Iwa Ya

affordable sushi at a decent quality with free soups? it doesn't get much better than that! it does get busy during lunchtime, but the food comes out fast. their bento boxes are super cheap and offer great variety, and they also have a solid selection of rolls under $13 the tempura is very crispy, and i like that they don't drench their salad in dressing. each roll has a good filling to rice ratio, and the salmon teriyaki portion is huuuuge. we also looove the miso soup; it's rich and packed with tofu. the red bean soup is just as good, not overly sweet at all. i swear i have 3 bowls of each every time im here LOL overall, this is easily a 5/5 spot: great value, fast service, generous portions, and food that always hits

- cat -

The food quality here is good. Service is primarily self-serve. You find a table before ordering and paying. They will bring out the food while you grab a bowl of miso or corn soup at the self-service counter. The lunch bento is a great value and their sushi is of decent quality. Lots of patrons, simple decor, and great value. Large menu, so it’s a great place to eat at if I don’t know what I feel like eating that day.

- Justin Lee -

IWA YA is one of my go-to Japanese spots in Houston’s Chinatown. It’s a popular place, especially on weekends and during lunch, so you’ll usually see a steady crowd and sometimes a line — but it moves quickly. When you order, you simply give them the table or booth number you plan to sit at, and they’ll bring the food to you. We tried a sushi roll and a bento box (around $11), which came with grilled fish, salad, fried tofu, and shrimp tempura — a great value for what you get. One of the best parts of eating here is the self-serve extras: unlimited corn soup, miso soup, hot water, and red bean dessert. You just grab a bowl or cup and help yourself. It’s a small touch that adds a lot to the overall experience. Service is always friendly and fast, and the restaurant has plenty of seating. Parking is easy too, thanks to the large shared lot outside. If you’re in Houston’s Chinatown and want solid Japanese food at a reasonable price, Iwaya is definitely worth a visit.

- Justin McBrearty -

My wife and I went there for dinner. I'd seen some reviews and videos about the place. It was around 8:30 pm, so we decided to have a late dinner. We ordered some crab stick, scallops, Iwa Ya roll, gyoza, and dragon roll. All for about $30. They have free iced tea, red bean dessert, and free soup. It was perfect for two people. If you haven't visited this place and you're in Chinatown in Houston, try it if you're in the mood for sushi.

- Dan Lam -

Sushi was good for the price. Everything is self service but cashiers bring the food to table.

- K.P -

A great hole in the wall in Bellaire blvd area. High quality food at great prices. Loved the tonkatsu, which they give a generous portion, as well as the free miso soup and corn soup! A very low key chill atmosphere. Would absolutely recommend to anyone.

- Michael Gaydos -

The best sushi with the best price Would 100% recommend!!

- HOoOH -

November 2024 We enjoyed this sushi restaurant serving great value sushi. The self service offering is a fabulous business model. The complementary miso soup and hot desserts provide additional values to their customers. They did a great job offering great Japanese food to their customers. Highly recommend this restaurant and will return again.

- Joshua Ding -