Seemor
ShikiB+Worth Trying
4 W Roy St, Seattle, WA 98119
· Japanese restaurant, Fugu restaurant, Sushi restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (447 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Authentic neighborhood sushi spot with standout nigiri and oden, but service inconsistency and occasional freshness disputes mean best experiences come with reservations and realistic expectations.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Shiki delivers solid neighborhood sushi with excellent food quality and strong repeat patronage, but inconsistent execution across visits and occasional freshness concerns prevent a higher grade. The cozy, authentic setting and friendly service appeal to regulars, though variable attentiveness and peak-time waits can frustrate. Worth visiting for traditional sushi craft, but expect variable reliability.
Restaurant Summary
The dining room feels cozy and unpretentious, the kind of neighborhood spot where regulars swap nods with the chef and the greeting lands warm. One guest summed it up: "It feels like a small slice of Japan, with big, clean flavors." Service reads as friendly but variable—many visits glide, a few stumble with waits or rigid seating. The cooking leans traditional and ingredient-first: generous nigiri cuts, crisp tempura when on point, comforting oden in colder months, and occasional fugu for the adventurous. When the fish is shining, plates sing. A handful of diners have disputed uni freshness or seasoning choices (like default wasabi), but most describe focused craft over flash. Families do fine here thanks to approachable staples—teriyaki, katsu, cucumber or California rolls. There is no explicit kids menu, yet simple sushi and hot mains work for younger palates. Adventurous specials and market-priced items can spike the bill, so guide kids toward the simpler, wallet-friendly options.
At a Glance
- Generous, fresh nigiri with classic rice balance
- Cozy, authentic neighborhood vibe with loyal regulars
- Service can be slow or inflexible at peak times
- Occasional disputes over uni freshness and seasoning
- Reservations advised; walk-ins may be turned away late
What Sets It Apart
- certified_fugu_service
- authentic_oden_in_winter
- generous_nigiri_cuts
What People Love
- Generous cuts of fish on nigiri
- Comforting oden that warms a winter night
- A homey, izakaya-like room with friendly greetings
- Talking with the chef and feeling like a regular
Points of Concern
- Inconsistent service pace and occasional seating rigidity noted by multiple diners
- A few serious complaints about uni freshness or off flavors, though not the norm
- Reservation mix-ups and late walk-in refusals caused frustration
- Review patterns show polarized experiences across visits; set expectations accordingly
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$38-$55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Choose sushi dinner ($15) or sashimi ($18) for value; add one appetizer like agedashi tofu ($6).
- For kids, opt for chicken teriyaki ($15) or cucumber roll ($7).
- Market items (toro, uni, fugu) can elevate costs—ask prices first.
Perfect For
- A relaxed sushi date without fine-dining fuss
- Solo sushi sessions at the counter or bar
- Locals seeking traditional Japanese comfort dishes
- Adventurous eaters curious about seasonal fugu
Location Insights
Area: Lower Queen Anne mix of residential and arts venues; neighborhood gem vibe serving locals and pre-show diners.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, steady foot traffic around entertainment venues.
Nearby: Near Seattle Center attractions; Kerry Park walkable; small business corridor with limited but available street parking.
Lower Queen AnneLower Queen Anne is a bustling area with a strong dining scene featuring a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. It is popular for its proximity to cultural venues like the Seattle Center and offers a mix of casual and upscale dining options, attracting a diverse crowd looking for both entertainment and quality food experiences.
UptownUptown is a sub-area within Lower Queen Anne known for its artsy vibe, nightlife, and proximity to landmarks such as the Space Needle and museums. The dining scene here is eclectic, with trendy eateries and casual spots catering to a dynamic and youthful crowd.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday17:00–21:00
Thursday17:00–21:00
Friday17:00–21:00
Saturday17:00–21:00
Sunday17:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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