When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Komé: Sushi Kitchen
Why Komé: Sushi Kitchen is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Kome Sushi Kitchen offers a welcoming and contemporary dining experience in Austin, Texas, specializing in authentic homestyle Japanese cuisine that blends tradition with creative influences. Founded by Takehiro and Kayo Asazu, who bring authentic family recipes and diverse cultural influences from Japan, New Orleans, and throughout Asia, Kome distinguishes itself with its casual yet refined atmosphere. The restaurant provides ample space for diners, allowing for a comfortable and relaxed meal whether with friends or family. Highlights include a diverse menu with teishoku-style lunch combos featuring protein, salad, soup, rice, and pickles, as well as a full sushi bar stocked with fresh rolls during lunch and dinner hours. Dinner offers an extensive range of fried (Age), grilled (Yaki), and cold (Hiya) dishes, from crispy tempura and grilled meats to inventive cold appetizers like Kimchi Pickled Sea Bass. Kome’s approach focuses on fresh, flavorful ingredients with the charm of authentic home cooking rather than the formal traditional Japanese restaurant fare, making it an ideal spot to meet up with friends for a flavorful and fulfilling meal.
Here's what people think of Komé: Sushi Kitchen
As of recent, Komé: Sushi Kitchen holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2607 reviews.
Reviewers consistently praise Kome Sushi Kitchen for its authentic and high-quality homestyle Japanese dishes that deliver a unique culinary experience blending traditional and personal family recipes. Many appreciate the reasonable prices paired with the extensive and creative menu offerings, highlighting the freshness of sushi and diverse cooked dishes. Positive reviews often mention the warm and casual atmosphere where staff provide attentive service, making the dining experience comfortable and enjoyable. The inventive 메뉴 options, such as the fried Age dishes and grilled Yaki selections, receive particular acclaim for their bold flavors and satisfying textures. On the other hand, some negative reviews note occasional wait times during peak hours and sporadic inconsistencies in portion sizes or seasoning. A few diners have found the non-traditional menu challenging if expecting standard Japanese restaurant fare, but most agree that the home-style cooking is the restaurant's strength. Overall, reviews conclude that Kome Sushi Kitchen offers a reliably excellent and distinctive Japanese dining experience in Austin, earning a strong 4.5-star rating from over 2600 reviewers.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kevin Zheng
The pork buns were delicious and tender, although the flavor profile was a bit "basic". The sushi was good - but I'm not sure if it was quite worth the price for what you might be getting. The menu overall was a bit on the pricier side of things, but what really stood out was the atmosphere! The lighting was warm, slightly dim, and had cultural pieces of decor. Overall the restaurant was nice and had a pleasantly surprising vibe, but a more typical palate
Maddie Green
I wanted to love this place!! It was a cute atmosphere and the drinks were delicious but service was horrendous - our server forgot to key in my drink and so I didn’t get it until the very end of our email with only one piece of sushi left. Then when we wanted to pay and leave our server was nowhere to be found we had to ask the hostess and she couldn’t figure it out either so we paid with another server. I wouldn’t go back but it was good for what it was. Waiting an hour for a table of 2 and it was so loud in there we couldn’t hear anything.
Tommy Park
Cute, cozy spot for date night or just some good sushi. They don’t take reservations and they’re quite popular (for good reason) so get there early or late or plan to wait for a table because it’s first come first serve. Service is quick and attentive. Lots of drink options, their cocktails are quite good. Lots of sake to pair with the sushi. Their sushi is delicious, definitely one of the best in Austin. Their nigiri is excellent and their rolls are as well. Even their simple rolls were delicious. Their take on the classic spicy tuna roll is a must try as well. Would definitely dine here again.
Delaney Dunn
We came for a dinner to celebrate our anniversary. The staff were so friendly and the food was delicious! There was a wait but we ordered drinks and the host brought them to the waiting area for us. I really recommend this place!
Jesse Lee
Excellent service all around. Our food came out in under 10 minutes for all 8 dishes, very amazing. The Shrimp tempura was tasty as well as nice and crunchy. The curry soda was as ok, the noodles were nice and chewy but feel the lack of protein/beef was disappointing.
How to reach Komé: Sushi Kitchen
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Why Komé: Sushi Kitchen may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Komé: Sushi Kitchen with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Komé: Sushi Kitchen offers a unique and vibrant dining experience that combines exceptional food, welcoming ambiance, and accommodating service—making it an ideal spot for group meetups. The restaurant boasts a strong 4.5-star rating from over 2,600 reviews, underlining its reputation for quality and consistency. Whether your group shares a love for authentic Japanese cuisine or you’re simply looking for a casual yet impressive dining locale, Komé delivers both. The variety of menu options, from innovative sushi rolls to hearty ramen and grilled specialties, means there is something to please every palate. Additionally, the inviting atmosphere in the Ridgetop area of Austin lends itself to relaxed conversation and memorable shared moments. Friendly staff are notably attentive, especially with dietary needs such as gluten-free options, ensuring everyone in your group feels comfortable and cared for. This blend of great food, atmosphere, and service creates a dynamic backdrop perfect for any occasion—be it catching up over dinner, celebrating milestones, or simply enjoying a night out with family and friends.
What activities does Komé: Sushi Kitchen offer for group meetups?
Komé is more than just a place to eat; it’s a destination that encourages interaction and shared experiences through its diverse menu and inviting setting. For groups, the experience begins with sushi-making excitement—their action-packed rolls, such as those featuring the restaurant’s signature spicy go-go sauce, invite communal tasting and conversation. Sharing plates is central to Japanese dining culture, and Komé’s small plates and bento boxes create perfect opportunities to pass dishes around the table, promoting a lively, collective meal. For those who enjoy warm, comforting dishes, the variety of ramen available at lunch adds a cozy, engaging element where friends can bond over slurping noodles and discovering flavors together. The restaurant’s spacious interior and friendly vibe also make it an excellent venue for casual events or celebrations. The staff’s knowledge and accommodation of dietary restrictions, including a clearly marked gluten-free menu and use of tamari soy sauce, allow diverse groups to dine confidently without fuss. Plus, swift and efficient service means your group’s meal moves along smoothly, keeping everyone engaged and satisfied.
What makes Komé: Sushi Kitchen perfect for hosting group gatherings?
Several factors contribute to Komé’s suitability as a meetup spot for groups. First, its location in the Ridgetop neighborhood makes it an accessible and convenient choice for local residents and visitors alike. The restaurant’s layout supports both intimate dinners and larger parties, ensuring comfort without sacrificing the quality of experience. The menu breadth—from grilled mackerel with crispy skin to vegetarian miso ramen—caters to diverse tastes, making it easier to satisfy both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar flavors. Importantly, the focus on quality and freshness, particularly in sushi and nigiri, demonstrates a clear commitment to culinary excellence that will impress your friends or family. Beyond the food, the warm and attentive service creates a welcoming environment where guests feel valued, a critical element for any successful group outing. Komé’s thoughtful approach to dietary accommodations, such as offering gluten-free soy sauce and a dedicated gluten-free menu section, shows sensitivity toward guests with specific needs, making it an inclusive space for all. This combination of excellent cuisine, considerate service, and comfortable setting makes Komé an outstanding choice for your next gathering.
How does Komé accommodate diverse dietary needs?
Komé: Sushi Kitchen stands out for its attention to dietary restrictions, especially gluten intolerance. The restaurant provides a clearly marked gluten-free menu, accessible easily through their ordering app, which helps diners make safe and informed choices. The staff are well-trained on gluten-related concerns and proactively offer tamari soy sauce as a gluten-free alternative without waiting to be asked, demonstrating exceptional customer care. While the sushi menu is mostly gluten-free, some rolls and dinner options do contain gluten, so this transparent communication ensures guests avoid surprises. Vegetarians also find suitable choices, such as the vegetarian miso ramen topped with fried tofu skin, ensuring the menu covers a broad spectrum of preferences. This commitment to inclusivity allows mixed groups to dine together comfortably without compromise, reinforcing Komé’s status as a friendly and welcoming meeting place for everyone, regardless of dietary needs. The combination of culinary flexibility and strong staff knowledge creates trust and enhances the overall dining experience for groups.
What is the dining experience like at Komé: Sushi Kitchen?
Dining at Komé is noted for its harmonious mix of traditional Japanese flavors and modern culinary techniques. The quality of ingredients is central to the experience. For example, the grilled mackerel teishoku (set lunch) is a favorite with a crispy, slightly salty skin and fresh lemon—a dish requiring a bit of finesse to enjoy but highly rewarding. The restaurant’s ramen selection showcases balance and depth, with options like umami-rich miso soup and subtle tonkotsu broth appealing to different tastes. The kitchen’s ability to swiftly serve multiple dishes—often delivering all plates within ten minutes for larger orders—emphasizes professionalism without rushing diners. The atmosphere balances liveliness with comfort, making it suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and special celebrations. Furthermore, subtle touches like offering fresh wasabi for a small extra charge add to the authenticity and attention to detail. Overall, Komé creates a memorable food journey grounded in genuine Japanese culinary artistry with a warm Austin hospitality twist, ensuring groups leave satisfied and eager to return.
How does Komé enhance social gatherings beyond food?
Komé Sushi Kitchen’s strengths extend beyond its delicious food to shape memorable social experiences. The communal nature of sharing sushi rolls and small plates fosters connection and interaction, which is ideal for groups wanting to converse and engage while enjoying their meal. The comfortable seating arrangements are designed to accommodate various group sizes, allowing everyone to feel part of the collective experience without crowding. The restaurant’s vibe encourages relaxed dining rather than rushed visits, supporting longer conversation and casual enjoyment. Moreover, the attentive service team plays a critical role in maintaining a smooth flow of courses and addressing group needs promptly, enhancing the overall convenience and pleasure of the outing. Komé’s combination of great food, thoughtful service, and warm ambiance provides an environment where friends and family can not only eat well but also enjoy the meaningful social moments that come with gathering over shared cuisine. This makes Komé an excellent venue for those looking to rally with loved ones around a table.
What should you expect in terms of value and pricing for groups at Komé?
While Komé Sushi Kitchen is not an inexpensive restaurant, its pricing reflects the high quality of ingredients, attentive service, and authentic Japanese culinary craftsmanship it offers. Some reviewers have noted that some menu items may be considered somewhat pricey, but most agree that the value comes from the overall dining experience—including the fresh fish, intricate preparation, and accommodating staff. For groups, this cost balances out with the ability to sample multiple dishes and tastes through shared plates and sushi rolls, making the outing feel like an upscale but enjoyable culinary adventure. The presence of gluten-free and vegetarian options means dietary needs don’t limit choice even at this price point. Plus, efficient service and the option to dine relatively quickly if needed helps groups maximize their time. When planning a group visit, it’s advisable to make reservations early, as the restaurant tends to fill up quickly, reflecting its popularity and commitment to quality. Ultimately, the investment is worthwhile for memorable social dining centered on exquisite food.
What is the best time to visit Komé Sushi Kitchen for group meetups?
To optimize both menu availability and seating for groups at Komé, timing your visit is important. The lunch menu features exclusive items such as a special ramen selection that is available only for dine-in, which could appeal to noodle lovers in your group. For dinner, the full range of sushi rolls, grilled dishes, and bento boxes is offered, providing a broader variety for sharing. Weeknights tend to be less crowded than weekends, but Komé is popular and can have wait times, so arriving early or making reservations is recommended to ensure your group can be seated together comfortably. The relaxed atmosphere during weekdays also enhances conversational ease, making it conducive for casual get-togethers or professional meetups. If your group is nutritionally sensitive or has specific preferences, communicating ahead with the staff can help tailor the experience. In all, planning your group outing around off-peak hours maximizes your enjoyment of Komé’s excellent food and welcoming setting.
What makes the sushi and specialty dishes at Komé stand out?
Komé’s sushi kitchen prides itself on innovative and bold flavors, anchored by the signature go-go sauce, a spicy mayo special that adds zest to their popular sushi rolls. This sauce injects an exciting, contemporary twist to traditional offerings and sparks engaging discussions among diners comparing favorite rolls. The nigiri and sashimi are fresh and carefully prepared, showcasing respect for classic Japanese technique. Specialty dishes such as grilled mackerel feature perfectly crispy skin and a balance of saltiness that delights discerning eaters, reflecting the kitchen’s skill and attention to detail. The ramen dishes also exemplify depth and balance, from umami mushroom-based miso to lighter soy-based broths, catering to diverse preferences and dietary considerations. By combining authentic tastes with signature elements, Komé offers dishes that are both familiar and unique—perfect for groups wanting to explore new flavors while enjoying dependable favorites.
How does Komé’s ambiance contribute to a group’s dining experience?
The ambiance at Komé is simultaneously intimate and lively, an excellent balance for groups seeking a gathering place where conversation flows easily and the energy remains vibrant without overwhelming background noise. The decor is modern with subtle Japanese influences that create an inviting mood without veering into formality, allowing guests to relax fully. Lighting and seating arrangements are designed to facilitate both smaller, cozy groups and larger parties comfortably, making the space adaptable to various meetup sizes. The service staff’s friendly and attentive demeanor further enhances the cozy but upbeat atmosphere, ensuring guests feel valued. These environmental factors contribute to an experience that feels both special and approachable, enabling groups to focus on shared connections and great food in a setting that encourages lingering and enjoyment.
Why is Komé: Sushi Kitchen a reliable choice for hosting celebrations?
Komé Sushi Kitchen combines quality, service, and atmosphere to create a dependable setting for celebrations or special group events. The extensive menu variety suits different tastes and dietary preferences, removing common challenges of group dining. Attentive staff help coordinate orders and accommodate special requests, facilitating a smooth experience that allows guests to focus on celebration rather than logistics. The restaurant’s reputation, supported by thousands of positive reviews, signals consistent performance and customer satisfaction. Moreover, the lively yet comfortable environment supports festive moods without fussiness, making it ideal for birthdays, anniversaries, and casual celebrations alike. Located in a popular but accessible Austin neighborhood adds convenience for attendees. All these elements together make Komé a confident choice for hosting memorable events where friends and family can enjoy not only excellent Japanese cuisine but also meaningful time together.