Seemor
Izakaya SekiAWorth Trying
1117 V St NW, Washington, DC 20009
· Authentic Japanese restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (572 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Excellent, authentically Japanese small-plates with standout sashimi and grilled fish, but pricey and occasionally brusque service; best at the counter for engaged diners.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Izakaya Seki stands among the region's finest Japanese dining establishments through exceptional sashimi and grilled fish, particularly its celebrated gindara black cod and pristine sashimi flights. Strong sake guidance and knowledgeable staff enhance the engaging counter experience, though occasional consistency variations in fish freshness and service tone and recent safety concerns with raw seafood prevent grade A territory. Best suited for adventurous diners comfortable with premium pricing and sharing multiple small plates.
Restaurant Summary
Tucked just off U Street, Izakaya Seki feels warm and intimate with a downstairs counter where cooks sear, slice, and plate in full view. Many diners call the fish pristine and the pacing smooth, while a few note brisk, policy-driven service during peak hours. One guest summed it up: "Watching the line work while each plate arrived kept us smiling all night." The cooking leans classic izakaya with premium sourcing—think lush sashimi flights, gindara black cod that flakes like butter, and garlicky mushrooms that win near-universal praise. Specialty tempura, hamachi collar, and simple noodles or rice round it out. It is best for engaged eaters who enjoy sharing several small plates and letting staff steer the choices rather than chasing big entrees. Families should know the menu favors seafood and refined flavors over kid staples. There is no kids menu; the most approachable picks are udon in warm dashi, onigiri rice balls, karaage, and fried shrimp. Adventurous teens may love it, but picky eaters might struggle.
At a Glance
- Premium sashimi and grilled fish with standout black cod
- Engaging counter experience with knowledgeable guidance
- Pricey for delicate portions; sharing several plates adds up
- Service can feel strict on timing and policies
- Occasional raw-seafood safety complaints; choose cooked options if sensitive
What Sets It Apart
- chef_counter_experience
- premium_sashimi_selection
- cozy_two_level_space
What People Love
- Silky, expertly handled sashimi
- Butter-garlic mushrooms that comfort and impress
- Watching chefs work at the counter
- Thoughtful sake recommendations
- Hamachi collar and black cod with deep flavor
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive ($22-35 sashimi; $28-32 grilled fish) which may surprise casual diners
- Service tone can be brisk or frosty under time limits and strict policies
- A few reports of undercooked skewers or uneven fish freshness amid many excellent meals
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (not detected); current sample appears authentic
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$65-95 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a balanced spread: one sashimi ($22-35), one grilled fish ($22-32), one veg ($10-20), and noodles/rice ($13-15).
- For value, share tempura specials (3 types $20) plus a hearty noodle to fill out the meal.
Perfect For
- Counter-seated date night where the kitchen is the show
- Pre- or post-concert dinner near 9:30 Club
- Seafood lovers chasing pristine sashimi
- Small groups sharing a range of plates
Location Insights
Area: Lively nightlife corridor near U Street with music venues and bars; attracts diners pre- and post-show.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; typical urban precautions at night.
Nearby: Close to 9:30 Club and U Street music scene; mixed residential and entertainment.
Dupont CircleDupont Circle offers a dynamic dining scene with a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and trendy bars. The area is known for its walkability, safety, and a social atmosphere that blends historic charm with modern urban energy.
Kalorama TriangleKalorama Triangle is a quieter sub-area characterized by historic row houses and embassies, offering a more intimate dining experience with boutique restaurants and cafes.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–21:15
Wednesday17:00–21:15
Thursday17:00–21:15
Friday17:00–21:15
Saturday17:00–21:15
Sunday17:00–21:15
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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