sushi I've ever eaten, and walk up the hill to my apartment. The sushi chef at Asahi is friendly and fast. He uses real, meaty chunks of tuna in the spicy tuna roll, as opposed to shredded, weak chunks of tuna. The miso soup is delicious and the edamame is too. This is my new hot spot, fo sho.
(5)Kirsten S.
This is by far my favorite place to eat in Boston. The owners are so friendly, the atmosphere is cozy, it has a real neighborhood restaurant feel, and the food is absolutely delicious. The fish is extremely fresh and it's cut very generously - the sushi has an excellent fish to rice ratio. I don't know where to begin for specific dishes because everything is so good. Well, actually, I do - WHITE TUNA! It's the best thing in the world. But you can't really go wrong with anything on the menu, and the specials are always an excellent choice. Even the soy sauce seems to taste better here than anywhere else! The prices are also quite reasonable. (And I've never been for lunch, but they do have lunch specials.) True, there's no alcohol served here, but since this is the freshest and most delicious sushi in all of Boston, you will not miss it, I promise.
(5)Domenico B.
Asahi is a small place, you could almost call it intimate, but I'd have to go in the evening with my wife to use that term. I went for lunch. It's small. You'll sit at the sushi bar because there are no tables, which is a good thing. If you want to experience sushi you should sit at the bar, face to face with the chef and eat and order like the sushi experts do. The fish was fresh and tasty, of course. One of my favorite maki (rolls) is spicy tuna. I use that as my bellwether for any sushi place. Not as good as my favorite local sushi (Asahi in Salem; no relation I'm pretty sure), but still tasty. It's certainly different, not as powerful. And you can get more than one kind of spicy tuna: toro, maguro, a couple others. I also chose some mackerel, which had a very interesting sauce and eel (unagi), again very good. I tend not to use the extra wasabi or add soy sauce because I want to taste the fish so it also means that you will immediately taste any flaws. No flaws here. Just good fresh flavors. The miso soup was excellent, but it's such a simple dish that if you get the dashi right, it's hard to screw it up. The chef chopped up the other ingredients right before adding them to the bowl, so it was fresh. I arrived at 12:15 and no one was there except the chef and a deliveryman. I was a little worried: shouldn't it be busier at lunch time? Another couple came in while I was eating, but that was it. Maybe Tuesday is a slow day. I didn't interact much with the chef. I'm not much of an extrovert in that way and prefer just to read my book. Maybe once I get to know him and he recognizes me. In many ways that the best part of sushi--when the chef gets to know you and your taste and introduces you to something new you might like. The prices were decent for sushi, not at all expensive. I won't be going every day, but I think I'll be coming back. I'm glad to find a good place near work, especially since with my wife being pregnant we won't be going out for raw fish anytime soon.
(3)Adam W.
The quality of the sushi is pretty good. The prices are pretty good. However, the size of the sushi roll is incredibly small. You could probably eat 4 maki rolls and be just satisified. You know those little trays of sushi they sell at supermarkets for $9-$14? That was the amount of sushi I got for $25. The food was all good, but you just don't get much for your money. We had to get some shrimp fried rice at China Maxim III after we ate.
(3)Lauren T.
If you're looking for a quiet place for dinner to chit chat for a couple hours with no pressure, Asahi is the place. The one room sushi bar has the bar minimum in restaurant frivolity, but when you want good sushi and a place to talk, who cares? The white tuna and yellow tail are always fat, lusty looking pieces. The Caterpillar Roll ALWAYS makes my eyes jump with excitement. Asahi is owned and run by a super nice couple. He's the sushi chef and she's your tea server. They are always there and smiling. If you don't have time for a drawn out dinner, the lunch specials are quick and yummy. Not too bad for Brighton Center.
(3)Jose T.
ME GUSTA When you see the name of this little sushi bar in Brighton Center you think of an ice cold Japanese brewsky in your hand while eating a spicy tuna roll. Then reality hits.....they have no liquor license....ah well at least the sushi is fresh and a little green tea is always good for the soul. The place is a bit Spartan. I thought the sushi was a good value and the owner/chef frequently has toro (fatty tuna to die for) on the menu which is a definite plus. I would recommend for take out or when you have a group that is boisterous enough to overcome the drab ambiance.
(3)Christopher F.
This place is great. Once I tasted there salmon and tuna I realized that not all sushi is cut from the same cloth, this stuff is fresh. Comes from good "farms" I'm told. Kinda believe this because I've had sushi at Whole Foods and the Star at Chestnut Hill, no comparison... The owner is jovial and is extremely talented at his craft. Check this place out.
(4)Amelia L.
I love Asahi. It's such a hole in the wall kind of place, which for sushi sometimes makes me nervous, but I had been dying for sushi and kind of happened upon it... so glad I did. The guy making sushi has a no-nonsense vibe. He's not in it for chit chat that's for sure but let the man work because he turns out great sushi. I always do takeout and my order is ready within 10/15 minutes. It's even better when you remember to call it in - always ready when you get there. I like the spicy rolls because they use a whole piece of fish instead of the mashed filling some places use (does that make sense..? don't know...). Their shrimp tempura roll is the best I've had from anywhere. Seriously. Oh man I want some right now... I wonder if they're open at 8am. Anyway go to Asahi. Don't expect a chat. Just expect good sushi.
(4)Stephanie F.
Nothing really mind-blowing. Went there on a Sunday night and felt like the fish wasn't as fresh as it could be. I've had better sushi, but it pleased my sushi craving.
(3)Nicole B.
Tiny sushi bar with just a few tables and counter, also delivers. I generally get mine to go, so I can't really comment on staff. But the fish is always fresh and well prepared and they offer brown rice, which is a bonus for me. In general, a great place to get sushi out to the neighborhood and a healthy delivery option in a land of pub food and pizza.
(4)Courtney T.
I'm not a sushi connoisseur, but have liked everything I have tried here and have decided to make it my go-to-neighborhood-sushi-place. It's right down the street from my apartment so it's really easy to walk to now that the weather is nice. I have eaten in the restaurant a couple times and ordered take-out just once. The take-out was ready by the time I walked there (about 10 minutes). Eating in the restaurant has taken between 20 minutes and one hour. The restaurant is clean and has a nice, laid-back atmosphere. I am pretty sure that the chef and other woman who helps to serve are the owners of the restaurant and they have always been very friendly to my friends and me. The fish tastes very fresh and I've haven't been disappointed by anything I've ordered. The prices are also extremely reasonable compared to a lot of other sushi places in the Boston area. I'd definitely recommend Asahi.
(4)Emily L.
I really love this place. My boyfriend and I usually go here once a week or so, get the vegetable salad, white tuna sushi, alaska roll, unagi roll, spicy yellow fin roll, and a fun surprise! The sushi chef will usually give us some delicious sushi treat free of charge. That's how we were turned on to white tuna. He has also given us blue fin toro (AMAZING) and fatty salmon, for free! It seems like he does this with most regulars that he recognizes. He is a lovely man and I am so into supporting his business. Everybody should go here, or at least get takeout.
(5)Kelly P.
Asahi is the best in the area, fresh and fast! I used to live right around the corner so it became my go-to Sushi spot. When i moved to Watertown, i tried some new places but always left wishing i just went to Asahi!! The fish is very fresh. Always tastes very good and never too fishy or off. Its run by a family of 2 and ive never seen anyone but them working there. The Chef is very fast and the service is cordial. They have specials that are always changing listed of the white board and sometimes he even lets customers sample them! :) It is very cozy inside as well. Small but inviting. In the summer, they leave the door open and you get a nice breeze. Overall, my favorite sushi spot. I recomend the volcano roll and the rainbow roll :)
(5)Ethan M.
I hate to give this mom and pop place two stars but I have to. I was hoping that this would become my local Sushi restaurant but the sushi was not on par. I ordered the Sabah and it tasted so slimy and gamy. I think that it was sitting there for a while and they just gave me the last couple of pieces that were left. I even swear that they talked it over on whether they should serve it to me or not. The people are really sweet and the place is nice and cozy but they lost a lot of points when it comes to serving me bad food. I wanted to give three stars but just the thought of bad sushi makes me want to gag.
(2)Renee F.
This is the BEST restaurant in town. Great service, great food, and the sushi chef is fabulous. I go there about every week. And every week it is packed with people! Also whenever I go the sushi chef is so friendly, and he gives me a welcome, and smile every time I walk in! It is such a successful restaurant for two people to work in. They are fast sufficient and such awesome people. Best restaurant in Boston hands down. Everything is fresh, and inexpensive! I never go anywhere else. And now there's delivery. After I tried so many places This is the best one so far.
(5)Ryan M.
I love Asahi. I keep meaning to try out other sushi spots in Brighton, but I haven't got around to it because Asahi is cheap and reliable. I've never been disappointed by my food from here. It always tastes fresh and is nicely made. I prefer to order out rather than eat in because the place is small and doesn't serve booze. Whenever we call to order our food is ready in 30 mins. One time there was a small mix up and the guy was very nice and apologetic and gave us some extra sushi in our order! I did eat in the restaurant once and that was a good experience too. Overall, i"d like it if they had some more interesting/creative rolls like I've had at other sushi places, but for what they do offer it's perfect. White tuna and spicey yellow tail are the best!
(4)Ellen F.
Pretty decent sushi place right in Brighton Center. It's tiny, and the seating options are either at the counter, or at a small table that seats 2-4 people. I've had prompt service both eating in and taking out. The sushi is good...not the best I've ever had, but definitely reasonable for the prices ($5-12 for maki rolls). My favorites are the sweet potato tempura, spicy white tuna (fairly spicy, though it doesn't come with the little dollops of spicy mayo, usually my favorite part), and unagi maki.
(4)Kristen F.
This is where 1/2 stars would be good. 3.5 stars for this place. Got some take out here Saturday night. 2 rolls - spicy salmon and Manhattan Roll (crab meat with tobiko on the outside) and both were really good. The edamamme was okay, but got a little mushy and could have used some more salt. The prices were great. Most inexpensive sushi around. I'd recommend this place and I'll be back.
(3)Erik O.
stopped in here on a whim, and was very pleased. good portions, very friendly service. the prices, eh, possibly slightly higher than i thought the food was worth. but the food was very good, not complaining. good atmosphere. i think its BYOB. but i'm not sure. also, they deliver. so i might be hitting that option up soon.
(4)Alex B.
Sometimes I like to slag down a couple glasses of water. When I do that - I like to do that with a coupla old bites of sushi at Asahi. Come after 5pm and the water is all you can drink. TSSSIP AHHHHHHHH!!!
(5)Anthony B.
Asahi is one of my local neighborhood favorites. It is a small place with just one table and a sushi bar. No alcohol is served here, but that hasn't kept me away. It is run by the sushi chef and his wife (I think), and like most small restaurants, after a few visits, you begin to feel like you've made a new friend. The fish itself has been great. There are a few daily specials which are always worth a look at. Because it is such a small place, and they fill a lot of take-out orders, it is tough to quickly pop in and out if you plan sitting down. The variety of fish available varies on a daily basis, but they always seem to have great hotategai. If the chef still has some salmon skin from the last piece of salmon he prepared, you can ask him to make a delicious salmon skin handroll. If you're willing to roll with what is fresh and available on any given day, and aren't going to be thoroughly disappointed if there is no giant clam available, then you will walk away from Asahi full and content. Be sure to chat up the chef. He is generally very quiet, but is always very helpful and kind and will eagerly steer you towards what looks great that day if you just ask.
(4)Danielle K.
As everyone else has said, Asahi is TINY!! Its nothing more than a small sushi bar and one table off to the side. I'm assuming this is more of a take out place. Nevertheless I was very impressed. I agree with other reviews... this is a great no frills sushi place. If you want exotic and crazy creative rolls, this is not the place for you. But if you are having a basic sushi craving in the Brighton area and want some some VERY DELICIOUS and HIGH QUALITY sushi, then this is a great place to go! I am a Philadephia Roll connoisseur and they make a great one! Their fish is very fresh and is like butter in your mouth! I am very excited that this place is within walking distance to my apartment, and I definitely WILL come back!!
(5)Rebecca Y.
I was so excited when this place opened - a sushi bar in Brighton Center! And that's where my excitement ends. The prices are average, but the sushi doesn't taste as fresh as it should.
(2)Jean Z.
I think this place is great - really good, fresh Sushi, with no frills, the way real sushi is supposed to be. Try the white tuna - rare to find on a menu around here, especially at a low price. I think this place is really cheap for how good it is, just as good quality as expensive places like Jae's. The owner is always there, and he will get to know you if you come in enough, as it is so small.
(5)Sean C.
I went to Asahi last Sat around 12:10 pm, and the restaurant was still closed - which should be open at 11:45 am. It is a very bad experience for going a place and be blocked outside without any reasons.
(1)P'raka ..
My new favourite sushi place! Tastes fresh and yummy; I'm constantly craving salmon sashimi from here. The place is pretty small. There is one 4-person table, and then a few (7-8?) seats along the sushi bar. No fancy/crazy rolls, just the basics.
(5)