Hai Street Kitchen & Co

I’ve been a Hai Street Kitchen fan for a VERY long time, so when the 40th Street location closed, I was bummed because that one was the closest to home and work. However, while I was running some errands in Center City one Saturday afternoon and decided to break for lunch, I figured I would check out the 18th and Chestnut location and treat myself to a sushi burrito. While Hai Street has preset menu options, I always prefer to customize my own sushi burritos, and the staff is always very accommodating to my requests. I usually gravitate towards grilled chicken, chicken katsu, or shrimp tempura with ginger miso dressing, and carrots, garnished with fried garlic and tempura crunch. Sometimes they offer seasonal toppings such as pineapple so I often add that in if it is available. Hai Street better not leave Center City, because if they do, I won’t know where else to get my sushi burrito fix!

The service was fast and pretty easy, even with a gluten-free and dairy-free member (who the people behind the counter worked hard to accommodate and be certain that the ingredients were gluten-free and dairy-free). I regretted finishing my burrito as soon as it was gone because I could have eaten it over and over again, it was absolutely delicious. The vegetables seemed fresh, the flavors lovely, and the options plentiful. It was counter-order, but we could sit in the many stools with a counter facing out towards the street, which was lovely and bright.

Sushi Burritos are a great novelty, but not as practical as regular rolls. The downsides being similar to a regular burrito; 1. They fall apart somewhat easily while trying to eat them 2. You sometimes get mouthfulls of one ingredient Still with these downfalls, I'd come back as they are tasty and convenient.

Bowls or "burritos". These guys offer up an interesting spin on the typical sushi bar. Here you actually order your sushi in a bowl or as a burrito-style full roll (not cut up). This makes for a faster, less elegant experience, maintaining great service and taste. The sushi rolls are about the size of a traditional sub-style sandwich. A great option for a quick lunch.