Sushi Tomoki

Tucked beside longtime jazz club the Baked Potato, this newer Valley-style sushi restaurants  delivers seriously great bang for your buck. Open since 2023, Sushi Tomoki. offers three omakase options ranging from $80 to $200. You could ball out with the pricier options, but even the entry-level offering will satisfy most diners with two kinds of sashimi, 10 pieces of nigiri, a hand roll and miso soup. In usual Valley sushi fashion, the nigiri portion of the omakase comes out two or three at a time—all immaculately sliced pieces of fish brushed with ponzu, yuzukosho and other delicate seasonings that serve to amplify the unique texture and flavor of each seafood variety. When I visited with a friend who lives in the area, we particularly liked the albacore belly and nodoguro (blackthroat seaperch). If you’re not in the mood for a full-blown omakase, Sushi Tomoko prepares a straightforward spicy tuna crispy rice and a selection of familiar and nimbly prepared specialty rolls, both of which only further complement the excellent nigiri and sashimi. Make a reservation for dinner on the weekends or during peak dinner hours on weekdays. Otherwise, it’s fairly easy to walk in and grab a seat at the bar.