Image: A world in one bite.
Last Updated: November 2025
Overview:
In the age of social media, it may be hard to claim something is a hidden gem. Sushi Snob does not show up in many reels in our feed. It lacks glam and faux-ivy walls. For the cognoscenti, however, it was whispered about online and created a bit of a following. It made a Washingtonian best sushi list among some very big names. There are times when our modest reach works in our favor. We get to encourage people to support Sushi Snob without the fear it will be overrun just based on our guidance. As for the hidden part, it is located on a half street stretch of M between 17th and Connecticut that has near zero reason for foot traffic. If you see the Caruso Florist signs you’re close.
Chef Javkhlan “Jango” Enkhtaivan is, according to the opening pitch, the sushi snob in question because he refuses to settle for less than the best. The fish is cured and aged in-house. While you can dip in soy, even the a la carte lunch options resist the need for additional flavor and risk drowning out the subtle flavors of the carefully-constructed nigiri. The “deal” here is the lunch omakase for $55. Reservations are recommended to ensure that they have prepared the ingredients necessary. The omakase courses are crafted to be taken in one bite, with the suggestion to flip it so fish goes first on the tongue. The chef announces each course with the fish and the sourcing. As an Arsenal fan might sing, it would be worth it at twice the price. This is sushi several steps above banged-out California rolls at many a spot, even if you don’t go the omakase route.
The dinner omakase is offered Thursday to Saturday only, and reservations need to be booked somewhat in advance to ensure availability. We have yet to try it, but based on the wonderful lunch version, we have little doubts that it is seriously good. The price has crept up to $120 as of this writing, but that seems like a bargain for the quality.
Drink options are limited other than sake, but the owner is very serious about the sake. His sommelier background shows up in one course in the omakase incorporating pinot noir.
Other Guidance: There is a ramp/steps to get to the front door from street level. Vegetarian options available. GF can do well of course.
Summary:
Cuisine: Japanese
Neighborhood: Dupont
Address: 1721 M St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Website: https://sushisnob0737.s4shops.com/
Reservations: Resy
Other Critics/Voices:
Washington Post: No coverage yet.
Washingtonian: Best Sushi 2024;