This hidden gem has great food...the Taiwanese beef noodle soup is very good, as are the milk teas. The sashimi was fresh and delicious, and the green tea (jasmine) was served in a lovely tetsubin tea kettle. Seating is adequate but it wasn't busy last few times we visited. Nice staff and quiet atmosphere. Trying to find the entrance is a bit of a challenge (off the main road and at the end of South Dubuque, across the street from Graduate by Hilton). I discovered this place by accident while trying to find the library and had parked in one of the public garages (also across the street from the restaurant). read more

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By far my favorite sushi/poke bowl spot in the Iowa city area. Soseki never misses, the portion sizes are great as well! The staff is so friendly each time I come in. Will always recommend Soeski to others! Try their delicious poke bowl!! read more

Soseki Café - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

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Godzilla, Tuna Melt, Crazy Horse, and Rock Star rolls⁣. It was a bit slow during dinner service and we were in a small hurry so we ordered at the front counter and it was brought to our table quickly after. I personally prefer this at casual restaurants anyway but it was a bit confusing since there was a server too. The textures and flavors in the sushi were perfect and we finished every single piece, SO good⁣ read more

Soseki Café - Godzilla Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

Quality has gone down over the years. I used to come weekly for their deals on cheap rolls. These deals have not been offered since covid, but they do still have a reasonably priced lunch special during the weekdays. It is an easy place to grab a quick lunch from if you work on campus. The last few times I went, I was served sashimi that was still entirely icy (not cold, but crunchy and icy) and difficult to eat. The price was also insane; $8 for 3 of the smallest pieces of fish I've gotten at ANY sushi restaurant in Iowa City. While I do think their fish quality is better than other sushi restaurants in town, the food overall is inconsistent and prices have gone up too much for Soseki to be a regular part of my rotation now. Service is still great, I just wish everything else was too. read more

Great food, fast service, love the selection of dishes. The Mapo Tofu was delicious. Will definitely be getting food here again.

Chose this place because of the many five star reviews. This place don't miss! I had never had a poke bowl and always opted for sushi or hibachi when I order from sushi places. The crab Rangoon are 5 star taste, but more filling would go a long way! Tried the takoyaki, NOT a big fan. The smell was pretty bad. Overall a 5 star experience and will order again next time I'm in town! read more

Soseki Café - Poke Bowl - Tuna/Smoked Salmon - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

When I entered it was a warm welcome, I ordered a chicken teriyaki roll which was My personal favorite because the flavors were like fireworks and I promise it did not disappoint. the shrimp tempura roll, was my second favorite which will make you happy spicy tuna roll, wasn't spicy ( but the wasn't a bad thing) the steak roll made me speechless The rainbow roll, will make you roll for how good it is Now for the drink, I had a mango smoothie that was better than I expected! The service 10 out of 10 And the scenery was magnificent. Make sure you stop by at SOSEKI! read more

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This is the best sushi place in town. It is super affordable and they have quick service.

Pretty good food. Cheap and will definitely be back. Right in the heart of downtown. read more

Soseki Café - Miso Soup - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

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It's my favorite spot in downtown Iowa City to grab sushi! Workers are friendly and wholesome! DC and shrimp tempura rolls are my personal favorites! 8/10 place read more

Casual place, friendly service. Sushi was good, but curry fries were great. Just FYI strict carding policy. 65 year old guy couldn't be served a beer bc he didn't have ID on him. read more

Soseki Café - Curry fries - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

When I take a keto cheat day, I feel like my standards are a little higher since I know getting to try new things is limited, so I want to make the most of it. Soseki still didn't disappoint in any way. The crab Rangoons were amazing, like I had to order a separate order for myself good. The Szchuan was super good with a variety of taste ranges. My friends steak noodle dish was definitely what I will get next time, though she says the sushi is even better. The steak was so tender and delicious, and the noodles were among the best you'll find in Iowa City. The service was awesome. The waiter was extremely attentive, more than willing to offer me suggestions, and wanted to be sure we were enjoying everything. It's for sure a place to try. read more

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Delicious food, especially the oyster on the chef's menu; I liked it. Kind waiters. However, the menu was not so clear. read more

Good food, but the experience was a little chaotic. We had a reservation but this very small restaurant was absolutely slammed with dine-in and take out customers. So service was kind of haphazard and a little bit slow. Not all the entrees arrived at the same time. All in all though, this is a very authentic Japanese restaurant. read more

Soseki Café - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

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I've had Soseki a few times in the past, but it had been awhile so we decided to order sushi for delivery! We had the Sushi Burrito (veggie), Veggie Roll, California Roll, and Miso Soup. The price tag was a little hefty, but the food was all really good. I was excited to try the Sushi Burrito and it did not disappoint! We're on a diet right now, so I didn't try any of the REALLY YUMMY looking stuff on the menu, but I can't wait to order again when I'm ready for a cheat night. For now, there were a lot of great options for a tasty meal that is also low cal! read more

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TLDR the beef gyudon is phenomenal. Got take out from here one day. I got the beef gyudon which is phenomenal. The beef is thinly sliced, the rice perfectly cooked and they throw an egg on top. Add a little bit of hot sauce on top and holy cow you have a phenomenal meal. I'm not the most versed in Japanese food but this tasted pretty authentic compared to my trip to Tokyo earlier this year. My wife had the yakisoba which was also good but not as good. I'm excited to try their ramen next. read more

They have a decent sized menu and the food comes out pretty quick. They have a sit down area, but it appears they are aiming to serve both dine in and takeout customers who may be on the go. With that said, I would view this as a place as a fast causal type of restaurant. The miso was delicious I would get that again, the sushi was 3/5, and pot stickers were okay. I would like to try some noodle dishes next time to get a better gauge on their food. read more

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So excited that there's finally a place for takoyaki and other small eats for late night here in Iowa city!!!! Got the takoyaki, tori no karage (fried chicken), and spider roll. They all hit the spot. Takoyaki: just as I imagined...hot, crispy, flavorful (I've only eaten takoyaki a few times in my life, so honestly I don't have much to compare to). But the other times were in Taiwan and New York. It was equally as good. Tori no karage: fried chicken, thighs I think (they come boneless so more meat for us!), yet still juicier than I would imagine it to be. Dipped in a nice sweet and tangy type of mayonnaise sauce. Spider roll: great as expected! Will definitely be back, and often. :) read more

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Soseki Café is my go-to when it comes to carryout sushi in Iowa City. (I may be mistaken... but it is one of the only sushi places in town I feel that offers dine-in, delivery, grab-and-go or order ahead options.) I've had both delivery and carryout. Both were prompt and correct. PLUS, you can order online AND on the Yelp app. In my opinion their rolls are the best for the price in town. ($6?!) They're no frills-- like spicy salmon, shrimp tempura, tuna avocado, crunch rolls, etc. But they really will satisfy your craving and not bankrupt you. Our last trip, we did carry out. We ordered via phone and were told they'd have our order in TEN minutes. Whoa. 10. Minutes. We had edamame, crab rangoons and chicken fried rice, along with a plethora of sushi rolls. All hit the spot and were still warm by the time they reached our table. I really want to check them out for sake. I am hard pressed to think of a sake bar in town beside them? PLUS, in a downtown with a parking problem-- Soseki is immune. The Dubuque Street Ramp lives just across the street. (First hour free.) Seriously good sushi on the cheap and ready to go. Check them out! read more

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One of my favorite go to Asian cuisine restaurants! Their bubble tea are amazing with several different flavor options. The pearls are have a great mouthfeel! Also the Taiwanese Beef noodle soup is the closest to the authentic version -- though my MIL's is still better ;). Highly recommend coming coming here! read more

Soseki Café - Rose Bud Bubble Tea & Hokkaido Bubble Tea - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

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Its so many sushi spots within a two block radius of the ped mall. It's really difficult sometimes to decide which one to go to. Today I chose Soseki because it was in my direction of travel. I ordered some shrimp tempura because I'm basic. The tempura was pretty good. My only complaint was that it wasn't drenched with spicy mayo. The food came out fast and the service was very friendly. I love how chill the vibe is in Soseki. I would definitely recommend stopping in to try their sushi and other dishes that they have to offer. read more

Soseki Café - Shrimp Tempura Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

I love their Sake Don! The salmon is shiny and oily and fresh! Worth to try. Plus their employees are cute and helpful. read more

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This place is awesome! It's unique compared to other Japanese restaurants in the area and Iowa in general that it serves some home style Japanese food and has some unique items. I am a huge fun of gyudon (beef bowls) and was so glad they had them. I got it and it was delicious ! The beef was a good amount of fatty and tender and loved the egg that came with it. The sauce is sweet and savory and the amount of rice was perfect. We also got the takoyaki (fried octopus balls) and very good as well. Not mushy like many places can be. Next time I come I want to try to Oyakodon and poke bowl! Highly recommend read more

Soseki Café - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

My first time at Soseki was great! We got the teriyaki chicken (generous portion of crispy chicken) and Taiwanese Beef soup (deliciously savory and satisfying soup). However, my second time was a total disappointment. I ordered the Chinese Style Noodles and they tasted like plain spaghetti and meat sauce. It was a big pile of noodles with barely any meat or vege, and the egg that was served on the side was so over boiled it had turned green. It wasn't at all appetizing and was a let down for a place that is not cheap. My friend ordered sushi and was also disappointed. I think I might give this place another shot because it's a cute and unique place, with a lot of interesting menu items. read more

Soseki Café - Taiwanese beef noodle soup (front) Teriyaki chicken (back) - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

I really dig this place. The quality is in the details. They use real bamboo leaves as garnish, for example. The plates are affordable. They have a lot of options for around $5 and more expensive entrees as well. I still end up spending about $20 or so on a meal in order to be filled. read more

Highly recommend! Though it was near closing the food was still fresh and tasty. One of the restaurants in Iowa City that has a more western ambience but does not flake on the taste of asian cuisine. Great place :D Good Portions and Great Takeout Packaging read more

This was the best poke bowl I have ever had in my whole life and I have tried dozens. My family always gets sushi from different restaurants when together and this is our new favorite place. It was delicious and substantial, my parents both got sushi burritos and have claimed this is their new favorite restaurant. Absolutely try it out. Clean, cute, and quick service - our waiter was very helpful when figuring out what would work with a gluten allergy and though quiet, seemed like a very nice guy. I would go everyday if I could, and I can't wait to come back. Boba was also 10/10, on the less sweet side if thats what you prefer. :) Literally made a yelp account just to post how much I loved it here. read more

The worker was so nice, and he even refills your water if it's empty. The food was good quality and they even had gluten free soy sauce. I'm definitely gonna come here again read more

Food, service, good. Not a fancy place for a candlelit romantic liaison perhaps. Handy for downtown IC.

A new place and space is it too much to say it's a place full of grace? I was truly blown away by my experience here. The atmosphere is truly wonderful and exceptionally clean, the service is personal, and the food is outstanding. I ordered the chicken teriyaki lunch special, which came with miso soup and rice. I'm not sure I can fully explain this but the portion of chicken was HUGE. HUGE! It was delicious and fresh; you could tell the meal was made with care. I'm super excited to come back and see what more this place has to offer. read more

Soseki Café - Chicken teriyaki lunch special - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

The waitress recommended General Tso chicken with broccoli & I hate broccoli but I had all of them without complaining. It was the best General Tso chicken with broccoli I've ever had, Superrrr fresh and also had some kick to it.. My wife ordered a veggie sushi it was yum too. I loved their decor too. The best part of The dinner was their Spicy Mayo, it was house-made and was the best. We bought an extra bottle for later too. The only issue was parking so gave 4stars I drove from Cedar Rapids didn't find parking for almost an hour. Restrooms were clean too:) read more

I am overjoyed that I now have a delicious Japanese restaurant within walking distance of my office! I went to Soseki Café earlier this week to scope it out for lunch. My pal and I were in a hurry, so we planned to get our orders to go, and it was incredibly fast! I tried the honey roll and a California roll (they have a 2 for $12 deal that comes with salad or a soup) and they were both awesome. They made the rolls right before our very eyes, and they tasted fresh and were full of flavor! It looks like they will also have pre-made grab and go sushi during the week if you're flexible on what you'd like to take home with you. I'm really looking forward to trying some of their appetizers during a return trip. read more

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Won't lie I was completely expecting this place to not be very good. They are aiming for that sushi on the go but have dine as well. The restaurant is pretty clean and has a modern vibe to it which I like. I ordered the takoyaki, Manhattan Roll, Smoked Salmon Roll, and Tuna Avocado Roll. I was surprised because all the rolls were quite good. The smoked salmon and tuna was very tender. No hint of a fishy taste whatsoever. I generally never get speciality rolls because they end up covered in eel sauce and you can't taste much of the actual fish. The Manhattan Roll was just that, covered in eel sauce and spicy mayo. It was was tasty nonetheless but if you are looking for a good specialty roll which emphasizes the quality of fish I suggest the Rainbow Roll. For me what makes this a 4 Star is the price. I feel it's a little too pricey for what you are getting. You get 8 pieces in the specialty roll for $14. I would be happy with 10 pieces for $14, to me that feels fair. Overall, they have many items to try on the menu to try and I def think it's one of the best sushi places in Iowa City. The service is beyond fast! Will be back for sure! read more

Soseki Café - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

YUM! Soseki is one of many (inland) sushi places here in Iowa City! And it does not disappoint. I would say the menu is more expansive, with more variety than Formosa. Call me B A S I C but I love Formosa, I'm always happy after going. But I also love Soseki and I would say their prices and taste are on par. The space is pretty minimal. It's tucked in near the parking garage and Sheraton, and I love the "to-go" concept, but not sure it sticks. (I do not go during lunch time, but I bet it is very popular then with the students!!) Try this place! Of course try the sushi but I have heard people love the noodle dishes. I also loved their Takoyaki! Try! It is perfectly fried and really nice taste to them. What to try: Dragon roll and takoyaki!! Water review: 7/100 what is with the plastic cups like srsly makes me feel like a peasant read more

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Updated: Thanks to my friend's gift card, we visited Soseki again today! We ordered takoyaki, stuffed eggplant, unagi roll, spider roll, and beef noodle soup! Yes, they have beef noodle soup today! Amazingly but not surprisingly, their beef noodle soup was sooooo good. The soup was very thick, and they have several big chunks of beef tendon and meat! The noodles it self was very chewy though not the traditional noodles Taiwanese would use. It's more like Japanese ramen noodles. But the owner Kevin Wu told us he might change the noodles to the traditional Taiwanese noodles in the near future. Takoyaki is very impressive! The outside skin is thin and crunchy! Inside part is hot and soft! (I forgot to take photo until I already ate 2 of it! Lol) Stuffed eggplant was recommended by many friends who ordered it. It's very very very delicious! They put shrimp meat inside eggplants and fried them just a little bit I think. Unagi roll and spider roll are very fresh and delicious! Apollos ate whole set of unagi roll! (Again, I forgot to take photo until he ate 2 pieces already...) By the way, they have some Japanese dessert now! read more

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I was so excited when this place opened! It's the only place in town that serves poke bowls. Here are the things we tried: Takoyaki: $5 for 6. 3 stars. Decent taste but lukewarm. These are supposed to be piping hot and have flakes of bonito dancing in the steam! They were just okay and not really worth the price. Chicken karaage: $5 for 4 large pieces. 5 stars. Fresh from the deep fryer, crispy and juice chunks of thigh meat. Amazing and so, so worth it. Comes with a delectable mayo sauce that's kind of like a yuzu mayo. I would come back just for this. Ramen: $12. 4 stars. I once said in a yelp review that Red Ginger has the only decent ramen in town. I was very, very wrong. Plus I take it back, that ramen has since sunk to the ranks of cup o'noodles. Soseki's ramen is 100x better. Does it compare to specialty ramen shops like those in SF, Paris, or Houston? No (hah! I wish). But the noodles are actually thick and chewy, the broth is rich, and the chasu juicy and delicious. Rainbow roll: $14 for 8 pieces. 3 stars. Not worth the price and my dining companion said meh. Poke bowl: $12-something. 3 stars. I tried a bite and it was tasty. Customizable although the toppings are limited. I think I was more impressed with the radish rose than anything. Overall I give this joint a generous 3.75 stars rounded up. Mostly for the chicken. read more

I am definitely a fan of the Soseki vibe and how could I ever say no to good sushi?! Soseki is a different environment compared to formosa, and takanami. It is a great place to grab a bite to eat when you're on the go, or stay! There are outlets everywhere! Needless to say, I am a fan of their sushi, can't wait to go back to try more entrees. read more

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Super friendly staff And even better udon Highly recommend I came here with a few friends for a quick bite. It was freezing out that day, so I was looking for a bowl of noodles to warm me up but unfortunately they had no options that fit my dietary restrictions. The staff were extremely kind and helpful and recommended an udon to me, which they specially made to be vegan. The noodles were soft and the soup base was delicious. By far some of the friendliest service I've ever had and great food! read more

Soseki Café - Udon, made vegan! - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa

I ordered miso ramen tonight, which was good. Even though the noodle was sitting there for like 10 minutes but the noodle didn't turn soggy. The soup based was good. You can tell they use good quality miso, very distinct soy flavor and not too salty at the same time. The pork belly cut was too thin, so I was a bit sad about that. It's also interesting that they didn't give a whole egg, but just three quarter of it. In my heart I was screaming, "where is the rest of my egg??!!" Another thing I wish they could add to the ramen is vegetables. For a $12 dish, I wished there were at least some bean sprouts....anyhow, it was a good dish and I would consider ordering it again And they also serve poke bowl, which is a first for Iowa City! My friend ordered it, she liked it although she wished they had used the sushi rice instead of the regular rice. But that's the next thing on the menu that I want try. read more

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Extremely excited about this place! I am one of those people that needs marathon study sessions that run at least a few hours. But I also love snacks and hate having to travel to different places when I want some lunch. Soseki is the perfect meld for this situation! Wifi and outlets at EVERY TABLE!!! (Can you ask for more?!) They have full meals as well as coffee, tea and even alcohol if you need something to wind down with after your studying. The staff are wonderful and helpful. I tried the poke bowl my first time there and it was definitely filling. There are some tasty sounding appetizers that I will be checking out soon (takoyaki! tori no karage!) You order your food and drinks up at the counter and then take a number to your table. They will deliver your order to you! This is my new go to place for studying! read more

Soseki Café - Poke bowl - Sushi Bars Near Me - Iowa City, Iowa