Welcome to Kurumazushi
Kurumazushi, an esteemed sushi haven in Midtown Manhattan since 1977, offers an authentic Japanese culinary experience under the expert guidance of Chef Toshihiro Uezo. Nestled on the second floor of an office building, this classic spot stands out for its fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation, embodying the essence of *omotenashi*—Japanese hospitality. Diners rave about its exceptional sushi plates, with popular seasonal offerings and a noteworthy lunch special. The intimate setting and dedicated service create a memorable ambiance, making Kurumazushi a cherished gem for both locals and visitors seeking the highest quality sushi in New York City.
- 7 E 47th St 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017, United States Hotline: +1 212-317-2802
Welcome to Kurumazushi, a culinary treasure nestled in the heart of Midtown Manhattan at 7 E 47th St, 2nd Floor. This authentic sushi haven has been serving exquisite Japanese cuisine since 1977, making it a cornerstone of New York's sushi scene for over 45 years. With a legacy built on tradition and excellence, Kurumazushi is helmed by the highly respected chef Toshihiro Uezo, who has remained the guiding force since the restaurant's inception.
Kurumazushi prides itself on delivering an experience that stays true to Japanese culinary standards. Reviews from delighted customers echo the restaurant's commitment to authentic sushi, devoid of the trendy American twists that often infiltrate its competitors. One patron noted the absence of "crazy Americanized rolls," affirming Kurumazushi’s unwavering focus on traditional, high-quality sushi. Diners are greeted with the freshest fish, lovingly prepared and served in a serene and spacious setting, a refreshing contrast to the cramped and often chaotic sushi joints found in Midtown.
One of the standout features of Kurumazushi is the opportunity to indulge in an Omakase experience, a chef's choice tasting menu showcasing the season's best offerings. While it does carry a higher price point, the meticulous preparation and premium ingredients justify the investment. For those seeking a more casual yet equally delightful experience, the “Sushi Plate” presents a seasonal selection of nine nigiri and makizushi, allowing guests to savor the delicate flavors of traditional sushi.
What sets Kurumazushi apart is not only the food but the hospitality. Regulars, including many Japanese expatriates, praise the warm and attentive service that enhances the overall dining experience. As a warm reminder of the past, the restaurant captures the essence of Omotenashi, a deep-rooted Japanese philosophy of hospitality that ensures every guest feels cared for and appreciated.
As you step into Kurumazushi, prepare to embark on a remarkable journey through the world of sushi—where tradition meets exceptional culinary skill. Each dish emanates a story, crafted by hands of experience and passion. It's more than just a meal; it’s an invitation to appreciate and celebrate the art of sushi in a locale rich with history. Whether you're a seasoned sushi lover or a curious newcomer, Kurumazushi promises an unforgettable experience that surpasses the mundane, making every visit feel like a cherished event.

Classic spot with excellent, excellent sushi. Love the spaced table setup too, as opposed to packed to the gills other midtown sushi places.

Excellent place for 45 sushi lunch special. So much food for a great price. Also came with a miso soup. A hidden gem in midtown with a great wait staff.

VERY authentic Sushi restaurant - no crazy Americanised rolls are served here and they only provide real Japanese Sushi. Everything was so fresh and the service was impeccable. No wonder do they have so many regulars including expats from Japan.

Believe it or not, but Sushi in New York City actually predates the 2010s. The Omakase wasn’t served for the first time at Sushi Nakazawa after all. For many long-time New Yorkers, the history of sushi is centered around a few midtown sushiya that have served this city strong since the 1980s (and before). Hatsuhana. Sushi Zen. Sushi Den. Nippon. But it's almost impossible to tell the Big Apple Sushi Story (future kid's book) without mentioning the 45 year old Kurumazushi. 45 years isn't nothing - for instance, my brother was born in 1977 and he's old as dirt. But the most impressive part about Kurumazushi? Same Itamae since day 1. Toshihiro Uezo moved to New York City in 1972, and opened Kurumazushi in a different midtown location 5 years later. Despite two moves and a shift to the second floor of an office building, by all accounts the same hospitality Omotenashi (hospitality) and quality exists today as it did then. I had the fortune of sitting with Uezo-san in the middle of the day. Most of my reviews are during the dinner hour, but I was more than happy to join a friend at literally 11:30am (it’s five o’clock somewhere, right fellas?). And actually, some would even suggest that Kurumazushi is known for it’s lunch; that’s because business people, in New York for doing business things, found it incredibly convenient. And it’s still the case; reservations, even at 11:30, were difficult. We sat at the sushi counter with Uezo-san and his apprentice. Though Kurumazushi isn’t large – it occupies the second floor of a commercial office building – there are tables as well. Kurumazushi does have an Omakase option, but there is no price break at lunch – it’s about 300 for 16 courses as my NYC Omakase list will tell you. If spending 300 for 90 minutes during the middle of the day isn’t your thing – as it wasn’t for us – consider that there are ways to order fantastic, seasonal sushi a far more reasonable rate. We elected to go with the 80, “Sushi Plate”, a seasonal combination of nine nigiri and a makizushi (negitoro on the day we dined), served in two plates. The beauty of nigiri is often in its simplicity, and the Chu Toro pictured on my blog is a great example of that. No extra toppings, a little shoyu applied, just the neta formed to the shape of the vinegered rice (as it should be). The Sushi Plate features popular year-round Neta like Maguro, Uni and Ikura, but it also had Botan Ebi, an autumn speciality, though unfortunately no tempura heads served as is often custom. My first visit to Kurumazushi was long overdue, but it won’t be my last. Every part of the meal – from the location, to the itamae, to the no-frills sushi, expertly prepared at an understandably-higher price point – screams throwback. Despite the fact that the midday rice put me to sleep during hours of afternoon meetings that could have just been an email, this was worth it. Recommended.

Absolutely the greatest sushi on the planet! Chef Uezu is an absolute pleasure to chat with and takes such great pride in providing the very highest quality fish. I can't wait to go back!!

Still my all-time favorite sushi place in NYC. Came here on 9/12/2001 when the "world was ending". Went for full omakase that day. If the world is ending you might at least have some superb sushi.

Great sushi made in front of you by a Japanese chef of more than 40 years of experience. This place opened in 1977 and creates both great food and a fantastic atmosphere! The house green tea was amazing and follow the chef’s recommendation and you can not go wrong. It is a little pricy but definitely worth it for the price!! Thank you for the great experience!

An absolutely amazing, quick, Al a carte sushi experience amazing quality fish and rice! Fluke, Shima aji, red snapper, sea scallop, ikura, king crab, and sea urchin from Hokkaido WOW! Everything was incredible chef is super friendly! If you don’t know it’s there you could walk right past because it has no signage and is on the second floor of a building! But so amazing to have been able to dine there!