Mai in Boston's Seaport brings a polished and contemporary approach to the hand roll concept, combining high end ingredients with a sleek dining room and a prominent cocktail program. We walked into a space that feels intentionally designed for a night out, with low lighting and an atmosphere that balances upscale dining with a more energetic lounge like vibe. Rather than functioning as a traditional sushi restaurant, Mai leans into a shareable menu centered around hand rolls, small plates, and signature drinks. The hand rolls are clearly the centerpiece of the experience. We ordered options featuring toro, salmon, and spicy tuna, and the quality of the fish stood out immediately. The balance of textures between the seafood, rice, and crisp nori was handled well, with each roll holding together cleanly and delivering a satisfying bite. Beyond the hand rolls, dishes like the miso butter cod, wagyu tenderloin, wagyu fat fries, and uni toast expanded the menu into something more ambitious than a typical hand roll bar. The ingredients consistently leaned toward premium offerings, giving the meal a more elevated feel throughout. Cocktails played a significant role in the experience as well. We tried the Matchatini, which helped reinforce the restaurant's blend of sushi bar, cocktail lounge, and modern dining destination. The beverage program felt designed to complement the richness of the menu while adding another layer to the evening beyond the food itself. Service was attentive and the pacing of the meal matched the upscale but relaxed vibe of the room. Staff knew the menu well and offered thoughtful recommendations on both food and drinks without being pushy. The space itself is stylish and comfortable, making it easy to settle in for a full evening rather than a quick stop. What makes Mai stand out is how it combines the casual accessibility of hand rolls with the atmosphere and execution of a higher end restaurant. The focus on quality ingredients, creative combinations, and presentation creates a meal that feels intentionally curated without becoming overly formal. Between the hand rolls, specialty dishes, cocktails, and stylish setting, Mai feels less like a quick sushi stop and more like a destination for a full evening out. read more

A week ago, after hearing a lot of hype around this new place in seaport, I decided to check it out for myself on a solo date, and I came back with a couple of friends and family last night. Let me just say, if not for the food, come here for the service, wow. I honestly have no words, but clearly I do, and many, because I'm sitting here downloading Yelp and writing a review about it. First of all, our server, this really cheerful, bright, and pretty young lady, Ashley, was the same server I had my first time, but she somehow remembered me. She smiled and waved and said "You came back!! And with more people!!" That immediately started my dinner off on a really surprising and happy note. I was only there for 45 minutes my first time and she remembered me? Insane. My party last night was a tricky one, and in that I mean it is rare for us to go to a restaurant and have a good time, but Ashley took such great care of us. Probably the best service we've had? First, one of my friends is gluten free, dairy free, and soy (sauce) free. You can imagine how hard that would be at a japanese izakaya then. For Ashley, not a problem. She simply nodded her head, then pulled out the menu and went over all of my friend's options from the madai sashimi (no radish) or salmon (no rice). Next, my husband has lately been in an alcohol kick and had all these questions about the various cocktails or sake. Again, not a problem for Ashley. She simply nodded her head took out the drink menu and explained every single drink in detail, making excellent recommendations. She even knew the notes and flavor profiles of each one!! Beyond all of that though, she was just incredibly kind, very attentive, and such a happy person. I feel like the food tasted better because of her haha! Definitely coming back. And with more people too!! (My review got taken down, I am new to this app, but thankfully wrote this on document first haha. Hopefully this one will stay this time!!) read more

Mai in Seaport completely exceeded my expectations. From the moment I walked in, the space set the tone: an intimate dining room with a sleek bar, low lighting, and chill club style music that made the whole experience feel elevated yet relaxed. It strikes that rare balance between a high end atmosphere and a place you actually want to linger in. The service was exceptional across the board. Every server was attentive without being overbearing, and they took the time to walk us through each dish with thoughtful, detailed explanations. It felt less like a typical dinner service and more like a curated tasting experience. The food was the real highlight. The wagyu flight was unforgettable... Three pieces of wagyu nigiri, each topped differently, including one with uni and another with caviar, creating rich, layered bites that practically melted on the tongue. The toro handroll with caviar was pure indulgence, while the wagyu tenderloin handroll with truffle brought deep, savory flavor with an aromatic finish. The uni handroll was incredibly fresh and creamy, and the medai sashimi was delicate, clean, and beautifully cut. Even the hot dishes impressed. The wagyu steak frites were perfectly cooked and deeply flavorful, and the duck risotto was rich, comforting, and beautifully balanced. Between the atmosphere, the polished yet welcoming service, and the incredibly thoughtful menu, Mai feels like one of the most exciting dining experiences in Seaport right now. It's the kind of place you come to for a special night out and immediately start planning your next visit. read more

My friends and I recently checked out Mai Izakaya, a new spot that's been getting a lot of buzz and honestly, it completely lived up to the hype. It's a fusion restaurant blending creative French techniques with Japanese-inspired dishes, and everything from the food to the atmosphere felt thoughtfully done. The restaurant itself has a cozy and inviting vibe, with creative decor. It's the kind of place that feels intimate but stylish which is perfect for a relaxed dinner with friends or even a date night. We started with the Hokkaido Uni Toast, which was absolutely amazing. I didn't expect uni and toasted bread to pair so well. The Wagyu Tenderloin Frites was another highlight and the meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, and the fries were crisp and seasoned just right. Their cocktails were also top-notch each one beautifully crafted and balanced. The Matchatini was especially impressive, a creative blend that perfectly tied together the Japanese influence with a modern twist. The servers are also very attentive and gave us great recommendations. Overall, dining at Mai Izakaya was such a great experience. It's definitely one of those places I'd go back to again (and again). read more

Mai Seaport is hands down one of the best dining experiences I've had in a long time. Every dish was beautifully prepared, fresh, and bursting with flavor. The miso butter cod hand roll was pure perfection -- buttery, rich, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. The Wagyu hand roll followed it up with incredible tenderness and a deep, savory flavor that lingered beautifully. The sea bream carpaccio was light, delicate, and artfully plated -- a perfect balance of citrus and umami that really highlighted the freshness of the fish. The uni toast was another standout -- creamy, decadent, and packed with that briny sweetness that uni lovers dream about. And don't miss the Wagyu tartare -- it was luxurious, perfectly seasoned, and topped off the meal on a high note. From start to finish, every bite was a reminder of how exceptional ingredients and thoughtful preparation can create something truly special. The atmosphere is elegant but relaxed, and the staff are warm, knowledgeable, and clearly passionate about what they do. If you're looking for refined yet approachable Japanese-inspired cuisine in Seaport, Mai is an absolute must. read more

Seaport finally has a legit Japanese/French fusion spot that feels special from the second you walk in. The room is gorgeous--warm lighting, sleek lines, and a playlist that sets a modern, upscale mood without drowning conversation. Food highlights: the madai sea bream sashimi with olive-oil-infused seaweed is delicate and bright; the Wagyu steak is seared perfectly with that buttery, velvet texture you dream about. Hand rolls come out crisp and tight--rice still warm, fish ultra-fresh. The foie-gras eel with blood orange is a must: smoky, silky, and lifted by citrus. If you love luxe, the uni + caviar bite hits that briny, creamy sweet spot, and the garlic toro is pure umami comfort. Cocktails are balanced, staff is attentive without hovering, and the pacing lets you enjoy courses like a proper night out. It works as a classy pregame before the Seaport nightlife, or as the main event for date night. Boston needed a place like this--consider me a regular. read more

From the moment I walked in, I knew this restaurant was something special. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between cozy and upscale--dim lighting, tasteful décor, and music at just the right volume so you can actually hold a conversation. The food was outstanding. Every dish was beautifully presented and full of flavor. Each hand roll is packed with a unique combination of flavors that makes each bite a unique experience. The drinks here are also tasty. Loved the green tea shot and the spirit bomb. Both twists on some classics that we all love. Service was equally excellent. Our server was attentive without being intrusive, made thoughtful recommendations, and seemed genuinely enthusiastic about the menu. Overall, this place hits every mark: delicious food, inviting atmosphere, and great service. Whether you're coming for a date night, dinner with friends, or just to treat yourself, it's absolutely worth it. Can't wait to come back! read more

What an amazing experience! I came for the soft opening with some friends and will definitely be back. The music and ambiance was such a vibe, and the decor was super cute! Rocky was our server tonight and he was so helpful with explaining the menu while checking on us regularly. The small plates were each delicious with unique flavors. My favorite was definitely the Chicken Tempura with caviar. For the handrolls, I tried the Spicy Tuna, Miso Butter Cod, and Eel Foie Gras (the blood orange on top was the highlight for me). From the specialities, I loved the Aged Duck Risotto! It was so juicy and tender, and cranberry in the mushroom risotto really complimented the flavor. Lastly, we had ube and lychee macarons for dessert, which were light and sweet. I would for sure recommend Mai for a date night or special occasion with a small group! Absolutely loved the dining experience here and hope to try it again in the future with an expanded menu :) read more

I had a lovely second experience at Mai, the place is a bit small, and it feels crowded for large groups, but certainly perfect for two. I'd definitely recommend the uni toast, as well as the toro tea cup (both were standouts). The servers were all really attentive and kind as well. The first time I was here near opening, the drinks were too sweet and the service disorganized, but I am very pleased to say that this place has really found its footing in the time since. I am so glad I gave it another try. I especially want to shout out the bartender, Ashley. As she was walking by to check on orders, she must have overheard me speaking to my friend about my previous experience, so she made sure our drinks were less sweet. She also found out it was my friend's birthday and brought over these hot chocolate bomb shots that she says she was experimenting with! I wish I had taken a picture! Very kind and just elevated the entire experience. read more

Mai was an absolutely incredible dining experience from start to finish. The atmosphere is beautiful, modern, and upscale, but still feels welcoming and comfortable. The attention to detail throughout the restaurant really sets the tone. The food was outstanding--fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor. You can tell there's real thought and craftsmanship behind every dish. The quality of the ingredients was top-notch, and the service matched it perfectly: attentive, knowledgeable, and professional without being overbearing. If you appreciate high-quality Japanese cuisine and an elevated dining experience, Mai is absolutely worth visiting. Easily one of those restaurants you leave already thinking about when you're coming back. 5 stars all the way. Highly recommended! read more

I had such a wonderful dinner at Mai in Seaport, and our server Joey truly made the night special. From the moment we sat down, Joey was attentive, friendly, and genuinely invested in making sure we had a great experience. He gave thoughtful recommendations, checked in at all the right times, and made us feel so well taken care of without ever being intrusive. The food was fantastic, fresh, beautifully presented, and full of flavor; but Joey's service is what really stood out. It's rare to find someone who brings so much positive energy and professionalism to the table. If you're planning a visit to Mai, definitely ask for Joey. He elevated the whole evening and made our night memorable. Highly recommend! read more

My new favorite spot in Seaport! You can really tell they value care and quality with all of their dishes. The best handrolls in the area. Each bite is clean and intentional. I haven't ordered a dish I haven't liked! My absolute favorite is the eel foie gras handroll with blood orange or the toro handroll. SO FRESH. Moreover, the service is 10/10. From start to finish, you're greeted with the best hospitality. Plus the ambiance is great with the low lights. I love small touches to the details here. Props to John. The last two times I've visited, he's been terrific. read more

was so excited to hear a new sushi restaurant is opening in seaport and was even MORE excited to hear this is matsunori's sister restaurant !! came to try for my friends birthday & damn i knew they knew how to make handrolls but APPS TOO?? must trys: - wagyu frites the wagyu MELTS and the fries were so good with the truffle ketchup - eel foie gras handroll... with the blood orange????omg i was speechless and it's coming from someone who's not into eel - duck foie gras- SO YUMMY the quality??? insane - wagyu tartare, THE PARM CHEESE ON TOP IS SOOOOO GOOD read more

Had such a great time at Mai Seaport. The food was super fresh, flavorful, and honestly hit every time. Really nice vibes and a perfect spot for a chill dinner. Shoutout to our server Nina -- she was amazing. Super friendly, helpful with menu recs, and made everything feel easy and relaxed. She checked in just enough and made sure we were taken care of the whole night. Definitely coming back. Great food, great service, great experience read more

Vibes, food and staff were phenomenal. This spot's perfect to unwind after a long day in the office or pre-game dinner before you go clubbing. Everything is a la carte so you can just grab a cocktail and a hand roll while you catch up with friends. Pics are must try dishes with a flair of novelty. PS there are cute labubu's all around the restaurant so while this is upscale place, it added that touch of mad cuteness read more

Absolutely stunning! When you think of Boston nightlife, this is the spot you need to hit. The vibes are unmatched, the food is next-level, and the drinks keep the energy flowing. Service was on point and the whole atmosphere just pulls you in. If you're looking for a night out that feels exciting and memorable, Mai is the move. Not to mention the location right next to a nightclub. read more

Tried Mai in Seaport and absolutely loved it! The service was great -- our server Joey was super attentive and friendly, which made the experience even better. The handrolls were high-quality and so fresh. The miso butter cod handroll was incredible, and the blue crab one was another standout. Definitely worth a visit if you're craving delicious handrolls in Seaport! read more

What a nice vibe inside! I was very excited to try this restaurant after hearing about it from a couple friends and it did not disappoint whatsoever. That wagyu frites is to die for and would recommend everyone to try it. The wagyu absolutely melts in your mouth! The servers were also extremely kind and attentive. Overall a great restaurant! Perfect for date nights! read more

Mai is a gem. French-Japanese fusion done right. From appetizers through dessert everything was thoughtfully done. The wagyu steak frites were among the best I've had: tender, rich, beautifully seared. Drinks are creative, bartenders were engaging and fun. Loved the design of the space -- modern, stylish, great lighting. Perfect for date nights or special occasions. read more