Perhaps you crave the quiet intimacy of a chef’s counter, watching precise hands transform glistening fish into edible art. Or maybe you’re after a lively scene where sake flows as freely as conversation about the merits of otoro versus chutoro. Whatever your sushi philosophy, Forest Hills offers havens for it. These ten spots deliver not just exceptional fish, but the perfect atmosphere to savor it—whether you’re celebrating solo or plotting your next omakase adventure.
A Sushi
$ | (718) 268-6010 | WEBSITE
A Sushi is always reliably busy. The no-frills energy inside makes a solo lunch break pleasant at the very least and like a treat at the very best (see if you can time your visit between the lunch and dinner rushes rather than risk a longer wait). You’ll be in good hands with their fresh sushi, perfectly balanced poke bowls, and a few pieces of the spicy salmon roll.
Afterwards, head home with your takeout for a quiet evening—unless you’re craving more, in which case you should plan to return tomorrow for that lunch special with miso soup.
Mito
$$ | (718) 255-6668 | WEBSITE
We wish there were more places like Mito. Everything about this operation is charming but unpretentious. The atmosphere is perfect for a date night or girls’ night out, we love the miso ramen, and their take on Japanese cuisine is so delicious (especially the Four Ways: Yellowtail) that it will probably forge a lifelong bond between you and the other people you go with. Some friend groups might have ‘that weekend in Reno,’ but you four will always have Mito.
Sushi Akio
$ | (718) 544-2199 | WEBSITE
Sushi Akio is a Japanese spot that works well if you’re happy sharing food family-style, because you’re going to want a bit of everything. We like the scallop Maki, Forest Hill roll, and Akio roll, to name just a few things. The interior is a simple space where you could linger for a long time, so don’t be surprised if after dinner and a few rounds of traditional Japanese soda, you’re already promising to make plans again (and meaning it).
Sushi Koi
$ | (718) 261-8932 | WEBSITE
Looking for a cozy spot to turn a casual acquaintance into a genuine friend? This Forest Hills sushi bar works perfectly for those intimate lunches on a Tuesday between errands. You can enjoy comforting classics like the Combo Box Lunch special, featuring miso soup, chicken teriyaki, gyoza, California roll, salad, and white rice, all prepared fresh on the spot. The green tea is a soothing treat, too.
But maybe just stick to one refill—you don’t want to rush through your meal before heading back to the courthouse just a couple of blocks away.
MoCA Asian Bistro – Queens
$$ | (718) 268-3333 | WEBSITE
We know that date nights aren’t (technically) a contest of who picked the better spot, but if you want to show you’ve got taste, bring your date to MoCA Asian Bistro. The dining room has a sleek, modern vibe with trendy lighting that creates an upscale atmosphere (which you can admire as you share the exceptional Sashimi plate). This place offers Asian fusion cuisine, so prepare to enjoy things like the big-portion General Tsao Shrimp and the skillfully prepared Whole Peking Duck.
Then, bask in your victorious restaurant choice over attentive service and a welcoming environment.
KATSUNO
$$$ | (718) 575-4033 | WEBSITE
A lot is going on in the cozy dining room of KATSUNO, and it’s the perfect backdrop for a quiet dinner where you might want to sit and linger. You can sip on unique Matcha IPA beer as soft Japanese music plays, and you’ll still be able to hear your companion thanks to the intimate atmosphere. The move here is to share lots of things, so order all the great dishes—like tender black cod and a refreshing snow crab avocado roll—and let the table feast together.
Yellowstone Sushi Cuisine Restaurant
$$ | (718) 261-8882 | WEBSITE
On a casual lunch with friends, it’s important to go somewhere that’s delicious but not too fancy. Yellowstone Sushi Cuisine is a Japanese restaurant that fits within these parameters. It specializes in really great sushi rolls, but you could also build a mix-and-match meal with some bento boxes, miso soup, and all sorts of teriyaki dishes. If you’re looking for value, order the lunch special with three simple rolls plus soup or salad for $15.
Da Mikelle
$$$$ | (718) 830-0500 | WEBSITE
After weeks of postponing, you’re finally organizing that group dinner with friends from the neighborhood. If you’d rather begin by just committing to a private room, Da Mikelle in Forest Hills is a solid choice to consider. It’s simple to book a large space, the kabobs are expertly seasoned, and there’s a satisfying selection of appetizers and main dishes.
If you’re enjoying the evening (or decide you simply have nothing to lose), try the professionally cooked liver kabob that’s so flavorful, it might become your new favorite.
Sushi Fussion
$$ | (718) 997-8744 | WEBSITE
Sushi Fussion might not be the first place you think of for a high-end sushi experience, but it’s perfect for a relaxed evening with close friends who appreciate good food without pretense. Forget about elaborate presentations or formal service. This spot is all about delicious rolls and a welcoming neighborhood vibe, making it the ideal setting to enjoy tasty dishes with people you genuinely like spending time with.
Sushi Time
$ | (718) 261-0111 | WEBSITE
At this unassuming Forest Hills sushi spot, the counter is always bustling with takeout orders and the fish is impeccably fresh—which is a welcome distraction when your friends are debating the merits of soy sauce versus ponzu. While you can’t linger too long in the cozy space, the handful of stools at the bar offer a perfect perch for a quick, satisfying meal.
And don’t miss the standout mango tago roll: a vibrant combination of creamy mango and delicate tuna wrapped in perfectly seasoned rice that we could happily eat every day.
