When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill
Why Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill is a well-regarded Japanese restaurant located in South Austin, known for offering a vibrant sushi and Japanese dining experience. Its welcoming atmosphere and attentive staff make it an excellent place to meet up with friends for a casual yet authentic meal. The restaurant highlights include fresh, expertly prepared sushi rolls and sashimi, crafted with elegance and precision by talented sushi chefs who provide a bit of artistry at the sushi bar. Alongside sushi, Nanami also offers a range of appetizers like edamame, gyoza, and traditional Japanese entrees such as chicken teriyaki. The drink menu complements the food nicely, providing a balanced dining experience. The ambiance is enhanced by a cool, contemporary setting that's perfect for social gatherings or relaxed dinners. Although parking is often available and the location is easy to find, its prices are noted to be on the higher side, which reflects the quality of ingredients and the dining experience provided. Overall, Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill offers a unique and enjoyable Japanese food outing that garners repeat visits, especially for those seeking fresh sushi in the South Austin area.
Here's what people think of Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill
As of recent, Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill holds a 4.2-star rating based on 589 reviews.
Reviews of Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill present a mostly positive impression with an overall rating of 4.2 from nearly 600 reviews. Guests appreciate the freshness and artistry of the sushi, highlighting the sushi chefs' skill and the authentic flavors. The service is frequently described as attentive and friendly, contributing to a pleasant dining atmosphere. Positive reviews also mention the well-curated drink menu and a variety of good appetizers that pair well with sushi. Customers enjoy the location's ambiance and consider it a great spot for casual meetups or late-night dining. However, some reviews point out the relatively high pricing compared to other sushi restaurants, which may feel steep for familiar rolls like spider or spicy tuna. There are occasional mentions of service inconsistencies and that certain entrees, like chicken teriyaki, do not stand out as much as the sushi offerings. A few users note the restaurant can be quieter than expected, with empty parking lots at times. Despite these criticisms, the general consensus is that Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill offers quality food and atmosphere worth trying, especially if you value fresh sushi and good service. The reviews suggest this place is a commendable choice in South Austin for sushi enthusiasts, though price-sensitive diners might find it a bit expensive.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katie Blackwell
I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS SPOT!!! Even if I didn’t live in the neighborhood, this would be my neighborhood spot! I would drive any amount of time to get here! Seriously. Not only is the food excellent- EXTREMELY fresh fish, the cuts are EXPERT, the staff treats you like family! Probably because they are family. I am here at least 2 times a week, if not more! The happy hour specials are awesome & the variety of dishes offered means you never get bored. Sometimes it’s bento box lunch, sometimes it’s hand rolls, sometimes it’s Chef’s choice! They have a full bar as well as a great beer and wine selection. Every night is a different special, both food and wine. When I first started coming here, I was most impressed by their cold sake selection, but all of their menu has impressed me. This will be my sushi spot for as long as they decide to stay in Austin! Which I think will be for a very long while since the owners are deeply rooted in the community here. I can’t say enough good things about this place! Come see for yourself!
Joshua Ehl
Great spot for sushi! I had both the crunchy roll and the spicy tuna and both were amazing. Also the kitchen was willing to accommodate my non pork preference to one of their house special dishes, and made it with chicken! The service was spectacular and the atmosphere was top tier.
Marissa Rivera
HIDDEN GEM!!! If you live on the southside and want high quality sushi with incredible service, this is the spot!! Our waiter Rick was amazing. AND they have great drink specials every day of the week. Stop searching and just GO!
Nate McGuire
Very nice neighborhood sushi, fast and fresh. Bento boxes are nice for an easy dinner!
Crystal Zuniga
Service was great. Came on a Sunday during lunch time and has plenty of seating. Ordered caterpillar , rock-n-roll , and eel avocado rolls all delicious! Would definitely recommend!
How to reach Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill
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Why Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill with your friends?
Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill is an exceptional destination to gather your friends for a memorable social outing. Located in South Austin, this family-owned Japanese restaurant offers not only a diverse and fresh sushi menu but also a warm, inviting atmosphere that fosters connection and celebration. The combination of authentic Japanese cuisine prepared with care and the attentive service makes it a standout spot to enjoy quality time together. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or a newcomer to Japanese dining, Nanami's wide selection ensures there is something for everyone, including traditional rolls, sashimi, and cooked entrees, accommodating diverse tastes. The setting is casual yet sophisticated enough to feel special—perfect for a lively group meetup without the stiffness of fine dining. Additionally, their consistent hours, including lunch, dinner, and late service, plus a generous happy hour, make it convenient to plan your gathering any time of the day. With a 4.2-star rating from hundreds of reviews, it combines good food, good vibes, and a smart location where you can rally your crew for fun, flavorful moments with ease.
What activities make Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill perfect for group meetups?
Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill offers a range of appealing features that enhance group experiences and keep everyone engaged. Firstly, the sushi bar setup allows guests to watch skilled chefs craft beautiful rolls and dishes in an interactive, visual way—this live artistry can be a fun conversation starter and keeps the energy lively. The menu includes shareable plates like edamame, gyoza, and creative sushi rolls, encouraging communal dining and sharing that is ideal for groups. For larger parties, the restaurant offers ample seating with several table options, ensuring comfort without feeling cramped. The atmosphere is enhanced by a cool, welcoming décor and a big screen TV that can entertain groups who want to catch a game or enjoy some background visuals. Their well-curated drink menu, including specialty cocktails, sake, beer, and wine, adds to the festive mood and accommodates diverse preferences. Moreover, Nanami’s commitment to accommodating dietary needs—offering gluten-free options with knowledgeable staff—is a thoughtful touch that makes gatherings easier and more inclusive.
How convenient is the location and service at Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill for hosting a group?
The convenience of Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill’s location on Brodie Lane in South Austin is a significant advantage for group meetups, especially for locals looking for an accessible venue. It boasts a private parking lot, eliminating the stress of street parking in a busy city, making arrivals and departures smooth even for larger parties. The restaurant operates daily from 11:30 AM to 10 PM, providing flexible dining times that can suit lunch, dinner, or late-night plans. This flexibility ensures your group can find a time that fits everyone's schedule. The staff is widely praised for their attentive and friendly service, which is crucial for groups that require prompt seating, drink refills, or help with menu choices. While some reviews mention pricing as slightly on the higher side, many guests feel the quality of the sushi and the overall experience justify the cost. The welcoming, family-run nature of the restaurant often translates to a comfortable, down-to-earth vibe that enhances group camaraderie and satisfaction.
What makes the menu at Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill suitable for diverse group tastes?
Nanami's menu is thoughtfully designed to appeal to a wide variety of palates, making it a great choice for groups with mixed preferences. Though sushi is the star, there are plenty of traditional Japanese dishes beyond raw fish rolls, such as chicken teriyaki, rice bowls, and tempura, ensuring those less inclined to sushi can still find satisfying options. The sushi itself is crafted with a balance of freshness and skill, avoiding the heavy sauces some might find overpowering, which pleases both sushi veterans and casual diners. Besides standard favorites like spicy tuna and California rolls, Nanami offers creative rolls and seasonal specials, keeping the menu exciting and fresh. This diversity allows groups to order several dishes to share, creating a communal dining experience that encourages conversations about flavors and preferences. For those with dietary restrictions, Nanami is particularly accommodating, offering gluten-free soy sauce and knowledgeable staff who help navigate gluten-free sushi options. This attentiveness ensures no one in your party feels limited or excluded.
How does Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill support memorable events and celebrations in a group setting?
Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill goes beyond just providing meals; it cultivates an environment that’s conducive to celebrations and special events with friends or family. The restaurant has hosted culturally significant events, such as Lunar New Year celebrations featuring dragon dance performances, which add a festive and unique cultural touch ideal for group gatherings. They also offer reservations, which is invaluable for planning birthday parties, anniversary dinners, or casual get-togethers without the worry of waiting for a table. With a big screen TV and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, it’s easy to create a party vibe or combine dining with entertainment, perfect for if your group wants to watch sports or enjoy themed evenings. The friendly team works to accommodate special requests, from seating arrangements to menu customization, ensuring that the day feels personalized and carefree. Their happy hour from Monday to Thursday offers a budget-friendly way to toast with friends, making celebrations feel indulgent without being overly expensive.
In what ways does Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill foster a community feel for group meetups?
Nanami Sushi Bar & Grill is more than a restaurant; it strives to build community through food and shared experiences. Being a family-owned business run by three sisters, it has a warm, inclusive vibe that regulars appreciate and newcomers often notice right away. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and connection is evident in the way staff engage with customers, making visitors feel like valued members of the Nanami family. This sense of belonging makes it an ideal spot for groups who want a relaxed environment where they can comfortably chat, laugh, and create lasting memories. The cultural authenticity of the cuisine combined with thoughtful service fosters real bonding over shared meals that go beyond just eating. Community events such as seasonal celebrations and special promotions invite groups to participate together, reinforcing the idea that Nanami is a gathering place, not just a place to dine. This supportive atmosphere encourages groups to return repeatedly, turning one-time meetups into cherished traditions.