A once-temporary hand roll operation has moved into its first brick-and-mortar space on the Lower East Side this week. The shop, known for its low prices and tightly packed nori rolls, opened doors Monday on Eldridge Street, taking over a former bubble tea storefront.
Early on Tuesday afternoon, a steady stream of customers lined up for the $5 salmon and spicy tuna rolls. The seating is minimal—just a narrow counter and a pair of stools—but most diners leave with food in hand. A sign taped to the window advertises a ‘summer special’ of three rolls and a miso soup for $13.
The chef, who introduced the pop-up on Delancey Street last spring, said the new location allows for longer hours and a broader menu. “We’ll have eel and avocado by the end of the month,” she said, prepping rice behind the counter.
Hand roll shops have multiplied across downtown in recent months, but few operate at this price point. The storefront opens daily at noon and stays open until 10 p.m. on weekends, a schedule meant to attract late-night foot traffic from area bars.
The neighborhood has seen a wave of small-format Japanese concepts this summer, including a nearby standing sushi bar and a bento takeout window on Grand Street. For now, the hand roll shop joins a cluster of new, affordable options on the Lower East Side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new hand roll shop located on the Lower East Side?
The hand roll shop is located on Eldridge Street, Lower East Side, in a former bubble tea storefront.
What are the prices for hand rolls at the new shop?
Rolls start at $5, and there is a summer special of three rolls and miso soup for $13.
What are the opening hours of the hand roll shop?
The shop opens daily at noon and stays open until 10 p.m. on weekends.
What menu additions are planned for the hand roll shop?
The chef plans to add eel and avocado rolls by the end of the month.
Does the hand roll shop have seating?
Seating is minimal, with just a narrow counter and two stools; most orders are takeout.
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