It’s not hard to find cheap sushi in the city, but it’s quite difficult to find cheap and good quality sushi. I’ve been to several “half-off” sushi places and the fish quality was only borderline mediocre to “it’s about to rot” quality. However, Todai is one of the few places for all you can eat cheap and decent quality sushi. Best of all, it even offers hot dishes and dessert!
I’ve been to Todai five times. The first few times, I would walk out saying to myself that I’d never eat again… ever. It’s tough controlling portion sizes, let alone forcing yourself to stop eating even when your full. Sushi gets me full fast since it has so much rice, but at Todai, I go through at least 3 platefuls before I leave, and that doesn’t even include dessert.
I’m not saying that Todai has the best sushi. What I’m saying is they have one of the better quality sushis for such a low price. When you line up for the buffet table, you’ll find at least 15 sushi varieties, and around 10 sashimi varieties too. It depends on whether you go in for lunch or dinner. I’ve found that there’s more of a selection at dinner (especially since you’re paying more). For lunch, I’ve been able to get out with $19 including tip.
I love having the option to choose from so many different types of sushi. They have anything from your common California roll to your more traditional Dragon roll. My favorite is their Tempura sushi- it’s basically deep-fried sushi.
I love Todai’s hot food just as much as their sushi. To give you a rough idea, they generally have two Asian style fried/roasted fish, three types of chicken, tempura vegetables, five types of salad, fried rice, and three types of noodle dishes. I’ve left out alot of things, but here is their menu.
Of course, what’s a meal without dessert? Their dessert comes in the form of tiny bite-sized cakes and tartlets. I love their square-ish sponge cakes topped with different types of fruit jelly. Their cheesecakes are decent too. They also serve jello and fruit if you’re looking for a healthier option.
(After a full meal…)
Todai is awesome. I’d definitely consider it a cheap eat since you get so much food for under $20 during lunch. Make sure you check their website for prices because they’ll vary by the day.
6 E. 32nd St.,
New York, NY 10016
Near Fifth Ave.
See Map | Subway Directions 
212-725-1333
You should also check out:
- Crif Dogs (take 2)- best hot dogs ever
- Saturday brunch at Locanda Verde
- Bobo in the West Village
- Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill: Brunch
- Five Napkin Burger
