Seemor
Temakase Hand Roll Bar - 2nd AveBWorth Trying
157 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10003
· Sushi restaurant, Asian restaurant, Caterer
· 4.5/5 Google (1082 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Creative hand-roll bar with lively counter seating, strong crispy rice and popular roll sets, but inconsistent rice, small portions, and service lapses; good for quick dates, not ideal for large groups or conservative palates.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Temakase Hand Roll Bar delivers strong food quality with standout crispy rice and creative hand rolls that earn loyal repeat visits, but quality varies noticeably between visits—rice texture and portion sizes fluctuate, and occasional safety lapses raise concerns. The lively East Village counter setting appeals to hand-roll enthusiasts seeking modern, playful sushi, though tight bar-only seating and service inconsistencies prevent grade A territory.
Restaurant Summary
A compact East Village counter where hand rolls are assembled before you, Temakase feels intimate and modern with a lively beat. Diners rave about the crispy rice and certain rolls—one regular said it was their go-to sushi spot—but others call out small portions and uneven rice. Some visits mention attentive staff, others cite delays and missed items. The culinary approach leans contemporary hand-roll fusion: classic fish with bold add-ons like kimchi crumbs, truffle citrus aioli, and spicy butter sauces. It suits diners who like creative flavors and the bar-by-bar pacing, more modern and playful than traditional nigiri temples. For families, the setting is casual with bar seating only, and kids who enjoy simple sushi can find tuna, salmon, and avocado rolls. There is a vegan-friendly lane (avocado crunch, cucumber, pumpkin, shiitake), but no kids menu. Portions run small, so budget for an extra roll or two if feeding hungry teens.
At a Glance
- Lively counter experience with rolls made to order
- Crispy rice and select rolls (blue crab, scallop, toro) shine
- Rice texture and portion size vary visit to visit
- Service lapses include slow pacing and missing items
- Music volume can be very loud for some diners
What Sets It Apart
- counter_only_hand_roll_service
- creative_fusion_toppings
- strong_crispy_rice_program
What People Love
- Watching rolls assembled right in front of them
- Crunchy, well-seasoned crispy rice bites
- Creative sauces and toppings on classics
- Fast, fun meals when timing hits right
Points of Concern
- Inconsistent rice quality reported by multiple diners, including overcooked or pasty texture
- Small portions and relatively high cost can leave some still hungry
- Service variability: missed items, slow ordering, and takeout delays
- Music volume sometimes uncomfortably loud for conversation
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Plan $38 for the 6-roll set baseline, then budget $7-11 per extra roll
- Vegetarians can build satisfying sets with avocado, cucumber, pumpkin, and shiitake options
Perfect For
- A casual date at the counter
- Solo sushi craving near East Village
- Small groups seeking a quick roll set
- Adventurous sushi fans who enjoy fusion flavors
Location Insights
Area: Trendy East Village stretch with youthful crowd, bars, and casual eateries; nightlife energy.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; typical urban nightlife noise.
Nearby: Near bars, late-night spots, and NYU; dense restaurant scene along 2nd Ave.
East VillageThe East Village dining scene is characterized by its diversity and creativity, offering everything from classic New York delis to innovative fusion restaurants. The social atmosphere is energetic and casual, attracting a mix of locals and visitors who appreciate its bohemian roots and contemporary vibrancy.
Alphabet CityAlphabet City, part of the East Village, is known for its edgy, artsy vibe with numerous bars, music venues, and affordable dining options. It has a slightly grittier feel compared to the rest of East Village but remains a popular spot for adventurous diners and night owls.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–22:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
View full analysis on Seemor →