Sushi 101

For those in Arizona with a craving for fresh, skillfully prepared sushi and a diverse array of Japanese delights, Sushi 101 in Tempe has long been a familiar and often-loved name. Having opened its doors in 2001, this family-owned establishment has deep roots in the community, particularly appealing to students and residents around Arizona State University. While experiences can vary, as with any popular eatery, many patrons consistently highlight the quality of their sushi and the dedication of their team, making it a reliable option for a satisfying meal.

At Sushi 101, the focus is on delivering a quality Japanese dining experience. Enthusiastic customers often praise the "spectacular" quality of the sushi, emphasizing that "every bite was thoughtfully crafted." This attention to detail extends to the freshness of their ingredients, a crucial element for excellent sushi. Whether you're indulging in traditional nigiri or exploring their creative specialty rolls, the commitment to fresh fish and careful preparation is evident. Sushi Chef Miguel, specifically mentioned by one delighted diner, exemplifies the talent behind the bar, leaving a strong impression with his work.

The menu at Sushi 101 is designed to cater to a wide range of tastes, ensuring there's something for every Japanese food lover. Beyond the classic sushi and sashimi, popular cooked dishes like the Unagi Donburi (featuring tender baked freshwater eel) offer comforting and hearty options. Their specialty rolls, such as the "Captain Crunch" and "Ruby Sunset," are frequently singled out for leaving diners "wanting more," showcasing unique flavor combinations and textures. The "Captain Crunch," for instance, combines spicy crab mix and cream cheese, deep-fried and topped with mango and sriracha, promising a "perfect amount of heat and crunch." The "Ruby Sunset Roll" offers a fresh blend of salmon, avocado, and cilantro, topped with tuna, fresh wasabi, and Yuzu Ponzu sauce.

Beyond the food, Sushi 101 also aims to provide a welcoming atmosphere with solid customer service. As a family-owned business located conveniently next to ASU, it has served as a staple for many, with some even driving 35 minutes to visit regularly. While one review noted an "average" experience, many others point to the consistent freshness, good value, and friendly staff that contribute to a positive overall impression. For those in Arizona seeking a long-standing, family-owned sushi spot with a diverse menu and fresh ingredients, Sushi 101 remains a compelling option.

Sushi 101 is strategically located at 1435 E University Dr C-112, Tempe, AZ 85288, USA. This address positions it directly on East University Drive, a prominent and bustling thoroughfare in Tempe. Its proximity to Arizona State University (ASU) is a significant advantage, making it an incredibly convenient dining spot for students, faculty, and staff, as well as a popular choice for the wider Tempe community and those traveling from nearby cities like Scottsdale, Mesa, and Chandler.

Being situated in a commercial complex, Sushi 101 generally benefits from accessible parking options in the vicinity, which is a considerable convenience for diners across Arizona. This ease of access contributes to a stress-free visit, allowing patrons to focus on enjoying their meal. Furthermore, its location on University Drive means it is well-served by public transportation routes, including local buses, providing alternative ways to reach the restaurant. This combination of easy driving access and public transit options makes Sushi 101 a highly convenient and attractive dining destination, reinforcing its status as a local favorite in Tempe.

• Dine-In Service: Enjoy a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for a relaxed meal.
• Takeout & Pickup: Conveniently order your favorite dishes to enjoy at home or on the go.
• Delivery Services: Partners with popular third-party delivery platforms for seamless home delivery.
• Extensive Sushi & Sashimi Menu: A wide array of fresh sushi and sashimi options, including assorted nigiri, classic rolls (California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll), and numerous specialty rolls (e.g., Captain Crunch, Ruby Sunset, ASU Roll, Golden State, Q Maki Roll, Grizzly Bear Roll, Monkey Brain Roll, 101 Roll, Cheetah Roll, Salmon Dynamite Roll).
• Donburi Bowls: Hearty rice bowls with various toppings, such as Unagi Donburi (baked freshwater eel).
• Appetizers: A selection of popular starters including Edamame (classic and spicy garlic), Gyoza (pork and vegan), Stuffed Jalapenos (spicy tuna and cream cheese), Sesame Chicken Wings, Krab Puffs, Tofu Steak, Crispy Spring Rolls, Spicy Tuna Chips, and Tempura (shrimp and veggie).
• Noodle Dishes: Various Yaki Noodle options (Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, Tofu & Veggie, Spicy Chicken, Spicy Seafood) with choice of Soba, Udon, or Rice Noodles.
• Lunch Specials: Bento Box Lunch specials and Sushi Lunch specials are available Monday to Friday, offering excellent value.
• Happy Hour: Daily happy hour on select menu items and drink specials, available everyday from 3 PM to 7 PM and 9 PM to close.
• Vegetarian & Vegan Options: Dedicated vegetarian and some vegan sushi rolls (e.g., Asparagus Tempura Roll, Gardenfire Roll, Shiitake Mushroom Roll, Baked Tofu Roll, Krispy Green Roll, Sweet Potato Roll, Cucumber Avocado Roll, Lotus Roll, Vegan Tuna Roll, Veggie Roll, Fried Tofu Nigiri, Avocado Roll).
• Catering: Offers catering trays with a variety of sushi rolls, nigiri, and hot dishes.

• Fresh and Thoughtfully Crafted Sushi: Many customers praise the "spectacular" quality and freshness of the fish, noting that every bite is "thoughtfully crafted."
• Talented Sushi Chef Miguel: Specifically highlighted by a reviewer for doing an "incredible job" and contributing to the excellent quality.
• Popular Specialty Rolls: The Captain Crunch (spicy crab, cream cheese, deep-fried, mango, sriracha) and Ruby Sunset (salmon, avocado, cilantro, topped with tuna, fresh wasabi, Yuzu Ponzu) are singled out as highly delicious and "left me wanting more." Other popular rolls include the Golden State and ASU Roll.
• Diverse Menu: Offers a wide variety of Japanese dishes beyond just sushi, including unagi donburi, various appetizers, and noodle dishes, catering to different tastes.
• Good Value: Many customers, including college students, find Sushi 101 provides "quality sushi and a large quantity at an affordable price," particularly during happy hour.
• Great Customer Service: Reviewers mention friendly and awesome staff who take great care of customers.
• Long-Standing Family-Owned Business: Opened in 2001, it has been a local staple for decades, indicating a consistent history of serving the community.
• Convenient Happy Hour: Daily happy hour offering deals on select menu items and drinks, making it an attractive option for value seekers.
• Extensive Vegetarian & Vegan Options: A dedicated selection of plant-based sushi rolls and appetizers, ensuring inclusivity for various dietary preferences.

Sushi 101 in Tempe is an attractive option for Arizona locals looking for great value on Japanese cuisine and sushi, particularly thanks to their consistent special offers. A key highlight is their generous Happy Hour:

• Daily Happy Hour: Sushi 101 offers Happy Hour specials every single day, with extended hours:
  • Afternoon Happy Hour: From 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM daily.
  • Reverse Happy Hour: From 9:00 PM to Close daily.
• Happy Hour Menu Highlights: During these times, patrons can expect discounts on:
  • Select Menu Items: Customers frequently mention getting great deals on popular rolls like the Golden State during happy hour.
  • Drink Specials: Well drinks are available for $5 during happy hour, and other select drink specials are also offered.
• Lunch Specials: Sushi 101 also provides Bento Box Lunch specials and Sushi Lunch specials from Monday to Friday until 3:00 PM, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy a satisfying meal during the day.

These consistent promotions make Sushi 101 a go-to spot for both quick, affordable lunches and more relaxed evening meals or late-night bites. For the most current and specific details on their promotions and featured items, Arizona locals are always encouraged to:

• Check their official website: Sushi 101's website often has their updated Happy Hour and Lunch Specials menus.
• Call the restaurant directly: Inquire at (480) 317-0101 for any seasonal promotions or unadvertised daily deals.

By taking advantage of these offers, locals can enjoy the fresh and thoughtfully crafted dishes at Sushi 101 even more frequently and affordably.

To experience the fresh sushi and welcoming atmosphere of Sushi 101, or for any inquiries, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 1435 E University Dr C-112, Tempe, AZ 85288, USA
• Phone: (480) 317-0101

For residents throughout Arizona, particularly those in the dynamic and student-friendly community of Tempe, Sushi 101 stands as a highly suitable and often-cherished dining destination. It offers a consistent and accessible Japanese culinary experience that perfectly aligns with the local lifestyle and preferences.

The primary reason Sushi 101 is ideal for locals is its commitment to fresh, well-crafted sushi and a diverse menu. Arizonans appreciate quality and variety, and Sushi 101 delivers with its "spectacular" sushi, including popular and creative rolls like the Captain Crunch and Ruby Sunset. The presence of a skilled sushi chef, like Miguel, ensures that each dish is prepared with care. Moreover, the extensive menu, featuring not only sushi but also donburi bowls, appetizers, and noodle dishes, means there’s something to satisfy every craving, making it a versatile choice for any group.

Furthermore, the excellent value and convenient happy hour are significant draws for the Tempe local population, including a large student body. Finding "quality sushi and a large quantity at an affordable price" is a major plus, especially with daily happy hour deals extending from afternoon to late night. This makes Sushi 101 an accessible and attractive option for budget-conscious diners seeking a satisfying meal or a place to socialize.

Finally, as a long-standing, family-owned business located conveniently near ASU, Sushi 101 has built a strong connection with the community. Its consistency, combined with great customer service and a welcoming atmosphere, fosters a sense of familiarity and reliability. Whether for a quick lunch, a casual dinner, or a late-night sushi craving, Sushi 101 provides a dependable and enjoyable Japanese dining experience that resonates well with the needs and preferences of Arizona locals.

Sushi 101

1435 E University Dr C-112, Tempe, AZ 85288, USA