Joss Café & Sushi Bar

For nearly three decades, Joss Café & Sushi Bar has been a cornerstone of the Annapolis dining scene, specializing in exquisite Japanese cuisine and, more specifically, a wide array of nigiri and maki sushi. Located on the historic Main Street, this establishment has garnered a reputation as a go-to spot for fresh and delicious sushi among locals and visitors alike. While some recent experiences may vary, Joss Café & Sushi Bar has a long history of serving the community with a dedication to quality and a diverse menu that aims to satisfy every craving for Japanese flavors.

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Joss Café & Sushi Bar, established in September 1991, has evolved from a small storefront to a more expansive and inviting restaurant, reflecting its sincere gratitude and connection to the Annapolis community. The restaurant prides itself on its Japanese culinary heritage, offering a robust selection of nigiri and maki sushi, alongside various contemporary and unique items. Beyond its signature sushi, Joss Café & Sushi Bar provides a diverse menu that extends to traditional Japanese plates and inventive appetizers, many featuring in-house sauces. The ambiance is described as casual, and for those who enjoy the bustling energy of Main Street, the restaurant offers an open-air patio. Joss strives to ensure that every dining experience is memorable, blending great food with attentive service.

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Joss Café & Sushi Bar is ideally located at 195 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA. This prime address places it right in the heart of historic Downtown Annapolis, making it highly accessible for residents of Annapolis and surrounding communities in Anne Arundel County, such as Eastport, West Annapolis, and Parole. Being on Main Street means it's a prominent and easy-to-find destination within the vibrant downtown area. While parking on Main Street can sometimes be a challenge, Annapolis offers various public parking garages and lots within a short walking distance, providing convenient options for visitors. The central location allows diners to easily combine their meal with a stroll through the charming streets, visiting local shops or exploring the waterfront.

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Joss Café & Sushi Bar provides a comprehensive range of services to cater to various dining preferences:

• Dine-In Service: Guests can enjoy their meal in the restaurant's casual and welcoming interior. The ambiance is set for a comfortable dining experience, whether it's a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner. They also boast a full bar and an open-air patio for outdoor seating when weather permits.

• Takeout: For those who prefer to enjoy their Japanese favorites at home or on the go, Joss Café & Sushi Bar offers convenient takeout services. Orders can be placed by phone or through their online ordering system for easy pickup.

• Online Ordering: The restaurant offers an e-commerce web page for online ordering, allowing customers to easily browse the full menu and place orders digitally for pickup. It's important to note that delivery services through the restaurant itself may have specific hours or limitations (e.g., "no longer offering our delivery service Monday - Wednesday"). However, third-party delivery apps may still service the area.

• Extensive Sushi Bar: As a core specialty, Joss offers a wide variety of fresh nigiri and maki sushi, including classic rolls and unique contemporary creations. Popular options include Spicy Tuna Roll, Spicy Salmon Roll, Crunchy Scallop Roll, and various chef's selections for sushi and sashimi assortments. They are also known for providing a "sushi boat" for orders of 7 rolls or more, making for a visually impressive presentation.

• Sashimi and Nigiri: For purists, the menu includes a selection of fresh raw fish served sashimi style and nigiri (fish on rice), featuring high-quality options like Tuna, Salmon, Yellow Tail, and Toro (fatty tuna).

• Japanese Kitchen Entrees: Beyond sushi, the menu offers a range of cooked dishes "From The Kitchen," including Teriyaki options (Chicken, Steak, Salmon, Shrimp, Tofu), and various appetizers like Edamame, Fried Soft Shell Crab, and Gyoza.

• Appetizers, Soups, and Salads: The menu features a comprehensive selection of starters, including Miso Soup, Seaweed Salad, and various sushi bar appetizers like Spring Roll and Maguro Poke.

• Dessert: To complete the meal, Joss offers Japanese-inspired desserts such as Tempura or Grilled Bananas and Tempura Cheese Cake.

• Catering: While details may require direct inquiry, Joss Café & Sushi Bar has historically offered catering services, suitable for events and gatherings.

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Joss Café & Sushi Bar is recognized for several key features that contribute to its enduring presence in Annapolis:

• High-Quality Sushi and Sashimi: Many customers praise the sushi for being "worth the price," "amazing," and "incredibly fresh," which is paramount for raw fish dishes. Specific items like Toro (fatty tuna) and Hotate Gai (raw scallop) have received positive mentions.

• Unique Sushi Boat Presentation: For larger orders (7 rolls or more), the visually appealing sushi boat adds an extra touch to the dining experience, making it popular for groups.

• Long-Standing Reputation: Having been a part of the Annapolis dining scene since 1991, Joss Café & Sushi Bar has a significant history and a loyal customer base, indicating its consistent appeal over the years.

• Prime Main Street Location: Its spot on Main Street offers a vibrant atmosphere and easy access to other downtown attractions, making it a convenient stop for tourists and locals exploring the area.

• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: While specializing in sushi, the inclusion of kitchen entrees, appetizers, and even a full bar ensures a broader appeal, catering to different preferences within a group.

• Featured on Food Network: Joss was famously featured on Food Network's "The Best Thing I Ever Ate" for their fried shrimp heads (ebi heads), which, while not always available, highlights their unique and acclaimed dishes.

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While specific promotions can vary and may not always be widely advertised, Joss Café & Sushi Bar, given its long history, may offer:

• Lunch Specials: Many Japanese restaurants, especially in downtown areas, offer value-oriented lunch specials during weekdays. While not explicitly detailed in recent public information, it is common for such establishments to provide special pricing on select sushi rolls or kitchen entrees during midday hours.

• Online Order Incentives: As they have an online ordering system, they might occasionally feature discounts or special deals for orders placed directly through their website, which helps them connect with local customers.

• Groupon or Other Deal Platforms: Joss Café & Sushi Bar has been listed on platforms like Groupon in the past, offering discounted gift certificates. It's worth checking these platforms for any current offers.

For the most current and accurate information on any ongoing promotions or special offers, it is always best to visit Joss Café & Sushi Bar's official website, check their social media, or contact them directly via phone.

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To make a reservation (recommended for larger groups or peak times), place a takeout order, or inquire about their menu, you can reach Joss Café & Sushi Bar using the following information:

• Address: 195 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA

• Phone: (410) 263-4688

Their general operating hours are typically:

• Monday - Wednesday: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM

• Thursday - Sunday: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM

(Note: It's always advisable to confirm hours directly, as they may vary due to holidays or other circumstances.)

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For residents of Annapolis and the surrounding Maryland areas, Joss Café & Sushi Bar remains a significant culinary landmark, offering a classic Japanese dining experience on historic Main Street. Its long-standing presence and dedication to fresh sushi and diverse Japanese dishes make it a reliable choice for any occasion. While experiences can vary, the restaurant's core strengths—including its praised sushi quality, unique presentations like the sushi boat, and prime downtown location—continue to draw in patrons. Whether you're seeking a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or simply a taste of authentic Japanese flavors in a central Annapolis setting, Joss Café & Sushi Bar offers a compelling option that has served the community for decades. Its accessibility and established reputation make it a suitable and convenient spot for locals to indulge in their Japanese cuisine cravings.

Joss Café & Sushi Bar

195 Main St, Annapolis, MD 21401, USA