"Short version: excellent value for everyday sushi, great food and quiet calm atmosphere. Don’t go here to impress someone, go when you want good sushi without a second mortgage. Long version: I’ve been going to Sam’s for years, and love it. Friendly wait staff, quick service, and the best value for everyday Sushi in Ballard by a long shot. They have a fairly standard roll selection, and the nigiri cuts are enormous relative to the price. The fish is always fresh and delicious, though they’re clearly not purchasing the top tier sashimi grade cuts for everything. The downside? The salmon is farmed unless otherwise specified, their sashimi option is just the nigiri minus rice, and it’s never a mind blowing experience. But I don’t to Sam’s to have the world’s most amazing sushi, I go for delicious fish at a reasonable price. My girlfriend and I can be stuffed at Sam’s for $50, versus a comparable meal at Shiku or Billy Beach for $80+. Bottom line: it’s a solid joint and worth a visit any day of the week... especially because you can afford it any day of the week."
