Sam's Sushi Grill - Seattle

One of the best sushi spots around. They offer fresh and jam packed filled sushi rolls as evidenced in my accompanying pictures. I love the balance of their sushi rolls because they aren’t overly or under-sauced. Just perfect!

Order the Chef plate dinner combo which comes with 2 nigiris each of salmon, tuna, albacore, and hamachi. It also comes with the dragon roll and a bowl of miso soup. The roll was amazing, the ingredients really compliment each other. The nigiris were good although I could taste some frozenly taste and texture from it. My partner ordered her usual Yam roll but instead they had used carrot in the “Yam” roll in substitution for Yam without informing that they ran out of yam (if that was the case for substitution). She still enjoyed the roll although we agreed that the yam version was way better. All in all I had a nice experience and a very friendly service!

I feel very safe from COVID here even in 2022. Takeout only and staff thirty feet away in conversation w you —they are wearing masks! Awesome … very fresh and competent sushi, sautéed noodles and bento. Easy to eat outside, in my car or to be brought home. Comes in recyclable containers. Will come back!

Short version: excellent value for everyday sushi, great food and quiet calm atmosphere. Don’t go here to impress someone, go when you want good sushi without a second mortgage. Long version: I’ve been going to Sam’s for years, and love it. Friendly wait staff, quick service, and the best value for everyday Sushi in Ballard by a long shot. They have a fairly standard roll selection, and the nigiri cuts are enormous relative to the price. The fish is always fresh and delicious, though they’re clearly not purchasing the top tier sashimi grade cuts for everything. The downside? The salmon is farmed unless otherwise specified, their sashimi option is just the nigiri minus rice, and it’s never a mind blowing experience. But I don’t to Sam’s to have the world’s most amazing sushi, I go for delicious fish at a reasonable price. My girlfriend and I can be stuffed at Sam’s for $50, versus a comparable meal at Shiku or Billy Beach for $80+. Bottom line: it’s a solid joint and worth a visit any day of the week... especially because you can afford it any day of the week.

Sam's Sushi Bar Grill in Ballard, Seattle, is a cozy, family-run gem with some of the best sushi around. The Bruce Lee, Dynamite, Seattle, and King Kong rolls are all standout choices. Coupled with their super friendly and attentive staff, it's the perfect spot for sushi before a movie nearby. Definitely a highlight in Seattle's sushi scene!