Kokoro - Houston, Texas

Johnny Moon

After spending a week in Houston, our plans to explore the city's culinary scene were unfortunately thwarted by a hurricane that left most restaurants and attractions closed. As things began to open up on our last day, we decided to visit Kokoro, a sushi spot conveniently located within walking distance from our hotel.

Kokoro is a charming little spot nestled in a food court in the heart of downtown. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted by our server, Mia, who was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. She took the time to walk us through the menu, providing detailed insights into the dishes and recommending some fantastic options.

The quality of the fish at Kokoro was outstanding—exceptionally fresh and clean. While the food were slightly overpriced and the portions could be a bit more generous, the overall dining experience was wonderful. The excellent service and high-quality food made our visit memorable.

Despite the challenges we faced this week, we highly recommend Kokoro for anyone seeking top-notch sushi and exceptional service in Houston.

Anton S.

Unexpectedly delicious and super fresh sushi in the heart of downtown. The fish was very fresh and high quality. The sauces had perfect flavor. In love with the tuna and karaage! And even the prices are fair. Def my new favorite sushi spot in the city center

Cassie Liu-Davis

Nice busy sushi bar! The staff was super friendly and service was quick. Fish was extremely fresh and melt in your mouth. They are around the corner from Aris and have great music. There is a parking area right across that is about 15 bucks for a couple hours.

Jeanette Chang

I almost dont want to share to keep this place to myself. Delicious smokey fried rice. The raw tuna was ever so soft and the sauce it’s in is a mouthwatering balance of tangy and salty. The pork belly is cooked over coals so the bbq flavor comes through. This place is in a food hall of sorts.

Jen C

This was such an amazing find during my trip to Houston! Was in town for a three day conference and came here twice. It’s tucked in a food hall with mostly countertop seating and the Uber driver was able to drop me off right in front of the doors.

Mia was an incredible server and truly made it an excellent experience! Honestly less of a server and more of a dinner guide. She recommended her favorite dishes as well as things I’d like based on my taste.

The hotate foie was one of the best single bites of food I’ve ever tasted so had three of them in total. It’s a perfect bite of rice and scallop topped with a bit of foie gras, caviar, and finger lime! Finger limes have been on my list for ages but never had them and they’re from Australia so Kokoro was quite literally making dreams come true. The crudos are where it’s at! Excellent melding of flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

Sushi is one of my favorite foods. I’ve even been to Nobu a few times and I can honestly say Kokoro competes. Quality is there and so is the presentation. All the ingredients are really fresh and came out quickly. They even have a happy hour so you can try a bit of everything! If I ever find myself in Houston again, you’ll find me here.

Kareen Nguyen

One of the best sushi places in all of Houston! Their fish is so fresh and all their menu items are delicious. I like Kokoro more than some of the more well known famous sushi places in Houston. Service is great and the food is even better! Their saketoro Aburi, wagyu toast, and kaarage, is a must try! All of their nigiris are so so yummy too!

Caryn McCarthy

This is a great sushi spot in a kind of random location, and way better than you'd expect to wander into at a food market. We shared a set, an additional plate of the chef's nigiri and a crudo. My favorite was probably the crudo but everything was great. You can tell the love that they put into the food and the finesse of how everything is paired and portioned to work in harmony. I also also learned a lot from one of the chefs who spoke to us about his favorite cuts of fish and why (he was a little talkative, but we weren't bothered by his eagerness to talk).

Rory O'Gorman

Thien put on a master class in service and education of sushi. Everything he recommended was explained in great detail and tasted great. Ask him to walk you through a 5 course experience and enjoy.