Sushi 35: Jackie and Jenny’s Vision of Freshness and Affordability
Sushi 35 West in NYC offers fresh, high-quality sushi at affordable prices. Enjoy signature dishes like the Sushi Premium Dinner Set and Toro Rolls, crafted with seasonal ingredients. Dine in or order today for an unforgettable sushi experience!
When Jackie and Jenny started Sushi 35, their vision was clear: high-quality, fresh sushi at an affordable price. This ambition took root during one of the most challenging times for the restaurant industry—the COVID-19 pandemic. Jackie, a former chef at a well-regarded Japanese restaurant, Massapa, found himself at a crossroads when the pandemic shuttered businesses across the city. Rather than wait for the storm to pass, he decided to create his own opportunity.
“I wanted to serve my guests my own food, with fresh ingredients and lower prices,” Jackie explained. That simple yet ambitious goal has since turned Sushi 35 into a must-visit spot for sushi lovers, offering both takeout and a cozy dine-in experience.
A Pandemic Launch and Lessons Learned
Opening a restaurant during the pandemic posed its own set of challenges, particularly for a sushi business. “Controlling the quality of sashimi and sushi for takeout was the hardest part,” Jackie said. “Rice and fish are delicate, and they don’t always travel well.” Despite the difficulties, Jackie and Jenny persevered, constantly learning and adapting to ensure their sushi remained fresh and delicious, whether served in-house or delivered.
As restrictions eased and dine-in services returned, Sushi 35’s compact space became a hub for guests seeking to enjoy sushi fresh from the chef’s hands. Jenny emphasized the importance of this transition: “Eating our sushi fresh, in person, is a whole different experience—it’s warmer, brighter, and better.”
Seasonal Menus and Chef’s Choice
One thing that keeps customers coming back is Sushi 35’s ever-evolving menu. Seasonal ingredients and Jackie’s global culinary inspirations lead to frequent updates, ensuring there’s always something new to try. “Every time you visit, you’ll taste something different,” Jackie shared. This is especially true for their popular dinner sets, which feature Chef’s Choice selections based on the freshest fish of the day.
Jenny highlighted their unique sourcing practices: “We get fish from all over—Spain, Japan, and even local markets. For example, our uni might come from Japan one week, and Maryland or California the next. It depends on the season and what’s freshest.”
Signature dishes like the Sushi Premium Dinner Set and the Toro Rolls—generously filled with rich, buttery tuna—have earned rave reviews from guests. These standout items capture the essence of Sushi 35’s dedication to quality and creativity.
What’s Next for Sushi 35?
Looking to the future, Jackie and Jenny have ambitious plans. “We want to open another restaurant, but with a completely different dining experience,” Jackie revealed. “Something that no one else has done before.” With their innovative approach and commitment to excellence, it’s easy to imagine Sushi 35 growing into a culinary destination for adventurous diners.
Their advice for aspiring restaurateurs? “Be persistent and keep learning,” Jackie said. “Believe in yourself and just go for it.”