Hello dear
Kotobuki Washington, nestled at 4822 MacArthur Blvd NW in Washington, D.C., is a culinary gem renowned for its exceptional sushi. Customers rave about the astonishing freshness of the fish, the exquisite balance of flavors, and the artistic presentation that transforms each dish into a work of art. Signature offerings like the eel kamameshi showcase a delightful mix of steamed rice and toppings, emphasizing the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. With a welcoming, informal atmosphere and experienced staff, Kotobuki Washington stands out as a must-visit destination for sushi lovers seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
About
Welcome to Kotobuki Washington, an exquisite gem tucked away at 4822 MacArthur Blvd NW, Washington, DC. This charming eatery has quickly gained a reputation as one of the finest sushi spots in the city, and after just one visit, it's easy to see why. With dishes that celebrate the art of Japanese cuisine, Kotobuki stands out not just for its sushi, but for the dedication to quality and authenticity that truly impresses every patron.
As soon as you step inside, you are greeted by a warm atmosphere that blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with a modern dining experience. The intimate setting creates the perfect backdrop for enjoying expertly crafted dishes. Here, every ingredient sings with freshness, and the fish is nothing short of spectacular. Customer reviews echo this sentiment; Yuliia Mass raved about trying "almost every type of fish" and noted the "unbelievable deliciousness" of their offerings. The careful balance of flavors and striking presentation elevate each dish to a work of art.
One standout recommendation is the eel kamameshi, a delightful medley of steamed rice topped with tender eel, paired perfectly with seaweed, pickled beets, and radish. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience, thoughtfully crafted for all diners, including options that are safe for pregnant women. As Toni T points out, the experience is further enriched by the long-serving staff who provide attentive service without interrupting the flow of your meal.
Moreover, Kotobuki is celebrated not just for sushi, but for its full range of delectable options. A visit reveals highlights like the vegetable kamameshi, kimpirin, and fresh sashimi — each item reflecting the chef’s commitment to excellence. Hunter Davis describes the happy hour as the "best sushi happy hour in DC," a must-stop for anyone seeking quality at an attractive price point.
In a bustling city full of dining options, Kotobuki Washington remains a hidden treasure for those in the know. With its rich selection, brilliant flavors, and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant beckons sushi lovers and adventurous diners alike to explore authentic Japanese cuisine in a casual yet reverent setting. Whether you're celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in one of life’s pleasures, Kotobuki Washington promises an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
“ The best sushi in my life! We tried almost every type of fish here, and it was unbelievably delicious. The freshness of the ingredients, the perfect balance of flavors, and the exceptional presentation made this an unforgettable dining experience. I also tried the eel kamameshi, a delicious dish of steamed rice topped with eel and served with seaweed, pickled beets, and radish. What can I say? It was amazing! Plus, it’s a great option for pregnant women since it doesn’t contain raw fish. Highly recommend to all sushi lovers! ”
“ I was scared to review this place because it might be mobbed and I want to keep my knowledge of it to myself, selfishly. But facts are facts and this is, hands down, the best sushi in DC. No arguments! The serves have been working there for years and are great without constantly coming to check on you. This place is a true hidden gem, and absolutely amazing. I come here every year for my birthday, with my Dad. ”
“ As always this place has never failed in high food quality. Please see the specials (photo);as they are worth exploring. The place is small so go early. The prices have gone up in the past 20 years as expected. Enjoy the best sushi on the Boulevard in an informal environment. ”
“ Best sushi happy hour in DC and some of the best period. The best eel I’ve had, and definitely try the spicy white tuna roll. Amazing hidden gem. ”
“ We had vegetable Kamameshi, water eel Kanameshi and Kimpirin. They are all very delicious and well cooked. Restaurant feels authentically Japanese (as someone who had visited Japan 5 times) and Sashimi is fresh and delicious. ”
“ Kotobuki is a true hidden gem nestled in Washington, DC, offering an unparalleled dining experience for sushi enthusiasts. While the restaurant's modest and unassuming dining area might not immediately impress, do not let appearances deceive you. Kotobuki delivers an exceptional culinary experience that far surpasses its humble setting. The sushi here is nothing short of extraordinary. Each piece is meticulously crafted with the utmost attention to detail, highlighting the freshness and quality of the ingredients. The flavors are perfectly balanced, with every bite showcasing the chef’s mastery of traditional techniques combined with an artful presentation. Whether you're a fan of classic rolls or more adventurous offerings, Kotobuki consistently delivers sushi that is both innovative and authentic. Another standout feature is the incredible value. For the level of quality and care put into every dish, the prices are surprisingly reasonable, making it a fantastic option for those seeking top-tier sushi without the premium price tag. Kotobuki's charm lies in its simplicity and focus on the essentials: extraordinary food and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where the focus is purely on the culinary experience, and it exceeds expectations in every way. I wholeheartedly recommend Kotobuki to anyone looking for an unforgettable sushi experience in DC. It’s a must-visit for locals and visitors alike. ”
“ This was the first sushi place I really enjoyed here in the US after being spoiled by amazing food in Japan. Can’t wait to go back!!! ”
“ Oh my gosh, oh my gosh, I have so much to say, but I'm going to start with this. The entryway was elegant all by itself. When you walk in, you walk down some steps, and you just think you're going into some kind of secret place that makes you anxious to see what's behind those doors. If you have not been to this place, now I know it's expensive, but it is totally worth it at least once or twice a year to treat yourself. You work so much, and sometimes you think, why are you working or you look at your bank account and say where the money went? I have nothing to show for it. Well, this is the time to treat yourself and treat yourself here because it is well worth it. You need a reservation, and for them to know that you're serious, you have to put down a down payment because when you put a down payment on something, your butt is coming. Listen here there are a courses, and you also have to get the sake drinks. It is an added addition but they pay it with the meals and it is so delicious. So I hear they change the menu each season, and this season was wagyu beef, and oh my gosh, I swear if I could afford it, I would have gone the next day just for the experience. They also have caviar that you can add to your meal as well, but that is up to you. The waiters and waitresses are super nice the bartender and I forgot his name but he was killing on the drinks the sous chefs were awesome and the MasterChef that lady oh my gosh I forgot her name too but she was out of this world and she's gorgeous. But again, if you have not come to this place yet, definitely come down and experience for yourself because my words aren't even enough to express how this place is. Oh, and I almost forgot if your person that want to be substituting stuff and don't like certain things and don't like to experience food this is not the place for you because they do no substitutions. And they mean it! But I tell you if you enjoy the food and you want to sit on your palate and just absorb every ingredient of the dish, come get your experience at this place. ”