Sendo Expands With Accessible Sushi Counter in Greenwich Village

Sendo opened its second Manhattan location on a quiet corner of Greenwich Village this spring. The sushi counter, led by owner Guy Allen, operates with an approach more common in Tokyo’s residential neighborhoods than in downtown New York. The focus is on everyday accessibility rather than special-occasion dining.

On a recent Tuesday evening, diners sat elbow-to-elbow at a short counter, with most plates priced under $40. The menu runs to classic nigiri and hand rolls, with daily specials posted in plain handwriting near the register. Salmon, yellowtail, and eel arrive in quick succession, with the chef working directly in front of guests.

Omakase is available, but the offering is pared back compared to high-end Manhattan rivals. At $58 for ten pieces, the set is less than half the price of some uptown options. Sapporo is served by the bottle, and sake is poured from small carafes behind the bar.

The room is subdued, with plain wood paneling and a single row of stools. Walk-ins are common, especially on weeknights. Reservations are accepted but not required. On Saturdays, the counter fills up by 7 p.m. as nearby NYU students and neighbors stop in for a quick dinner.

Sendo’s new Greenwich Village address offers a less formal, more affordable take on sushi than many of its competitors. As summer crowds wander MacDougal Street, the counter remains a practical option for those seeking quality fish without ceremony.