Shiku Sushi: Ballard's Underrated Gem for Exquisite Sushi, Impeccable Service, and Perfect Date Nights

Shiku Sushi Introduce

shiku sushi seattle, yasuko teriyaki seattle

In the vibrant and often bustling neighborhood of Ballard in Seattle, where culinary choices are abundant, **Shiku Sushi** stands out as a true "underrated spot," consistently surprising and delighting its patrons with its unwavering excellence. While the platform category "Doctor Near Me" typically refers to healthcare services, it can be broadly interpreted to encompass any service that contributes to one's overall well-being and sense of care. In this unique context, Shiku Sushi provides a form of culinary "care" and satisfaction, offering not just exceptional food but also an ambiance and service that are "second to none." Just as one seeks a doctor for trusted expertise and a comforting experience, diners flock to Shiku Sushi for its consistent quality, warm atmosphere, and attentive staff, making it a place where every visit feels like a treat for the senses and the soul.

Located at **5310 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA**, Shiku Sushi is ideally situated within the heart of Ballard, making it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s phone number, **(206) 588-2151** or **+1 206-588-2151**, provides a direct line for reservations, which are highly recommended given its popularity, especially for "date night" occasions. Shiku Sushi has rapidly become a favorite for many, proving that its consistent quality and exceptional service truly set it apart.

Environment

The environment at Shiku Sushi is a key factor in its overall appeal, described as possessing **"vibes are second to none."** This suggests an atmosphere that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also creates a comfortable and inviting feeling. While specific details on decor are not provided, the positive "vibes" imply a well-designed space that enhances the dining experience, making it a perfect setting for a "date night spot" or even a "solo sushi date." The fact that it's a place where someone happily takes themselves on a solo date speaks volumes about its welcoming and enjoyable ambiance. Customers sitting at the bar have particularly lauded the experience, indicating that this area offers a vibrant and engaging atmosphere, potentially allowing for interaction with the sushi chefs or bartenders. The overall environment contributes to a sense of relaxation and enjoyment, setting the stage for an exquisite meal.

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Services

The service at Shiku Sushi is consistently highlighted as **"second to none"** and a significant contributor to the restaurant's excellence. The staff are described as being "very friendly, very nice staff." Individuals like Jessica, the bartender, are singled out for being "the best bartender ever," ensuring "everyone in there was being taken care of." This level of attentiveness and genuine care for each customer underscores Shiku Sushi's commitment to providing an exceptional dining experience. The staff's ability to maintain a positive and engaging atmosphere, even when the restaurant is busy, speaks to their professionalism and dedication. This personalized and friendly service creates a welcoming environment where patrons feel valued and well-attended to, encouraging repeat visits and fostering a sense of loyalty. The consistent praise for their service reinforces the idea that dining at Shiku Sushi is not just about the food, but about the entire hospitable interaction.

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Features

Shiku Sushi distinguishes itself through several key features that contribute to its "excellence" and "underrated" status. Foremost among these is the **consistently high quality of its sushi and overall menu**. Customers repeatedly express how the restaurant "constantly surprises me with its excellence," and that "not a single option misses." This indicates a deep commitment to culinary perfection across the board. Specific dishes mentioned include the **Honey, Philadelphia, and Eel rolls**, with the **Honey roll** being so memorable that a customer wanted to return for it immediately. This highlights both the traditional and potentially innovative offerings on their menu.

A significant feature is the presence of **"rotating specials and bar specials"** which "keep the menu fresh." This dynamic approach ensures that regular patrons always have something new and exciting to try, preventing menu fatigue and showcasing the chefs' creativity. This constant innovation, combined with consistent quality, makes every visit a new discovery. This aspect aligns with the "Doctor Near Me" concept by offering tailored and continuously evolving solutions to satisfy culinary cravings, ensuring ongoing delight.

Another crucial feature is the restaurant's status as a **"family-owned restaurant."** This often translates into a passion for the craft, a commitment to quality, and a more personal touch in both the food and service. This familial dedication is likely a key driver behind the "excellent" service and the warm "vibes" that make customers feel so welcome and cared for. The intimate and attentive service provided by individuals like Jessica further reinforces this family-like atmosphere.

Finally, Shiku Sushi has earned a reputation as a **"favorite go-to date night spot."** This speaks to its ability to create an ambiance that is perfect for romantic evenings or intimate gatherings, combining delicious food with a pleasant and comfortable setting. The fact that it's also highly enjoyable for a "solo sushi date" broadens its appeal, making it a versatile dining destination.

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Promotional Information

Shiku Sushi's most compelling promotional information stems directly from its enthusiastic customer reviews. Phrases like "constantly surprises me with its excellence," "most underrated spot in Ballard," "Service and vibes are second to none," and "This has quickly become my favorite go-to date night spot" are incredibly powerful and should be front and center in any marketing efforts. The strong endorsements for specific rolls, such as the "honey" roll, can be used to entice new customers.

Promotional strategies could focus on highlighting their **"rotating specials and bar specials"** to emphasize the freshness and variety of their menu, encouraging repeat visits. Showcasing the "family-owned" aspect could resonate with customers who appreciate supporting local businesses and value personalized service. Featuring the friendly and attentive staff, perhaps through photos or short testimonials, would further underscore the exceptional service experience.

Given its popularity as a "date night spot," promotions tailored for couples or small groups, perhaps special tasting menus or drink pairings, could be effective. Encouraging reservations, particularly for popular evenings, would also manage customer expectations and ensure a smoother dining experience. Leveraging social media to display their beautifully crafted sushi and vibrant atmosphere would undoubtedly attract a wider audience in Seattle. By consistently delivering on its promise of excellent food, impeccable service, and a welcoming atmosphere, Shiku Sushi is poised to shed its "underrated" status and become a universally recognized top-tier sushi destination in Ballard.

Shiku Sushi Menu

Online - Izakaya
Agedashi Tofu US$8.80
Fried tofu in dashi broth.
Bacon Scallops US$6.60
Beef Tsukune US$3.30
Beef tsukune skewers. Choice of Katsu, Mayo, Ponzu, Spicy, or Teriyaki sauce.
Chicken Nanban US$18.70
Crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a tangy, sweet sauce, served with a side of fresh greens.
Edamame US$5.50
Tossed in sea salt. Make it spicy +$1.00
Salmon Kama US$11.00
Grilled salmon collar served with grated daikon radish and a lemon wedge.
Hamachi Kama US$14.30
Grilled Yellowtail Collar.
Kara-Age US$13.20
Savory chicken with house made teriyaki glaze.
Miso Soup US$4.40
Dashi broth, white miso, negi, tofu, and wakame.
Mochi US$9.90
Soft and chewy rice cakes garnished with thinly sliced green onions and bonito flakes, served in a savory soy-based sauce.
Negima US$4.40
Grilled beef rolls wrapped around scallions, typically served with a savory soy-based sauce.
Onigiri US$6.60
Crispy rice balls topped with bonito flakes, green onions, and a light soy-based sauce.
Pork Gyoza US$9.90
Japanese fried dumplings.
Sauteed Sesame Green Beans With Mushrooms US$13.20
Sauteed w/ soy sauce, fish sauce, garlic.
Shiku Fries US$8.80
Spicy fried with a side of house-made tartar sauce.
Shishitos US$11.00
Sauteed in soy sauce, topped w/ lemon juice.
Soy Miso Salad US$8.25
Spring mix, Soy Miso Vinaigrette, tomato, avocado, shredded daikon.
Spicy Tofu US$12.10
Six pillowy cubes tossed in our wing sauce ona bed of daikon.
Stuffed Jalapenos US$14.30
Filled with snow-crab and cream cheese.
Sweet & Spicy Wings US$13.20
Marinated in a togarashi, soy, rice vinegar sauce topped w/ garlic and green onions.
Takoyaki US$11.00
Octopus tempura dumplings.
Tempura Banana US$7.70
Lightly battered banana pieces, deep-fried to a crispy golden brown, topped with bonito flakes and green onions, served in a savory dipping sauce.
Udon US$17.05
Thick, chewy noodles with choice of vegetables or shrimp.
Veggie Tempura US$15.40
Sweet potato, kabocha squash, and seasonal veggies.

Online - Basic Rolls
Avocado Roll US$7.70
Avocado and sushi rice wrapped in seaweed. Options: Cut or hand roll.
California Roll US$8.80
Crab, avocado, cucumber. Cut or hand-prepared options available.
Cucumber Roll US$4.95
Cucumber wrapped in sushi rice and seaweed. Choice of cut or hand roll.
Hamachi Roll US$12.10
Slices of fresh yellowtail with sushi rice and seaweed, available cut or hand-rolled.
Philadelphia Roll US$11.00
Cream cheese, smoked salmon, and cucumber roll. Choice of cut or hand roll.
Salmon Roll US$11.00
Fresh salmon, sushi rice, seaweed. Choose between cut or hand roll.
Salmon Skin Roll US$8.80
Crispy salmon skin, rolled sushi. Choice of cut or hand roll.
Scallop Roll US$15.40
Succulent scallop, rolled in sushi rice and seaweed. Cut or hand roll.
Shrimp Tempura Roll US$8.80
Shrimp tempura inside sushi rice and seaweed. Choose between cut pieces or whole hand roll.
Snow Crab Roll US$12.10
Snow crab wrapped in rice and seaweed. Available cut or hand roll style.
Spicy Tuna Roll US$9.90
Spicy tuna, sushi rice, seaweed. Choice of cut or hand roll.
Spider Roll US$10.45
Soft-shell crab, cucumber, avocado, and nori. Cut into pieces or served as a hand roll.
Negi TORO Roll US$16.50
Chopped fatty tuna with scallions. Available as cut or hand roll.
Tuna Roll US$13.20
Fresh tuna wrapped in seasoned sushi rice and seaweed. Choice of cut or hand roll.
Negi HAMA Roll US$13.20
Yellowtail and green onion roll, maki style. Available in cut pieces or as a hand roll.
Ume Shisho Roll US$6.05
Ume shisho roll, traditional maki. Choose between cut pieces or a hand roll.
Unagi Eel Roll US$11.00
Fresh unagi eel wrapped with sushi rice and seaweed; options: cut into pieces or served as a hand roll.
Tempura Sweet Potato Roll US$7.70
Sweet potato tempura in sushi roll with a choice of cut or hand-prepared.
Vegetable Roll US$6.60
Vegetable roll, available cut or hand-rolled.

Online - Nigiri
Chef's Choice Nigiri US$22.00
Chef's choice nigiri sashimi. Available in three sizes: 5, 7, or 9 pieces.
Chefs Choice Nigiri MEDIUM US$28.60
Chefs Choice Nigiri LARGE US$35.20
Chef's Choice Sashimi US$24.20
Variety of sashimi selected by the chef. Available in sizes: Small (6 pieces), Medium (9 pieces), Large (15 pieces).
Chefs Choice Sashimi MEDIUM US$35.20
Chef's choice sashimi medium: A selection of assorted fresh fish slices, typically including tuna, salmon, and yellowtail. Consuming raw or undercooked seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness.
Chefs Choice Sashimi LARGE US$57.20
Chef's choice sashimi large: Assorted sliced fish, typically including varieties like tuna, salmon, and yellowtail.
Ebi Nigiri US$7.70
Shrimp served as nigiri or sashimi.
Amaebi Nigiri US$11.00
Sweet shrimp served as nigiri or sashimi.
Escolar Nigiri US$9.90
Escolar (white tuna) Optional Nigiri or Sashimi. Silky white tuna.
Hamachi Nigiri US$10.45
Yellowtail. Sashimi or nigiri options available.
Tamago Nigiri US$7.70
Hotate Nigiri US$15.40
Scallops served either as nigiri (with rice) or sashimi (without rice).
Ikura Nigiri US$15.40
Salmon roe served as either Nigiri or Sashimi.
Inari Nigiri US$6.60
Tofu pocket with rice or sashimi.
Kanpachi Nigiri US$9.90
Stuffed Inari Pouch US$15.40
Thin slices of fresh fish atop vinegared rice, garnished with a touch of wasabi.
Maguro Nigiri US$13.20
Tuna. Available as Nigiri or Sashimi.
Negi Toro Gunkan Nigiri US$16.50
Saba Nigiri US$8.80
Mackerel (saba) served as nigiri or sashimi.
Sake Salmon Nigiri US$9.90
Delicate slices of salmon, served as nigiri or sashimi.
Sake TORO Nigiri US$13.20
Fresh salmon. Choose between nigiri or sashimi.
Albacore Nigiri US$9.90
Smoked Salmon Nigiri US$8.80
Slices of smoked salmon served as nigiri or sashimi.
Sockeye Salmon Nigiri US$11.00
Sockeye salmon served as either nigiri or sashimi.
Steelhead Trout Nigiri US$9.35
Steelhead trout sashimi. Nigiri option available.
Tako Nigiri US$9.90
Octopus slices served as Nigiri or Sashimi.
Tobiko Nigiri US$8.80
Flying fish roe. Nigiri or sashimi options available.
Unagi Nigiri US$10.45
Tender eel draped over vinegared rice, garnished with sesame seeds and wrapped in a strip of seaweed.

Online - Specialty Rolls
7 Up Roll US$23.10
Spicy snow crab, avocado, topped with salmon lemon and lime honey.
Ballard Ave Roll US$12.10
Tempura shrimp, crab mix, and cream cheese, topped with seared garlic mayo, unagi sauce, and pico de gallo.
Black Tiger Roll US$22.00
Spicy tuna, cucumber, topped with eel, avocado, and spicy sauce.
Bruce Lee Roll US$23.10
Spicy tuna, cucumber, topped with albacore, avocado, shrimp tempura, jalapeno, spicy mayo, unagi sauce, and tempura flakes.
Crunch Roll US$19.80
Shrimp tempura, snow crab, cucumber, avocado, rolled in tempura flakes, topped with unagi sauce.
Dream Roll US$25.30
Jumbo shrimp tempura, snow crab, albacore avocado. cream cheese, topped with spicy crab and shrimp tempura mix.
Green Sea Monster Roll US$18.70
Tempura tofu, green onion topped with avocado, tomato, and seaweed salad.
Hama Hama Roll US$22.00
Spicy ground yellow-tail, cucumber, Yamagata, topped with seared yellowtail, jalapeno.
Honey Roll US$20.90
Jumbo shrimp tempura, avocado, chili sauce cucumber, seared salmon, honey, & spicy mayo.
Ninja Roll US$17.60
Spicy tuna, double wrapped, breaded in panko and lightly fried.
Puget Sound Roll US$17.60
Assorted fish marinated in spicy sauce, sesame oil, & cucumber.
Rainbow Roll US$22.00
Snow crab, avocado, topped with salmon, shrimp, albacore, tuna.
Salt & Pepper Roll US$14.30
Topped with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, this roll features fresh fish wrapped in seaweed and sushi rice, accompanied by wasabi and pickled ginger.
Samurai Roll US$17.60
Shrimp, cucumber, spicy crab mix topped with tempura flakes.
Sashimi Roll US$26.40
Tuna, salmon, albacore, avocado, wrapped in cucumber with ponzu dressing.
Sasquatch Roll US$20.90
Shrimp tempura, cucumber, topped with avocado, tempura soft shell crab, spicy mayo, unagi sauce.
Seattle Roll US$12.10
Salmon, avocado, cucumber, and masago typically wrapped in nori (dried seaweed) and sushi rice.
Sumo Roll US$23.10
Tuna, snow crab, avocado, cucumber. topped with salmon and avocado.
Veggie Deluxe Roll US$18.70
Tempura sweet potato, carrots, green beans, spicy tempura sauce on the side.
Zig Zag Roll US$24.20
Spicy snow crab, soft shell crab, avocado, cream cheese, wrapped in soy paper with drizzle of unagi sauce.
Inside Out Roll US$19.80
Rice on the outside with typically includes ingredients like crab, avocado, and cucumber, often topped with fish like tuna or salmon, and garnished with sesame seeds or tobiko.

Online - Misc/ Sides
Chef's Choice Nigiri US$22.00
Chefs Choice Nigiri MEDIUM US$28.60
Chefs Choice Nigiri LARGE US$35.20
Chef's Choice Sashimi US$24.20
Assorted sashimi selection. Size options: small (6 pieces), medium (9 pieces), large (15 pieces).
Chefs Choice Sashimi MEDIUM US$35.20
Assorted sliced fish, typically including tuna, salmon, and yellowtail.
Chefs Choice Sashimi LARGE US$57.20
Assorted sliced fish, typically including tuna, salmon, and yellowtail, selected by the chef.
Chirashi Bowl US$41.80
Assorted sashimi slices with cucumber, pickled ginger, and shredded vegetables over sushi rice.
Crispy Spicy Tuna US$7.70
Crispy rice topped with spicy tuna, jalapeños, and eel sauce.
Extra Sauce US$0.55
Typically includes a variety of sauces such as spicy mayo, unagi sauce, ponzu sauce, or sriracha.
Poke Bowl US$17.60
Diced fresh fish, typically tuna and salmon, with avocado, cucumber, and seaweed salad, served over sushi rice with poke sauce.
Rice US$4.40
Flavorful rice dish prepared to perfection, showcasing an ideal complement for any meal.
Seaweed Salad US$6.60
Delightful mix of fresh seaweed, tossed in a savory dressing.
Shrimp Tempura Singles US$3.30
Lightly battered and deep-fried shrimp, typically served with a dipping sauce.
Side Ginger US$0.55
Pickled ginger, typically served as a palate cleanser with sushi.
Side Spicy Mayo US$0.55
Spicy mayo: Creamy mayonnaise mixed with spicy sriracha sauce.
Side Tamari Soy Sauce US$0.55
Tamari soy sauce typically includes a richer, deeper flavor than regular soy sauce, making it a great addition to sushi and other dishes.
Side Unagi Sauce US$0.55
Unagi sauce: A Japanese-style barbecue sauce that typically includes sweet, savory, and full-bodied flavors.
Side Wasabi US$0.55
Wasabi: Typically includes a pungent horseradish and mustard mix to spice up your sushi.
Sunomono Salad US$7.70
Seaweed with marinated cucumbers and a light vinegar dressing.
Sushi Rice US$4.95
Perfectly steamed sushi-grade rice, subtly seasoned for an authentic taste.

Online - Sashimi
Albacore Sashimi US$19.80
Raw slices of albacore tuna, typically garnished with green onion, garlic, and ponzu sauce.
Inari Sashimi US$13.20
Thinly sliced, marinated tofu skin served as sashimi.
Steelhead Sashimi US$18.70
Slices of steelhead trout, typically served raw and accompanied by wasabi.
Tamago Sashimi US$11.00
Sweet Japanese egg omelette, thinly sliced.
Sockeye Sashimi US$22.00
Thinly sliced raw sockeye salmon, typically served with soy sauce and wasabi.
Escolar Sashimi US$19.80
Super white tuna, also known as butter fish, typically garnished with green onions and ponzu sauce.
Hamachi Sashimi US$20.90
Thinly sliced raw yellowtail, typically served with soy sauce and wasabi.
Unagi Sashimi US$20.90
Freshwater eel, typically broiled or grilled, sliced and served without rice.
Tako Sashimi US$19.80
Thinly sliced octopus typically served over daikon radish.
Ebi Sashimi US$15.40
Cooked shrimp, typically served over daikon.
Smoked Salmon Sashimi US$17.60
Delicately smoked salmon slices, served raw in traditional sashimi style.
Amaebi Sashimi US$22.00
Raw sweet shrimp served with deep-fried shrimp heads.
Sake Salmon Sashimi US$19.80
Sliced raw salmon, typically served as sashimi.
Hotate Sashimi US$30.80
Japanese scallop sashimi typically served raw.
Sake TORO Sashimi US$26.40
Typically includes slices of salmon belly, known for its rich, fatty texture.
Tobiko Sashimi US$17.60
Sashimi of flying fish roe.
Ikura Sashimi US$30.80
Marinated salmon roe, a staple of Japanese cuisine.
Maguro Sashimi US$26.40
Sliced raw tuna. Consuming raw or undercooked seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness.
Kanpachi Sashimi US$19.80
Japanese amberjack sashimi, typically served with yuzu kosho (a spicy citrus paste).
Saba Sashimi US$17.60
Sliced raw mackerel, often marinated, typically served with garnishes like green onion.

Shiku Sushi Details

From the business
Identifies as LGBTQ+ owned
Identifies as women-owned

Service options
Outdoor seating
Delivery
Takeaway
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service
Great cocktails
Great tea selection
Sport

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Happy-hour drinks
Happy-hour food
Healthy options
Late-night food
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Vegan options
Vegetarian options
Wine

Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Table service

Amenities
Bar on site
Gender-neutral toilets
Toilet

Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Trendy

Crowd
Family friendly
Groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Transgender safe space

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Parking
Free of charge street parking
Paid parking lot
Paid street parking

Shiku Sushi Photos

Shiku Sushi Location

Shiku Sushi

Washington King County Seattle Adams Ballard Avenue Northwest

5310 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98107, USA

Shiku Sushi Reviews

Shiku constantly surprises me with its excellence, even though I've grown to expect it. In my opinion the most underrated spot in Ballard. Service and vibes are second to none, and rotating specials and bar specials keep the menu fresh; not a single option misses. This has quickly become my favorite go-to date night spot.
February 04 · Sam Adams
Took myself on a solo sushi date, and I’m so happy I ended up here. I sat at the bar, and Jessica was the best bartender ever. Making sure everyone in there was being taken care of. I ordered 3 sushi rolls: the honey, Philadelphia, and eel roll. I loved the honey so much that I want to go back for it today! Highly recommend this family-owned restaurant!
January 22 · Erin Y.
Had a great experience at Shiku Sushi after a movie down the street. The ambiance was nice, and the staff was great. This is the new menu and management, and they seem to be doing a great job. The creamy scallop nigiri and amberjack were both so good. Prices were very fair for Seattle too.The owner is really nice and even helps out at the sushi bar, which adds a great touch. I’ll definitely be back to try the sake deals!
February 02 · K Cholakian
Been coming here since they opened. New ownership team. Changes made are amazing. Feels fresher and lots of new menu and special items. Delicious food, great beverages / cocktails and fantastic service. Congrats to the new team 🎉🙌🎉
February 26 · flipflap jak
We had a nice time at shiku sushi! The server was very friendly and the food was good. It did seem like it took a while for the food to get to us, but that’s understandable for how few people were working at the time we were there.
December 14 · Tamara Casper