When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Maki Toki
Why Maki Toki is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Maki Toki, located in Austin, Texas, is a contemporary Japanese sushi restaurant that has been delighting locals and visitors alike since its establishment in October 2008. With a welcoming atmosphere and a prime location at 1910 W Braker Ln #300, it provides an ideal setting for meetups, whether lunch, dinner, or drinks during their uniquely named "Angry Hour." The diverse menu caters to a variety of tastes with offerings including fresh nigiri, sashimi, innovative sushi rolls, and satisfying bento boxes. The restaurant’s extended hours, from 11:00 AM to midnight on weekdays and Saturdays, make it convenient for casual gatherings and special occasions. Their Angry Hour, held daily from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM, offers a lively social hour perfect for friends to unwind and share quality Japanese cuisine paired with drinks. Maki Toki’s contemporary flair combined with traditional elements makes it an inviting place that balances authenticity with modern tastes, ensuring a memorable dining experience for all who visit. Friendly staff and a stylish ambiance further enhance its appeal as a top spot in Austin’s vibrant culinary scene.
Here's what people think of Maki Toki
As of recent, Maki Toki holds a 4.1-star rating based on 492 reviews.
User reviews for Maki Toki reflect a generally positive impression, with an average rating around 4.1 stars from nearly 500 reviews, indicating solid customer satisfaction. Many reviewers highlight the freshness and quality of the sushi, praising the variety and creativity of the menu items, including sushi rolls and sashimi. The attentive and friendly service is frequently mentioned as a plus, contributing to an enjoyable dining experience. Patrons also appreciate the restaurant's ambiance and the convenient hours that accommodate lunch, dinner, and happy hour meetups. Positive reviews often mention Maki Toki as a dependable go-to spot for both casual dining and special occasions, citing it as a favorite among sushi lovers in Austin. However, some negative feedback points to occasional inconsistencies with service speed and food preparation times, especially during busy hours. A few customers have noted that price points can be on the higher side compared to other sushi places in the area. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus remains favorable, with the majority valuing the restaurant’s commitment to quality and a welcoming atmosphere. In conclusion, the bulk of reviews suggest that Maki Toki is a trustworthy and enjoyable place to gather with friends for Japanese cuisine, balancing good food and ambiance with attentive service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Mike Cole
Very good food, I’ve had noodles, bento box, sushi rolls, tuna tacos. Not the best atmosphere, kinda of a dive sushi spot, but those are usually the best.
Amber
The spicy California sushi burrito was by far a favorite! Very flavorful, fresh, made to order. We also had calamari and gyoza; everything was great even considering it was 11pm. Thank you!
Erryn R
Maki Toki was the first restaurant I tried sushi at and I will never need to try anywhere else. My mind was blown beyond expectations with the selection of sushi available, the amazing customer service, and the high quality sushi that is served. This is one of the best family owned restaurants in the Austin area and not just when it comes to sushi. Our server Tima has provided excellent and thorough service for us time and time again. My favorite aspect of Maki Toki is how beautifully the food is presented on every occasion AND they have the best tasting/strongest margaritas you can find.
Joshua Jefferies
Honestly one of the worst meals I’ve ever eaten. I’m not sure the restaurant owner has any idea what “tempura” means. Or “katsu”. Or “sushi” for that matter. I ordered a tonkatsu bento. Even the rice was awful: it was freaking *minute rice*. Yes, that’s right, a 22 dollar “Japanese” meal came with instant rice, and it wasn’t even shortgrained rice. Instead of katsu sauce, it included some rank pink sauce (NOT yumyum sauce, as I had initially hoped). Instead it veggie tempura, it came with three pieces of oily fried vegetables with no panko anywhere on them. The katsu itself was also foul, drenched in old oil and breaded in some stuffy, dense garbage instead of panko. Even the California roll managed to be pointless, though perhaps that was due to not even coming out with wasabi. And the prices? Like, I can’t cut them a break, I paid 30 dollars for lunch with a soda. The only way you’re hitting that 10-20 dollar range the google page claims is if you just order miso soup and don’t leave a tip. Abysmal. I hate to be so negative but there was ***nothing*** redeeming about this. Not a single decent item.
E. Ann Riner
I’ve seen this restaurant often when going to Walgreens at W Braker and Metric and FINALLY ate there for an early lunch today. What a smart decision! I had the soft shell crab appetizer (I was raised on The Eastern Shore of VA and I know good crabs!) and yellowtail tuna nigiri. Each dish was perfect. Crab was crispy, non oily, with that sweet white interior you crave and included lovely asparagus - an unexpected extra in an appetizer. I guess when you order a certain amount you are given a free miso soup, and the soup was steaming and so flavorful. I could not finish it and when given my to go container they had topped up my soup to a full bowl! What a gracious and surprising touch. The menu is extensive and I plan to bring friends and family to delve into more yumminess. This is a hidden jewel and I’m sure the only reason there were only a few of us is because I arrived at opening time. I highly recommend!
How to reach Maki Toki
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Why Maki Toki may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Maki Toki with your friends?
Gathering your friends or family at Maki Toki promises more than just a meal; it offers a vibrant, flavorful experience tailored for group enjoyment. Located in Austin, TX, Maki Toki stands out as a contemporary Japanese sushi restaurant that excels in creativity, taste, and atmosphere. With a solid 4.1-star rating from nearly 500 reviews, it has won over many for its exceptional sushi and welcoming service. When you rally here, you’re choosing a place where everyone can find something delightful on the menu — from fresh nigiri and sashimi to inventive sushi rolls and bento boxes. The environment fosters lively conversations and shared exploration of unique Japanese flavors, making it ideal for socializing. Whether you're meeting after work, celebrating special occasions, or just wanting to savor top-tier sushi with your crew, the quality of food, combined with friendly, attentive staff, guarantees your group will feel both comfortable and excited to try new dishes. The modern, clean ambiance paired with great happy hour deals adds to Maki Toki’s appeal as a hotspot for gathering friends.
What activities and experiences make Maki Toki perfect for group meetups?
Maki Toki offers a range of activities and service features that create the perfect setting for group meetups. First, the diversity of their menu ensures that everyone can find something to their taste, accommodating different dietary needs and preferences. Groups can share various specialty sushi rolls, such as the Firecracker or Manny roll, making it a collaborative culinary experience. This sharing style encourages interaction and lively discussion about flavors and favorites. Additionally, Maki Toki hosts a popular happy hour with discounted appetizers, nigiri, and rolls during weekday and weekend evenings, which is ideal for groups looking to enjoy quality food at a value while relaxing together. The happy hour environment brings a casual, spirited vibe, enhancing the social experience.
Beyond the food, the restaurant’s layout and attentive service contribute to its group-friendly atmosphere. The staff is known for being friendly and accommodating, readily helping groups navigate the menu or suggesting pairings with sake — such as their well-reviewed white peach sake that pairs excellently with many dishes. This personalized attention makes group dining smoother and more enjoyable. Maki Toki’s balance of a clean, polished setting with the buzz of activity creates an inviting space for celebrations or casual meetups alike. All these aspects combined make it more than just a place to eat — it’s an ideal venue to rally with friends for a memorable time sharing great sushi and drinks.
Why is Maki Toki’s sushi experience uniquely suited for friend groups or family gatherings?
At Maki Toki, the sushi experience is specifically crafted to appeal to groups by offering creative, fresh, and satisfying dishes that stimulate the palate and invite sharing. Unlike some sushi spots that focus on traditional offerings only, Maki Toki blends classical Japanese techniques with inventive twists, presenting rolls and plates that encourage exploration and surprises. Specialty rolls like the Saki Maki, Firecracker, and Manny deliver bright, bold flavors that spark conversations and make tasting fun for everyone. Because sushi is often served in shareable portions, it naturally lends itself to a group dynamic where everyone can sample varied items rather than sticking to one dish. This enhances communal dining, which is perfect for bonding moments. The freshness and quality of ingredients, noted in many positive reviews, ensure that the experience is both delicious and memorable for your party.
Moreover, Maki Toki’s beverage offerings, including its signature sake and carefully selected drinks menu, add to the occasion by providing tasteful drink pairings that complement the sushi. This attention to pairing elevates the meal beyond just food, turning it into a full sensory event that encourages toasting, celebration, and repeated visits. In sum, Maki Toki delivers not just sushi, but a complete dining adventure that suits the sociable nature of friends and family sharing a meal together.
What makes Maki Toki’s atmosphere and service stand out for group events?
The atmosphere at Maki Toki brilliantly balances modern casual dining with a buzz of energy perfect for group gatherings. The interior is clean, contemporary, and inviting, creating a comfortable space where groups can gather without feeling cramped or rushed. This setting is especially appreciated by those seeking a laid-back yet refined environment to linger over food, drinks, and conversation. The staff is also repeatedly praised for being warm, attentive, and knowledgeable — qualities that significantly enhance group dining experiences. They help coordinate orders, answer menu questions, and even recommend dishes or sake pairings, making the experience smoother and more personalized. This level of service ensures that everyone in a group feels well taken care of and that large group logistics are handled efficiently.
Additionally, the restaurant’s happy hour specials introduce a festive vibe that further encourages socializing. With discounted sushi rolls, appetizers, and nigiri available during peak social hours, friends or family can enjoy high-quality food without the premium price tag. This makes Maki Toki not just a destination for dinner but a venue for fun, casual meetups that won’t break the bank. Whether you’re planning an after-work get-together or a weekend celebration, this blend of atmosphere and service keeps the mood upbeat and inclusive, making it a popular locale for repeated visits and group memories.
What variety of menu options does Maki Toki offer to satisfy all tastes in a group?
Maki Toki’s menu is extensive and thoughtfully designed to accommodate a wide array of tastes, making it ideal for groups with diverse preferences. You’ll find everything from traditional sushi staples like fresh nigiri and sashimi to more adventurous specialty rolls that combine unexpected ingredients and flavors. For those who might prefer cooked dishes or aren’t big on raw fish, Maki Toki provides options like bento boxes and appetizers that include tempura, skewers, edamame, and other hot Japanese dishes. This variety allows every group member, from sushi aficionados to newcomers, to find satisfying choices. The balance of raw and cooked options makes the meal inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
The appetizers and small plates also play a key role in group dining. Popular choices such as spicy edamame, crispy rice tuna, or grilled shishito peppers are perfect for sharing before the main courses arrive. These bites encourage sampling and create a shared experience, as everyone partakes in a variety of flavors and textures. Coupled with their drink selections, including unique sake options, the menu supports a dynamic and engaging meal that goes beyond traditional sushi dining. This extensive and diverse menu makes Maki Toki a top choice when planning a meetup that promises variety and quality.
How does Maki Toki’s happy hour enhance the group experience?
Maki Toki’s happy hour is a standout feature for anyone looking to host a social event with friends or family. Available on weekdays from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm and extending slightly later on weekends, the happy hour offers significant discounts on an array of appetizers, nigiri, and specialty rolls. This makes it both an affordable and exciting option for groups who want to explore multiple dishes without worrying about steep costs. Happy hour promotes a relaxed, festive environment where guests can casually sample creations like the Firecracker roll or spicy edamame while enjoying refreshing drinks. This deal-packed time window naturally encourages conversations and creates an atmosphere of shared enjoyment and discovery.
The timing of happy hour also makes it a convenient choice for after-work gatherings or early evening outings, when groups can unwind together and transition seamlessly into a full dinner should they wish. With the friendly staff on hand to assist and the vibrant but comfortable atmosphere, Maki Toki’s happy hour transforms the restaurant into a hub of sociability and flavor. This enhances not only the economic value of a group meetup but also the overall spirit and enthusiasm at the table, helping to make every visit memorable and fun.
What makes Maki Toki’s location and accessibility convenient for group meetups?
Situated at 1910 W Braker Lane in Austin, Maki Toki boasts a convenient location that is accessible to many city residents and suburban visitors. Being positioned within a well-known area adds to its appeal as a meetup spot, as groups can easily converge from various neighborhoods without hassle. Ample parking and proximity to major roads make arriving uncomplicated, which is crucial for groups planning their outings. This ease of access eliminates common stressors like traffic or finding parking spots, allowing the group to focus on enjoying the meal and company. Accessibility contributes to making Maki Toki not just a good restaurant but a practical choice for group gatherings.
The restaurant’s sizeable interior space further accommodates larger parties comfortably, avoiding the cramped feeling some popular sushi spots can have. This, combined with the overall inviting atmosphere and friendly service, ensures that groups feel welcomed and well accommodated from the moment they step in. Whether your meetup is a casual get-together or a planned celebration, the location and layout of Maki Toki support a seamless and pleasant group dining experience that you will want to repeat.
In summary, Maki Toki provides a perfect blend of creative sushi, diverse menu options, friendly service, welcoming atmosphere, and convenient location that together make it an excellent choice for meeting up with friends or family. The opportunity to share delicious dishes and enjoy happy hour specials in a modern, comfortable setting makes every gathering special and memorable. Choosing Maki Toki means selecting a venue where food and friendship come together beautifully.