Sakanaya

Nestled in the heart of Newton, Sakanaya stands out as a gem for seafood lovers seeking the freshest Japanese sashimi outside of a traditional restaurant setting. More than just a typical market, Sakanaya offers a unique blend of a seafood market and customizable sashimi experience at 232 California St, providing an inviting yet casual vibe that emphasizes top-tier quality and personalized service.

At Sakanaya, the star of the show is undeniably their sashimi bowls. Customers like Sarah recommend arriving early to secure one of these beautifully crafted bowls, as they tend to sell out by afternoon. If you miss out, you can still create your own luxurious sashimi plate by choosing from an incredible selection of fresh fish, though this option does come at a slightly higher price point.

Elizabeth paints a vivid picture of Sakanaya’s charming atmosphere: a cozy, super-cute market with limited seating, making it more of a grab-and-go or casual takeout spot than a restaurant. The real allure is the level of customization available—diners can select the exact fish cuts and ingredients they want, ensuring every bowl perfectly matches their taste preferences. Portions tend to be generous, often best enjoyed with a friend, and prices hover around the $10 to $20 range, offering great value for the caliber of seafood.

Nick S’s experience highlights the attentive, friendly staff who, while occasionally rushed during peak times, maintain clear communication and help customers navigate their choices. His mention of the sizable sashimi portions confirms that Sakanaya doesn’t skimp on quality or quantity, making it an excellent option for satisfying fresh seafood cravings.

Shoppers like Iris Wang appreciate the hands-on approach, noting how easy it is to pick exactly what you want and have the staff expertly prepare it into a beautiful plate. Her praise for the fresh salmon and perfectly sweet shrimp speaks volumes about the high freshness standards Sakanaya upholds, even if the uni didn’t quite meet expectations.

For regulars like Scarlett Xia, Sakanaya is the go-to spot for sashimi fix, whether enjoyed on-site or taken home to craft personalized bowls. She highlights the excellent value — for $20 to $30, you can get enough top-quality fish for multiple servings, all tasting remarkably clean and fresh, without any worries about leftovers.

Overall, Sakanaya offers more than just seafood; it provides a hands-on, immersive experience that combines the freshness of a fish market with the convenience and flavor of authentic Japanese sashimi. It’s an ideal destination for anyone passionate about seafood who values quality, variety, and customization—all served with genuine warmth and expertise.

Whether you’re craving an artfully assembled sashimi bowl or want to hand-select the freshest fish to take home, Sakanaya delivers an authentic taste of Japan right in Newton, making every visit a delightful exploration of flavor and freshness.