As a guy who likes sushi, I could’ve done worse than moving to New York City, where, happily, “fast-food” Japanese chains are prevalent. Two of the most popular are Go Sushi and Teriyaki Boy. I’ve been to the Go Sushi in the West Village many times. It’s fresh, cheap, tasty and presumably more healthy than your average fast food, although the atmosphere in those places, with their low ceilings and poured-cement floors, make it seem as if someone just set up a few rickety tables and chairs in a parking garage.
The Teriyaki Boy branch I had dinner at tonight had just as much atmosphere. It was hot and stuffy in there and I swear they only turned on the air conditioning after I showed up (and was the only person in there at prime dinner time). Eventually, a few more folks came in, and it seemed as if TB did a brisk delivery business, in the tradition of most Asian food establishments.
I got the Maki Combo, six pieces each of California roll, Alaskan roll and Tuna roll, and it was delicious and filling, served unceremoniously on a Styrofoam plate upon a bright red plastic lunch tray. My can of Coke cost $1 but for future reference, I noted that the layout of the place—long and very narrow, with the soda cooler separating the front counter-area from the half-dozen small tables in the place—was conducive to sneaking in one’s own, more cheaply procured beverage of choice.
Teriyaki Boy
- (9 Manhattan locations)
- 483 Columbus Ave. (between W. 83rd and W. 84th Streets)
- (212) 874-5633
- Meal 23/52: Maki Combo ($6.99) and a can of Coke ($1).