Akemi Sushi

You know what... this is a 5 star for me. Really have to be consider the setting. It's a convenient take out style sushi situated in the Castro Valley Marketplace. There are no dedicated seating for dining either. We both ordered their deluxe nigiri set consisting of 8pc nigiri, 6pc tekka maki, and miso soup. The fish were all decent quality and we didn't feel cheated by the experience. They included some of the more expensive options too - just not uni hehe. They prepped the food right after we ordered. It took about 18 minutes for two sets. Their takeouts are 50% off at end of day. Also saw a Valentine's day promotion going on.

The last time I will spend a single dollar at Akemi. We've been going to Akemi since they opened in the marketplace years ago now. They were in our regular rotation of local restaurants that we support. Not because they are the best tasting sushi in town, but because we want to help our local restaurants survive and its convenient. Last night was Valentines Day and we were told our order would be ready at 6:30pm. I arrived promptly and checked in. Unfortunately, our order was not ready and they pulled the ticket and started working on it, would take 20 mins. Fine, they're busy, I understand. I have a seat with a bunch of other people waiting. They stopped taking orders at some point and only a few people have picked up their orders since I arrived. 40 minutes later, I go back up to the counter. Turns out our order has been sitting there for about 20 mins. Not a peep from the staff. I didn't want to crowd around the front and bother them repeatedly. My mistake. Now, if this were the first time this happened, I could let it go. The problem is, this exact scenario has happened multiple times now. Check in, food is ready, no one says anything. I guess were all supposed to go up and check every time we see an order placed on the counter. They are consistently behind schedule. Order something to be picked up at 630, don't bother showing up for a least 10-15 minutes after your pick up time. At this point, with the amount of time I've wasted sitting and waiting for my order, I'll go elsewhere. The sushi is average at best. The rice has little to no flavor (and sometimes tastes old). Save yourself some time and go to a better sushi place.

Happy to have found another affordable, yet good quality takeout sushi spot! I almost always go for the deluxe/omakase nigiri combos at every sushi restaurant I try to see their best offerings. Unfortunately, Akemi didn't include my favourites of uni or ikura, but I can't be mad when it was only $33 and still included toro, amaemi, scallop and free miso soup! The deluxe sushi was also not available in the grab and go section and had to be ordered (on the spot or in advance), but at least I knew it was made fresh. I was able to stroll around the marketplace in the meantime while I waited for my order.

It's not bad, so not knocking it. It's quick made, strip mall grade sushi. Construction was a little sloppy, but still eatable. Fish did seem fresh, so no worries there (it's not gas station sushi). Good spot for 'on the go' sushi if you've got the craving. Below order was about $20.

I always order ahead and pick up from here. The times are pretty spread out though so if you know you want to eat here, I'd place the order earlier. It's also conveniently located in Castro Valley marketplace so while you wait for the sushi, you can also pick up groceries or other things.The fish quality is hit or miss but I enjoy the selection and I've had more hits than misses. I've ordered from this place a handful times and it depends on what you're getting. Sometimes the fish nigiri is a little fishier than other places I've tried but it's not every time. My go to is the bluefin and truffle roll. It's quality chunks of fish and the combination is yummy. Also it's not heavy on the truffle taste at all, I just enjoy the toro. I also always go for a simple roll too like the Philly and the salmon is always fresh inside. I rotate between the pieces of nigiri i usually order. But I've been loving the Tai (red snapper) or the Hotategai (Scallop). But I've had experience with both being fish once or twice. Just depends on the day. We've also ordered the Chicken Karaage and it's not our favorite. It is served cold and the chicken is flavored nicely but the texture is hard from it being cold. If you're looking for a nice snack to drink with your alcohol I think this would be a good match. Overall it is nice to see a more quality place for sushi pick up that isn't the usual salmon or tuna rolls.

Akemi sushi is a friendly convenient location to grab take out sushi. Located in the quaint marketplace. There are tables if you d like to enjoy your sushi immediately .Everything is fresh delicious high quality ingredients. Friendly staff makes the whole experience

My go to rolls are ca roll and shrimp tempura. I call it in and pick up. Process is smooth and rolls taste fresh. I am for sure going to be back soon

Counter service sushi- with fresh sushi made daily (and discounted at 50% off right before close!). Lion king roll is great as well as the nigiris (tuna being my favorite!). Situated in a very small food hall/marketplace with some outdoor dining space

Such a cute (and to be honest) way better alternative to whole foods hands down. This tiny gem is located at Castro valleys marketplace in their downtown area. Food was fast, fresh and delicious! Staff was friendly and courteous. And sooooo clean. Will be a repeat customer. Enjoy everyone! Bon apetite

Nice people, usually. VERY POOR TASTING SUSHI!!!!Maybe try a better place....................