Ko-Doraku in Halifax

1467Brenton Street, Halifax, NS B3J 3T4, Canada

★★★★★
(424 reviews)
Categories: Sushi restaurant Gluten-free restaurant Japanese restaurant Ramen restaurant Restaurant Sushi takeaway Traditional restaurant

About

The authentic Japanese restaurant owned by Japanese in downtown Halifax. Freshly made food after you order, traditional Japanese Sushi, Sashimi, Tempura, Karaage, Tonkotsu Ramen, Teriyaki Chicken, Beef, Lunch Bento Boxes, weekly specials, Donburi, Udon, Soba Noodle Soups.

Website
ko-doraku.jimdo.com
Address
1467Brenton Street, Halifax, NS B3J 3T4, Canada
Plus Code
JCRC+RM Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Time Zone
America/Halifax

Business Hours

Monday
Closed
Tuesday
Closed
Wednesday
Closed
Thursday
Closed
Friday
11:30 AM–2:30 PM – 4:30–8 PM
Saturday
4:30–8 PM
Sunday
Closed

Services

From the business
Identifies as women-owned
Service options
Kerbside pickup No-contact delivery Delivery Takeaway Dine-in
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park Wheelchair-accessible entrance Wheelchair-accessible seating Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
Alcohol Beer Coffee Healthy options Small plates Vegan options Vegetarian options Wine
Dining options
Lunch Dinner Catering Dessert Seating
Amenities
Toilets Wi-Fi Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Casual Cosy
Crowd
Family friendly Groups LGBTQ+ friendly Transgender safe space
Planning
Accepts reservations
Payments
Credit cards Debit cards NFC mobile payments Credit cards
Children
Good for kids High chairs Kids' menu
Parking
Paid street parking
Pets
Dogs allowed

Photos

Reviews

4.6
★★★★★
424 reviews

Most Mentioned

prices (54) atmosphere (19) snacks (6) california roll (6) dinner (6) tempura (6) tonkotsu ramen (5) area (5) tuna (5) salmon roll (4)
5 stars
329
4 stars
68
3 stars
9
2 stars
8
1 stars
10
★★★★★
December 9, 2024

Tonkatsu ramen was definitely a hit for me. With this cold, chilling weather, was the best option. I was with my son from Toronto and had dinner in this place on the weekend and he was so impressed and satisfied with everything, from service to the most awaited sushi roll plate and my very own ramen. We will definitely come back😊. Grace

★★★★★
November 9, 2024

What a great place! Delicious food, friendly staff, nice atmosphere. As a bonus they had lots of gluten free options and seemed knowledgeable about cleaning procedures to minimize cross-contamination. I will definitely come again!

★★★★★
September 7, 2024

Food is great and portion of the dish is fair. If you can eat a lot, you probably have to order combos. Everything is house made, they are fresh and tasty.

★★★★★
August 31, 2024

First time here and definitely not my last. I got the hamachi roll and rainbow roll, and it’s probably the best sushi I’ve had in Halifax. 10/10 and can’t wait to be back!

★★★★★
July 20, 2024

If I could give them 6 stars for their sushi I would. Rolls are loosely prepared, seafood always fresh, and the temperature is great so a treat to the palate. They are also the most pleasant people and always friendly. Have tried both locations and they have maintained the excellent food quality. The only reason I gave them 4 stars on atmosphere is there is only so much you can do with a mall spot but who cares when the food is so good. Been eating there for years as it’s my daughter’s fav sushi. Bravo.

★★★★★
May 28, 2024

So delicious!👏🏼💕🤤 Restaurant has a very unique and cozy environment that makes the restaurant stand out compared to others. Food is very yummy and high quality, everything came out so quick. Servers are very friendly and will wonderfully answer any questions you have about the menu😄 Would come again!

★★★★★
November 16, 2023

This is my favourite restaurant in Halifax to get sushi. I have been going here for years because the service, quality and food is the best. Their staff are always friendly and helpful. I've never had a bad experience. I highly recommend. They also do amazing sushi trays which we've purchased for events.

★★★★★
September 20, 2023

Delicious food, great service and atmosphere! Sashimi is so fresh. Una Don is my favorite entree.

December 8, 2024

**another additional information for those who needs to know more about the context. It was our first time there and we wanted to make sure we have a table so we called in advanced, the staff took my wife s name and we went in expecting to be seated (cause we reserved the table?) when we arrived of cause we went to the cashier to tell the staff we have arrived, the staff even said my wife s name. Knowing they are busy, we just waited. No instructions or any greeting, not sure we needed to be seated or not at all. So after around 2 mins I asked and still, they said we will be given a number then nothing happened? I guess we should be the one being confused we just felt being ignored. While the staff (or the owner) helped a customer to find a place to charge his phone, he just walked by us and didn t mention anything else to us as if we were just blocking the front desk? My daughter was really looking forward to the dinner originally when we told her we will be going to Ko-Doraku (we ve been to Doraku in Dartmouth and she loved it). I have never left a message like this as I believe it is not helping people in general. But Ive never being treated like this in any restaurant before. Some suggestions could be more constructive a I guess. 1. Make the instruction clear or have someone at the front desk telling customers what to do. 2. Give them a menu and just explain to them it is a busy time 3. If someone actually reserved a table, tell them the shop is self served so they can just come in to order 4. When the customer left a message on Google map, try to understand their feelings instead of being defensive? Best of luck and I can see all the hardworking people in the kitchen, but not the way we were being treated in the restaurant, and then again on this review section maybe spending more time to improve the service can help with the review. *just to add this as to give more information as I can t reply to the owner s message. -My wife made the booking, both her and I talked to the staff at the cashier mentioning we have made the reservation, and we just stood there to wait. Again, we are not trying to be harsh but we received no greeting at all after telling the staff we have a reservation. While we were waiting, there was a guest asking if he can charge his phone, and one of the staff actually left his position and show him how to do it all while four of us just standing right in front of the cashier didn t know what to be expected at all Can t comment on the food but was totally shocked by the level of service. We booked a table, arrived on time. Totally understand they are busy but we just stood there for a full 5 mins, asked if they have our reservation and they just said yes. And kept working on the orders. Totally confused and even asked again politely and we end up just walk away without any basic greeting. Probably not the customer they want.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 1, 2024

Our expectations were minimal as it seemed like a take out restaurant when we order and pay at the counter. But the Manager was very kind to explain the restaurant was opened over 25yrs ago as the 1st sushi restaurant in Halifax. We wanted to try some gyoza and he told us that they make them fresh to order so we tried the pork and thr veggie gyoza. Both the delicious but the veggie is my favorite for the flavor combinations. The sushi melted in my mouth and the miso soup was the best I have had. So comforting on a cold day. I cant wait to come back to try the ramen as recommended by our very kind and sweet waiter. And the prices will keep me coming back to try everything on the menu! Love this establishment and will highly recommend to give it a try!

★★★★★
December 1, 2024

Very friendly staff, nice and clean restaurant, food was amazing, delivery experience was fantastic too, highly recommended and will keep coming back. Thank you

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 1, 2024

If you are looking for true Japanese cuisine, you have to investigate the place! Udon, donburi, takoyaki, so many yomi options! Vegetarian options: If youre an orthodoxe, know the Japanese sauce as they can be remotely made from fishes. Many excellent veggie options on the menu! Kid-friendliness: Not a lot of room to play, and be careful with the mangas. Theyre not all made for children! Wheelchair accessibility: Watch from the elevator to go to the basement level.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Absolutely delicious food. Top tier service. Comfortable and clean space. If you like sushi, they have it. If you want ramen, they have one option and it is perfect. The takoyaki was exactly what I wanted. I had a bunch of salmon sushi and California rolls. Every piece was incredible. My husband had the ramen and its some of the best weve ever had. Definitely the best weve had in the Halifax area. I shop nearby fairly regularly and now expect that Ill just make sure those trips have enough time to stop in for a bite. Literally cannot recommend this place enough. Im in love.

★★★★★
Local Guide
November 22, 2024

Best sushi in the city.

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Sushi fantastic and fresh. Several nice regional sushi types available. Friendly staff

★★★★★
Local Guide
October 22, 2024

Great ramen, great sushi. Top notch, loved it so much during my trip I visited twice! Food : 5/5

★★★★★
September 22, 2024

I feel that the porcelain of technetium philosophy is fresh.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Easily the best sushi in town. The ramen was delightful with this sesame broth that is to die for. The whole meal was surprisingly affordable. They also get some very very fresh fish so the resulting sashimi was perfect. The vibe was certainly interesting. Feels more like the cafeteria cafe at a really nice university. Makes it feel very inviting but certainly odd for a restaurant. If you go with the flow then youll be rewarded. The staff were very courteous and helpful offering explanations readily and advice when asked. Great work from everyone seen. Vegetarian options: Many vegetarian and likely vegan options. Wheelchair accessibility: Accessible through the main building rather than the front door as its in a basement of an office building.

★★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

Great little hidden gem. Lots of tasty options (ramen was excellent ). The staff were really friendly and welcoming. Highly recommended!

★★★★
Local Guide
September 22, 2024

I ordered sushi and tonkotsu ramen. Right off the bat I could tell the food is real japanese made food. The tonkotsu ramen flavor was excellent and the pork was perfectly tender! The sushi was quite nice especiallly the scallop!, but the major annoyance was they put lemon in between all my salmon sushi . I couldnt taste my salmon over the strong lemon flavor imprinted on my salmon sushi. I was annoyed by this why lemon? Was the salmon sushi old? The service was very friendly so that was nice. Price is also fair.I think the original doraku is better than kodoraku. But this chain also has a very delicious ramen you cant get at doraku in dartmouth. Response to owner: I have been to japan many times and had salmon sushi it is not normal to put lemon slices on salmon sushi I spoke with my japanese friend who is a sushi chef and he also agrees lemon flavor would overpower the natural flavor of salmon .

★★★★★
August 22, 2024

Absolutely some of the best, most authentic Japanese food weve had outside of Japan! Cant recommend enough. The employees are very good about recommending dishes. We ordered several sushi & non-sushi dishes to share and everything was amazing.

★★★★★
Local Guide
August 22, 2024

Best sushi place in Halifax! Fresh and well priced

August 22, 2024

This is really unfortunate because the sushi is some of the best in the city, but the way the owner treats his staff is honestly disgusting. Berating and yelling at your hardworking staff within earshot of customers is not a good look. I will not be back.

★★★★★
July 22, 2024

The food was amazing and the service was kind and quick. Over all this experience was incredible and I would definitely go back. We even got free ice cream :) Kid-friendliness: Treated the kids just like adult guests.

★★★★
Local Guide
July 22, 2024

Good vegetarian rolls

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Really fabulous. Lovely music, kind staff, delicious sushi. Clearly made with care, a work of art. A+ Thank you!

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

One of the best sushi s I ve ever eaten.

★★★★
June 22, 2024

I ordered the tempura appetizer, ko-doraku roll and spicy salmon roll. While the food was tasty it was a far cry from what I remembered as a teen growing up in Nova Scotia. The shrimp in both the appetizer and roll was overcooked and the size of the ko-doraku roll was much smaller than I remember. I do not discourage anyone from trying this restaurant but I was disappointed and sad to see a place I loved so much take a dip in quality while increasing in price.

★★★★★
June 22, 2024

Five of us went to celebrate our daughter s birthday and we loved it! It was my first Japanese food experience and it was fantastic. The service was top notch and the food was fresh and delicious. I ll definitely be back!

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Fantastic food, excellent service and very fair prices.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Food was fantastic! I ve been here a couple of times now and all my experiences were great.

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

Amazing spot!!! Fresh food, well balanced and the rice was cooked to perfection! Portions are generous without being too much. Finally, the green tea and sesame ice cream was incredible!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
May 22, 2024

My favourite sushi place in Halifax by far. Cute, cozy place with mouth-watering sushi. Enjoyable experience!

★★★★★
May 22, 2024

Best sushi in the city! Would highly recommend anything on the menu. Master chef and friendly staff! Alway a fantastic dinning experience.

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

The food here is so good!!!! Nice staff too.

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

Best sushi in Halifax! Been coming here for years. Never disappoints. Love the shrimp tempura and BC roll with grilled salmon. Thanks for another great meal! Appreciate you guys

★★★★★
April 22, 2024

Great food, great atmosphere, friendly staff.

★★★★★
March 22, 2024

Superb Experience Quality food, atmosphere friendly staff & great service Food : 5/5

★★★★★
March 22, 2024

Best Sushi in Halifax

Local Guide
March 22, 2024

The food and the servers here are consistently fantastic. A word about who I assume is the owner, and I hope he gains some humility from this: The dining area and the front counter are not places to belittle an employee - ideally never, but especially when customers are right there. When I was ordering, you snidely asked a server who forgot to mark a table number on a receipt well how will we know which table it s going to? As our appetizers were brought over, you strolled past and condescendingly asked where s the soy sauce, [name] ? If a customer is there and you think the soy sauce is that important, it s on you to take ownership as the owner and say I ll have your soy sauce in a second! Wholly unnecessary. As I was ordering, you made a weird comment about China stealing information about my face/fingerprints if I used Apple Pay in the wrong place. In an East Asian restaurant with East Asian staff? Really? I hate to leave this review because, like I said, your food and staff are fantastic. Even when I wait a few more seconds for soy sauce. Get it together and set a better example.

★★★★★
March 22, 2024

I always enjoy the food here, very tasty and freshly prepared. Welcoming atmosphere. Each time I went there the staff was always friendly and willing to serve. Even the owners personally came to the table to ask if all is well and to me it seems they genuinely want to be sure you are satisfied. Thank you all at Ko-doraku. I hope to be there again. Oh and on another note. I appreciate the well upkeep of the restrooms, which I think is so important for a restaurant.

★★★★★
March 22, 2024

Best Japanese food I ve had without actually having been to Japan.

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

I travel around the world for work and this is hands down the best sushi Ive ever had. The staff are super friendly and the vibe of this place is unmatched. Love it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
February 22, 2024

gotta promote this restaurant more its rare delicious authentic Japanese food in Halifax

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

So delicious !

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

I called ahead for a pickup order shortly after 7pm, and the order was ready by 7:30, which was perfect for us, especially on Valentines Day! We even bought a bottle of sake, and took everything to-go. It was amazing quality sushi and sashimi, and the beginner sake recommend was amazing! Will absolutely be back again soon!

★★★★★
February 22, 2024

Delicious food, very friendly service. Will definitely be our go-to sushi place when visiting Halifax.

★★★★★
January 22, 2024

Ramen was amazing!!!!!!! A must-try!!

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

There is no doubt that this is the best Japanese restaurant in Halifax Their fish is always fresh and has umami even though with Uber delivery.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Excellent food and ambiance!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Had an excellent experience at Dora-Q! The sushi was some of the best I have ever had in Halifax! Staff members were incredibly helpful and nice. The restaurant is located in the basement of the spring garden center. Will definitely become one of my go-to sushi restaurants in Halifax moving forward! Ill definitely recommend this to my friends

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Pretty good lunch specials! Hard to find if you dont know where youre going, but service was friendly and food was fresh. I ordered the tonkatsu ramen, and truly I found it a bit underwhelming in terms of flavour, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. Not a bad option if youre in the area!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

So delicious friendly staff

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

One of the best places to get sushi in Halifax. A bit on the higher price end for Halifax, but the quality, especially of their sashimi and nigiri, is absolutely there.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Really yummy and fresh sushi and the JFC was absolutely bonkers tasty. Fun, casual and eclectic atmosphere that reminded me of the hodge podge cafes around the north end before all the gentrification.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Truly a hit place. Great for coming with a couple friends or on a date Some of the best sushi Ive had in ages. Love their eel. And the ice cream! So much more than just ice cream, it came with banana tempura and a hot chocolate sauce which melted the ice cream so heavenly. Can take some getting used to as you order at a counter and then sit, rather then get seated and have your order taken.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

A Japanese food place with nice interiors in japanese style. I liked their indoor decoration. Food tastes excellent. Serves the neighbourhoods needs. Maybe a cash only payment option would be better for the business

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

A good friend of mine and I had lunch here and it was absolutely delightful! I hadn t had sushi since before the pandemic, and this was a real treat and the dishes were absolutely delicious! And adorable waitress brought our dishes to us and they made sure that we had all of the sides too! If you wish to try Japanese cuisine there s no better place in Halifax that I would personally recommend to a great friend.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Amazing customer service, really delightful and pleasant people all around! The food was wonderful and flavorful, particularly the Karaage Chicken which was beyond delectable. The service was surprisingly fast given the amount of orders they were completing. The prices were just below average for Japanese cuisine which was very nice. I wish them the best and I strongly recommend trying!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Always delicious and affordable!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Great little spot, excellent service and the food was amazing!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

The best Kara-age Ive ever had.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

We had hot pot (chicken) and beef bulgogi. The food was delicious and service was impeccable. Given the previous reviews my expectations for this place were high and it did not fall short. We will be back. Thank you!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Good value for money, quality atmosphere (we appreciate the benches and the red of the walls which recall Japan without being oppressive). Very caring waitress and owner!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Such a great place. My favorite

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

One of my favourite sushi restaurants in Halifax! The food here is of excellent quality, especially the fish and the rice. Its a little pricey for what you get (around $20 with tip for 2 rolls); however, its worth it for the quality. I will continue to support this local spot! It should be noted that at Ko-Doraku, you order and pay first, then sit down. A waitress brings your food to you once its ready.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Cute spot with great service. Had a light meal with 12 simple rolls split between 2. And I also had a miso soup. Was very good and filled our need for just a little bite.

★★★★★
December 22, 2023

Sushi is delicious. One of the best in the downtown Halifax area.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

WOW! I could not be more impressed with this place. All of the good was EXTREMELY good. The staff were very friendly and we had a nice chat. Everything was ready quickly and the prices seriously cant be beat for the quality youre getting. This is one of my favorite sushi restaurants now. Too bad I live 2000 miles away from it!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Fantastic dishes, they have one with fried salmon skin that is crunchy and so so so so good.. I crave it daily Parking: paid street parking for most of the days sometimes free on sundays and evenings Wheelchair accessibility: you will need to come through the mall the other entrance has no access for wheelchairs

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

I have been here on multiple occasions. While I have had mixed results with the food, if you stick to what they do best (sushi rolls) you wont be disappointed. The decor is eclectic but the service is friendly and helpful. I cannot recommend the ramen which I was quite disappointed by but if you order the speciality rolls you are likely to be pleased. I found the preparation of more basic nigiri to be under par, with it falling apart easily, but the fish tastes to be of high quality. I was very impressed by the rainbow roll and would recommend this or other speciality rolls if youre unsure what to order.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

It s the first time I been here. In love with this chill and comfy atmosphere the staff are welcoming and friendly. The sushi is yummy is price worthy! Definitely a place to go to when searching for good Japanese restaurants

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

We have told everyone we know about this family run gem - every time were in Halifax we go for; perfectly formed sushi at the exact correct temperature, delicious Ramen, daily specials with something for everyone. We love the intimate but casual atmosphere, the bookshelves (Japanese books not for sale but you can look through them) and attentive service. Its easier to find the entrance if you come in from Brenton st than through the mall. Go if you like authentic Japanese foods not dipped in cream cheese!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2023

Tasty sushi!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

The most my fav sushi place in the town! Friendly service too. I have good experiences here every time.

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

I dont think this type of service was for us. After lining up to order, we stood there for several minutes while the staff was on the phone. When the sushi came, it must have been with fresh warm rice, as the fish was warm as well. Service was long and slow given the pricing. Theres better value elsewhere. I had high hopes for this restaurant, but I dont think well be back. High points for the hot sale, and the crispy skin BC Salmon roll though.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Amazing sushi, best I have found across Canada!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

I really enjoy the sushi here.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Good sushi at very reasonable prices

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Ive been here a lot. Its always shined better than the location would suggest, and the quirks that I liked years ago have kept me coming back. Quick service, warm rice, a wide menu with rotating specials posted on their socials - sometimes I go downtown just to go here. They dont make restaurants like this anymore, thats for sure.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Wasnt decided to try more sushi places in town but today a great colleague of mine recommended this place and I found it a nice place to satisfy my sushi hunger despite Im not a gobbler but vulnerable to seafood and sake. Overall, well priced menu, delicious dishes, nice servers and naughty cooks who make fun out of customers in their native language ! Will come again and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reasonably priced Japanese food in downtown Halifax. Edit: Im back again and still the same good place. Thanks to Ryu Update: Many thanks to Chihiro and Yuki for their great service. The eel portion was fantastic.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Always the best sushi! Affordable prices etc

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

It s a breath of fresh air when a place knows so much about celiac!! Amazing staff! Incredible food! Thank you so much !! And your decor is the COOLEST !!

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Thank you for the meal!

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Very cute restaurant and the sushi was fantastic!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Made my day

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

The portions seemed small at first but they were perfect. Everything tasted excellent and the surrounding is comforting. Great air conditioning as well!

★★★★
December 22, 2022

I didn t fix my review from last time. Sorry. I go quite often to this place and love it. I had a issue before and was handle professionally and keeps me going back.

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

My daughter and I are always up for a new sushi experience, so tonight we decided to check out Ko-Doraku. Wow! I have a sensitivity to gluten and the gentleman who took our order (over the phone) was very thoughtful in helping us with our sushi selections. He was very warm and welcoming on the phone overall! When we arrived to pick up our yummies, we received just as warm a greeting in person from everyone at the counter! Great vibes! My daughter got the spring rolls and chicken udon as well and was super impressed with the flavour - particularly the spring rolls. The sushi was so fresh and tasty! I especially enjoyed the smoked salmon variety! That was different!! The dine-in area of this hidden gem looks warm and intimate. My daughter spotted the shelves of manga so we ll be back to eat IN next time! FYI - Best way to get in is via Brenton St. If you use the Spring Garden Rd. entrance, be sure to go INTO the mall and downstairs to the bottom floor. Enjoy!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

How pretty is this Tuna Avocado Don?! Locals know Ko-Doraku is the only Authentic Japanese restaurant in Halifax. If you care about clean and fresh taste, eat here!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Great food, great people, great price!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Fresh sashimi with a fresh ambiance. If you re a sushi/raw fish fan, then is a great place to go. The Tonkotsu Ramen was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Delicious! Such fresh fish!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Cant complain at all. Went in am hour before Hotaru no Hikari and service was great. The salmon nigiri was super fresh and reminded of my time on Honshu. If I ever return to Halifax and this place is still around, Ill for sure be eating here again. I ate one of the Nigiri before realizing I should take a pic. Sorry I was too excited.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

The pork tonkatsu ramen was worlds apart from any other Ive had in town. The pork is extremely tender and flavourful. The chef who prepares it is from the region of Japan where tonkatsu ramen is from and she makes it in the traditional way. Tuna was fresh and a very good size. Tobikito roe was also very fine. Highly recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2022

Great spot for lunch

★★★★★
December 22, 2022

Best sushi in the HRM a must try, cozy and friendly soup is amazing great service

★★★★
December 22, 2021

Good food, slow service, man behind the counter was complaining about CERB taking his employees. It ruined the ambiance.

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

I have been coming to Doraku/Kodoraku for more than 20 years. The food is amazing, never had a bad meal. Their sushi/sashimi is fresh made when you order. Dinners as well. They have very nice sake selection. Prices are very affordable. I suggest the ko-doraku roll, its delicious.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Always tasty.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Its still really great to go there, and the food is delicious! I wish theyd kept the stamp reward cards though, but to help offset costs now, I can understand one reason why theyd remove it. I still enjoy going and the service is friendly!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Everything is delicious!!!!!!! Be kind!!!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2021

Authentic sushi and sashimi. Cozy and comfy decor but unpretentious. If you are looking for a great meal and friendly service this is the place. Highlights included the Rainbow Roll and the Ko-Doraku roll.

★★★★★
December 22, 2021

An absolute hidden gem in Halifax. The food is top notch and you can tell that they take great pride in what they do there. If you re looking for a relaxed casual place to grab sushi you can t go wrong here.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Fresh and authentic sushi. Rice is perfect.

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Really good sushi but you don t get a ton of food for what you re paying and where you re eating- atmosphere could be improved (cleaner tables anyone?) go to wasabi house instead

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

This is the freshest tasting sushi iv had in HRM and the prices are very reasonable. Ill definitely be back.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Always love it here. Cute atmosphere and the most polite and caring service!

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

I Like that the food is fresh, but for the price, I m a little disappointed

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

I love it when they greet you hello in Japanese and when you leave. The food is delicious and delivery to you fast. If you want to grab something quick, this place is for you.Do not expect it to be high quality sushi. It s more similar to fast food taste. The presentation is abit sloppy.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Very quick, very good sushi, plus great decor

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

This is a really cute and affordable Japanese restaurant in downtown Halifax. I ordered a small bowl of Soba noodles (not a meal, just a starter) and it really hit the spot. The broth was just so satisfying. The alaska roll I also ordered was well constructed, with a good ratio in terms of ingredients. The interior is colourful and features bookshelves of Japanese texts as well as some games to play with friends.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Great sushi and other Japanese specialties, casual atmosphere. Would recommend.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Such fresh tasty rice!! Always love coming here... Solo for lunch or a date night. Made a last minute order of 3 party platters and they prepared it within 40 minutes with a smile - everyone enjoyed it thoroughly!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Good food, good prices

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Always super fresh!!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Real authentic Japanese restaurant with a young refreshing atmosphere.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Good to visit. Price is good.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Great place for lunch sushi

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Wonderful food - never disappointed!! Happy they are re-opened!!

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

I placed an order for a party tray B and a Doraku roll for takeout by phone. I thought it might take time but the host said It will be in 10 miniutes. Not only Incredibly fast but also the quality for each piece of sushi was amazing. Rice was nicely moisturized and flavourful. Ingredients are fresh and full in each piece of sushi. This is definitely the go-to Japanese restaurant for me.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Consistency good food and friendly staff.

★★★
December 22, 2020

loved this place before the pandemic so i was excited to revisit my favorite sushi place in Halifax the staff was very friendly but the sushi was not the same, first off much smaller rolls for the same old price the ko doraku rolls are now tiny which really was disappointing and the shrimp tails were put hidden in roll its self and not visible and for me that is a deal breaker, i felt like i had bones caught in my throat for the rest of the day. not sure why my experience was so different :( unsure if ill rush back anytime soon. plus i miss the samurai knight and a lot of the old decorations are gone,

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Always amazing!

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

As a Japanese person, I think the sushi here is the best in Halifax. And also The guy making sushi (I think his name is Takumi) is so cool !

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

This place is legendary in all aspects

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

This is one of the most authentic sushi places in Halifax. The price is very reasonable, and each combo comes with a complimentary salad with the amazing ginger sauce. Definitely will recommend to anyone who wants to enjoy a good Japanese experience.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Some of the best sushi in town, hands down.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Friendly staff great food. No complaints here.

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

This place surprised me - for such a chill, casual atmosphere they have some of the best sushi Ive ever had in Halifax and Ive eaten at almost every sushi joint in the city. Perfect nigiri, the rice was cooked with the perfect fluffy texture and seasoned just right, the fish was absolutely delicious cut to an ample size and the tuna was incredible, none of that flat, mealy stuff you usually get around here. I dont know how else to explain it except it tastes the way great sushi is supposed to taste...I would expect this quality from a fancy restaurant but mercifully the prices are far more reasonable. Oh, and the side salad is delicious. Got to try, if you love sushi!

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Cute & affordable place if you re looking for some yummy sushi :)

December 22, 2020

Basement

December 22, 2020

Smell

★★★★★
December 22, 2020

Reeally love here. The Sushi is always warm and defo great taste all the menu.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

10/10 Hotate Chop Chop roll for life

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2020

Fast and tasty.

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Good quality sushi. Not as many options as most, and no all you can eat option. Its good for a quick bite as service was extremely fast. Everything that isnt sushi will take a bit longer tho.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Such great sushi! So fresh and delicious . Licensed too, with local craft beer

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Seaweed salad was excellent, rest was good but not outstanding

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Price is good!! Great and fresh Best workers always great to service me

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

One of my Top Favourite Sushi Restaurants in the City

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

The fish and rice combination here is just magical. The basement restaurant holds great surprises. Chef Shuji and the staff make everyone feel welcome. The daily and weekly specials change often, something to please everyone

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

When I worked nearby, I was at Ko-Doraku every Friday without fail. I still try to time my visits to the area so I can have lunch there. So freshly made the rice is still warm when it reaches your plate. Top rate sushi at very reasonable prices. Excellent weekly specials as well.

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

I love this resturant. It is a small beautiful Japanese restaurant, hidden in spring garden road shopping centre. It is filled Japanese art and furnishings, fully liscenced and all sorts of delicious sushi and authentic Japanese foods, 2 daily specials and imported desserts from japan as well.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Delicious, great quality for the price and very cosy

★★
December 22, 2019

Decorations and service were pretty good, but the sushi was pricey and not super fresh.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Amazing spot, great food at a great price. Nice casual atmosphere, and a couch and TV for watching movies or playing mario kart wii. 10/10 will definitely be eating here again.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Great food

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

This is my favourite spot for sushi. Excellent customer service and affordable prices.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

My favourite downtown Sushi place! Affordable and fasts! Great staff! Lovely atmosphere!

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Great little sushi place. You order your food and pay, then take a seat, they bring your sushi to you. It was quite good sushi, for a great price. Love the seating options and all the decor was pretty awesome. Will definitely go back again to try more options.

★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Cashier got my order wrong. Instead of Asia Combo she punched in Veggie Combo but I thought they were the same thing turns out they were so different :(

★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

Its very reasonable price and better quality . located basement but you can found easy under spring garden rd Starbucks. I recommend.

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

Amazing sushi what i had in Halifax ever.

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

Vey tasty!!! Well worth it!

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

Freshest, most delicious traditional sushi in Halifax without all the additional syrups and fruit youll see added in some places. Real sushi, perfect every time.

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

One of my favourite spots for sushi (and inari) in the city. Great prices, quick service, laid back setting! Highly recommended.

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

The sushi here is always good. There arent a lot of crazy, fancy rolls, just reasonably priced sushi that is always delicious. Im never disappointed and Ive never eaten anything that tasted iffy. Which is more than I can say about some other, more expensive places.

★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

This is how much you can get for $30. Not the best sushi if you are used to good sushi. Chopped scallop roll was tasty but California roll was terrible quality with very little flavour

★★★★★
December 22, 2019

Excellent service and amazing fresh sushi. Best in town

★★★★★
Local Guide
December 22, 2019

A super nice restaurant, surely the best for tasting Japanese cuisine.