Nasime Japanese Restaurant

1209 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

Nasime Japanese Restaurant
About This Sushi Bar

Ginza-trained chef offers broad-ranging Japanese tasting menu in lovely, traditional surrounds.

Sushi Reviews
Sushi Experience №1

This place made me feel like I was back visiting Japan. Everything we ate made me feel warm and comforted. The food was beautiful but the taste so authentic and genuine. We stumbled upon this restaurant looking for reservations on Resy and wow we were so lucky. The prices are super reasonable for what you get and you could tell the chef really is talented and kind. I would absolutely recommend to my friends and family and will be frequenting this place quite often now that I know that it exists!

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №2

We had been waiting for a chance to have enough foresight to make a reservation here, and it exceeded expectations. Tremendous service, intimate, quiet setting, outstanding meal, phenomenal sake! Wow! We will be back.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №3

Yet another phenomenal special birthday enjoyed with Nasime. There is always such beauty in the dishes that look so simple yet taste quite complex. Chef Shimomura and his delightful partner are truly welcoming and serve up perfect dish after perfect dish with kindness. Seven incredible courses for $95 per person plus reasonably priced drinks is a marvelous deal. I always walk out of Nasime feeling both satisfied and full of gratitude.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №4

This place is a real gem. You can't get more authentic Japanese cooking anywhere else. It's hard to get a reservation but worth the time.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №5

A fantastic taste of premium Japanese food, my partner and I could not enjoy each course more.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №6

This is an omakase fixed plate restaurant.
These 7 courses were all amazing. The chef came out and asked what was favorite and it was hard to choose.
Sashimi course was excellent, of course, but the lamb chop with uni sauce bested that. The oyster noodle soup on this chilly night was soulful and warming.

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №7

Perfectly walks the line between accessible and authentic! Excellent sake pairing and the seabass was delectable

Visited 2 months ago

Sushi Experience №8

Has six-course omakase. Each dish was specially prepared and the chef was diligent in allergies. The size of the restaurant requires reservations but it is great for birthdays. We also ordered sturgeon caviar and sea urchin which were amazing!

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №9

Second visit as good as the first. Excellent menu and nice variety of dishes. You have to be open to everything as there are no options on the menu. Not for everyone, but amazing if you enjoy a solid tasting menu.

Visited 3 months ago

Sushi Experience №10

Fsntstic. !

Visited 4 months ago

Sushi Experience №11

There is a reason this omakase restaurant is in the top 10 for the dmv. It's because the attention to detail on all the food is exceptional as is the flavor.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №12

Nasime is a MUST-do dining experience if you are within the DMV area. Every single visit we are constantly impressed by the freshness of the dishes, the unique rotating menu and seasonal Japanese delicacies. It's a small venue that only seats about 15 people total; reservations a must. It lives up to the hype... Usually it's a fixed menu that rotates with 7 dishes and dessert. Sake and alcohol offerings are authentic and served well.

Make the trip to Old Town Alexandria early, grab a drink and head in for a wonderful dining experience.

Visited 5 months ago

Sushi Experience №13

Each dish was amazing tasting, and was full by the end. The Wagyu, soup, and Ice cream at the end were especially spectacular.

Visited 6 months ago

Sushi Experience №14

Fantastic experience! The food is creative and delicious, and the chef honors classic Japanese dishes with twists that are unexpected but revelatory. Wonderful flavor combinations and quality is top-notch. The service is warm and welcoming. The sake pairings were perfectly matched to the courses. Truly exceptional in every way.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №15

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №16

Michelin-like experience in a small welcoming intimate setting where you feel the full attention of the chef and the host. Each serving has a story, The dishes come out fresh, simple, and full of flavors intentionally sequenced to lead on a culinary ballad in this gastronomic garden of eden in 7 stages ( biblical number for creation )

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №17

Amazing dining experience, one of the best we have had.
My gf said she would eat the food even if it had fallen on the floor. Highly recommend. Staff is super nice and welcoming.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №18

Everything that came out was really good but the timing for us was very slow. It took about 2 hours but I think it can be reduced to 1.5 hours.

Visited 7 months ago

Sushi Experience №19

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №20

We're lucky to have an authentic kaiseki restaurant in the DMV. I dined here for a special occasion, the food and experience was extraordinary. The cocktails were fantastic. They also serve Orion beer, which is difficult to find and delicious.

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №21

What an experience! Chef is a master of his craft. Flavor, texture, aroma, all senses are firing throughout each course! Menu changes daily for freshness! Server was very knowledgeable about pairings and which sashimi should be eaten as is. This is on my list every time I am in the DC area.

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №22

Amazing service and menu, the mocktails are fantastic too!

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №23

Visited 8 months ago

Sushi Experience №24

My husband and I went to this restaurant a while ago,but we always the experience here in Nasime. He is not a fan of raw fish,but every dish we tried in here, he liked!

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №25

Visited 9 months ago

Sushi Experience №26

Dang. This was probably one of the best meals I’ve had in the DMV. The wagyu might be one of the best things I’ve eaten ever. Buttery, fragrant, so freaking good.

Yeah, it’s pricey, but tbh really worth it. You definitely don’t leave hungry. It’s not crowded and pretty quiet. The limited drink menu is more than enough and v delicious. I recommend the nikka coffee highball and the sake yuzu cocktail. Very pleased (: thank you team! Nom nom nom.

Visited 10 months ago

Sushi Experience №27

Blown away! Very intimate setting with amazing food. Both chef and waitress were SO nice. Had the best experience here and will 100% be back! Old Town is lucky to have this place

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №28

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №29

Nondescript restaurant in old town that serves excellent Japanese food. Small and intimate, the staff were conversational and friendly. I had the prie fixe with sashimi, lamb chop, sea bass and dessert. Price is reasonable for quality of food. Will return if in town.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №30

Fantastic. One of the best kept secrets of Alexandria. Can't wait to come back.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №31

First class experience! Came here for my birthday. This is a michelin star place waiting to be found. Unreal value and unbelievable product. Don’t hesitate for a second about your next special meal!! Ps sit at the bar

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №32

This is a 3 Michelin star place without having it. It’s absolutely incredible, must come, special occasion I don’t care come here!!

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №33

I’ve noticed that every experience (this was my third visit) is unquestionably special, and each ingredient is hand selected for freshness and flavor.

I’ve found that each visit is phenomenal within its own right and each time service is outstanding, the selection and pairings are thoughtfully selected for multi layer palate experience.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №34

An incredible experience.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №35

Great 5 course tasting menu. Definitely add the sake pairing. Knowledgeable and attentive staff. Sashimi and Truffle Beef courses were outstanding.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №36

I believe the restaurant has 2 seatings a night. We entered all at once as the restaurant emptied out with the diners before us. This was close to a no frills omakase - service was acceptable but not fine dining and the setting itself is also more on the plain side. Again, nothing wrong with it but be prepared to not be dazzled. The first half of the meal came out very slowly and then sped up to a level we weren't quite finished with the larger dishes as the next course was ready. So timing needs work.
The food is absolutely delicious. This isn't just straight forward raw fish or basic soup. Each dish is crafted with thought and creativity - very impressive delivery of flavors. The dessert was underwhelming melted ice cream, but everything else was fantastic. We were told the menu changes pretty much daily so we will definitely be back to try more.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №37

I love omakase style and this meal did a great job bringing many of the fall flavors of Japan out. It brought my husband and I back to our honeymoon. The food was tasty and the server was friendly. They were able to accommodate my dairy limitations and provided an equally amazing dessert for us. I would absolutely recommend it

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №38

Small restaurant with clean aesthetic. Had reservations for dinner. The tasting menu had a variety of seafood and other meat dishes. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was great. Would definitely return.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №39

Nasime is an excellent representation of Japanese cuisine and reminds me of the intimate kaiseki restaurants I enjoyed while living in Japan, but with creative touches that elevate the food beyond traditional presentation. There is a set menu of 7 courses for $95/pp, which I think is an excellent value given the high quality of the food and the opportunity to enjoy Japanese dishes that aren’t usually served in the US. The menu is always changing because of its focus on seasonal ingredients. They serve kettl tea, which is an excellent shop in New York that works directly with small producers in Japan. The restaurant has limited seating so reservations are recommended.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №40

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №41

I am unsure what the previous reviewer thought was bad about the food. The food was STUNNING. the Wagyu beef was amazing and an out of body experience. It's helpful to brush up a little on Japanese food etiquette so you don't feel out of place or do something totally inappropriate like stick your chopsticks in the food straight up and down, lol. (always place chopsticks back on rester that they give you when you are not using them. bring small bowls to you to eat and don't bend towards the food. Always replace dishes to their original place they were set when you are done as an indicator that they can pick the food up. and good grief don't actually use the soy sauce for the sashimi course because IT DOESN'T NEED IT. Don't stab food with chopsticks. don't rest chopsticks on the bowl) The food was elegantly and perfectly prepared, but this isn't the restaurant for you if you don't care for Japanese style cuisine.
I wouldn't sit anywhere except the bar; it's very interesting watching the chef work and when he's not working very hard and concentrating, sometimes he'll make small talk with you. (p.s. always accept food with both hands if he reaches out and hands you things!) There seemed to be a bit larger portions than three years ago when I ate there, so that's my only complaint that the proportions seemed a bit off in terms of what a reasonable person might be expected to finish eating. I suspect this is because people complained about the portions and so they increased that, which is too bad because I think the overall balance and symmetry was a bit heavy towards the end and reflected very western tastes in terms of portions. We honestly tried to finish all the food because it is very rude not to finish one's food in Japanese culture, but the last noodle course was absolutely impossible to finish with the amount of food it had. This is a perfect "date night" spot. Plan on two hours and make sure to locate parking garages that are open late ahead of time! You probably won't find street parking, lol. If you are coming with your date, plan on at least $150 per person with drinks. That being said, I believe it's definitely worth it.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №42

The food was not good. The waitress shamed us for not finishing courses, but kept our water glasses full. The restaurant atmosphere is really nice. But if you sit at the bar, you'll hear him doing dishes.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №43

Amazing food. I've been here twice and both times have been extremely memorable dining experiences. Great place to celebrate special occasions.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №44

Have been here four times and it's always been incredible. In fact, the food seems to only get better each time we go. The owners are personable and talented! The sashimi course is guaranteed to be delicious, and the wagyu with truffle sauce is a rare constant on the shifting seasonal menu I'm always happy to see arrive.

It's a real gem in Old Town, Alexandria.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №45

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №46

Amazing tasting menu. Always something new and different.

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №47

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №48

Absolutely fantastic! 10 out of 10. A cozy, excellent dining experience with perfectly crafted dishes. We got the sake pairings and I highly recommend! Curated for each course, the sake complemented the meal

Visited a year ago

Sushi Experience №49

Just the most amazing Japanese restaurant for the price. Omakase is just excellent every time we visit.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №50

This is the best restaurant on King St. In old town. This is a must visit establishment in Alexandria. Always delicious always unique. The quality of the cuisine is top notch. Get a reservation early! Smaller establishment with fewer tables and two seatings nightly. You need to plan ahead to get a table. It’ll be worth your time. You will not be disappointed.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №51

Overall I enjoyed celebrating my birthday at this restaurant. Some dishes like the asparagus and lamb chop was salty but super flavorful. The portion of the foods were generous. The sashimi portion was also generous and filling. The dessert was underwhelming and salty. Would def recommend the place to reduce less salt. Chef is super nice and friendly! The service was alright since the waitress did not let me sit while I wait for my party and have my reservation on the name. I would not expect this service from an omakase. Overall I still recommend this place!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №52

Fantastic service, food and great chat with the chef. Menu always changes - another incentive to come back!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №53

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №54

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №55

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №56

This place is a total gem. Each course was exquisite with unique but comforting flavors. Incredible sake selection and the sashimi course was so fresh. Every other dish was delicious. Our favorite was the yuba wrapped fish with fresh cucumber, asparagus, and sesame dressing. The dessert was incredible too. Amazing umami. And everyone who worked there was so lovely!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №57

Fantastic meal! One of the most memorable dinners in the DMV. Hope to be back soon!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №58

This was maybe the best food I've ever had. Highly recommend!! The drinks were also delicious. The service was excellent. The atmosphere was a little off, I think the other tables would be perfect but we were seated by a storage door and the drinks refrigerator. I understand it's a small space though.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №59

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №60

Great atmosphere but all the food tasted burnt.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №61

One of the best meals i’ve ever had in DC which is saying a lot because I love food. Everything was fresh, unique, and delicious. Highly recommend for a date night or celebration! Don’t sleep on Nasime! Note that this is a very small restaurant with 4 tables and a bar that fits 6 people - definitely make reservations in advance!

Edit: went back March of 2023 and it’s still just as divine as the first time!!! Run don’t walk!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №62

Das bestes japanische Restaurant, welches ich kenne!
Super lecker, tolles Personal und sehr schön eingerichtet.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №63

Delicious 2 hour experience!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №64

I love Japanese food and this is one of the best dining experiences I've ever had. Their tasting menu was so delightful. Every course had great flavors of fresh ingredients and the waitress always gave a full explanation of each dish. My husband did the sake pairing and really enjoyed the way each glass truly complimented each dish. I had a highball with the Japanese whiskey of the day which was light and refreshing the way they prepared it. The wagyu short rib with truffle sauce was one of the best bites I've ever eaten. I would come back just for that. So glad I put us on the wait-list for this Friday night reservation and a spot became available. I saw couples turned away for dinner because they were full. This place is really small and maybe seats 10 people so there are probably very few opportunities to just walk in and sit down. I would highly recommend making a reservation well in advance. Also do not come here to dine unless you have time to really sit and enjoy your meal. The courses come out slowly. We had a 6pm reservation and didn't get up to leave til around 8:30pm. The meal is well worth the time and money.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №65

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №66

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №67

Overall , there’s seating for 8-10 ppl at a time in the entire restaurant. I forgot to let them know about our egg intolerance via resy and they were able to still accommodate. I felt bad about that as several original dishes had egg in them, but glad they were able to deviate from the menu a little to accommodate us.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №68

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №69

An incredible experience. The food, service and atmosphere were wonderful. Secure the next available reservation, and go!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №70

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №71

I would give six stars if I could. Intimate setting, excellent and attentive service, and above all else, exceptional food—meticulously executed, finest ingredients, and incredibly delicious!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №72

If you want something different from your usual japanese food, this is the place to go. All the menu in the course is well thought out, and packed with flavor. From what I've tasted, they even had their soy sauce prepared differently. My favorites from this season's menu were Spanish Octopus and sea bass. Uni Sauce has just enough saltiness and the octopus was fried well, which made the octopus melt in the mouth. Seabass has this amazing wine reduction sauce with a kick of soy, and was amazing.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №73

The best Japanese in the area.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №74

Easily our favorite Japanese restaurant in the Washington area. We had another wonderful dinner there last night with visiting family. All agreed: Nasime SHOULD have a Michelin star!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №75

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №76

They didn't kill us

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №77

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №78

One of the must visit restaurants in DMV area. It is a small restaurant and only takes few customers everyday with unique exclusive menu that changes everyday. The quality definitely upgraded to the next level in comparison to few years ago. Decors of this restaurant are not fancy or give you sense of welcoming. However, it attracts return customers over and over again based on the taste, quality, and the freshness of its ingredients.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №79

Really great experience. Each dish was very different and amazing in it's own way! It reminded us of restaurants we visited in Japan.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №80

Everything was fantastic! Could not recommend it more! The highball whiskey yuzu drink was amazing. The sake flight was wonderful as they chose a different sake to go with each course. My first time trying sashimi didn't disappoint!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №81

Great food, no doubt! The sake recommendations are awesome. 👍🏻

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №82

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №83

Very cozy atmosphere to eat excellent food. Prices are reasonable for a seven course meal of gourmet Japanese food. Only by reservations.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №84

Cozy, unpretentious atmosphere coupled with an impeccable fine dining experience.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №85

dont make a reservation! they’ll rip you off even if you stay with the cancelation policy.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №86

Unbelievable creativity and execution.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №87

The best Japanese food in the DMV area! Very intimate home style, chef prepares every course whole heartedly. The ingredients are the best quality you can get. At this place, you are truly peacefully tasting and enjoying a meal.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №88

Nasime is a treasure.
The staff are both knowledgeable, and thoughtful. The food is exquisite.
I have learned something on every visit, and deeply appreciated elements of every dish and drink they’ve served.
More than that, each meal here has become a lovely memory.

They took such good care of us on our recent anniversary that we felt compelled to pay the recommendation forward.
This is a wonderful place worth supporting.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №89

This is the Asian fine dining pinnacle of Old Town. Amazing service, food. Price is decent for the experience. Books up about 6 weeks out.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №90

Meticulously-prepared food both in taste and presentation.

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №91

By far the BEST meal I’ve ever had. You can taste just how fresh the ingredients are, and the sashimi we had was impeccable. Our favorite meal was the octopus and to say it was the best thing I have ever eaten is an understatement. Nasime is an emotional experience, a culinary masterpiece. It is well worth every penny and I believe everyone should get to experience such AMAZING cuisine at least once in their life. It’s a bit pricey but I promise you won’t regret it!

Visited 2 years ago

Sushi Experience №92

This is the most expensive resturant I've ever dined at, but I'll be saving up and coming back! We had 7 course dinner (Chilled Tofu Surinagashi, Seared Wagyu, Otsukuri/Sashimi, Octopus Karaage, Seabass and Eggplant Agedashi, Cold Ramen with Pork, and then Ice Cream on Shaved Ice). Since some of these items are distinctly summer dishes, I'm really excited to return during different seasons.

The seating is very limited and we made reservations weeks in advance (may not be necessary for weekdays). We ate really slowly and despite being the last people at the resturant, we were never rushed. The server was very kind and described each dish in detail and answered all questions. My friend and I went in very hungry and came out happily (very) full. Each portions are small to medium sized, but it really added up.

We both had a delightful experience and look forward to the other seasonal dishes.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №93

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №94

It was a wonderful experience. Everything was amazing, the dishes was, besides the taste, very pretty. The service was perfect.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №95

One of the best dinners I've ever had! We went here for our 6th anniversary and everything was fantastic. The service was also wonderful and our server took the time to tell us about each dish and the sake pairings. Thank you to the amazing chef and staff at Nasime!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №96

A delicious and beautifully prepared Japanese tasting menu experience! Will certainly be back!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №97

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №98

The food was good, but the desert... not so much.
Nice place though.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №99

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №100

Great food and service. Only one chef and one staffer...patience is a virtue but well worth it.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №101

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №102

Came for my bday meal and didn't disappoint. Amazing deal for top quality, execution and service.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №103

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №104

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №105

The food was absolutely AMAZING! It is expensive, but it is well worth it. The place is very small which makes for a very chill atmosphere. I left very full and very satisfied! I forgot in my reservation I put we were celebrating our anniversary and it was printed on our chocolate for dessert! Sorry the pictures don't do it justice. The octopus and mushrooms was perfect!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №106

Already ate dinner at another restaurant on King.. Read all the great reviews and just wanted to try some sake before heading to the Kennedy center for a concert. Was turned away because they "don't have the license to serve just sake without also serving food" apparently. Was really excited to see what they had to offer. Very disappointed.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №107

Dined here for the first time and was not disappointed! The tasting menu is reasonably priced for the amount of delicious food and the braised Chilean sea bass with fiddle leaf fern (pictured) was my favorite by far. Everything was so flavorful and the entire experience felt authentic. We also did the sake pairing and every description provided was spot on and went so well with the accompanying dish. We'll be coming back again!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №108

Wonderful food, great service - Nasime is our favorite Alexandria restaurant!

2 years after leaving, and it's only gotten better!

Call before you visit to make a reservation - it's both popular and small.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №109

Seriously the best Japanese food I've ever eaten. Very intimate environment and made my wife and I feel special for a great birthday dinner. Pretty pricey, but worth it for a special occasion.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №110

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №111

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №112

Absolutely incredible food and customer service. Intimate atmosphere with true authentic food, the waitress and chef genuinely care how you enjoy the food whether it’s your first time or 50th. Well worth the price as it’s expertly curated both the food and sake menu. Highly recommend the sake pairing as the waitress gave a detailed description of each one and they genuinely paired so well with the food. Very accommodating to any questions. Excited to come back!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №113

Great value for authentic Japanese cuisine with ingredients directly from Japan. Excellent Japanese beer sake selection to pair with delicious dishes.

STK

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №114

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №115

This place was Outstanding! Every single plate was divine.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №116

Amazing food and dining experience

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №117

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №118

Seven course meal beautifully paired with sake expertly described by the waitress and the expert chef. Cannot be adequately compared to any dining experience I've ever had.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №119

Very nice, fresh and seasonal. I wish their corkage wasn't $35 though.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №120

My family and I had a great time. We dined in and had the set menu and it featured a wide range of Japanese cuisine including really fresh and high quality sashimi. The Udon was one of the best we've had. The server was very friendly and attentive. Highly recommended experience to try. Note that reservations are needed.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №121

Possibly the best Japanese cuisine I have had outside Japan. Quality, flavor, presentation. It’s amazing.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №122

This wasn’t dining as we normally think of it. This was experiencing new flavors, combinations, and textures( in dim cases), without going over board. Glad my wife and I had a chance to dine here when we did. I’m shocked this place isn’t on EVERY list. Menu changes constantly so eating here every couple of months is not out of the question!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №123

Haven’t seen my bill yet but frankly don’t care..that’s how good the food tastes and the uniqueness of the dishes. Authentic Japanese with authentic Japanese ingredients. Very hard to find in N. Va .. a treasure. Chef provides a different menu each day ensuring everything is fresh. My favorite was the Spanish Octopus (and I don’t usually like that eight-legged sea creature) .. just yum (can you tell my pallet is extremely non-sophisticated?) I hope you take the time to try this fine dining restaurant! I’ll be back!!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №124

I can't overstate how amazing this place is. The staff were incredibly inviting and knowledgeable, the space was nice and intimate, and the food was out of this world. Everything so fresh and unique, including a few surprises I would have not expected.

We'll certainly be back, this experience is absolutely incredible.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №125

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №126

Had a great dinner experience at Nasime recently. The food and service was great and I will be definitely be back for more. The bar seats look very nice and are the ideal seating arrangement. The dining room could use some improvement.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №127

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №128

Update: This place is not so secret anymore. It’s been written up many times. Still very delicious and enjoyable. You can request for a vegetarian (not vegan though) meal. It’s hard to imagine Chef Yuh himself cooks for two seatings a night with at least 10-12 guests every night. He makes it look easy.

What a hidden gem. We had an excellent meal. The set menu of 5 courses includes dessert and changes every 2-3 weeks so in a month it's entirely different. The dishes are always seasonal in the Japanese tradition. The ingredients and preparation is very Japanese with a twist but not the standard fare you'd expect from Japanese restaurants in America. Reservations only.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №129

This place is amazing! I stumbed upon this place completely by accident and I'm so glad I did. Their menu changes daily so check their website at 3 or 4pm the day of to see what they're serving.

We had firefly calamari, sashimi, fried fish (don't remember what kind), duck noodle soup, and homemade ginger ice cream. And the price is incredible as well - $55 per person for a 5 course meal! Can't wait to go back!

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №130

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №131

An absolute hidden gem! Made a reservation at 6pm and the first course was served promptly. They only take reservations due to limited seating and staff. The restaurant may be only run by two, but they’re both incredibly efficient and skilled. Each course was brought out in a timely manner, but expect to spend at least 1.5 hours here.

Now let’s talk about the food. Don’t be fooled when you see the menu is labeled a “tasting menu”. My boyfriend and I both left the place button-popping full! The wagyu short rib and the lamb chop were my favorite because I didn’t expect to love the additional flavors the chef threw on them, like the truffle shoyu and foie gras miso.

Overall, a 10/10 experience and we definitely want to come back again to check out the updated menus.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №132

Went here on the 25th of September. It's an intimate small location, with only two people working. The service was knowledgeable, and incredibly attentive. They may have accidentally ruined my life though; as I will now be chasing the flavor I experienced while dining there, for the rest of my days. I knew I would love the Wagyu short rib with truffle shoyu, but it was even better than I expected. Even dishes that you think would normally not excite your palate (such as the fried taro with scallop dashi glaze) absolutely shine and become some of your favorites.

Absolutely book a reservation to Nasime, and spend the rest your days wandering this globe, searching for a return to those flavors as I shall.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №133

Nasime was the best experience we could have asked for! I was nervous to hear that there were only two people working there, the chef and the server/sake expert, but I was sorely mistaken! They both worked quickly and knowledgeably not skimping on explaining every sake and dish with precision and enthusiasm. They do a seven course tasting menu for $95 and you can add a sake pairing or other alcohol for an extra price. The seven courses were plenty of food for the evening and we left full and satisfied. When the chef came out and asked what the best dish was, we couldn't decide! I'm not sure how this place doesn't have a Michelin start yet...

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №134

Nasime has great food. My wife and I were big fans. We made an 8:30P reservation when we had family in town and really built the place up. At 8:50P, we were still waiting outside. We weren’t up for starting after 9P so we left. I love the food. The people are nice. But, if I make a reservation for 8:30 (with family), I don’t want to sit down at or after 9PM. If you only do two rounds of dinner and folks have reservations, clear the people out who ate at 6. They’ll understand. I doubt they’d want to wait either.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №135

This place is a gem. The team of 2, yeah you heard me right, chef/owner and the awesome lady taking care of us, are what makes it a gem. And then the food takes you on a journey of flavourful joy and happiness. The menu changes and you'll need to plan ahead and get reservations done, but it is absolutely worth it.

Visited 3 years ago

Sushi Experience №136

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №137

Genuinely the best food experience I've ever had, I can't recommend enough.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №138

The food and service are excellent. A minor issues are the cleanliness and chairs. The cushions on most of the chairs are sagging and sunk. Chef uniform needs to be washed. The stains give a negative impression.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №139

The best meal out I've had in over a year. Now that Komi is closed, arguably the best restaurant in the DMV.

Where do I begin? Each dish is a work of art. Simplicity as the product of complex decision-making and masterful culinary skill.

Wonderful surprises in every bite. A progression that is natural and elegant, and one that tells a story of the chef's passion for the art of cooking.

This is not your standard sashimi restaurant, though you may get a delicious sashimi. The dishes sample many meats, vegetables, seafood and garnishes, combining them in ways that transcend any particular cuisine.

The restaurant itself is tiny and simple. If you're lucky enough to sit at the kitchen window, you can talk to the chef, the only person cooking. You feel as though you've been invited into the home of a great chef for a meal made just for you. And in a way, you have. There is nothing else like it around.

I feel conflicted giving it such a great review, because I don't want hordes of warehouse-restaurant-patrons descending on the place and spoiling it. Reading the few negative reviews on here, I can only say it's a pearls before swine situation. If you went to Nasime and didn't love it, it's a good idea not to go back. Please stay away.

But for those of you who love food and who can appreciate the miracle of finding that tiny, perfect restaurant that delights and surprises you, with a meal you will remember for years, Nasime is not to be missed.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №140

This place is over the top! Hard to describe. Well paced, unique, delicious.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №141

Was really excited to try this place...We attended the reservation at Nasime on Friday, June 4, 2021 at 8:30pm per the reservation. We were seated at the bar. After the appetizer course came out, we noticed that the food did not seem to be fresh and in fact, the color of the salmon fish eggs were brown (supposed to be orange) and appeared to be spoiled. In looking more closely at the food prep station that was clearly visible from where we were seated, we observed thick gray dust directly over where the food was being prepared. This was quite concerning and unsanitary, so we informed the restaurant staff and manager that we would not continue to dine with them due to the dust and grime in plain sight. I spoke to the manager directly, who assured me that we would not be charged anything for this. In fact, he was very concerned with getting us out of the restaurant ASAP, so that the attention of other diners was not drawn to the disgusting and unclean food prep area. I then saw the $110 “cancellation charge” applied to be credit card and immediately call the restaurant again later that evening to dispute it. I was told, again, that the charge would be removed by the manager. The charge was not removed, so I filed a dispute with my bank that now is apparently being appealed by Nasime. DO NOT GO HERE!

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №142

A small restaurant ran by only Two, but with the hospitality and service of a large staffed restaurant.
The food was incredible. Even though they are smaller portions, I left full, and feeling good/healthy. Chef waking over to ask how our mea was and what our favorite dish was-a great touch! Server couldn’t have been better. Looking forward to seeing their new creations on the menu next month.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №143

Incredible experience. The chef was so kind and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №144

This place is outstanding and the food is exceptional, the low ratings people have given it confuse me. My husband and I have been here several times and each time it exceeds our expectations. The dishes are creative and incorporate classic Japanese flavors. It is very small and you need a reservation. People need to show respect and be on time for their reservation as the courses are served on a time table per seating. Its a lovely place and the service is top notch.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №145

Amazing, delicious, filling. A sensory culinary experience.

I visited Nasime for an anniversary dinner in the end of April. Their only option for food is a 6-course fixed tasting menu. According to their menu the courses are adjusted daily based on what the chef can make. I speak from experience that every item we had was delicious and amazing.

Seared Hokkaido Scallop
Delicious way to start the tasting. The scallop was cooked perfectly as expected, but the vinaigrette sauce on the vegetables (I believe it was asparagus amongst others) was extremely tasty.

Seared Japanese Wagyu Short Rib w/ Truffle Shoyu
This was a very modest amount but the flavor was extraordinary. I asked if this was authentic as many places may advertise something that is comparable and our gracious server pointed out their restaurant's certificate of authenticity. I did not mean to offend but I'm glad I asked so there was no need to question.
Even if this had been just an ordinary short rib, the preparation and Truffle Shoyu was absolutely extraordinary. We were soaking up the sauce with our garnishes.

Otsukuri (Sashimi)
A more ordinary sampling of sashimi including tuna, salmon, sea urchin, roe, tamago. Some highlights were the toro and yellowtail. Each item was clearly top quality and served correctly at room temperature.

Eel Okowa Spring Roll
The spring roll was fried but perfectly so. The unagi was on the inside along with other tasty fillings. Easily the heaviest item eaten so far. Our server said this item was her favorite and I can see why, especially if you like fried rolls.

Crab Cake Stuffed Soft Shell Crab Agedashi
This was my favorite course. A hearty crab cake served cut in half, stuffed with soft shell crab. Decadent and delicious. Our stomachs were starting to fill up so this was a nice course to savor and enjoy.

Duck & Snow Pea Leaf Udon
A classic Udon with snow peas, served with duck. Noodles were firm but not tough, each surrendered to bite. The broth was full of spices and flavors.

House Made Yuzu Frozen Yogurt
The cap on the meal was the house frozen yogurt.

We paired our food with the sake tasting. Each course was accompanied by a sake designed to complement but not overwhelm the dish. The lighter dishes had dryer sakes, and the stronger ones would be paired with sweeter sakes for contrast. I loved the pairing and am glad we did not order a bottle instead.

The restaurant seemed very cozy, probably seating less than 20 people total. We had made a reservation and I overheard our server answering the phone to say there was no availabilities that evening so I knew they had a full night. I did not feel rushed at all, after we finished each course we were given the time to relax and digest and then the next course would come out right as we wanted more.

My only critique would be that the decor was sparse. I would have liked to see some art or anything to decorate the walls. Clearly their focus and passion was on the food and presentation which was top-notch.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №146

Tiny Japanese restaurant with a Japanese chef and a menu that changes daily based on the freshest ingredients available that day. Exceptional quality, beautiful presentation and fun dining experience. The wait staff is attentive and informative explaining each dish as it was served. Hard to know what was best in the 5 course prix fixe meal. On the last visit, we started with a sake steamed tile fish with fried tofu. Next was assorted sashimi—we opted for the upgrade and it included sea urchin (a delicacy), some Argentinian shrimp, sea trout, Japanese scallops, yellowfin tuna and several other fresh sashimi.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №147

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №148

Nasime is perhaps the best restaurant in the DMV. What ever day you go, you are guaranteed a beautifully crafted menu. With each course, it's like you get to experience the joy of winning over and over again.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №149

FANTASTIC food and service. Highly recommend making a stop here. Well worth the trip from Maryland, DC, or anywhere else in Virginia. Best food I’ve had in the DMV by far.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №150

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №151

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №152

Went for the first time for a bday dinner and it did not disappoint! Had never had a japanese tasting menu and loved every course, although the seared wagyu was my favorite. Super tiny so there were only 2 other parties there when we went.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №153

Very nice staff here. The service was great and the interior was clean. We went during COVID for dine in. Their portion sizes are very large and have good flavor. We liked their sashimi course. They also had Ramen with lobster, a dessert ice cream sandwich, chawanmushi, wagyu steak, and other dishes. Good quality!

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №154

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №155

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №156

Excellent. Great experience.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №157

Meals are served omakase and everything was delicious. Service was fast and attentive. The lost star is due to the restaurant itself. Though clean, the layout is strange and several walls could stand to be repainted but the meal is more than good enough to distract you.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №158

This place is one of the best restaurants! The Chef is super professional and food is just wonderful. This place is michelin star worthy restaurant if not better. The interior might not be as fancy, but trust me, the food is. The Chef puts his heart on every dish he cooks. I am def bringing my parents next time.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №159

I can't properly put into words how awesome Nasime is.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №160

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №161

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №162

Pretty plating but flavors of the food lacked depth and richness

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №163

My husband and I visited on a Thursday back in August 2020 and we had the entire restaurant to ourselves. Every single meal during the 8 courses we had were delicious. I will say you got quite a bit of food with each course so really pace yourself. We left the experience extremely satisfied and we can't wait to go back again.
I don't believe Nasime offers the same menu twice, so we will be going back to try out another tasting menu soon. Can't wait to go back!

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №164

Best kept secret in Alexandria for Japanese Cuisine.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №165

So happy that Nasime Japanese Restaurant is still open for business! Great foods and their Chef always has an inspiring word and great advices! Their sushi are yummy, daily fresh and great environment all around. If you need a great place with a memorable meal, this is the place for you!

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №166

I want to like Nasime more. The food is very good if only the order of dishes built on the previous flavor, or they offered palate cleansers. The sake pairing is excellent. The decor is simple, which is fine, but needs sprucing up. The rattling fridge is very annoying. I expect more for a $300 meal.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №167

Exceptional cuisine in the Japanese tradition with western ingredients. Personal service and attention as well and a great value.

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №168

Mediocre

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №169

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №170

Best Japanese course meal (kaiseki) in town for sure. I've been looking for a place like this and I'm glad I found it today. When I walked in, I was immediately greeted by the friendly staff and the chef. Then our waitress sat us down and we waited for our food. She was nice enough to explain each dish and the chef stopped by a few times to see how we were doing. Now onto the food. The food and its ingredients are top notch. I've ate sashimi in Japan and South Korea before and I could tell right away that Nasime was using quality fish. I can't explain the whole course but I hope my pictures will do its justice. Its my first time here and it definitely won't be my last!!!

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №171

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №172

Kaiseki style Japanese restaurant

Visited 4 years ago

Sushi Experience №173

No doubt one of the best meals I've ever had! The food is absolutely delicious, fresh, and the artistic excellence of the chef truly shines through. I recommend this to anyone in search of a five-star Japanese experience.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №174

The most amazing takeout we've had in DC! Perfectly packed, and we were full by the end

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №175

Amazing experience like a personal chef. So many unique flavors and combinations. Not a good choice if you're picky but if you're a true foodie who loves to try new things, there's nothing better.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №176

The food is generally very good, but leans somewhat heavily on the raw and hot pot dishes. The other courses are less than outstanding. As mentioned by other commenters, the waitress is consistently friendlier toward white and Japanese customers than toward non-white, non-Japanese customers. I have been there 3-4 times and it has been my impression.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №177

Hands down one of the most delicious meals I have ever had. Definitely do the sake pairing as you have never tasted anything like the hard to get sake he sources from Japan.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №178

Short-staffed, arrogant, poor service. The employees treat white people and other color customers differently.
If I can, I want to give a ZERO star.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №179

Great food. Small restaurant that provides freshly cut sashimi and hot ramen. Highly recommend for dates, special occasion since it fits a limited amount of guest which means easy to have conversations while enjoying great Japanese food. Will return again many times as possible.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №180

Very friendly service with cosy place, and delicious foods.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №181

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №182

Delicious and imaginative. Highly recommend.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №183

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №184

Perfect for special occasions. Excellent service and quality food. Portions are also generous. We visited here to celebrate our wedding anniversary and were completely satisfied with our experience. Have limited seating available so booking in advance is a must.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №185

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №186

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №187

Very delicious experience . I came in here with my wife for my birthday and I was delighted from the amazing food and service !! I would definitely recommend to family and friends .

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №188

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №189

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №190

I recommend this to anyone who wants to have an amazing foodie experience. This is hands down my favorite place in all of Old Town, if not the DMV.

The food is fresh—menu is imagined daily—and the service is on point. I can’t express how amazing this place is.

Check out my pictures.

If you need a good place for a date — look no further.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №191

I waited one hour even I booked.. but I can complain.. since I really enjoyed the cook

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №192

Overall experience is great!

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №193

Phenomenal 5-course meal served in an intimate setting. Enjoy without rush and an open mind. The fish was fresh and beautifully presented. The duck 🍜 was the star of the night.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №194

Amazing, fresh, great value.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №195

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №196

Pulito ma caro

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №197

An intimate venue with limited seating. The menu changes everyday, and even then you may not receive what's listed in the five course tasting menu. An upgrade is available for the sashimi course... take it! Highly recommend Nadine!

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №198

Nom nom nom nom nom nom nom......

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №199

Amazing, authentic, and unique food with a wonderful staff.

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Experience №200

Visited 5 years ago

Sushi Details
  • 11 sushi photos
  • 200 sushi reviews
  • 4.8 Sushi Rating
  • Reservations: +1 703-548-1848
  • Menu Website: http://nasimerestaurant.com/
  • Sushi Address: 1209 King St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States
  • Sushi Map: 38.805934799999996, -77.0528647
Specialties
  • Japanese restaurant
  • Sushi restaurant
Sushi Hours
  • Sunday: Closed
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 6–10 PM
  • Wednesday: 6–10 PM
  • Thursday: 6–10 PM
  • Friday: 6–10:30 PM
  • Saturday: 6–10:30 PM
Service options
  • Takeaway: Available
  • Dine-in: Available
  • Delivery: Available
Highlights
  • Great tea selection: Available
Popular for
  • Dinner: Available
  • Solo dining: Available
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible toilet: Available
Offerings
  • Alcohol: Available
  • Beer: Available
  • Cocktails: Available
  • Healthy options: Available
  • Spirits: Available
  • Wine: Available
Dining options
  • Dinner: Available
  • Dessert: Available
Amenities
  • Toilets: Available
Atmosphere
  • Cosy: Available
  • Romantic: Available
  • Trendy: Available
  • Upmarket: Available
Planning
  • Reservations required: Available
  • Dinner reservations recommended: Available
  • Accepts reservations: Available
  • Usually a wait: Available
Payments
  • Credit cards: Available
  • Debit cards: Available
  • Credit cards: Available