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    Sushi Friend

    4.8 (489 reviews)
    ModerateSushi Bars
    Open 12:00 pm - 7:00 PM
    Updated 3 months ago

    Sushi Friend Photos

    Business Info

    SUSHI FRIEND ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Hipster
    Casual
    Trendy

    Recommended Reviews - Sushi Friend

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    Hannah C.

    The freshest fish and the quality is truly there. My friends and I licked everything clean.

    Seared salmon, sushislope, spicy yellowtail, spicy tuna
    Claudine C.

    We were so excited to try this place after hearing so many good things. We used their app to order before heading over. When we arrived, our order was ready! Such a seamless process and the food was packaged so nicely! The toro box (although a little pricey) was so good! The seared salmon was tasty. The sushislope didn't do it for me. The spicy yellowtail & tuna rolls were solid. Star of the show was the ube cheesecake. I should've ordered my own! Not the best sushi we've had but will we be back? Probably.

    3 different sushi rolls
    George E.

    Lots of buzz over a hot new sushi spot on Central Avenue in Phoenix. Sushi Friend has a new approach to sushi. A small and very tight restaurant located in N. Central Phoenix. Ordering is limited to a kiosk and photos on a computer screen. One orders and waits for the sushi to go or plastic trays filled with sushi to enjoy in a limited seating area. 8 out of 10 orders here are take-out. The take-out business volume is impressive. We ordered three rolls. Fire Dragon Roll with unagi, crab mix, cucumber, spicey tuna and unagi sauce ( spicey, fresh, little bite and decent flavor). AZ roll with spicey crab mix. cucumber, takwan, and scallions (spicey, flavor packed and again very fresh). Sushi Slope Roll with spicey bigey tuna, jicama, salmon, avacado and furikake (again spicey, good crisp bite, nicely melded taste). Service is relatively quick, good flavor, unique combinations with very fresh rolls. The goal here is good food with large platters or combo plates and monster take-out service. It did not meet my expectations with regard to a sit-down relaxing service. It purposely is a grab and go establishment with good quality food. Sushi Friend is pushing the envelope on take out sushi with huge volume, yet good fresh sushi. Unfortunately, it is not in my wheel-house for a night out of dining. If you are hosting a large dinner party or get-together, order a tasty tray of sushi from Sushi Friend rather than a high dollar grocery store. You will be pleasantly surprised.

    Seared Salmon Roll, Scallop Dyno Roll, Fire Dragon Roll, Sushislope Roll
    Patrick L.

    The best takeout sushi I've gotten in the Valley! I ordered the 4 Specialty Roll Platter for 65$ and chose the Seared Salmon Roll, Scallop Dyno Roll, Fire Dragon Roll, Sushislope Roll. I'd rank the Scallop roll as best, Salmon 2nd, Fire 3rd, and Sushislope 4th. Every roll definitely gets you a complete bite of good quality protein and filling combination. You have to get the 30$ Sashimi bowl that comes with 11 pieces of sashimi and your choice of rice or salad bowl underneath. Great sushi without the fishy smell, great flavor combos, and friendly staff that keep the flow going during any hour of service.

    Toro California roll Spicy California roll Seared salmon roll
    Hiilei W.

    Finally got to come try this place and it didn't disappoint. Self ordering kiosk, super fast to make the food, even got the seaweed which isn't pictured (big portion). Prices are reasonable, fish tastes fresh and yummy. Went when the place first opened and there was a line starting outside. Ambiance is chill and love the music choice. 10/10 will definitely be back.

    Rohit G.

    Great sushi for Phoenix! We came on a weekday for lunch and there was already a small line out the door waiting for the place to open. You order up front at one of two iPads and then find a seat and they bring your food to you. Service was fast, we ordered a few rolls and they were out very quickly. The quality was great. They weirdly exclude certain rolls from their combo pricing so check carefully what is included in the combos before planning ahead since we were disappointed some of the more premium rolls were not included on there. Our favorite was the Toromigo roll! We'll definitely be back when in the area.

    Scallop, Salmon, California and Ugani roll.
    Molly K.

    Wow! I have heard nothing but great things about this place and I am so glad I tried it. We ordered our food to go, you can eat in the restaurant but you won't be waited on. You order at an IPad and they will bring it out to you when ready. When I arrived for pick up the sushi was ready and the staff was so kind and quick to help me. We ordered four rolls, two specialty, the Seared Salmon and Seared Scallop and two basic rolls, the California and an Unagi Roll. All were amazing, fresh and full of flavor. 4 rolls was plenty for two people, but we wanted more because it was just so yummy. Can't wait to go back again!!

    Renata R.

    ASU visit Tradition- Go to Sushi Friend! We're back in town for ASU move-in, and of course, we had to revisit this amazing spot. Once again, the boss was on top of everything so friendly, helpful, professional, and clearly dedicated to keeping things running smoothly. His crew of six was hard at work, putting out roll after roll with care and precision. This has officially become our sushi place every time we visit from NYC/CT. Flashback 5 Months Ago: Admittedly, I almost didn't give this place a chance. We're from NYC, and I was hesitant to try raw fish in the desert I mean, how fresh could it be? From the outside, it looked more like a bodega than a sushi restaurant, and the yellow paint didn't exactly scream "hidden gem." But I decided to check it out anyway while my family waited in the car and I'm SO glad I did. Inside, it's clean and a bit industrial, with two sections: a dining room and a self-serve ordering area using iPads. The system is efficient, and what really stood out was the owner personally checking in with customers at the iPads, offering suggestions, helping with the ordering process, and making everyone feel at ease. His attentiveness makes a big difference and shows how much he cares about the customer experience. And the sushi? Absolutely delicious. Everything was fresh, flavorful, and came out quickly. The staff was warm and welcoming then, just as they are now. Whether you're local or just visiting ASU, this place is a gem, and we'll be back every time we're in town! By the way, the cloudy Sake is dessert in a glass! Try it. We had take-out so we skipped, not next time, and I'm making the owner have a few shots with us.

    Kiki L.

    I'm a sushi snob and not because I know anything about fish but because I refuse to eat fish that smells like a lake? Usually it needs to be an $$$$ restaurant for me to eat fish.. but it's got good reviews and a lot of stars..I told my husband if it's not good we are stopping by Mickey d's. First of all - service is amazing. I was able to order my rolls my way. The food is delicious - I ate both of my rolls to my surprise. We will definitely be back.

    Mixed roll platter, nigiri, and hand roll
    Reese T.

    I usually try to avoid take out sushi, but have heard great things about Sushi Friend and gave it a shot. It certainly did not disappoint and was exceptional for take out. All the rolls had great flavor combinations and the fish was great texture and flavor. The layout of the restaurant was neat, you see the sushi chefs behind the order/pickup counter as soon as you walk in and there is seating in a room to the side. The staff was extremely friendly and offered a very well designed to-go bag for our order. Will definitely be coming back and very excited to try dining in!

    Sam L.

    We went big and went home and honestly felt like it's just okay. Maybe it was the high expectations being rated as the best and the long wait, which is fine if the food had lived up to the hype. Definitely solid quality and good ratios of rice to fish but if it's going to be the best then I would need to see more attention going into the ingredients like they do in Japan where rice, soy sauce, and wasabi are the star and high quality fish is a given

    Fire Dragon & Aguachile Roll
    Ashley W.

    The best in the valley and that is NO SURPRISE! The owner Kevin has had quite the journey, serving his fan favorite sushi at a business cafe and now expanding to this hot spot! I'm so lucky to have met and tried his food before, my husband and I couldn't wait to visit at his location, and Kevin should be so proud of what he's accomplished ! Sushi friend, it's in the name, feel good place with feel great sushi! The flavors are incredible, the sushi is fresh and the service is amazing. We were checked on so many times and they were so grateful for us to come in! - We went with Toro box (duh) - pretty much melts in your mouth! - Fire Dragon & Aguachile Roll - both were perfection! However the aguachile roll, one of the best rolls we've ever had! What a fun spin on sushi with Mexican flavors! The jicama was also just a nice texture add and treat! - we were surprised by a friend to try the ube cheesecake and I will gladly say - best cheesecake and ube dish I've ever had! I literally want to order a whole one to have every week! It was amazing! Go to your fav new local spot - sushi friend!

    Picture 1. Less than $50 for all these
    Joey C.

    2 years ago, they were one of my favorite sushi restaurants in Phoenix. I went back there last weekend and I was so disappointed. Miso soup was served in a paper cup. It was not even half full. No seaweed no tofu inside .... It taste like waterdown powder mixed miso soup. Picture 1 was from two years ago. Around $50. Picture 2 from last week. $90

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    9 days ago

    It is so nice to have a sushi spot in Sunnyslope and not having to drive far. Good sushi and great service.

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    6 months ago

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    13 days ago

    We ordered a few things: Rolls were good, nigiri was good; baked salmon poke bowl was not

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    9 months ago

    Business owner information

    Photo of Kevin M.

    Kevin M.

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    2 months ago

    Sushi friend is AMAZING and the crew here is so kind and generous. the fish is fresh and the vibes are great

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    Page 1 of 13

    Sushi Friend Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Sushi Friend

    Can you show me a menu for sushi friend?

    Hi! There’s an online menu on our website. If and when the online has been turned off with volume, there’s an offline menu listed. And let me know if you have any other questions.

    Do they always have Toro? I see it in reviews but not on their website.

    Every time we went in they had it. Best bet is to call ahead and ask if you're concerned. They are so friendly.

    Do they have ayce?

    This is not AYCE

    I want to pick up an order around 2:30pm on Sept 16, can I place an advance order and choose a pickup time? 1st time ordering

    Hi. You can place it early as today at noon and set a pick up time for 2:30.

    Is their a happy hour offered?

    Pretty sure there is not :)

    Is there a time you recommend coming/not coming in order to get a seat? Or how long is the typical wait time?

    I’d recommend between 2-4pm. There has been an immediate rush from open and a rush starting around 4-4:30. Typical wait time on a non rush hour is about 15-20 minutes depending on the size of your order.

    Do they have anything for a seven year-old boy who is not into sushi? Teriyaki? Anything? I've tried calling several times but they obviously never, ever, answer the phone. Food is supposedly great, but the restaurant operation is a fail.

    No. Go to Panda Express with your 7 year old. They are small, don't take phone orders and serve sushi

    Which rolls can be prepared gluten-free?

    My understanding is that all of their rolls can be made gluten-free!

    Do you use real crab or imitation?

    We have imitation crab.

    Do u serve beer and Saki?

    We have beer and sake now. :)

    Do you guys Deliver?

    Hello. We do not.

    Do you serve alcohol?

    No alcohol is served here.

    Is this take out only?

    Nope. We are small, but we do have dine in.

    View All 15 Questions

    Harumi Sushi Bar - Downtown - Hot Havana Roll (~$17)

    Harumi Sushi Bar - Downtown

    4.6(3.2k reviews)
    7.9 mi
    $$$

    My partner and I originally chose this place because we heard they light one of the sushi rolls on…read morefire, which immediately sounded like something fun we had to try. Funny enough, this actually wasn't even the exact restaurant my partner had been thinking of when he brought it up, but honestly I'm so glad we ended up here anyway because the food was REALLY good. We ordered the flaming ohmygod sushi roll, and man... it was amazing. Not only was the presentation fun, but the sushi itself actually tasted incredible too, which sometimes isn't the case with more "gimmicky" menu items. It was so good that I literally ordered another roll to-go and took it on the plane back home with me because I already knew I'd be craving it later. That alone should say enough about how much I liked it. I also tried the matcha martini, and it was honestly one of the best cocktails I've had in a while. It had the perfect balance of matcha flavor and alcohol where neither one overpowered the other. Sometimes matcha drinks either taste way too earthy or completely lose the matcha flavor under the alcohol, but this one was super smooth, flavorful, and really well done. The restaurant itself also has a really nice atmosphere. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, and the indoor area definitely has a more upscale vibe than your usual sushi spot and that makes the experience feel a little more elevated and perfect for a date night. On top of all that, the servers were super friendly and provided genuinely great service throughout the meal. Everyone was attentive, welcoming, and made the experience feel really comfortable and enjoyable. Overall, this place completely exceeded my expectations. Great sushi, fun presentation, amazing drinks, friendly service, and a really nice atmosphere. I'd absolutely come back again.

    First time here and I was not disappointed. All of the staff were friendly and helped each other…read morerun food and refill waters, which isn't something you see much of these days. We were there at around 5pm and it wasn't too busy, but there was a steady flow of diners coming in and out. Seating is ample, with outdoor, bar, sushi bar, and regular table options. I ordered two rolls: hot havana and mango roll. Both were delicious and the mango was juicy! The purple rice was super fun and set them apart from other sushi spots. I also ordered the miso soup to start. The food came out quickly. My only "complaint" is there aren't a ton of classic roll options. But this is a more upscale sushi restaurant, so it isn't surprising. I will keep this place in my list of spots to hit when I'm looking for a bite to eat in DTPHX.

    Photos
    Harumi Sushi Bar - Downtown - Bar/waiting area

    Bar/waiting area

    Harumi Sushi Bar - Downtown - Mt. Fuji Roll (~$17)

    Mt. Fuji Roll (~$17)

    Harumi Sushi Bar - Downtown - Bite View

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    Bite View

    Kodo Sushi Sake - Nagiri plate

    Kodo Sushi Sake

    4.7(1.3k reviews)
    10.9 mi
    $$

    I haven't had sushi in a while, so I suggested this spot to meet up with my boba sistah. We got…read morethere a few minutes after they opened at 11am and had the place to ourselves. They have a table or two outside but they're not setup for outdoor seating, fyi. The restaurant is nicely decorated and dark, which took some getting used to. We were greeted warmly and chose a booth towards the right. I had noticed their lunch specials offered M-F 11-2pm so we both ordered from that menu. I got the L/Cali+Shrimp Tempura Combo: California Roll (Half Size), Shrimp Tempura Roll (Half Size), Gyoga(3PCS), Miso Soup. My companion got the L/Rainbow+Dynamite Combo: Rainbow Roll (Half Size), Dynamite Roll (Half Size), 2PCS Nigiri (Chef Choice), Miso Soup. Our soups were brought out pretty quickly and our food not long after. For the price point ($12) and quantity, my lunch special was definitely worth it. It came with 10 California rolls, 5 shrimp tempura rolls, and 3 gyozas. I was pleased to see their gyozas have chicken in them, usually they have pork so I can't eat them. I love their purple rice - so unique. I don't think I'd tried it before and it was good. All of the items I tried were fresh and flavorful. Service was great and I was surprised it wasn't busier during their lunch hour. Maybe later on or dinner gets more of a crowd. I'm glad we tried out this spot and I'd love to come back!

    Mediocre but I'd be willing to try it again now that I know what I'm getting into…read more The salmon sashimi I ordered was spot on, and really good. 8 slices for $15 is also the best pricing I have found in all of Scottsdale. I also ordered salmon skin and here is where the star deduction came into play. The salmon skin was served to me the way I asked - no rice, no sauce, no vegetables - BUT, it was burnt. So if I do go back, I would probably request them NOT to cook it so long. I ordered my husband a spicy tuna roll and a spicy salmon roll to go. He said the spicy tuna was good but the spicy salmon wasn't - it was as if the salmon quality that was used was poor.

    Photos
    Kodo Sushi Sake
    Kodo Sushi Sake - Chewbacca Roll

    Chewbacca Roll

    Kodo Sushi Sake - Arizona Roll

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    Arizona Roll

    Zu Izakaya

    Zu Izakaya

    4.5(1.9k reviews)
    11.4 mi
    $$

    Popped into this place for our last meal before leaving AZ and it did not disappoint! We were the…read morefirst people in. When we walked in it had a very fishy smell, so it kind of made us second guess our choice. But we went for it anyhow. The greeter/server was very pleasant and sat us. It was very clean inside with ample space between seat. We browsed through the menu and started with our usual edamame and pot stickers. The edamame was salted well throughout where a lot of places just put the salt on top only. We ordered a couple varieties of sake which were both good. Out of all of the things we ordered the karange skewer was just a little more oily than were use to, but still good. The spicy salmon roll had really great flavor and the lollipop roll was probably one of the better versions that we have had. The musubi was giant to say the least, it was good, but offered a bit too much rice. Overall the food and service was great and we were very happy that we ended up here!

    On a Sunday evening, after checking out the Desert Botanical Garden, I was looking for some food in…read morethe area. I came across Zu Izakaya and it's great reviews as one of the options. I love Japanese food so my decision was made. I drove over and parked in their complimentary lot. Ambiance (3.5/5): I've been to Japan and there are plenty of izakayas there. Think of them as small bars which often serve solid food. Zu fits that bit. It's a relatively small restaurant, probably seats about 30 people. and it's pretty no frills for a Japanese spot. I was seated at a booth in the corner of the restaurant. They have free WiFi which is always a good touch. Service (3/5): Service was friendly, though a bit inconsistent. My waitress wasn't as attentive as I would have liked. The type of service where you have to flag them down to get what you want and to close out. Drinks (4/5): Zu has a nice menu of Japanese and Korean beverages, including sake, soju, Japanese beer, and more. With that being said, I just had an iced green tea. Food (4/5): I got a nice variety. I went with the Japanese sausage off of the grill menu, the OBI mayo roll off of the sushi menu, and the cheese corn off of the appetizer menu. Let's start with the sausage. It's a small item, two small sausages, but absolutely delicious. The sausage was bursting with flavor and basted in a sweet sauce. Minus the portion size, perfection. The cheese corn also hit the spot, but the execution was off. The corn is served on a hot platter, and unfortunately some of the corn on the edges was badly burnt. The type of situation where they should start over. Which they didn't. Lastly, the OBI mayo roll is essentially a California roll with marinated warm shrimp on top in a mayo sauce. I didn't love the hot and cold combo (shrimp and sushi), but outside of the temperature, it was a delicious roll. All in all, a very food meal. My only gripe with Japanese food is that it can get expensive quick. Given that Zu is in Tempe, I was hoping that prices would be a little cheaper. With that being said, they do have a solid happy hour (and reverse happy hour) with both food and drink specials. Next time I stop by, I'd like to check out some of their Korean options. I focused on the Japanese stuff this time (which makes the majority of the menu). Next time around, the bulgogi is calling my name!

    Photos
    Zu Izakaya - Lots of inside seating options

    Lots of inside seating options

    Zu Izakaya - JJAMBBONG POT

    JJAMBBONG POT

    Zu Izakaya - NIGIRI OMAKASE

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    NIGIRI OMAKASE

    Full Moon Izakaya - Best Ramen in Phoenix 
Eats & Drinks

    Full Moon Izakaya

    4.4(135 reviews)
    1.3 mi
    $$

    Let's get the most important thing out of the way:…read more You need the crispy rice with spicy tuna. It's not a want. It's a need. I pop in here probably once a month. I'm assuming it's a family-owned joint because the one and only guy working front of house always takes care of me. He's awesome. The place is cute. It's tastefully decorated, and they have a very-on-brand, ginormous full moon light on the wall that's illuminated from behind. It's super cool. I've only ever seen a couple other diners in there with me at any time. The food comes out super fast, which is great, because I'm hungry as soon as i step in the place. The prices are reasonable, the portions are generous, and the food is always good. If you're in the area, this place is a must-stop.

    We found this place by accident. My daughter and I arrived around 6pm on a Saturday. There were no…read morepeople there. Slowly others started to arrive about half hour later. I ordered hot sake and it did not disappoint. My daughter got a Ramune, miso soup, and shrimp tempura roll. No complaints! Miso soup was missing tofu that day. Apparently they were all out. Nevertheless the soup was very nice! I got two specialty rolls. The names escape me at the moment. The menu doesn't have a huge selection of rolls but I found what I like and both were VERY good! Good amount of fish vs rice. Everyone is very attentive. Service is very good. The ambiance is interesting :) nothing fancy but not too bland either. There are full moon/moon related decorations. The rolls are also named with the Moon theme in mind. Overall very nice and we will be back to try their ramen !

    Photos
    Full Moon Izakaya - Full Moon Izakaya 
Veggie Sushi Roll

    Full Moon Izakaya Veggie Sushi Roll

    Full Moon Izakaya - Eclipse roll

    Eclipse roll

    Full Moon Izakaya - Bar

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    Bar

    Sushi Friend - sushi - Updated May 2026

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