I was ecstatic that such a beautiful restaurant sprang up in the neighborhood! I went for a Friday lunch (rsvp) and was seated promptly. The restaurant was not crowded during this time, great! The ambiance was calming and minimal. You must come here during the day to appreciate how the daylight illuminates the space. I'm drooling about the forest-green velvet accents and light warm wood, 100% loving it!! The round booth seating was comfortable and intimate. The bartender who came to take my drink order was very friendly and presented the cocktail menu to me. He took his time to explain the flavor profiles of each one. How lovely! I ordered something with a tweak and it came out absolutely perfect. For food, I ordered 7 pieces of chef's choice nigiri with yellowtail belly. The nigiris were so fresh and beautifully presented. I'm thinking of going back to try more things! I had hot matcha tea and dessert to finish my meal, it was lovely. The server was very friendly and attentive, constantly clearing our table of finished dishes. I had an amazing experience from start to finish and look forward to visiting again soon. read more

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Aya was awesome! The service was fantastic, the waitstaff was very knowledgeable and attentive. We ordered several items from the menu, opting not to participate in the omakase on this visit. Everything we had was delicious. The award winning Fiona Graham cocktail came highly recommended and was strong but subtle. Next time, I would definitely consider sitting at the sushi bar and trying the omakase. Overall, parking was easy, getting a table was easy, the decor and atmosphere were nice and I would recommend trying out Aya. read more

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Ambiance was nice. Service was good. I felt that the price I paid was a bit over. I've had better quality for cheaper.

The portions are tiny and prices are too high. They don't even give you soy sauce or ginger.

Amazingly Delicious!!! Unique! Authentic!! Staff extremely knowledgeable and resourceful with great suggestions!! Fabulous fun Visiting Master Chef from Japan adds great cultural flavor to the dining experience! Ambiance is modern-chic. Cool relaxing vibe! LOVE THIS PLACE!! @Bellaire is finally stepping up! read more

Houston, we have a new top-tier Japanese restaurant to add to your list of other extraordinary establishments such as MF Sushi, Uchi and Kata Robata. Located in the space formerly occupied by Bernie's Burger Bud in Bellaire, Aya Sushi transformed the space into a chic 'Michelin' comparable venue. With seating capacity limited to just over 100 patrons, the restaurant has an intimate setting that doesn't have a corporate feel to it. Jennifer, our main waitress was thoroughly prepared to answer every question we through at her regarding the preparation and flavors of each item on the menu. We ordered the truffle edamame and found it to be so delicious that we found ourselves sucking the pod after squeezing out the soybean just to be sure to capture all of the flavor. The shrimp tempura was perfectly cooked...fried in fresh oil. My wife ordered the cauliflower tempura and demanded that I try it (I'm not the biggest fan of cauliflower)...it has the perfect amount of seasoning which paired perfectly with the usually tasteless cauliflower. Jennifer promised that the mushroom butter was life changing and she was spot on. We even dipped some of the remaining tempura pieces in the last remnants of the mushroom butter broth and discovered that pairing was a match made in heaven. As they have fish flown in directly from Japan six days a week, the quality and freshness was spectacular. She made recommendations that were off the beaten path instead of the standard fare you can find at many establishments. The ocean trout blew our minds, the orange mussel knocked us off our feet, even their interpretation of amberjack was out of this world. The Beverage Manager, Chris, came to visit our table, as we tried three or four signature cocktails recommended by Jennifer, all of which were spectacular, and his knowledge and recognizable dedication to his craft, was equally as impressive. My wife normally drinks Sake with a Kirin Ichiban, which they don't carry, but I asked him to recommend one of the dozens of sake chooses on the menu and he recommended one served at room temperature and paired it with a local beer...phenomenal. The sake went down with an amazing flavor profile and went down as smooth as water. The plates are delivered by a team of waitstaff and fresh plates were delivered several times during the meal without the need for us to request it. As our 3 1/2 hour meal was coming to an end, which by the way, was only that long because we were truly enjoying the blissful food and service, Jennifer recommended another life changing dish for dessert. A few moments later she brought out an apple fritter with the right amount of flakiness to the crust that was partnered with a salted caramel ice cream. HEAVEN - She playfully went along as we joked that they just went down the street to McDonald's to grab their apple pie and truly made our evening feel quite relaxing and casual. All in all, as a major fan of MF Sushi, I think Aya Sushi is at the same level. While MF may have the beautiful long bar to watch the master sushi chefs at work, it's a little hard to enjoy a 90-minute meal with their very uncomfortable booths. Aya's seating was just the opposite, very comfortable, as can be attested to as we were sitting for 3 1/2 hours without any soreness on our bum or lower backs. We are absolutely planning to go back time and time and time again. Houston, you have yourself another world class Japanese restaurant to enjoy!!! read more

I felt compelled a review for the abysmal experience I had here with my date on Saturday night. Wasabi and Ginger are extra charge. Food came out in no thought out order at all, sashimi first, then appetizers, then the roll we ordered with a gap in between each. Bone marrow and Bok Choy were the best dishes we ordered among the five different sashimis, one roll, and four appetizers. Everything else left a lot to be desired. Service was incredibly slow. Ambience was nice though ‍ read more

If you want a more intimate and authentic sushi experience, Aya sushi is a wonderful restaurant. It has dining room and bar seating. The sushi is fresh and has good pairings with various flavors, including the traditional soy sauce, yuzu, chili and truffle oil. The sushi chef/owner loves pink; anything that has "momo" in the name expect a pink twist to it. The cocktails are well made, and if you get there early enough for happy hour (5-6:30 pm), it's $10! The decor is modern, and the background music (Japanese pop) is just loud enough to enjoy if you want. I would pick this restaurant over Kata. Plus its closer to the Bellaire, Meyerland, and Westbury. read more

Rip-off prices for mediocre food and poor service. I've been going here for months, once a week, only because it was close to my home. But their food and service have hit rock-bottom and I won't go anymore: 1) overpriced and limited menu items: the prices are too high for what you get. Once I ordered a fish entree for dinner (eel?)-along with another entree- and what I got for $14 was a small fish, just inches-long, with nothing else. During lunch time, there is almost nothing to eat and I have usually ordered the $20 sushi special because there was nothing else worth their price, and the staff would sometimes nag me about ordering the $20 special even though they themselves seemed to go to cheaper and better Japanese restaurants. Also, they never offer bento or a combination lunch as other Japanese restaurants do, and there is never a daily special; 2) cheap chopsticks and not authentic Japanese style: they pretend to be a high-end Japanese restaurant offering a fine-dining experience as in Japan. But their disposable chopsticks are cheap and splinter easily. I had my chopsticks break and splinter, poking my finger. I mentioned the problem 4 times over 4 weeks before they changed their chopsticks, but the new ones are still not high-quality. Also, they chant "Irasshai" when you come in, to pretend they are traditionally Japanese, but they bring the miso soup before the entree, while the traditional Japanese way is to bring the miso soup along with the entree. No one here speaks Japanese except for the chef, but they put up such pretenses; 3) On 10/15/2023, a Sunday, I called to ask about their "ayakase" for $75. I called around 11:30 a.m. and was told that ayakase required a minimum of 2 people for order. Because I was the only person coming without a company, I asked if I could pay half-price, or $35, for one person. The hostess answering the phone checked with the chef and offered to serve me the ayakase for me, only 1-person, for $75. I called again minutes later to ask if the amount of food was too much for one person, and the hostess said the amount was pretty large for one person, but I could come and eat by myself as we had agreed already. But after I dressed up and came to the restaurant an hour later, they suddenly said I must order for 2 people, that ayakase was for a minimum of 2 people. I reminded the hostess of our phone conversation, and suddenly she said she had meant I had to order 2 people's worth of food, or $75 x 2=$150, and that was just for starters before ordering more. I kept reminding her of our phone conversation, but she only got upset and yelled at me that they did not need to serve me and I could leave if I were not happy. I got up and left after this shocking behavior by the hostess, and I don't plan to go back. But please spare yourself of a nasty experience like this and spend your money at decent restaurants. BTW, this was around 12:30 p.m. on a Sunday and they had no customers when I walked in. This restaurant has been open since September 2022, I heard, and they still have few customers. Yet they refuse to change despite helpful suggestions from me and perhaps other customers. read more

Had the best sushi so far! Must definitely try the chef's selection! The Tuna literally melted in the mouth and they have a great Japanese whiskey collection. read more

Aya Sushi - Japanese Near Me - Bellaire, Texas

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Over priced and poor service. I was there with friends, trying new restaurant in the neighborhood since Yelp has such good reviews on them. It took us over 4 hours for all the food to come. The food quality was so so. I was totally misled by all the good reviews here. read more

The best in the world. Ms. Yang is the best server in the world and I love the sushi here 999/5 stars

This is a fancy place in Bellaire. I'm hoping they make it since it's in a strip mall and a small place. It feels a little too fancy for the ambiance of neighborhood. The food is fancy sushi, like MF Sushi and other places. Appx $100-150/pp and you may leave hungry if you don't do the $135 menu. The portions are very small. The food is fantastic. Don't need to get the rolls, they are subpar. The sea bass is overrated. All else on nigiri and sushi menu was highlight of the menu. I won't go back bc for that price I rather go to MF Sushi or somewhere a bit more trendy or happening. However, I'm happy I went to try high-end option in the area. read more

Not what is advertised ! If you have had a true Omakase you know. We booked a $135 per person omakasa experience for the dining room - we arrived on time and were told there was a 30 minute wait for the dining room - they overbook - we waited - big mistake The kitchen takes a long time and the preparation and food does not feel like fine dining - at best like Japanese IHOP With cocktails - that is the feel. There is nothing I can say about the food nothing at all. The manager/owners could care less - they are tricking people who don't know what a true omakasa is - Also there is not a place to wait - we left after being inside the restaurant for 2 hours and had only received 5 of the 19 courses - the small tasting Spoons are placed right on the table - no plating - doesn't seem hygienic at all. Our cocktails were sitting at the bar for 15 minutes with our servers walking by them several times - we had ordered them about 30 minutes prior - and they just sat there -it took almost 45 min to get our cocktails we asked for the bill - - they finally brought the drinks to the table - AFTER THEY GAVE US THE BILL ! The young high school servers try their best. read more

Aya is our favorite restaurant, they staff here treats us like family. They know our favorite drinks and keep track of what we ordered the time before. Like many in Houston, they were greatly affected by the hurricane. When we arrived tonight they alerted us that the soda machine was down, but knowing the my husband only drinks Coke, they had gone to CVS to pick up cans of Coke so he could properly enjoy his meal. I was totally blown away by this level of service. Thank you Leslie and chef Yoshi for taking such good care of us! read more

I normally don't give review. Visiting Houston from Orange County, California. Ran into this place because I was craving for sushi. The foods was very satisfying but the services was beyond amazing. Highly recommended!!! read more

This was such a great experience! Our omakase reservation was pushed back due to the service being a little slow, but hopefully it's been fixed since then. Every dish was amazing and an intimate experience. My only complaint would be that there was a chicken meatball dish that I really liked so I requested it again when we were nearing the end of our omakase, but it wasn't the same as when I initially had it. It didn't even have the same finishing touches, however, I will be back again! Also there was a drink I wanted, however, they didn't have the tequila in stock and rather than give me the drink with a subpar tequila, the bartender chose to not serve it, which I appreciated! read more

This is imo the best sushi in Houston outside of maybe some of the ridiculously expensive exclusive omakase places. Each piece here is made with more attention to detail compared to the more mass produced feel of popular places like kata and uchi. The sushi itself and the rolls and appetizers are more creative too. Service is always superb when we come here. read more

Aya has become my favorite spot for omakase in Houston with easy self-parking and quiet ambiance (unlike some other sushi joints in town). Chef Yoshi's 19-course omakase was so creative and full of unique ingredients, and it varies based on seasonal availability. Servers were attentive and knowledgeable. If you're a foodie and have a couple of hours to amaze your palates, you must give Aya a try! read more

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This place was amazing! I have done the set menu chef experience but I preferred sitting at the bar and having the bartender make recommendations. The quality of the fish is so fresh I haven't had anywhere else compare in Houston. Their selection of sake was so interesting to try. I loved the intimate ambiance. Definitely pricey but also definitely worth it for a special event! read more

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the experience you have at aya is truly indescribable. it's the electric happy medium of fine dining and entertainment. yoshi is the most passionate sushi chef i've crossed paths with in houston. his knowledge and genuine care for delight is never disappointed. i truly feel like a guest in his kitchen. he is extremely proud to please. the staff is astounding. they greet you with an authentic warm welcome to their restaurant and overflow you in knowledge of each order. being Japanese, eating fresh sushi is very particular. aya is exceptionally fresh. aya is everything and more than i could want to for a luxurious lunch or a delectable dinner. if i'm in the mood for a belly full of good food and laughter, i need to see yoshi at aya! read more

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We did the omakase. Every course was wonderful and we loved the variety (nigiri, sashimi, wagyu, chawanmushi, etc.). Our server Andy was a delight. I enjoyed a couple of cocktails, both of which were delicious and unique. My boyfriend was super impressed with the Japanese whiskey list. Impeccable vibe. We'll definitely be back. read more

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Food and service was excellent. Sat on the covered patio as it was a pleasant evening.

Pro- cool ambience Con - overpriced, waitress rude, quality of food is average at best Conclusions - Kata Robata is the better choice. I don't view Aya a good value for its price, recommend another place to eat. read more

Yoshi is so amazing and funny. He definitely made the omakase experience even better. The fish was tasty and delicious. Such a great mix of fresh, fried, and unique. read more

Perfect date night! The atmosphere is beautiful, every dish delicious and dessert cannot be missed. Trust your server to pick a great selection. And the haiboru highball machine is a rare treat, making the perfect cocktail. read more

Saturday night for an hour we had the place by ourself. That says something. However large staff waiting . I've heard great things but did not experience even average sushi. I had pre made soy and ginger already on my food that was masking strong fish smell. Japan stile is to make your wasbie at table not a chef driven infused to hide taste. Cool place, good drinks, great staff but sushi had to be smothered in soy and wasabi to hide smell and taste. Wagyu really good. but over priced. Price compared to Kata R, small pieces don't compare not even close. Blue Fin and Many other Houston sushi way better. B- or c+ at best. I will let you know how digestive system handles it. lower overall score due to high price small pieces. read more

Restaurant was busy when we arrived. Booked online the omakase experience and it seemed like they were unprepared for it. We waited around 20 minutes between the 19 "bites". The table next to us arrived after us and left before us and had several courses. My friend and I left feeling a bit robbed with the amount of food that was presented for $354. We were also very underwhelmed by the lack of communication from the waitstaff. The whataburger we had afterwards did the trick and filled us up! read more

The top pick is the mono roll it was so good and the flavors were the best. The tuna was so soft and good. It was .

This is a young restaurant, so maybe just some growing pains. Note: this is not your typical sushi place where you dunk the food in soy sauce and wasabi. Good: Ambience, service, bar program / wine list. Appetizers excellent. Esp rec Ayaviche, which was the favorite of the night. Bad: Maki (we tried two) needed flavor. Salt more than anything. Negiri: tried several. The chef puts an interest hint of citrus on the white fish. But still lacked flavor. The darker fish like chu toro were far better. Bottom line is not worth the price... yet. Hoping this neighborhood sushi joint will improve. Willing to try again. read more

Well designed interior, fully stocked cocktail bar. The service was great and the staff made me feel welcome. The sushi was delicious and beautifully presented. read more

Aya Sushi - Japanese Near Me - Bellaire, Texas

Delicious sushi in Bellaire!! Tried the cauliflower bites, spicy edamame and a couple rolls...loved them all

So disappointed in the general manager who refused to seat us at 4:56 pm because they don't open until 5 pm. I have eaten there many times and had guests with me and was embarrassed the way we were treated. At 5::05 we left and went to a wonderful sushi restaurant on kirby. I will not return. read more

Nice build out and really good food. Brand new so growing pains are natural. If you want a nice experience, go. Staff was very diligent and prompt and will go back. Really pricey so if you want to eat just good clean sushi then Samurai is a better option for the neighborhood. read more

Incredible food, great service, and an inimitable vibe curated by chef Yoshi. Aya fills a much needed void in Bellaire.

We arrive with 10 people for the omakase experience. Bartender was good. Everything else from there forward was piss poor. The Wait staff t was having a bad day. From being careless of pouring hot water for the towel service to basically eating a cigarette bud for the the smoked tuna. This total experience was a one star for sure. read more

Was recently in Houston for business, in search of dinner, and stumbled across this absolute gem! I simply don't have enough nice things to say. The food was exquisite, the decor upscale and refreshing, and the wait staff very friendly and helpful. Not to mention the extensive selection of sake and Japanese whiskeys. My single complaint.... I live in Los Angeles and Aya is in Houston! LOL read more

If I could give a lower rating I would. We were put outside on the "covered" patio but the heaters weren't working and it was freezing. On top of that, our server quite literally seemed like she was under the influence. She took our order at 6:50pm and then when we checked up on our food at 7:15 she said it would be right out. Then when we checked again at 7:30, she said that she wasn't really our assigned server and forgot to put the order in despite being the only one who took our order down. After telling the manager, the manager was ineffective and offered no apologies or refund on our appetizer. Horrible experience. Do not waste your time here, so many better Japanese restaurants in Houston and the Bellaire area. read more

I was excited for a sushi restaurant to open nearby but service was poor and food is over priced. I was here when it was empty and the server forgot our orders and gave it to another customer and then took one hour to deliver another order. I tried to sympathize but the restaurant was also empty at the time. Fish was subpar and my lunch special chirashi was $28 for pretty much 7 pieces of fish, of which 2 pieces were tamago (egg, not even fish) Guess I'll stick to Kata Robata for now. If you like your money, please avoid. Will not be returning. read more

Immediately after walking inside, I knew that my dining experience was going to be exquisite. And that it was. Extremely high-quality, fresh ingredients paired with intricate presentations and a very pleasant upscale atmosphere made it worth every penny. Lotus, our bartender/waitress, was exceptional. She guided us through the menu, answering any questions we had, and made recommendations that ended up being really great. Her service was truly the icing on the cake and one of the reasons I will definitely be returning in the future. Cannot recommend Aya enough. read more