Sushi Yume sits in a Round Rock strip mall next to a dental office and axe-throwing park serving sushi that’s earned #2 of 662 restaurant ranking.
The Korean-run operation follows the same principles as high-end Japanese sushi with highest quality fish, carefully cut and assorted with garnishes already applied.
Peak dinner waits stretch well past an hour because this no-reservations spot delivers special-occasion quality at prices that rival Austin’s premium omakases.
What Makes Sushi Yume Special
The 12-piece chef’s choice represents the best move with pricing like strip-mall sushi but quality that rivals some of Austin’s bucket-list omakase experiences.
The fish arrives fresh and generously cut while the rice gets perfectly seasoned with each piece feeling like it was made with the same care Hayao Miyazaki applies when animating a single bowl of ramen according to The Infatuation Austin. The assorted sashimi runs $48 to $90 but you’re getting top grade fish with quality differences you can actually taste.
Sitting at the bar creates a chance the chef will slide you an extra piece or two while you watch the preparation that makes the hour wait worthwhile.
The Story Behind the Restaurant
Sushi Yume opened in this strip mall location bringing authentic Japanese preparation standards to Round Rock’s growing suburb.
The name translates to “sushi dream” which captures the goal – creating a sushi experience that transports you despite the nondescript setting. The kitchen honors tradition with special attention on fish and rice quality rather than gimmicks or extra floof according to reviewers who’ve tried Austin’s high-end spots.
The no-reservations policy combined with small space means turning customers away by 6 PM most nights, but the quality justifies the inconvenience for serious sushi lovers.
Food Highlights
- 12-Piece Chef’s Choice: The best move arrives priced $48-$90 like strip-mall sushi but delivers quality rivaling Austin’s premium omakases with fresh, generously cut fish and perfectly seasoned rice. 🍣
- Assorted Sashimi: The top grade fish carefully cut and assorted runs $48-$90 creating the kind of sashimi platter where you taste the quality difference in every piece. 🐟
- Salmon Carpaccio: The amazing preparation with thin-sliced salmon showcases the kitchen’s ability to handle different techniques beyond just nigiri and rolls. 🍋
- Hamachi Sashimi: The fresh yellowtail with high quality preparation proves this operation sources fish that separates it from typical suburban sushi spots. 🐠
- Crispy Rice with Tuna: The delicious combination with perfectly fried rice and quality tuna creates the kind of fusion dish that shows range beyond traditional preparations. 🍚
- Yuzu Cheesecake: The must-try dessert combines Japanese yuzu with creamy cheesecake creating a sweet ending that makes you plan your next visit before leaving. 🍰
Atmosphere
The 1201 S IH35 location in the strip mall next to the dental office creates a nondescript exterior that hides modern decor inside.
The small crowd often lingers outside for tables during peak hours with waits stretching past an hour on weekends. The clean sushi bar with comfortable seating creates an intimate environment where every table feels the energy from the kitchen.
Service stays warm and thoughtful with staff who surprise birthday celebrants with complimentary dessert on the house creating personal touches that turn first-time visitors into regulars.
Bottom Line
Visit Sushi Yume for Korean-run sushi following high-end Japanese principles where 12-piece chef’s choice delivers special-occasion quality at Tuesday-night prices earning #2 of 662 ranking.
The assorted sashimi, salmon carpaccio, and hamachi prove this strip mall operation sources top grade fish worth the hour-long waits. The crispy rice with tuna and yuzu cheesecake shows the range from fusion to traditional and maintains consistent excellence.
Since opening in this Round Rock strip mall, The Infatuation Austin has called this a “hidden gem” that “actually lives up to it” with quality rivaling Austin premium omakases while maintaining accessibility and warmth that makes regulars feel like family. 🌟
Address: Sushi Yume
1201 S IH35, Suite 320, Round Rock, TX 78664
Phone: (512) 297-2299
Hours: Mon: Closed | Tue: 4:30 PM – 9 PM | Wed-Sat: 11 AM – 1:30 PM, 4:30 PM – 9 PM | Sun: Closed | No reservations
Features: #2 of 662 restaurants | 4.9 stars Google | Korean-run Japanese principles | Chef’s counter | Fresh wasabi | Complimentary birthday dessert | Strip mall location
Links: Website | Instagram | The Infatuation | Yelp