Sushi Gaku
Restaurant · Georgetown ·

Sushi Gaku

Restaurant · Georgetown ·

Sashimi, pufferfish, omakase, and zen patio dining

Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by Eater - Lists + Maps
Sushi Gaku by Eater - Lists + Maps
Sushi Gaku by Michael Butcher
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null
Sushi Gaku by null

Information

1338 Wisconsin Ave NW Basement, Washington, DC 20007 Get directions

$50–100

Order delivery
See Menu
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Trendy
Good for solo dining
Credit card accepted

Information

Static Map

1338 Wisconsin Ave NW Basement, Washington, DC 20007 Get directions

+1 202 770 7753
sushigaku.com
@sushi_gaku_dc

$50–100 · Menu

Features

•Popular for lunch
•Popular for dinner
•Trendy
•Good for solo dining
•Credit card accepted
•Debit card accepted
•Alcohol
•Wine

Last updated

Jan 4, 2026

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@eater
391,495 Postcards · 10,994 Cities

Where to Find the Best Sushi Around D.C. | Eater DC

"A parade of sashimi, Japanese plates, and ever-elusive pufferfish await in the depths of Wisconsin Avenue NW. After closing downtown Sushi Gakyu earlier this year, talented sushi chef Yoshi Ota moved on to Georgetown with the May opening of Sushi Gaku. Traditional nigiri and maki, an omakase menu ($180), affordable sushi “sets” starting at $28, and a $100 prix fixe option round out the new menu. Dinner is served from 5 to 10 p.m. every night except Tuesdays. A zen patio out back is framed in stone and greenery." - Tierney Plumb

https://dc.eater.com/maps/best-sushi-restaurants-dc
Eater - Lists + Maps
Sushi Gaku
@infatuation
132,817 Postcards · 3,235 Cities

DC's New Restaurant Openings - Washington DC - The Infatuation

"Sushi Gaku is the latest project from Yoshi Ota, whose previous spot, Sushi Gakyu, closed earlier this year. The new restaurant, located in a Georgetown basement, will feature a $100 okimari prix-fixe and, later this summer, a $180 omakase. Pufferfish, rarely seen in DC, will be on the menu." - omnia saed

https://www.theinfatuation.com/washington-dc/guides/dc-new-restaurant-openings
Sushi Gaku
@eater
391,495 Postcards · 10,994 Cities

The Best New Restaurants in D.C., July 2025 | Eater DC

"A parade of sashimi, Japanese plates, and ever-elusive pufferfish now have a home in the depths of Wisconsin Avenue NW. After closing downtown Sushi Gakyu earlier this year, sushi chef Yoshi Ota moved on to Georgetown with the May opening of Sushi Gaku. Traditional nigiri, maki, and an omakase tasting featuring fermented ancient-style sushi round out the new menu. Dinner is served from 5 to 10 p.m. every night except Tuesdays. A zen patio out back is framed in stone and greenery." - Eater Staff

https://dc.eater.com/maps/best-new-restaurants-heatmap-dc
Eater - Lists + Maps
Sushi Gaku
@infatuation
132,817 Postcards · 3,235 Cities

Sushi Gaku - Review - Georgetown - Washington DC - The Infatuation

"Sushi Gaku is the latest project from Yoshi Ota, whose previous spot, Sushi Gakyu, closed earlier this year. The new restaurant, located in a Georgetown basement, will feature a $100 okimari prix-fixe and, later this summer, a $180 omakase. Pufferfish, rarely seen in DC, will be on the menu. We haven’t been here yet, but want you to know this spot exists." - Omnia Saed

https://www.theinfatuation.com/washington-dc/reviews/sushi-gaku
Michael Butcher
Sushi Gaku
@eater
391,495 Postcards · 10,994 Cities

Step Down Into Georgetown’s Hot New Basement Sushi Destination | Eater DC

"Occupying a subterranean Georgetown space at 1338 Wisconsin Avenue NW (the former Donahue cocktail lounge), this modestly small counter aims to blend modern elegance with traditional Japanese artistry: delicate orchid plants atop polished wooden counters, minimalist wall panels with ink-brushed calligraphy, bamboo accents, stone plateware and tailored mood lighting create an intimate, softened setting just blocks from busy M Street. Chef Yoshi Ota — born in Hokkaido, whose career began at ANA International Tokyo and who spent decades honing knife skills (notably at New York’s Sushi Den) — has returned to D.C.; he holds one of the area's few preparation licenses for fugu (pufferfish). In his words, “I am so honored to join this historical area in Washington,” says Ota, in a statement. “I am planning to serve traditional sushi as well as a different style that our guests have never seen before.” The menu mixes recognizable fare and inventive rolls: a signature traditional edo-style nigiri made with akazu (dark vinegar), sushi rice, and fish, alongside regular nigiri on white sushi rice, maki and casual Japanese plates. Sashimi is offered in bulk plates of at least 10 or smaller four-piece portions (featuring mackerel, tuna, squid, scallop, fatty tuna and other cuts); nigiri comes in two-piece platters. Starters include edamame, green salad, seaweed salad and spring rolls, while cooked proteins run from grilled eel and grilled black cod to shrimp tempura, fried oyster and hamachi kama. A reservation-only omakase (not launching for at least two months while the team readies it) is planned as a very fermented ancient-style sushi tasting, starting at $180 per person and featuring four appetizers, 12 pieces of premium nigiri and dessert. The beverage program includes four opening cocktails (notably the Royal Fizz: rum, lime juice, umeshu, saline and prosecco; and the Gaku Breeze: tequila, almond liqueur, lime juice, cucumber syrup and mint leaves), sake by the carafe and bottle, wine and Sapporo beers. Developer Bethany Kazaba of Neighborhood Retail Group was tapped to help realize the space." - Vinciane Ngomsi

https://dc.eater.com/2025/5/23/24434920/inside-sushi-gaku-georgetown-new-dc-restaurant-openings
Sushi Gaku

Dondré

Google
Went to sushi gaku for take out. It was good. A nice space tucked in the basement, but really well decorated. They have some garden seating that Is outside which is nice. The staff is super chill and cool. I would come back to dine inside because it has great vibes.

Cecilio S.

Google
Went here for opening day and had a really nice time with friends! The staff was very excited to have us here and recommended drinks for us to try. We had miso soup, gyoza, crunchy spicy salmon, crunchy shrimp, and shrimp tempura avocado roll. The food was 10/10 + service and ambiance was amazing. Our new favorite spot to grab sushi in Georgetown.

Lilian K.

Google
We opted for the $100 prix fixe. Miso soup was tasty. The tuna carpaccio was disappointing. The tuna had no taste and the ponzu overwhelmed the whole dish. The nigiri tasting was pretty good, but we have had better esp at the price point. 1. Rice was prepared at the temperature, taste and texture we prefer 2. The fish and any seasoning pair was thoughtful. However, the variety was lacking. Lastly, the dessert was a choice of mango or strawberry mochi ice cream. The taste was so artificial and it was terrible. Service was friendly, however, slow, and somewhat inattentive. However, we were displeased with how they generalized so many kinds of fish as "white fish". We are always eager to know the exact kind of fish, parts and origin, and Sushi Gaku failed so badly in this department. We had to ask and only for all 3 wait staff to come by with an incomplete/ inaccurate description of what fish we were being served.

Jordan W.

Google
The service, ambiance, food & drinks were incredible from start to finish! We got a few different nigiri orders and rolls (salmon, fatty tuna) all incredible. We just moved right around the corner, and we already can't wait to come back! Bonus points for Dua Lipa on the playlist :)

Claudia L.

Google
This sushi spot is a hidden gem! It’s very hidden and the staff are excellent. They’re so nice, and very hospitable. The food is good, but I have had better. Still, this place is an amazing sushi spot, and I would recommend it! I shall come again!

Jeff X.

Google
Sushi was okay. However, for the price point, I expected better service. It took almost 15 minutes from being seated to placing an order. The staff were friendly but if I’m paying $100+ per person, I shouldn’t have to raise my hand to get more water and get the check.

Emma P.

Google
Wonderful hidden gem. Welcome addition to the sushi scene in Georgetown. The menu was varied and thoughtful. The service was warm and welcoming. Our server provided personalised and genuine recommendations. The sake selection was thoughtful and enjoyable. We look forward to returning to our new favorite Georgetown spot.

Rachel S.

Google
The servicee was phenomenal- but sadly that was the best part of the meal. The drinks were bizarre - with a martini coming in a wine glass with ice and a lemon wedge - the sashimi was decent however the rolls were underlining to say the least: the shrimp tempura roll came sitting on som sort of brown gravy that made it inedible. The rainbow roll, spicy crunchy tuna and eel were all subpar to say the least. I definitely will not be returning
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Jordan W.

Yelp
The service, ambiance, food & drinks were incredible from start to finish! We got a few different nigiri orders and rolls (salmon, fatty tuna) all incredible. We just moved right around the corner, and we already can't wait to come back! Bonus points for Dua Lipa on the playlist :)
google avatar

Hannah H.

Yelp
Welcome to Georgetown, Chef Ota and Sushi Gaku! Fun fact: Chef Ota is one of the only chefs in the area to hole a fugu preparation license! Making a dinner reservation on their online platform was a breeze and seamless. Try their Okimari Prix Fixe, as it comes with miso soup, a choice of a sashimi carpaccio, 10 pieces of premium nigiri, a choice of maki, and ice cream. There is also Gakyu Omakase specialties, where one is a sushi course and one is a fugu course (that is seasonal). They also have Signature Sushi Sets, in which the Edo Style Nigiri and the Gaku Sushi Assortment are recommended! We enjoyed the Chef's Langoustine Lobster roll and the Chef's Crunchy Spicy Tuna roll, several nigiris (Aburi-style), and the sushi sets. Other options include various soups, apps, and a la carte items. Service was kind, friendly, and attentive. Look for the Sushi Gaku sign/plaque, and go downstairs. The space is bright and clean, and I liked the 'sparkly' fabrics they used for the furniture. Metered street parking can be found in the area. +omakase +sushi sets +online reservations available

Ann K.

Yelp
I've been a fan of Sushi Gaku's chef/owner all the way from Bethesda, to New York Avenue and I am happy to say the new Georgetown location is not only authentic and beautiful, but the sushi itself is better than ever. I had the Edo set and my husband had the special nigiri set and we both loved every bite. The traditional Edo style features a red vinegar "su" and specially aged fish, which produces a delicious, "deep" flavor. The special nigiri featured big, beautiful cuts of fish so fresh and tasty! The decor is restful and classic with the use of lots of wood and quiet lighting. Our servers came by several times to check that we had everything we needed and were very friendly. We look forward to coming back many times whenever we miss our (former) lives in Tokyo

Liz E.

Yelp
Was shopping in Georgetown and suddenly craved sushi -- stumbled upon this spot and was pleasantly surprised by how good it was (and I'm pretty picky about sushi). The fish on the nigiri was incredibly fresh, clearly made with care. Service was excellent, and the ambiance was quiet, clean, and intimate -- a warm, wood-toned space with a cozy view of the outdoor dining area.
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Catalina M.

Yelp
Thrilled to have an authentic sushi option so close. The menu included chef designed pre-fixe meals, but also allowed you to order a la carte from an impressive selection of sashimi, sushi and maki rolls. The yellowtail sashimi carpaccio is absolutely worth trying. The soft shell crab rolls were perfectly crisped. The staff was incredibly welcoming and attentive. Beautiful mini orchids adorned all the tables. And even though it was raining today, their back courtyard looks like it will eventually be a delight for outdoor dining. Looking forward to my next visit.

William M.

Yelp
Got the 11-piece edo style sushi. The edo version uses a specific type of vinegared rice for the nigiri. At 80$ it's not cheap, but it's also the best sushi I've had in DC. The rice is warm and with just the right amount of acidity to complement the fish. They have reasonably priced rolls and some other sets which I'll have to try in the future.

James Z.

Yelp
Excellent authentic sushi. If you are looking for an authentic Tokyos sushi experience, Sushi Gaku is the place to come. I ordered the set menu which went very well with the Hakushika cold sake. The service was attentive but not obtrusive. My wife and I will come back again for sure.
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Crenzzz R.

Yelp
Adorable space in the heart of Georgetown, with a suitably dark sushi bar opening into an airy dining room with skylights and a back patio. Hannah was our server; she was so friendly and recommend a tasty cocktail. The fatty tuna nigiri was the highlight of the meal, but everything we ordered was really good. Definitely worth checking out!

Joey R.

Yelp
Visited Sushi Maki on a Sunday night with my partner. We both got the Okimari Prix Five Course and it was delicious! The fish was so delicious and they accommodated our allergies. We sat at the bar and were able to watch the chefs demonstrate their masterclass. We also got a few drinks that were very good. The service was fast and there was quiet background music. Definitely would come back!

El C.

Yelp
If I could give this place negative stars, I would. The service was honestly the worst I've experienced in at least 10 years. There were a total of 10 tables of patrons (2-6 tops) and 4 servers, and it took 70 minutes to get my drink. Our seaweed salad took 5 requests and came out after 90 minutes, after all the sushi had already been consumed. Water refills similarly took repeated requests and were achingly slow. Despite the staff acknowledging the problems, we were charged for everything plus an automatic 20% service charge. The fish was actually tasty, but I will never go here again. Avoid, avoid, avoid!!

Suzanne B.

Yelp
An authentic sushi restaurant. The chef is Japanese and, as is required in Japan, he had ten years of training before starting his 25 year career. After his training, he had a restaurant on the Ginza (the equivalent of 5th Ave. NYC) and elegant, expensive, and famous street in Tokyo. In our opinion, the sushi/sashimi is far the best in the DC area. Fresh, perfectly flavored, perfectly sized for a mouth. If you're used to super market sushi, you will find a world of difference here. It is what sushi should be. The ambiance is good, outdoor area as well as indoor available, acoustics are good and service is excellent.