Sushi Friend

- 8727 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020

Sushi Friend is a true neighborhood gem in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, establishing itself as a premier destination for high-quality, incredibly fresh sushi, sashimi, and poke bowls. Located in the Sunnyslope area, this establishment has quickly gained national recognition, even earning a spot on Yelp's list of the top U.S. sushi spots in 2023—an impressive feat for a small, casual Asian-owned business operating in the desert.

The restaurant operates with a strong focus on two main service models: a comfortable, albeit small, Dine-in experience, and a highly efficient Takeout and Delivery service. This dual focus ensures that whether you are planning a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or feeding a large group, Sushi Friend is prepared. The core of their appeal lies in the meticulous preparation of their food; every piece is known for being beautifully prepared, fresh, and delicious, reflecting the serious pride the chefs take in their quality.

The menu is expansive, offering everything from classic Nigiri and Basic Rolls like the Cali Roll to creative, signature Specialty Rolls such as the Seared Salmon Roll (a top seller), the AZ Roll, and the unique Sushislope Roll. Customers can also explore various Combos, Platter options for groups, and a satisfying selection of Bowls, including the popular X Bowl and various Poke Bowls, which are perfect for a healthy, quick bite. The atmosphere is described as casual and trendy, attracting a mix of locals and tourists looking for top-tier sushi without the pretension of formal dining.

Sushi Friend is conveniently located at 8727 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020, positioning it in a highly accessible area of the city. Being on Central Avenue, it is a straightforward drive for customers across North Phoenix and the surrounding Valley area.

The restaurant is highly accommodating regarding accessibility, ensuring that all patrons can visit with ease:

• Wheelchair Accessible Entrance: Provides a barrier-free path into the restaurant space.
• Wheelchair Accessible Parking Lot: Dedicated accessible parking is available, making arrival simple and convenient.
• Wheelchair Accessible Restroom: On-site facilities are fully accessible.
• Wheelchair Accessible Seating: Provides comfortable dining arrangements for all guests.

Parking options are provided to minimize the hassle for Arizona drivers:

• Free Parking Lot: There is available parking located in the back of the building, which customers often find easier to use than the front.
• Free Street Parking: Additional free street parking is available in the vicinity, offering alternatives, particularly when the main lot is busy.

The service model at Sushi Friend is streamlined and modern, designed for efficiency while maintaining high standards of quality and customer care:

• Dine-in Service: Features a small, cozy dining area perfect for a quick yet relaxed sushi experience. The atmosphere is casual and the preparation of the fish is often visible to diners.
• Takeout Service: A primary service option, often facilitated through a dedicated app or the on-site Kiosk ordering system, ensuring fast service and a quick turnaround time.
• Delivery Service: Offers delivery to bring their fresh rolls and bowls directly to customers, providing a no-hassle meal solution.
• Online and Kiosk Ordering: The experience is semi-self-service, with orders placed at an automated kiosk or via an online app, which is praised for being fast and efficient.
• Catering: Provides catering options, including Large Platters and the unique, visually appealing Sushi Cake, which requires 24-hour notice and is perfect for celebrations.
• Beverage and Alcohol Service: Serves a selection of alcoholic beverages including Beer and Wine, alongside popular Japanese and American Drinks, available for dine-in patrons.

Sushi Friend is distinguished by an impressive combination of quality, innovation, and genuine care:

• Top-Tier Freshness and Quality: Widely recognized by customers and national rankings for having "absolutely incredible," "top-tier" fish, with items like the Hamachi noted for literally melting in the mouth. The quality of the fish is always fresh and consistently excellent.
• Unique and Creative Menu: Features a wide variety of Special Rolls like the AZ Roll, Sushislope Roll, and the highly-recommended Toromigo Roll, showcasing creativity alongside traditional offerings. The menu also includes specialized items like the Unagi Don and various Poke Bowls.
• Unique Culinary Offering: The availability of the Sushi Cake, requiring 24-hour notice, is a fantastic, celebratory option for birthdays and special occasions.
• Exceptional Customer Care and Safety: The staff’s demonstration of genuine care and concern for guest safety—even to the extent of discreetly addressing suspicious activity and offering to escort customers to their cars—is an extraordinary highlight that goes far beyond typical hospitality.
• Modern, Efficient Ordering System: The Kiosk ordering system and dedicated app ensure fast service and accuracy, making the process of ordering a quick bite smooth and hassle-free, despite the potential crowds.
• Dietary Inclusivity: Offers a variety of Healthy options, Vegan options, and Vegetarian options on its menu, accommodating diverse dietary needs in the Arizona community.

For Arizona customers looking to enjoy this acclaimed sushi spot:

Address:8727 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020, USA

Phone Contact:(602) 345-1312

Hours of Operation:The general operating hours are typically from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM MST, Monday through Friday. However, online ordering may close earlier (sometimes before 6:00 PM) depending on the volume of guests, and walk-ins are welcome until approximately 6:30 PM. Given their extreme popularity, it is recommended to call ahead or check the online ordering platform for the most current daily operating status, especially when aiming for a late dinner.

Sushi Friend is absolutely worth choosing for any Arizona resident who prioritizes exceptional quality fish and wants a modern, efficient, yet personalized dining experience. It is where you go when you want "top-tier sushi" without the need for a formal, expensive atmosphere. The unique combination of the freshest sushi in the Valley—as confirmed by national accolades and local raving reviews about the hamachi and seared salmon roll—and their fast service model is unmatched.

For large groups or special events, the menu offers highly practical choices like the Mixed Roll Platter and the custom-ordered Sushi Cake, which transforms a simple meal into a memorable celebration. Beyond the food, what truly sets Sushi Friend apart is the visible, genuine care from the Asian-owned business and its staff, demonstrated by their impressive actions to ensure customer safety and well-being.

Whether you are a solo diner grabbing a quick poke bowl for lunch, a couple enjoying a selection of specialty rolls for dinner, or a parent ordering for a family (as it is "Good for kids"), Sushi Friend delivers a fresh, delicious, and reliable product every time. For the best sushi experience on N Central Ave, look no further than this acclaimed Phoenix institution.

Sushi Friend

8727 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85020, USA