Raku

Disclaimer: I don't eat seafood so I am taking the word of my inlaws regarding the sushi. They've ordered obscene amounts from this place and will continue to do so. This is the only sushi place my in-laws will order from in DC. The mackerel, salmon, spicy tuna, and fish egg sushi are their favorites. However, I've never seen a single piece remain as leftovers once they dig in. I can only review the non fish options which were very good. Thai beef salad: Great fragrance and taste. If you would have said it was from a Thai restaurant I would belive you! Spare ribs: Meaty and very flavorful. These really surprised me by how good they were and the overall size. Pork dumplings: These are solid, but not spectacular. I wasn't a big fan of the pineapple sauce that comes with it, but the other "spicy" sauce was good.

I came here with some friends after a great concert at the National Cathedral, and overall we enjoyed parts of the meal! The croissant pudding dessert is definitely a huge highlight.However, there was a significant issue with freshness. I had a salmon sushi roll, and it tasted like the fish had been sitting out--not the best feeling for a sushi spot. The gyoza also had a sauce that did not taste fresh. I hope to give it another try!

My friend and I came here on a Saturday night and it was super busy! A good sign :) and with that, service was still good. The ambiance is also super cute - we were in the room with the hanging, changing lights!We both got wine and sushi and thought it was all delicious and fresh. Probably one of the more "quality" sushi fish that I've had recently. The primary downside (in my opinion) is finding parking nearby. It's a bustling area, so just expect that when you come to Raku!

Bento is just as lavish (if a bit overpriced) as before. The sashimi that came with the bento box is fresh and delicious. The grilled octopus / shrimp salad is fantastic (first time trying it).Beware there are small bones in the cod (eat slowly!)We ordered on their own website, and food was ready in a timely manner. I miss their previous bento box (the actual, beautiful box). They have gone cheap since the pandemic. Just an ugly plastic box. No Japanese bento box charm any more.

Chanced upon this spot which is a sister restaurant of the more well known Rakuya resto due to its strategic location at DuPont circle. Raku offers a slightly different menu and has lunch specials featuring seasonal items. I got the set meal from the regular menu as I simply can't say no to Unagi. The Unagi is pretty fresh and tastes better than the one I had at Momo cafe.

We had a great affordable dinner here, party of 7...service was great. The vibe of the place was very much fun Asian fusion. (The bathroom sink was particularly creative lol.). You will certainly be happy if you order the sushi, Nigiri, and the rolls. Soups are also a great choice. My brother ordered the Bibimbop and that looked pretty good, along with an Asian spin on Calamari. He ate every bite. My husband ordered the big bowl of red curry soup. It's great for someone with a big appetite. Very filling for $15! It was nice to be able to either order a full meal, or to eat lightly. No pressure. There were specials available...all very interesting choices. The rolls were very fresh and well done. When my daughter wanted one more roll, she ordered mid-meal and it arrived quickly. Appreciated the overall presentation and the way things were plated. If I recall- Raku was founded by west coast (Berkeley CA) chef Mark Miller. I'm a big fan of Mark's southwestern cooking. I enjoy his Asian fusion menu as well.

Just bumping up my rating now because quite frankly, their prices are inline with today's average dining experience in DC. Efficient, if indifferent service at the bar but the food hits a lot of high notes for pan-Asian cuisine. Solid!

Love the location of this restaurant. It's a great place for date night! Finding good sushi in DC is rare but I have been to this place twice! Everything I have gotten there so far has been good. I highly recommended this place!

Warm, modern ambiance, yummy food. Decent amount of vegan choices, though no entree soups that were vegan. Would go again.

Love this place. Their udon is nice chewy- like the bubble tea chewy in a good way. The rice that came with chirashi is slightly warm which give a nice contrast to the fish. The veggie on top give a nice crunch when eat with fish and rice. Last but not least the tamago and the fish roes on the rice also bring out the sweet from the egg and salty nice flavor.5 stars for food , ambience, price. Service was ok .