Sushi Gaku
★ 4.5 · 117 reviews Washington, D.C. Opened October 2025
Yoshi Ota returns, with pufferfish
Yoshi Ota closed Sushi Gakyu early in 2025 and reopened in a Georgetown basement as Sushi Gaku that October. The okimari prix fixe runs $100, the omakase $180.
Pufferfish is on the menu, which almost no DC sushi counter is licensed or inclined to serve. That alone is the reason to take the later seating.
What guests say
Reviews by Google-
Rahima Chaudhury 6 reviews 24 April 2026
Amazing sushi experience! Everything was incredibly fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. The fish melted in my mouth, service was great, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. Definitely coming back!
-
S “S” S 146 reviews · Local Guide 21 April 2026
Overall 3.8 experience. Sushi was good but didn’t knock my socks off. Service was good but a bit awkward. It a nice place if you want to eat and not have a lot of people by you. Maybe it is super busy on the weekends but just 2 tables including mine.
-
Saminda 977 reviews · Local Guide 9 March 2026
Didn't realize this was in the old Donahue lounge space, was a little disorienting at first. Enjoyed a decent if not great dinner here last week. Everything was prepared and presented well, just not super fresh or high quality fish in the nigiri or rolls. Service was fine but unremarkable. Lighting was flat, a bit sterile and didn't really create any notable ambience. Place was empty on a Thursday evening. It was worth a try but not itching to return.
-
Ashley 93 reviews · Local Guide 7 March 2026
The best omakase I’ve had in a long time. And I live in Seattle. Authentic, perfect dressings on everything. Not one dish needed even a drop of soy sauce. The plum Negroni was delightful. As was the matcha ice cream as a palette cleanse after a wonderful meal.
-
Maria Peace 5 reviews 5 March 2026
Sushi Gaku is easily one of the best sushi experiences in Washington, DC. The fish is incredibly fresh, beautifully prepared, and every dish feels thoughtfully crafted. You can really tell the chef takes pride in traditional Japanese techniques while still creating a fun and memorable dining experience. The atmosphere is intimate and stylish, tucked away in Georgetown, which makes it feel like a hidden gem. The service was warm, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. We especially loved the nigiri and specialty rolls — the balance of flavors was perfect. If you’re looking for authentic, high-quality sushi in DC, Sushi Gaku is a must-visit. It’s the kind of place you go once and immediately start planning your next visit. Highly recommend! 🍣
People also visited
Thank you!
Thanks, we'll take a look.