Best sushi in Castro Valley! And it's not even an in-door dining restaurant too, go figure. This spot is located in the Marketplace, and although they do not have an actual in-door dining area, they do have a patio area with tables that are reserved specifically for Akemi. In addition, there's also a parking lot in the back for my fellow parallel impaired parkers. So far I've only ordered to-go from here, and the sushi is always fresh. Akemi is a bit on the pricier end, but I'm OK with that because you do pay for what you get, and they always deliver on quality! I look forward to dining in the patio area soon, since the weather is so nice out now! read more

Akemi Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I stopped by here for my first time in the marketplace and thought I'd give this place a try since I was craving sushi. Decided on the Philadelphia Roll. It was almost 7pm and they close at 7:30pm weekdays. I was told it would take 15 min to make my order. After I sat down at a table in front of their location, I was watching the two, young guys making the sushi. I noticed that neither one was wearing gloves. Both were hurriedly trying to keep up with the orders and running to the cash register to ring people up them start making food again. Never once did they stop to wash their hands in between. Hmm, not good. I wanted to actually cancel my order. I did not and it was brought out to my table after 25 min. The salmon was not really fresh but the rest of the roll was fine. You get six for under $10. Don't think I'll come here anymore if I see no gloves on and they are making sushi with their bare hands. read more

I was in the area and was feeling a bit hungry. I came here because I wanted to check them out and had the opportunity to do it. It's a little pricey for premade sushi, but it was still delicious nonetheless. I splurged a bit and got some toro, but even then, it melted in the mouth. I would recommend the toro over the hamachi. Don't get me wrong. The hamachi was good, but it just didn't beat the toro. read more

Akemi sushi is a great choice for sushi in Castro Valley. Their outside dining is closed during the rainy/cold season but don't hesitate to order online and pick up your order. We've been here several times. Very fresh fish and very good service. The chirashi sushi is an excellent choice. It comes with miso soup. There is plenty of rice, seaweed salad, pickled daikon and shredded daikon. A dollop of wasabi and pickled ginger. Whether lunch or dinner, you can't go wrong. This is not an inexpensive place, but fresh, quality products are very important when eating sushi. Highly recommend! read more

Decent sushi joint in Castro valley pre se. Fresh fish offering on rolls. Some items were missed like tamago and unagi. Price performance wise is average. read more

Got a quick bite here after some shopping in the same Market space. Super small stall, all for take-away. But there's a courtyard outside with benches, if you can find a spot comfortable for you. I looked at their menu and ordered something at the register. The nice employee, told me that they had one ready in their chill case. As I looking for it, I spotted something else that piqued my interest. Grabbed that in a heartbeat, along with a bottled chilled green tea. Toro Roll ($16/4*) Coarse chopped toro (tuna belly meat) laid atop a roll of sushi rice, asparagus, a little nori and avocado. Everything was in good balance, with maybe the avocado having the most noticeable presence. There was a nice al dente crunch from the asparagus and there was enough toro to let you know that it was there. I personally would want a touch more, but I get kinda greedy when it comes to toro, even if I gotta pay extra for it. The sushi rice had a nice texture and flavor so proper there. But getting it pre-made, you're definitely eating cold rice, which I usually don't get from a sit down place. But honestly the texture didn't get affected too much, like I thought it would, so it must of been made pretty recent. But if you're totally against cold rice, I think you can order a fresh one. But in the hours I went, it looked like minimal employees were there, so I went with the grab-n-go. The pricing is exactly the same as any sit down joint under these pandemic circumstances, so I'd say it is right on par with the market. I noticed a combo of 5 nigiris and a salmon roll at $21 and a Chirashi at $26. Most places in my neighborhood are around those prices as well currently. So I had a very quick yet satisfying lunch here. And to that, I'm really glad of this new option. I can make a habit/routine outa this! read more

Akemi Sushi - Toro/Asparagus Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Yes sushi spot is located inside of the newest public market space in Castro Valley on Castro valley Boulevard. I appreciate that they have ready-made rolls and appetizers in case you're in a time crunch and you just have time to grab and go. I got a roll called "Evil" I believe and then my boyfriend also ordered a California roll and I forget the name of the other one but the California roll was delicious. There's plenty of parking and outdoor seating it was a great experience for us you could also get some grocery shopping done while you wait! Delicious sushi! Will be back soon! read more

Akemi Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Akemi Sushi is a small restaurant located in the Castro Valley Marketplace, which offers takeout and grab-and-go items. I wasn't sure how busy they would be on a Saturday, so I ordered ahead on their website, which said pick up would be in 30 minutes. We ended up getting there earlier than planned and my order was ready, which was great. The rolls were packaged nicely and the staff member who helped me was courteous and nice. Hand sanitizer was provided, if needed, but I always bring my own. On to the food! I ordered the Unagi Nigiri, California Roll, Dragon Roll, and Kappa Maki. Everything was amazing and possibly the best sushi I've had in a while. They used quality ingredients that were fresh, balanced, and prepared with care, so together, were really delicious. One thing that stood out was that the rolls were incredibly tasty without being covered in overly sweet or mayo-y sauces like some other places, and I loved the food more simply because of that. Can't wait to go back! read more

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Great service & delicious sushi every time! We love to order to go during the week, and it's always quick & easy.

Dad & I just gobbled up a 2 delicious lion King rolls. Since dad is watching his salt intake he asked for less garlic sauce/spread? But we both agree on how delicious it was! Also i loved the added bonus of the "torching!" It left a great flavor! Thank you Akemi read more

Akemi is a welcome addition to the area! They have quickly made it into my regular rotation of sushi spots. This little stall within the Castro Valley Marketplace (another welcome additon) has big flavor, high quality ingredients, and a unique menu. Akemi is mostly sushi-only, with a couple salads/edamame sides. You won't find gyoza, karaage, grilled plates--just yummy, yummy sushi. You will find options for sashimi, nigiri, and rolls. They have some of the usual favorites (Cali Roll, Rock n Roll, Philly Roll...) but you will also find unique specialty rolls like Hawaii Beach Roll, Evil Roll, and Akemi Roll. They have good options for veggie rolls too outside of the basic kappa maki, avocado maki, etc. I am a big fan of both the Spicy Tuna Roll (they use white Tuna and its soooo good) and the Evil Roll but I can't wait to keep trying more. Ingredients and fish have always been top quality. Prices are on par for what you get! Another great thing is they have grab and go items! Think like the sushi counter at the grocery store, but so much better. You'll find assorted nigiri/maki combos, rolls that you will also find on the menu, some of the edamame and salad sides. You may even find what you planned to order and can just grab it without wait. Online orders can also be placed. Welcome to CV Akemi! read more

Akemi Sushi - Spicy tuna roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

I've been to Akemi several times and I haven't had a bad experience with their food. I usually get a 49er roll ( one of my favorites ) and one or two other rolls. 49er roll has a nice sour twist with the lemon on top and is very enjoyable. This time, I got the evil roll and a cherry blossom roll. The evil roll is a bit expensive for what it is since it doesn't have a lot of fish and generally filled with jalapeno and asparagus. The cherry blossom roll was nice with the tuna and salmon. This place is definitely on the pricier end and not filling. 3 rolls was around $70 and I was left wanting more food ( this was a two person meal ). The restaurant is inside of the market and a little bit to find at times ( especially if you go through the back doors ). It's close to the front door, facing the streets. I would recommend this place but make sure you're ready to pay the expensive bill. read more

Akemi Sushi is a small food stall located in the Castro Valley Marketplace. There is plenty of parking lots and street parking around/nearby. There is plenty of indoor and outdoor seating as well. I was hoping to like them because there is not that many decent sushi spots in the East Bay, but unfortunately it was a miss. The sake maki and sake nigiri, and the salmon was not that fresh. It tasted a bit fishy and was not that an enjoyable experience. read more

I was very impressed with how the service was around during Covid times. The fish taste really fresh surprisingly considering this is a small takeout spot. What's cool is that you can actually Eat outside At the picnic benches. I thought the deluxe was a good deal and portions were plenty. The staff was very friendly and accommodating which was a huge plus during these times. read more

Akemi Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Price to quality is about right, plus being in the marketplace is nice. We were left wanting with all the cuts. I was particularly disappointed with the O toro and maguro, plus they seem more set up for take-out than dining in, as they didn't offer some of the accessories one might expect like soy sauce dipping bowls or sake and beer glasses. read more

Never would I have thought a to-go sushi place would be this good. I tend to order from the counter tough instead of getting the pre-made sushi from the cooler. I feel like it tastes just a little bit fresher that way (though be prepared to wait because sometimes it can take a while). The nigiri can be a little pricy, but it's so worth it. Especially the yellowtail. They don't have uni every day, but when they do, don't pass it up. It is melt in your mouth fresh. read more

For a counter service sushi place, Akemi is top notch. They have a decent selection of items as grab and go from their display case, but they will also happily make any item fresh for your order. Neat, clean, always FRESH, and a cute date spot if you can snag a communal table nearby. read more

Wow! Wow! Wow! I went to this place 30 min before closing and was pleasantly surprised! Their sushi is fresh and scrumptious. You can taste the quality in every bite. This place is located in the Castro Valley Marketplace. It's not a sit down restaurant, so you'll need to grab your sushi and eat outside on the paseo which is pretty nice. Customer Service on point! Clean: Yes Quick: Yes Quality ingredients: Yes Appearance of food: awesome read more

Loved my order: Hawaii and Avo-Cucumber roll! So good would definitely go back again! Thanks for having vegan items! read more

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If you're looking for some great sushi rolls, stop by at Akemi Sushi located in the Castro Valley Marketplace! The fish is fresh! They make the sushi on the spot or you can pick it up in their refrigerated case, freshly made! Our favorite sushi are the Bluefin & Truffle Roll, Under the Sea, & the Bluefin Tuna & Avocado Roll! Their other rolls are great as well! We highly recommend Akemi Sushi! read more

Dude i'm sorry, but the people putting negative reviews here are TRIPPING and simply don't understand quality. If you think this place isn't REALLY good, i just don't trust your opinion on food. Plain and simple. I've been looking for a place like this for SO long, where you can walk up to (or sit at) the counter, order high quality sushi, and eat it there. Good pieces of fish, warm rice (because it was made fresh), and not these gross/oversized/gloppy sushi rolls/pieces. Which is exactly what we've found here at Akemi. People are trying to talk abt Kansai and Ebiko on here like they're incredible? Don't make me laugh - by comparison those places just serve lackluster sushi rolls (from a quality perspective) that are way to big and just sloppy/unimpressive. There's no replacement for quality, and the food we've had every time at Akemi has been incredible. Order the double hamachi roll, and then honestly just order nigiri pieces because they're insane. This place is a small cutout in a grocery store that runs CIRCLES around most of the full-scale sushi restaurants in the area. And the people are always super nice. Thanks Akemi read more

I do read the reviews and Akemi had good ones, that particular day my friend and I were on the hunt for a new sushi spot to try and it sounded good and the only thing was when we went it's inside of a market place which is nice if you want to eat something on the run as it's in a food court I would've loved to stick around and see everything that the food court had to offer but at that moment we were looking for a place to sit down and be served, but will definitely go back and try it and do a little shopping. read more

I was disappointed by my hamachi bento box sushi meal as the rice was too dry and old for my meal. The fish was lacking flavor and it tasted just okay. Not coming back unless it gets better. read more

Ordered the 49ers roll and 2021. It was just ok. Kind of tasted like a grocery store sushi. Note this place is inside the Castro Valley Market place and it's on the 1st floor next to the 7 hills baking company. read more

Amazing location, outdoor seating is available. Their Edamame has to the best that I have had ever (they are made off site). They have an extensive line up of rolls, the spicy tuna and the roll that is in cucumber (forgot the name) had to be my favorite. read more

I took a bite and literally had to get up from my chair and take a lap around the table... The taste was so impeccable it moved me. "Wow wow wow," I exclaimed. The fish was incredibly fresh and flavorful with excellent texture. So good I came back for more the next day. read more

Sorry, after about 4 pretty nice meals picked up from Akemi this year they screwed things up tonight big time. Ordered 4 pretty standard rolls and a few nigiri, nothing big. Picked the items up 35 min later after a short wait, friendly staff, got home to find no wasabi included anywhere, nor was there any Gari (pickeled ginger) as well. This is basic sushi 101 anywhere people, inexcusable! I almost went back to get some but I was too beat and boy was I mad! If you can't get the most basic things correct why should I return? read more

It's inside the building!!! Nice a cool place. Air conditioning. Small place , I thought it's has its own place. Pricey too. Food so so so so... not coming back. read more

Akemi Sushi - Blue pin and lion king !! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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We decided to try a new sushi spot for delivery. I'm always hesitant trying new sushi restaurants, but reviews seemed favorable. This place definitely confirmed my hesitations. When our order arrived besides completing missing ordered items, the rolls were missing ingredients. The taste wasn't as fresh as were used to and cooked items were dry. Unfortunately I ate a couple pieces and threw the rest in the garbage. Such a waste! I'm surprised by all the good reviews. I would not recommend this food experience. read more

Sushi was decent in taste, the rolls fell apart and basically had to find a spoon to scoop up all the broken pieces since the rolls did not connect at the bottom. 2 stars because of poor rolling and this cost $45 and 2 of these rolls were spinach and avocado inside. I was so disappointed. read more

Akemi Sushi - Overpriced sushi roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

In an age where it seems anyone can slap something that used to live in the water on top of some rice and call it sushi, it's easy to get tired of it all. Fortunately for those in the Castro Valley region, Akemi delivers an invigorating breath of fresh air. Akemi Sushi is quietly situated in a nook of the Castro Valley Marketplace. It's got an understated sort of elegance to it, from the size to the dark color scheme. Prior to the pandemic, I would've loved to grab a seat here and watch the people shopping in the comfortably artisan establishments nearby. That said, we took our order to go, so let's talk food. We got an order of three items (ordered online, but the prices are the same as in store): Kamikaze Roll ($15: shrimp tempura, spicy tuna, crab, avocado, unagi and tobiko) Baja California roll ($9.50: crab, avocado, tempura flakes and chili sauce) Sake Maki ($5: salmon) I'm no expert, but it seems like they use real crab over surimi: it's got less of that salty chewiness to it and more of a subtly sweet softness that integrates well with the rest of the roll. The same care is taken with their rice, which exhibits a noticeable translucence in each granule. Tastewise, this translates to a warmer, more comfortable mouthfeel. Where most sushi places in this price range might offer you a mouthful of cold, hard oats, Akemi Sushi is like biting into a supple, moist bread. I've had unagi (it's eel; I only say "unagi" to fit in with the other people who refuse to just use the English name) a few times in the past, and I've generally found it salty, oily and unpleasantly flaky, like an overgrown anchovy someone's slain and displayed triumphantly on a bed of rice. The unagi here is more akin to a seasoned piece of salmon (i.e. something I'd actually want to eat). For sushi at this price point, if Akemi Sushi doesn't deserve five stars and your attention, no other place does. read more

Just so good. I usually ask them to roll a new role instead of getting from the fridge

We came here on a Friday night with our 2 year old and ordered the kamikaze roll and the lion king roll. The food was really good and the staff were incredibly nice. They loved talking to our toddler. I love that they have outdoor seating and a heated patio. It was perfect for families with young kids who sometimes have a hard time sitting still. Overall a very nice evening! read more

Akemi Sushi - Heated patio - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Salmon doesn't taste very fresh. Unagi sushis are delicious, but they are too pricey.

Always very good and take out experience easy and quick. We are picky about our sushi. Akemi does not disappoint.

I have been waiting to try Akemi Sushi out for a while now. I wanted to give them the time they needed to get set and work out the kinks so I could give them a far chance. So with that being said I will encourage you to give them a try!!! I personally like them, I think they do a creative new take on sushi. I was really perplexed by how creamy all of the rolls were, we got the California roll, the Hawaii Beach Roll, the Lion King Roll and a order of the Maguro nigiri. We got the sushi to go, but I was convinced there was mayo in all of these rolls because of how creamy they were. Like I literally just checked their menu and other than a little garlic oil on the Lion king there is no mayo in any of these. Next time I go in I'm going to ask, but I think that they creamy-ness could be coming from the avocado and the fish , so that's kinda amazing. The flavor that all of these have is really nice and packs a punch. You will not leave this place or finish your takeout feeling hungry still. The Lion King roll has a nice smoky flavor, the Hawaii roll has a refreshing mango flavor, and the Cali roll is your typical roll but creamier. Also all of these rolls are huge like about the size of a dollar coin. The maguro nigiri was also good, it was a thick piece. I look forward to trying more of their sushi! P.S. plan accordingly if your sharing with people or eating by yourself because I was a bit tired of the creaminess by the time I was done and I shared with another person!!! read more

The food was great and the staff was super friendly. We came here for dinner and brought our dog. A restaurant with good food and dog friendly is a double win for me! Highly recommend this place. Good vibes all around!! read more

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Absolutely my favorite spot!!! So glad they opened! The food is amazing. Try all the sushi rolls to find your favorite! But do not forget there spicy edamame it is SO good. They made some changes that I requested without hesitation and it was delicious. Oh and the staff! IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! There are 2 girls serving named Sammy and Destiny and they made sure to keep our drinks full and EXCELLENT customer service read more

Akemi Sushi - Red Dragon Sushi Roll Lion King Sushi Roll Akemi Sushi Roll. I think??? I forgot the rest - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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This is the best thing I've ever tasted! Price-fitting quality I want to go there again!! read more

Akemi Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

Amazing food! The salmon was so good, the evil roll was delish. Must have. The yuzu panacotta was amazing and refreshing. The staff and manager were so friendly, nice and welcoming. The entire vibe was the best. We'll definitely be back! So happy they're here. read more

Akemi Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Castro Valley, California

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