Sashimi Express II

Nestled in the Upper East Side at 223 E 74th St, Sashimi Express II offers a straightforward yet satisfying sushi experience for those craving fresh, well-priced Japanese flavors without the fuss. This sushi restaurant specializes in a variety of popular salmon-centric dishes, including the ever-popular Salmon Box, Salmon Tray, and Salmon Sushi, alongside classic favorites like the California Roll and Spicy Salmon Rolls. Each bite bursts with freshness—the salmon is silky and vibrant, perfectly complemented by the tender rice that retains just the right warmth to elevate every mouthful.

For those who love to sample, appetizers such as the Pepper Tuna Tataki—seared black tuna kissed with tobiko, scallions, and daikon radish drizzled with refreshing yuzu sauce—offer a delicate yet bold starter. Meanwhile, the Yellowtail Jalapeno roll introduces a playful mix of pepper tuna, crab, seaweed salad, avocado, cucumber, and tobiko bound in creamy mayonnaise for a rich, flavorful bite.

The sushi platters serve as perfect options for sharing or indulging solo on a larger scale. The Personal Tray Sushi Platter offers seven pieces plus a California roll, providing a balanced meal for sushi enthusiasts. For those with bigger appetites or groups, the Small Tray Sushi Platter features an impressive 28 pieces, including both California and eel rolls, showcasing variety and quality in one neat package.

Dining at Sashimi Express II embraces a casual, no-frills vibe—more about quick satisfaction than lingering ambiance. The interior is minimalistic, with some customers noting just a few seats and vending machines, which underscores its identity as a primarily takeout destination. Its appeal lies in exceptional value and convenience: sushi lovers can pre-order or grab their freshly prepared selections and enjoy them just moments away at a nearby park, making it ideal for a speedy, delicious fix.

From the chorus of reviews, it’s clear that Sashimi Express II stands out for affordable pricing in a neighborhood known for upscale dining. Guests like Tito appreciate the quick takeout and proximity to outdoor eating spots, while Ben Lin praises the warmth of the rice and the freshness of the fish, noting the incredible value for the price. Though customer service is efficient rather than elaborate, the focus remains on delivering tasty sushi reliably. Umi Romero considers this her top sushi spot in the city, emphasizing the breadth of options and unbeatable prices, albeit with a cash-only caveat worth remembering.

Even those seeking a no-nonsense approach to sushi find themselves pleasantly surprised. Earnest Ly calls it “crazy affordable” for the Upper East Side and acknowledges it as a solid choice when a craving strikes, while Iphigene Murphy highlights the surprising quality and freshness, praising their $16 meal as both delicious and a steal.

In essence, Sashimi Express II is where genuine sushi lovers come to enjoy fresh, flavorful rolls and sashimi without the pretense or premium pricing. It’s an unassuming gem that caters to busy New Yorkers and visitors alike, delivering satisfaction one perfectly crafted box at a time.