Niki's Tokyo Inn

819 W Hildebrand Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States

Niki's Tokyo Inn
About This Sushi Bar

Unassuming family-run mainstay with traditional sushi, Japanese entrees, sake & tatami-style dining.

Sushi Reviews
Sushi Experience №1

I love this spot it's so cool, I really want them to make.more.mo ey so they can work on maintaining the building. It seems very much they need to freshen up the place, maybe at some point get the ceilings repainted walls better shape maybe replace the carpet new pillows. I love what this place is doing for Japanese culture it's soo cool hope they can fix all that up one day. Get those vents sparkly. Love the service and authenticity.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №2

My experience here was truly special. This place is so cozy and calming. The people here are very attentive and welcoming. The genmaicha tea was tasty and nutty. My husband and I tried a few vegetarian options and we were very satisfied. The cucumber salad was my favorite, the perfect balance of acidity and salt. The tofu appetizer was very fresh and simple. The hand roll tamaki option was very filling and a healthy option, we enjoyed the avocado on and the pickled radish one the most. We will definitely be eating here many times, what a wonderful place to enjoy.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №3

Had to have my beef curry with steamed rice, and gyoza appetizer.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №4

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №5

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №6

I noticed this place before our San Antonio trip and had my heart set on the 10 course dinner. It was just alright, not really the true Japan experience I was hoping for. The building falling apart was a good sign of a good restaurant, but unfortunately it didn't follow through. Tempura came out cold which was disappointing. Sukiyaki was a little bland. None of the courses stood out as anything special. Maybe the sushi is better, we ended up wishing we'd tried the sashimi dinner and the Sukiyaki dinner.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №7

Just finished eating here. It honestly is the best sushi I’ve ever had in this city and possibly in my life. Found out it’s been family owned for a long time and I enjoy spending my money on local businesses so the entire experience was worth it.

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №8

Stellar cuisine in a venue that feels like it hit its stride in 1978 and has never changed since because it was already perfect. Food is great and it is a stellar value. Feels like a trip to Tokyo. Will definitely be back.

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №9

Freshest sushi I've ever had, didn't expect that to be in San Antonio. Great for a hangout with friends for a date night. Will definitely be back.

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №10

Very nice folks, food's sort of ok, but don't expect fare or atmosphere equivalent to being in Japan. Again, very kind, inviting staff.

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №11

Very nice folks, food's sort of ok, but don't expect fare or atmosphere equivalent to being in Japan. Again, very kind, inviting staff.

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №12

It is such a spectacular dining experience in San Antonio it is difficult to express with words. People really need to experience it for themselves. This THE only location in San Antonio that is as close to dining in Japan as it gets. The staff here is like family, the food is authentic as it can be and the atmosphere is the type that makes you relax the second you walk in. I hope you get the chance to go. To everyone at Niki's, thank you for treating my family, like family.
いただきます
-The Menchacas-

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №13

Amazing customer service and great food. One of my most favorite meals I've ever had in San Antonio. We will definitely be back.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №14

Went for my sister’s birthday, with a reservation of 9 people. We were seated on the traditional style tables with the pillows on the floor. This place has history, and they still know how to take care of their guests. The old man, gave us a freebie from his garden, and a little kale salad for my niece. The prices are set very well. We all had a good time, however sitting on the floor does get tiresome after a couple of hours haha. Everyone found something they ended up liking, the portions are great. Highly recommend trying the chicken sticks, so good. The edamame was super soft and very delicious. I ordered the Sashimi dinner, and was very pleased with the portions on the cuts, and everything that came with it. Are so much, I didn’t get a chance to try dessert but will definitely be back for more.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №15

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №16

They definitely lost potential long term customers today. Took my wife here after reading good reviews, we ordered the gyoza and the sushi mix. It took an hour for our main entree to come out, it was only 7 sushi pieces. We were the first people in the restaurant and i had to sit and watch people come in and be served plates of food while we just sat there. It would’ve been different if we were served in an appropriate amount of time but being made to wait and watch everyone be served before us and then to only get 7 pieces of sushi just felt like we were purposefully ignored. We definitely will not be returning.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №17

It's an amazing restaurant with some of the best sushi and hand rolls I have had. I highly recommend making a reservation, but I am thankful they could accommodate me (party of 1, showed up right at opening). Great food and fast service! I will definitely come back with friends.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №18

I hate to say it, but it was super disappointed. Nothing was cooked well.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №19

My friends and I have made it a tradition to come here to eat when we can get together. The traditional floor seating is such a fun way to spend time with friends. They bring the food out in waves which makes it perfect for taking your time eating while talking. The food is also great, and they have a good variety of things to eat.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №20

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №21

The food is delicious, service is amazing, very clean . I go there every year for my birthday. They offer seating at the bar, western seating (at a table) or eastern style (seating on the floor at a table). Traditional. Private rooms. Our waiter was amazing, always has a story and makes you feel welcome.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №22

RESERVATIONS ARE MANDATORY. Made the mistake of taking an Uber from downtown San Antonio - and we really should have called first. My bad. Small restaurant that looks very popular and is clean and well run! Will call ahead next time!!!

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №23

Make a reservation beforehand! The first time I walked in, I didn't have a reservation and they were not able to seat my party.

This place has the best Japanese food in town.

The Tokyo Inn Dinner has a lot of food, but it's all delicious. It includes fried mackerel or yellowtail, rice, sashimi, tempura, miso soup, and cucumber salad.

The place looks like it's falling apart. The floor is uneven; it seems like the floorboards need replacing, but don't let the appearance deter you.

It's a quiet and small 'Western style' dining area, with a couple of 'Japanese style' seating areas.

Service is always excellent.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №24

This place is literally magical. It's so beautiful on the inside. And the staff were all so amazing!! And the food omg the food was even better.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №25

La comida muy buena el ambiente agradable, diferente ,el helado de te rico

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №26

Blast from the past when you walk in, food was amazing and my Japanese friend said he felt like he was at a restaurant from back home. Make reservations before hand.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №27

This is one of those places that I wish would stay intimate and underground.

But seeing it only having 4.5 stars is a tragedy.

This is THE best sushi place in all of San Antonio. The service, ambiance, and food is better bar none.

If anyone knows a better place I'd love to hear about it.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №28

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №29

I WILL be going back ! Tje food was delicious and the people were great :))

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №30

Amazing.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №31

Why couldn't I live closer to Niki's 😪 The food here is amazing and very delicious. Family owned and everyone there is so nice! If you haven't ever been here before, you NEED to check them out. 15/10 worth it. Such amazing food!

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №32

Food was over done and the restaurant was gross

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №33

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №34

Everything tasted amazing. My family has been coming here for literal generations. It is always a nice, serene atmosphere. Food comes out hot and fresh. The staff is nice and inviting.

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №35

Yall this place is a gem. The food is amazing and the atmosphere really takes you out of San Antonio.

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №36

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №37

A lot of people these days seem to feel some kind of way about Nikki's, but from when I was undergrad to now 18 years later, Nikki's has never stopped being my favorite sushi haunt. When I eat at Nikki's I love the homey feel, the authentic food, the generous cuts, and the impeccable rice to vinegar ratio. Those things are great but the best thing? When my mom and I go there it feels like we could be in an off-the-beaten-path sushi joint in Kamakura or Sagamihara and we have been. It feels like home to the Japanese in me. I read a thing that said Nikki's is showing its age. I'd say that "Nikki's is gold and gold never loses its luster. So you can go eat wherever. Nikki's is still the the ichiban."

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №38

Great customer service.
Friendly environment.
Love the food and sake!

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №39

Wonderful family run gem in San Antonio. Food is so flavorful and authentic home style Japanese with very friendly service. Sushi is fresh and cooked dishes are flavorful too and very well priced. Decor is rundown and looks original from 50 years ago, but everything else is worth it. I could eat the amazing and huge futonaki as a snack every single day if I could!

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №40

If I could give more stars, I would. I absolutely LOVE and ADORE this restaurant. As well as there lil shop next door. All of the staff are sweet and hospitable. I often advertise this restaurant to ppl I meet and close family and friends. The food is AMAZING. My favorite to order is the grilled squid and tomago roll. This place serves very authentic Japanese cuisine, at least in my opinion (I've been to Japan and have tried many of the same dishes they had there).

Thank you all for being one of my favorite restaurants to frequent. 🙏🏼

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №41

Got to visit Niki’s Tokyo Inn on a Saturday evening after so many years and must say I really enjoyed the atmosphere, the Japanese style seating and the amazing food they prepare. Really enjoyed the sashimi dinner, tempura dinner, seafood dinner and will be back again.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №42

Went by myself the other day. Had the Ribeye (med-rare) and a side order of Gyoza. Gyoza was like 8 pcs to my surpise so it's more like an order for 2. Ribeye wasn't too bad, better than most, but nothing to really write home about either. Overall I liked it more for the experience than the food and def reccomend you come with a party. Might come back with the fam and will probably try something else next time.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №43

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №44

Such a beautiful inside. The chef was so nice and checked to make sure I liked my food since I asked for some things to be removed. Right when my roommate and I were leaving it was pouring rain and we both didn’t have umbrellas. One of the ladies who worked there walked us both to our car and it was badly raining she was the sweetest! Thank you Stephanie!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №45

Stepping into Niki’s is like stepping into another world. The inside is cozy and intimate- doesn’t feel like San Antonio. I love how unassuming the outside is for how inviting the inside is. The service was quick and friendly. I can’t believe I forgot to take photos of all the food, but every thing we ordered was really good. Their menu is extensive, so I’m ready to come back and try more. The only item I would probably skip next time is the iced green tea.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №46

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №47

Great place for Japanese food. The service is very good. And I love the food. I liked the tempura shrimp with vegetables.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №48

Good food

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №49

Great food.
Hidden gem.
Must try

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №50

My whole life, I’ve been trying out Japanese restaurants. It’s a hobby of mine. I’ve finally find the best restaurant in my life. My personal favorite. The service, the atmosphere… is simply unparalleled and on a whole other level. I love this city more because this place exist. I’m grateful such an awesome place is in San Antonio.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №51

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №52

Family owned since 1970. Wow!! Hole in the wall and a neighborhood gem in San Antonio. Really love the family vibe here. I overheard the nice gentleman sharing stories that dates back in the 70s and the famous people that have passed through here. What a great history. Their sashimi and sushi were excellent. Hamachi was amazing. They offer full service Japanese cuisine which also includes the Japanese style, Seiza (sit on the floor) with private rooms. Excellent customer service ran by the family. There is plenty of parking. Entrance is at the back. Open Tuesday - Saturday for dinner only from 5:30PM to 10:00PM. Closed Sunday and Monday. I highly recommend. We will return.

Cheers!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №53

Celebrated my Brithday here and everything was perfect and delicious.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №54

Been meaning to try this place for a while. I heard the place was old, but I was surprised at how dark and dingy it was. The veggie tempura was the best thing I ate and would totally recommend it. The rest of my dinner was a miss. The teriyaki steak was extremely fatty and chewy. I wanted to like this place, but I just didn't.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №55

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №56

This place is very authentic. It reminds me of home cooked food in Japan. You won’t find specialty rolls or fusion as you find in most Japanese restaurants. For the real Japanese experience, try this place.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №57

Hidden gem. Traditional Sushi. Call for reservation or get there as soon as they open. I enjoyed everything I had .

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №58

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №59

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №60

The service is good but they seemed to not be happy when you don't book a reservation so plan in advance.
If you get past that you're treated to some really good service and food.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №61

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №62

Absolutely one of my favorite places to go when I’m in SA. The owner is an amazing guy and I love his charm. The food is also great! I can’t recommend this place enough! 6 stars!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №63

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №64

Mystified by the number of positive reviews. The place was like a dark dungeon that had an ancient carpet and musty stench from 50 years long gone. The nigiri and sashimi was mediocre at best, not the freshest but not spoiled either. Very few tables and no traditional sushi bar to sit at.

Service was good but not great, food quality was not worth it. Cannot in good faith recommend this place.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №65

A nice place , good experience.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №66

One of the most authentic Japanese restaurants I know in the states, and absolutely the most reasonable and generous.
It was impressive how many sashimis there were on the plate and it was only 32!
Everything was incredibly Japanese and tasty.
It doesn't look like a restaurant outside so this place is really a hidden gem. Haha
You definitely want to make a reservation. We walked in there and although they squeezed us in but it was a long wait.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №67

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №68

I came to this place after seeing it on a food blog and disappointment is an understatement.
Gyoza didn't have much flavor.
Yakisoba wasnt good either.
Udon soup was flavorful but I mean, it's not too hard to put noodles in a broth.
Hand rolls were full of rice.
The decor was falling apart, the area was weird, and the cleanliness was lacking.
I don't understand how this was pointed out as top places to eat in San Antonio.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №69

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №70

Niki's is one of those hole in the wall surprise. Authentic food, and great atmosphere. From the outside, it was hard to find. Very rustic. But great place for authentic Japanese dining.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №71

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №72

Honestly...I'm not sure what to put here. According to the ratings, everyone else loves it.

For me, the food was mediocre. The beef was overcooked, oversauced, and cold. The use of a paper towel to soak up the grease from the tempura was unappetizing. The lipstick on my sake cup was lazy. Waiting for one meal to come out and join the rest of us so we could all eat at the same time was irritable. The "authentic" sit/kneel dining experience was overshadowed by dated carpet, fake wood paneling falling off the wall, cottage cheese sparkly ceilings with water/grease infused stains...and a faux wood window air conditioner from the time when Friedrich was still making air conditioners here in San Antonio carved into the wall...

And the prices are extraordinary for what you are getting.

Sometimes I pay for ambiance and get bad food. Sometimes I pay for good food and get bad ambiance. This was just a sad experience all around.

I cannot believe I was in the same place eating the same food as the rest of the reviewers and was extremely hesitant to put my review here.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №73

Attention! Make a reservation before you come here. This place is usually crowded.

I have been coming this place for years and they always have the highest quality of food!

Personally, I like the chawamushi, tendon and unadon the most.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №74

The food was absolutely amazing here and we had great service. We got seated without a reservation but we were only a party of 2. The sushi and udon were incredible. The inside is so cozy and we loved the ambience. We opted not to do Japanese style seating since I didn’t have socks on, but next time we will definitely do it!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №75

By far the best restaurant i've ever been to. Delicious food, amazing atmosphere, consistent quality, plus they treat you with so much kindness and respect.. i dont even know what to say.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №76

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №77

Our favorite place to eat in San Antonio. We love the environment and food and awesome people that provide us with joys of life in an authentic restaurant.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №78

Perfect little hole in the wall place!! So quiet and dark it's perfect if you get overwhelmed by crowds and loud noises. Very affordable prices as well! Definitely a go to when you're in the area.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №79

Will forever love this restaurant 💕

One of the only places in SA with Japanese style seating and I ALWAYS order the Tempura Vegetables it's such a large portion for such a good price and this is such an enjoyable restaurant for me. I come at least 2x a month 🍱🍤🍣🍜✨️

*Pat is the best waiter and he's always telling funny jokes and takes the best care of us! Ask for him :)

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №80

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №81

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №82

The best Japanese food in San Antonio, now that Fujiya is gone.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №83

Delicious food.
Definitely recommending.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №84

This place has been around for a looong time and has consistently deliveted a great dining experience. You will need reservations if you want to sit in the tatami-style dining room. The food is always top-notch fresh and with lovely presentation.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №85

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №86

Sushi/sashimi is really fresh. The fish melts in your mouth.

Note, we chose the Japanese seating experience. The carpet is old (think 70s) and they do not have house slippers readily available to walk through the halls. Next time I’ll ask to be seated at table

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №87

I am very impressed. The staff was very nice and the atmosphere was so comfy. The food was remarkable and I am a very picky eater too. For $40 we (2 people) got full and had dinner in a private room at a traditional floor japanese table. 🥰We were asked to take our shoes off and get comfy. Best experience ever!
Make sure to make reservations prior! Atleast the day before.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №88

Authentic Japanese cuisine with authentic atmosphere (traditional Japanese and American seating). One of my favorite sushi places in town!!!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №89

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №90

I wish my review was more positive because we had a great experience, however we were treated like we were a borden and not welcome at all. The hostess was rude from the beginning until the time we were waiting! For every question asked we received a negative response from her end. It was an experience that we didn’t expected, neither deserve.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №91

The food was fantastic. I absolutely loved my yakaniku.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №92

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №93

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №94

Love the Tokyo dinner option!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №95

Hope you like really loud music 😂

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №96

Great experience.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №97

I can't say enough good things about this restaurant and staff. I was a little skeptical at first only because my diet and stomach doesn't allow for many eating adventures. However, this place was worth the dining experience alone. I was able to enjoy dining with my family in a relaxed, authentic dining atmosphere while having the best food at a more than reasonable price. Delicious food , excellent service at a more than reasonable price all make for the perfect dining experience. Don't hesitate to make a reservation and stop in and enjoy 😉. Thank you, Niki's Tokyo Inn ❤️

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №98

Sunomono - 9/10 - Fantastic - perfect example of a fresh cucumber salad. Refreshing, light, and delicious.

Tsukemono - 7/10 - Good - it’s a classic dish, and it tastes good if you’re into it, that’s about it.

Kushikatsu - 9/10 - fantastic - I coulda just had a pile of these for dinner. Freshly fried, perfectly crispy, seasoned well, onion in the middle was perfect.

Chawanmushi - 8/10 - great - custard was smooth, mushrooms were cooked well, flavor was nice, and not overly heavy. Probably would have been a 9/10 if it was cold outside.

Unadon - 9/10 - fantastic - rice was delicious, unagi was delicious. It’s a very simple dish, but the flavors here were great. Very warm and comforting.

Sushi Plate (Small Pieces) - 8/10 - great - well balanced, fish was fresh, rice was delicious and freshly cooked. My wife not a fan of the wasabi hidden in some of the sushi, but that’s a personal preference and not a reason to complain. I personally quite enjoyed it.

Total - $92.00

Despite its exterior appearance, there is a lot to love about Niki’s Tokyo Inn. Specifically, the food is fantastic, and that’s what matters after all.

Don’t forget to make a reservation. Haha

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №99

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №100

We had great food. Super fresh fishes. Very traditional Japanese restaurant. I definitely will come back.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №101

Amazing!! I’m going back for sure! I had the curry and it was delicious. The sushi was great too!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №102

Sushi was not good quality but it’s a lot of food

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №103

Super cool spot! Not many sushi roll options, but what we got was good!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №104

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №105

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №106

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №107

Service is always great, second behind the food!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №108

There is not a better quality Japanese restaurant south of Austin or west of Houston. Always best to call ahead for large groups.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №109

hands down the best food I've ever had at ANY restaurant. you cannot find Japanese food like this anywhere in San Antonio. the staff are super nice and attentive. me and my boyfriend have been going for over a year, sometimes twice a week!!! I cannot sit down at a restaurant without being disappointed that it's not nikis tokyo inn!!!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №110

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №111

Siempre voy por ramen, delicioso

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №112

One of the best authentic Japanese in San Antonio hands down.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №113

Most amazing, family owned Japanese restaurant in the city! Fresh product and amazing food. The miso soup, yellowtail, tuna, and especially the EEL are delicious. It's a bit pricey, but definitely worth it.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №114

Just went here for the first time today. Absolutely wonderful!!! Loved the Japanese style dining

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №115

The food itself is clean and delicious

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №116

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №117

This is authentic Japanese food and they have Western sitting which is sitting at a table or they have Japanese style which is sitting on the floor on pillows. their food, regardless of what you order is excellent, if you have never been there then try the 10 course are 8 course meal it'll give you a little bit of everything so that you know what are your favorites. service is always excellent and everything tastes wonderful, they even have private rooms for large groups if you reserve one.
Their sushi bar is extensive with a variety of items to choose from they have a wide variety of beers and wine as well.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №118

I would so recommend this place

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №119

I had the Tokio Dinner combo which had a little bit of everything. It was fresh and lots of food. I ordered the dessert and would skip it next time. Best to make reservations before you come. Also, only open for dinner and parking is limited. Loved the presentation and taste. Coming back with my honey. P.s. we both enjoyed the unfiltered sake and teriyaki beef and the suhsi

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №120

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №121

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №122

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №123

Great food and friendly staff. The best thing is the atmosphere. This is how I imagine it would be if I walk into a sushi place in a small alley in Japan.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №124

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №125

The food's honestly really good, but the sushi chef is terribly rude bordering on aggressive. Entering the restaurant we were snapped at asking if we had a reservation, rather than greeted. I got the distinct impression that she was discriminating against us because we were non Japanese or something. It sounded as if she was trash talking us and eavesdropping on customers conversations. It's a shame I don't feel welcomed there, because the food is honestly great and reasonably priced. I'd recommend trying it, but hopefully you have a better experience than we did.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №126

The host was RUDE. It was our first time trying this place, the host asked if we had a reservation. When we said no, she sighed and shook her head like she was annoyed we would even bother coming if we didn’t have a reservation. We just walked out. If you’re stressed with your job, take it out on your employer, not the guests.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №127

Edit: They are not so nice now. The older gentleman is but not so much the young man. Two not so great experiences and I can’t justify it.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №128

Awesome it was Awesome!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №129

Food was great. Super small resturaunt. Call ahead. Waitress was nice but past 2 times hostess has been unfriendly. Also very expensive.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №130

As always, this place hits home runs. I love the service, food and authentic atmosphere. You can tell the roots go deep here. Give it a try and you won't regret it.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №131

Just had a delicious dinner at Niki’s Tokyo Inn! This restaurant has been around since 1970. It’s San Antonio’s first family owned Japanese restaurant. It’s the place to go for authentic Japanese cuisine! I’m so glad they survived the pandemic. We enjoyed sitting at the bar though you can sit Japanese style at a table. To start they bring you a hot towel to clean your hands and a small cucumber salad with octopus. We then shared a Asahi Super Dry beer with hot sake. For my entree I ordered the Chirashi bowl which was excellent. My wife had the tempura vegetables and Yakitori Dinner both were fantastic.
If you like real Japanese food, this is the place to go!! It’s a hidden gem. Check out my photos:

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №132

Outstanding food and service

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №133

Would definitely recommend. I don't know if 5 stars is enough. The staff was very friendly and helpful. The atmosphere is unique and comfortable. The food was some of the best I've had.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №134

Best sushi ever . Always fresh . always delicious. They have traditional seating on the floor as well western table and chairs. Best green tea you'll ever have, amazing mochi. Whatever you order you cant go wrong .

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №135

NOT WORTH THE HYPE. This place gets a barely passing D bc we didn’t get sick. The chirashi sushi was disgustingly fishy, we couldn’t even finish it. Go to Mon Thai

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №136

Bussing

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №137

I spent 4 years in Okinawa and Tokiyo Japan so my palate knows real sushi. This is the ONLY place I gone to in San Antonio that it's close to stepping into Japan. If you love Japanese cuisine then you MUST go to Nikki's Tokoyo Restaurant. Love it, love it, LOVE IT.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №138

Amazing

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №139

Environment is wonderful like Tokyo but super loud rude … the person in front was so mean to my son. Super loud . Not kind to costumer. If you go you will mad most time it is super ugly mean people .. you need be waited for your food around 1 hours. Horrible

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №140

Niki's serves the best Sushi I and my wife have ever had. We've been going for 36 years and it's been consistent every time. The service is outstanding. We love it!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №141

They got the best service and the food are all fresh

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №142

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №143

It’s authentic Japanese cuisines. You should come in and try it!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №144

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №145

I had the Tokyo dinner and it was delicious! The sashimi was tasty and fresh. The tempura was excellent. Crispy and hot with great flavor. And the grilled hamachi was just like I like it, with a crispy skin and flaky meat. This is my second time here and I will continue to come. Love this place.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №146

This place is a hidden gem. It is genuinely authentic. Perfect for me, not so much for my husband. The sushi isn't your typical sushi, it's truly Japanese style. Raw! So you'll have to be willing to try it. We were able to visit Tokyo before the world turned upside down and yes, it's definitely Tokyo vibes. You have the option of sitting at a table or Japanese style. So cool! We had our baby so we opted for the regular table. Heads up, it's a small location so call ahead for reservations.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №147

If I could give it a bajillion stars…it wouldn’t be enough. The food…each item that I ate…was absolutely and insanely delicious. So special and wonderful. I felt like I was walking into a secret world…..full of flavor and kindness.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №148

Delicious Japanese foods

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №149

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №150

Great atmosphere, amazing food, nice little gem

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №151

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №152

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №153

One of the best restaurants in town. The food, employees, and atmosphere are top notch.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №154

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №155

You know, as a self-proclaimed Foodie, Quality of Food is pretty important for me; but even more important for me (to get that 5-Star Rating), it’s Great Service! That genuine, down-home Service that comes across as sincere Kindness and makes you feel Welcomed and Appreciated for visiting; Yep, that’s what this place does! Definitely one of the Best Customer Service experiences I’ve received in a while—and to top it off, the Food was Super-Delicious as well! Don’t let the small building fool you as it’s been around for 52 years already so it offers a homey, down to earth ambiance with a decor of days past but the Service and the Food are so Good, everything just falls into place! From Great Appetizers/ Soups 🍲; to Wraps/ Sushi 🍣; to Tempura Family Plates and even Curry🍛, this place is a MUST TRY if you Enjoy Japanese Cuisine! But bring a Great Attitude and this Family-Run Business will smother you with Great Genuine Kindness and Customer Service! Heck, we didn’t even have a reservation and they still accommodated us for Dinner! Totally Enjoyed my evening with the Daughter and definitely glad she suggested this new spot for dinner; oh, and don’t forget their Wonderful Desserts—definitely the cherry that tops off the Evening! 👍🏽

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №156

Best sushi place in San Antonio, make sure to call for reservations!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №157

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №158

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №159

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №160

Food was great. Service fantastic

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №161

Can't say much about it since my wife and I didn't eat there due to not having a reservation. Nowhere did it say reservation required. But what I can say is that the lighting is not like the pictures, it's much darker, and it was warm. I can understand needing a reservation because you could probably sit 15 to 20 people.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №162

Everything was good. Confused on fortune Cookie with Bill.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №163

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №164

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №165

We tried a lot and it was all fantastic.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №166

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №167

Fabulous food, excellent traditional sushi. You have to try the fried rice.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №168

Authentic and delicious.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №169

Starting with the entrance, it is in the back of the building. When you come in and if you have a very sensitive nose, you can smell the old carpet probably due to no sunlight can get inside.
The traditional Japanese table definitely adds into the calming and relaxing atmosphere. Food is great for the price, We ordered severak dishes from the menu. Sashimi is fresh. Tempura batter is light and airy. Ribeye steak is chewy and doesn't seem to be a good quality steak. Ramen comes in a big portion with a lot of noddles. My husband loves the broth, but to me is a bit sweet to my personl taste. Overall, ramen is a great deal for only $9. I can easily see other places charge $15, $16 for the same bowl of ramen.
Don't come in hungry or expect a quick dinner. The service is slower than other restaurants, but to me it adds to the calming vibe of this place. Overall, definitely recommend this place. Decent food, good price, and great (but a bit slow) service.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №170

Perfect spot if you are open minded and like traditional sushi! We come eat here every time we’re in town.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №171

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №172

Building looks a little neglected.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №173

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №174

Order chicken teriyaki to go & it came with extras! It was all very good 👍🏻 Would return & recommend

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №175

My Favorite!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №176

As recommended to by a close friend, I simply loved my experience at Niki's Tokyo Inn. Requiring reservations is an odd yet understandable choice, keeping order and structure helps this small business running and it does run very well. The atmosphere is small, cozy and humble with an almost mystical door that takes you from San Antonio, TX to Tokyo, Japan. The interior is very beautiful and simply Japanese in the best way possible. The staff were curt and incredibly respectful to every customer. The interesting option of traditional Japanese seated areas or table and chairs was a unique and wonderful taste of Japan. I took the seated area with friends. The food I had was the Japanese Dinner, simple name and yet what was brought was a wave after wave of culture and traditional servings of soup, salads, and then ultimately our main course. Beautiful plating with sauces and dippings galore. Everything was freshly prepared and in other cases, lightly fried to perfection. I won't give away too much about what they served but I will say, you can not go wrong with this place. A perfect score for a perfect meal. Thank you for the food, Niki's Tokyo Inn.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №177

Great food n service!! Loved it,appetizers are wonderful,great service!! Highly recommend!!✌

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №178

We booked a reservation here for 8:00pm, we arrived 10 minutes early, our entrees were served at 9:00pm. I didn’t like their food, sukiyaki was bland, the menu said it comes with sides like sumono and wanton but I only got white rice. Terriyaki beef and ramen was okay, not really great. I didn’t feel that our server took care of us because he’s always MIA. If you choose their traditional seating and need to go to the restroom, they only have two sizes of slippers, which means everybody uses the same two slippers 🤢 gross. And my oh my, their toilet was so hard to use, you’re basically 2inch away from the wall and the door. I gave 3 starts because the old man who greeted us was nice and their saba sushi was good. I think we’re not coming back here.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №179

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №180

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №181

We had a wonderful experience! Went for my daughter's 13th bday and sat in a private room. The food was authentic and fresh. It'svowned by a family and you could feel the love and hospitality in their service. The chef peeked in a few times to make sure everything was to our expectations. This place doesnt look like much from the outside but is a hidden gem! So glad my daughter chose to celebrate her special day at this wonderful mom and pop shop!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №182

The sit-down dining is a great experience alongside the great food! Everyone loved their food! Just don't judge the book by it's cover here!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №183

Great food, great service!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №184

Excellent nigiri sushi, in true Japanese old fashioned style the pieces of fish are very large, thick and fresh, and the rice is so fresh it is still slightly warm and has the correct zing of vinegar to create sushi rice. None of that terrible cold flavorless hard rice you find at so many fake sushi places these days. In addition to the great sushi it is awesome to have this literal time capsule of a restaurant, operating continuously and without seemingly any change for fifty years by the same Japanese American family. I visited recently after being away from San Antonio for 25 years and it was exactly the same as when I was in college. Although dated the restaurant interior is clean and in good shape. Here’s to another fifty years!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №185

really wonderful authentic Japanese cuisine.
you get the option to sit regular OR sit on the floor, but for that you do have to take off your shoes.
*wear socks please. just personal preference
lol
be cautious because it is dark lighting when you walk in, but don't worry. your eyes will adjust to it.
*which probably explains on why they're only open at certain times during the day.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №186

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №187

The food is incredible and the prices are more than reasonable.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №188

An experience for sure. Make sure you have a reservation because they fill up fast! Came in to find out they don’t have a table available for another two hours. Then got lucky, they said if we paid $10 for a private room we could sit immediately which was great. We took off our shoes and sat on the floor and it was nice and cozy. Ordered food which was all GREAT. Fried rice, sushi plate was beautiful, edamame, tempura. The only reason I give this less stars is because of the two inch cockroach that flew onto my friend’s shoulder at the very end, and then flew onto the table. That ended dinner very quickly. Otherwise, FOOD was delicious and we had a very nice waitress!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №189

Had a nice, traditional Japanese dinner with an excellent waiter. He was very engaging, and the food was good and fresh. Down side is the building maintenance/aestetics.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №190

Thank you for giving us how wonderful time!! I have been here in the USA for around three years but I have never eaten such delicious Japanese foods. Also all the staff were really kind and they accepted our crazy request to take a picture with chef! It is so nice memories. Especially I love Chawanmushi. Try it!

There are no sign in front of the restaurant so it is so difficult to find but if you find it you definitely get a great time.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №191

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №192

Oh...My...God!!! Went for the first time (with my daughter), floor seating, dark, traditional. We started off with Edamame then we both ordered the Tempura Ramen. O....M....G!!!! Heaven!!! Heaven!!! I want to go back....now :) Next, Yakisoba!!! Yumm!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №193

My fiance had been telling me about this place ever since Nov 2020 when I moved to San Antonio and finally for my 20th birthday we went there with a friend. Although I spent a mini fortune of $118 for my fiance and I, I wanted to try an array of food.
For appetizers we got gyoza, yakitori skewers and 2 HUGE eggrolls that were all awesome but I was really impressed with the yakitori skewers.
My fiance got sea urchin sushi and eel sushi which he fell in love with and I got a shrimp roll which I didn't personally care all too much for but I'm an HEB sushi kind of gal so I'm not blaming them.
For the main dishes I got beef curry & rice and my fiance got the teriyaki salmon dinner special thing. I'm telling you, that curry is just as good as the one I make from home and for a reasonable price of $10 for a more than filling portion, I think that's amazing.
Lastly we got some desert and let me tell you those strawberry icecream mochis were so good!! A perfect way to wrap up the meal.
All in all, I really loved the food and the service was great. I felt like the woman serving my table was at my beckon even with 5 other tables to serve. Definitely recommend this place!
Sidenote: They also have traditional Japanese seating on the floor but would recommend making a reservation to make sure you can have that experience 💜

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №194

Let me start by saying this is a hidden gem. If you want authentic Japanese food this is by far the PLACE. The atmosphere is very calm, quiet, and small. Their is japanese setting rooms like omg, how awesome, and of course tables. You start with a hot towel to clean your hands, which is soo refreshing and a small bowl of salad with octopus meat. I ordered ramen cause it just fit with the atmosphere and I'm so glad I did. IT WAS THE BEST RAMEN I EVER HAD! I always wanted to try
authentic ramen like not with all the extra stuff just soy sauce broth and pork that has been marinated in it. As I'm writing this I so want to go back! 🤤 My husband had a fish mackerel and he loved how flavorful it was, soft, and no heavy fishy odor. It was very fresh. I definitely recommend this place especially if your wanting to experience a little bit of Tokyo!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №195

Great food and great atmosphere. Very friendly staff.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №196

Most authentic Japanese food in San Antonio by a long shot. They do not americanize their dishes at all. Don't go in expecting a Spurs Roll or something covered in hot cheetos. This is the real deal.

The food, the smells, the ambience here are just like what we experienced when we were in Japan.

Just be sure to make reservations or you'll be waiting a couple hours for a table. The floor seating is authentic and is fun for awhile, but if you're not used to sitting like that it can get uncomfortable pretty quick.

Go with a group and share a variety of things to find what you like. The tempura is expertly fried, the sashimi is fresh and the rice is done just right. The ramen is only so-so, but still better than a lot of other places in town.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №197

The food was very hit or miss. Some of it was actually quite delicious while other parts were straight up inedible (fish was obviously too old). I'd recommend caution going to this place if it's your first time.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №198

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №199

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №200

It’s was damn good.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Details
  • 14 sushi photos
  • 200 sushi reviews
  • 4.5 Sushi Rating
  • Reservations: +1 210-736-5471
  • Sushi Address: 819 W Hildebrand Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States
  • Sushi Map: 29.466655099999997, -98.50702249999999
Specialties
  • Japanese restaurant
  • Sushi restaurant
Sushi Hours
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 5:30–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 5:30–10 PM
  • Thursday: 5:30–10 PM
  • Friday: 5:30–10 PM
  • Saturday: 5:30–10 PM
Service options
  • Takeaway: Available
  • Dine-in: Available
  • Delivery: Available
Highlights
  • Fast service: Available
  • Great tea selection: Available
Popular for
  • Lunch: Available
  • Dinner: Available
  • Solo dining: Available
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible car park: Available
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance: Available
  • Wheelchair-accessible seating: Available
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet: Available
Offerings
  • Alcohol: Available
  • Beer: Available
  • Comfort food: Available
  • Healthy options: Available
  • Late-night food: Available
  • Small plates: Available
  • Spirits: Available
  • Wine: Available
Dining options
  • Lunch: Available
  • Dinner: Available
  • Dessert: Available
  • Seating: Available
Amenities
  • Bar on site: Available
  • Toilets: Available
Atmosphere
  • Casual: Available
  • Cosy: Available
  • Romantic: Available
  • Trendy: Available
Crowd
  • Groups: Available
  • Tourists: Available
  • University students: Available
Planning
  • Dinner reservations recommended: Available
  • Accepts reservations: Available
Payments
  • Credit cards: Available
  • Debit cards: Available
  • NFC mobile payments: Available
  • Credit cards: Available
Children
  • High chairs: Available
Parking
  • Free of charge street parking: Available
  • Free parking lot: Available
  • Parking: Available