Sushi Taro

For residents of Washington, D.C., seeking an unparalleled and authentic Japanese dining experience, Sushi Taro stands as a revered institution. Often praised for its understated elegance and unwavering commitment to culinary perfection, Sushi Taro is more than just a sushi restaurant; it’s a destination where traditional Japanese artistry meets exceptional ingredients. While its exterior might appear unassuming, stepping inside reveals a world of meticulously crafted dishes and refined service that has earned it a reputation as one of the finest Japanese establishments in the nation's capital.

Under the masterful guidance of Chef-Owner Nobu Yamazaki, who inherited the family business and transformed it into a high-end authentic Japanese restaurant, Sushi Taro delivers an experience that consistently delights discerning palates. Diners frequently describe their meals as "absolutely delicious" and "exceptional," highlighting the freshness, juiciness, and satisfying nature of the food. For locals who appreciate genuine Japanese flavors and an elevated dining experience, Sushi Taro is a highly recommended and truly rewarding choice that consistently leaves a lasting impression.

Sushi Taro is centrally located at 1503 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA. This address places it in the vibrant and accessible Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, D.C., a hub known for its lively atmosphere, historic charm, diverse culinary scene, and proximity to major business and residential areas.

The restaurant’s location ensures excellent accessibility for D.C. residents. It is conveniently situated within walking distance of the Dupont Circle Metro Station, which serves the Red Line. This makes it an ideal destination for those utilizing public transportation from various parts of the city. Numerous Metrobus lines also operate throughout the Dupont Circle area, offering additional convenient transit options right to its doorstep.

For patrons arriving by car, while Sushi Taro itself does not have a dedicated private parking lot, the surrounding Dupont Circle neighborhood provides several public parking garages and metered street parking options. Visitors can often find parking solutions at nearby commercial garages, with popular choices including those accessible from 17th Street NW or other main thoroughfares. It is advisable to use parking apps like SpotHero or Parkopedia to locate available spaces and compare rates, particularly during peak dining hours. Given its prime urban location, while parking requires a bit of planning, the overall accessibility of Sushi Taro remains a significant draw for locals.

Sushi Taro provides a diverse range of authentic Japanese dining experiences, catering to both casual diners and those seeking an elaborate culinary journey.

• Omakase Counter Experience: This is a signature offering, providing an intimate and personalized chef-selected tasting menu. Guests at the Omakase Counter embark on a multi-course seafood journey curated by Chef Nobu Yamazaki, showcasing the freshest seasonal ingredients. There are typically two tiers: Regular Omakase and Premium Omakase, with the latter often available on weekends and holidays. This is often cited as one of the best sushi omakase experiences in D.C.
• Traditional Kaiseki Tasting: Sushi Taro also offers a traditional Kaiseki tasting menu in the main dining room. This multi-course meal emphasizes cooked dishes, highlighting the natural flavors of seasonal ingredients through various traditional Japanese cooking techniques. It's a formal and elegant progression of small plates, culminating in a beautiful "hassun" platter.
• A La Carte Sushi & Sashimi: For those who prefer to select their own pieces, Sushi Taro offers an extensive a la carte menu of nigiri and sashimi, renowned for its pristine quality. Popular items include high-quality nigiri selections and unique rolls like the Crab Old Bay Roll.
• Lunch Menu: Sushi Taro provides a robust lunch menu with various sets and bowls. Options include Bara Chirashi Set (diced fish over sushi rice), Tekka Chirashi Set (tuna over sushi rice), Sushi Mori Set (chef's choice assorted sushi), and more elaborate Sushi Jo and Sushi Tokujo Sets with premium cuts. They also offer Sashimi & Tempura Teishoku, hot and cold Udon/Soba, and Bento Boxes.
• Dinner Menu: Beyond the tasting menus, the dinner menu includes a variety of small to large savory plates, offering a comprehensive Japanese culinary experience.
• Full Bar Service: The restaurant features a well-curated selection of sake, beer, wine, and other beverages to complement the Japanese cuisine. Their sake pairings for Omakase are also highly regarded.
• Dine-in Service: Sushi Taro provides a classy, intimate, and often subdued dining room ambiance, perfect for a refined meal.
• Outdoor Seating: For those who enjoy al fresco dining, Sushi Taro offers outdoor seating, allowing patrons to enjoy their meal while taking in the Dupont Circle atmosphere.
• Takeout: Sushi Taro offers takeout services for many of its a la carte menu items, allowing diners to enjoy their high-quality Japanese food at home.
• Reservations: Given its popularity and intimate setting, reservations are highly recommended, especially for the Omakase Counter and during peak dinner hours. Table availability is released 60 days in advance via platforms like Resy.

Sushi Taro distinguishes itself through a collection of features and highlights that firmly establish its reputation as a premier Japanese restaurant in D.C.

• Michelin Star Recognition: Sushi Taro has consistently held a Michelin star, a testament to its exceptional quality, culinary excellence, and outstanding dining experience. This prestigious award underscores its position as one of the top restaurants in the city.
• Chef-Owner Nobu Yamazaki's Expertise: The restaurant is led by Chef Nobu Yamazaki, who trained as a sushi chef in Japan and inherited the family business. His dedication to authentic Japanese tradition, combined with an innovative touch, is central to Sushi Taro's success. He is also president of the Washington, D.C. Sushi Society and a James Beard semifinalist.
• Unparalleled Omakase Counter: The Omakase Counter experience is consistently highlighted as a must-try. Described as "fresh, juicy and filling" and "exceptional," it offers a personalized seafood journey showcasing high-quality nigiri, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu with uni, and seasonal delights.
• Authentic Edo-mae Sushi: Sushi Taro prepares sushi in the authentic Edo-mae style, characterized by small, hand-squeezed morsels that perfectly balance seasoned rice, the freshest seafood, a hint of wasabi, and a touch of house soy sauce, embodying true Japanese tradition.
• High-Quality Ingredients: The restaurant is renowned for its commitment to sourcing the finest and freshest ingredients. This dedication to quality is evident in every dish, from the fish in the sushi to the components of the Kaiseki meals.
• Understated Elegance: Despite its high culinary standing, Sushi Taro maintains a relatively low-key exterior. This simplicity is often appreciated by patrons, as it allows the exceptional food and service to speak for themselves, creating a refined yet unpretentious atmosphere.
• Attentive and Polished Service: Customers frequently praise the "excellent service" and "polished" staff who are "very knowledgeable and helpful," contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience.
• Value for Quality: While premium, many diners find the sushi tasting menu to be "filling" and an excellent value for the high quality received, especially for an establishment of its caliber in D.C.
• Happy Hour at the Bar: Sushi Taro offers a notable happy hour at the bar, providing 25% off a la carte sushi and drinks, making high-quality sushi more accessible during certain hours.

Sushi Taro offers specific promotions, most notably their popular happy hour, which allows more accessible entry into their high-quality Japanese offerings.

• Happy Hour @ the Bar: Sushi Taro features a significant happy hour. It runs Tuesday through Friday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM and offers 25% off a la carte sushi and drinks exclusively at the bar. This is a fantastic opportunity for D.C. locals to enjoy Sushi Taro's renowned quality at a more accessible price point.
• Lunch Specials: While not always explicitly "promotions," Sushi Taro's lunch sets (e.g., Bara Chirashi Set, Sushi Mori Set) are often priced attractively, providing excellent value for a high-quality Japanese meal during the daytime compared to dinner offerings. For instance, some lunch sets are available for around $15-$35.
• Omakase Tiers: While the Omakase experience is a premium offering, Sushi Taro provides two tiers (Regular and Premium) to cater to different levels of indulgence and budget. Regular Omakase is priced at $275 per person (plus tax and service charge), while Premium Omakase is $350 per person (plus tax and service charge), often available on Friday, Saturday, and holidays. Sake pairings are also available as an add-on.

For the most precise and up-to-date details on happy hour offerings, lunch specials, and Omakase pricing, D.C. residents are highly encouraged to visit Sushi Taro's official website or call the restaurant directly.

To experience the exquisite Japanese cuisine at Sushi Taro or for any inquiries, you can reach them through the following details:

Address: 1503 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA

Phone: (202) 462-8999

Reservations, especially for the Omakase Counter and during peak dining hours, are highly recommended and can typically be made via their website or through platforms like Resy. They also offer takeout for a la carte items.

For residents of Washington, D.C., Sushi Taro represents an exceptional and highly suitable choice for those seeking an authentic and elevated Japanese dining experience. Its established reputation and commitment to quality align perfectly with the discerning tastes of the local community.

Firstly, Sushi Taro offers unparalleled authenticity and quality. With a Michelin star and the guiding hand of Chef-Owner Nobu Yamazaki, the restaurant consistently delivers "absolutely delicious" and "exceptional" meals. For D.C. locals who appreciate the true artistry of Edo-mae sushi and traditional Kaiseki, Sushi Taro is a benchmark for genuine Japanese cuisine, far surpassing standard offerings.

Secondly, the diverse range of services caters to various dining preferences and occasions. Whether it's the intimate and personalized journey of the Omakase Counter, the structured elegance of a Kaiseki tasting, or simply enjoying top-tier a la carte sushi, there’s an option for every desire. The generous and high-quality lunch sets also make it an excellent choice for a more substantial daytime meal that still reflects its fine dining standards.

Moreover, Sushi Taro's convenient location in Dupont Circle with excellent Metro access and available nearby parking makes it highly accessible for residents across the city. This ease of access, combined with a sophisticated yet understated ambiance, creates an ideal setting for both special celebrations and regular indulgences. The highly regarded happy hour at the bar also provides a fantastic entry point for locals to experience its celebrated sushi and drinks at a more approachable price.

In essence, Sushi Taro is more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary landmark in D.C. for Japanese food enthusiasts. It promises a consistently fresh, expertly prepared, and memorable experience, making it a highly recommended and cherished establishment for any local looking for the very best in Japanese dining.

Sushi Taro

1503 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, USA