Sushi Counter

Sushi spots in the East Village tend to be either cramped counters or sprawling izakayas. Sushi Counter keeps things simple—no frills, no fuss. They serve lunch and dinner with a focus on small plates, which makes it easy to grab a quick bite or linger over a few dishes without the pressure of a full meal. The setup is counter service, so you order, pay, and eat without the usual table-service wait.

You’ll find them at 523 E 12th St New York, NY 10009, a stretch of the block where the neighborhood’s mix of old-school bodegas and newer cafes still feels like it’s holding its own. Solo diners seem to favor the place, though it’s just as common to see pairs splitting rolls or sharing a couple of healthy options. Takeout is available if you’re in a hurry, and they’ve got dine-in for when you’re not.

If you’re curious about the specifics, give them a call at 212-555-0198. Directions are straightforward if you pull up the map: here’s the link. The area’s walkable enough that you might as well stroll past and decide on the spot.