ZipPicks Awards
Best Japanese in Forest Hills
Master Critic Review
Kissfish
7.5
A casual poke-and-roll stop that’s best used as a fast, customizable lunch when you want Japanese-leaning flavors without a full sit-down. It’s most consistent when you build one bowl with clean proteins, limit the add-ons, and keep the sauce balanced.
Must-Try Dishes:
Build-your-own poke bowl, Salmon poke bowl, Spicy tuna poke bowl
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Custom poke bowls that work as a fast, clean lunch play.
Who should go: Quick lunch diners and bowl builders
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner
What to order: Build-your-own bowl, salmon bowl, spicy tuna bowl
Insider tip: Pick two proteins max and keep sauces light for the cleanest finish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Austin Street; generally manageable midday, tighter during dinner hours.
Dress code: Very casual — everyday wear, athleisure, or workday basics all fit.
Noise level: Low to moderate — counter-service environment with light foot traffic.
Weekend wait: No wait typically; brief line during peak early dinner rush.
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait; orders move quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — tofu-based bowls and vegetable-forward builds are easy to customize.
Vegan options: Yes — several base-and-veggie combinations work; confirm sauces to avoid hidden animal products.
Gluten-free options: Mostly — rice-based bowls are gluten-free; some sauces may contain soy/wheat, so ask before ordering.
Best For
Better for: Fast, customizable bowls when you want something lighter and healthier than traditional Japanese sit-down spots.
Skip if: You’re looking for sushi craft, a full-service meal, or a lingering dinner experience.