Every neighborhood needs a local sushi joint, and for East Villagers, it’s been Takahachi for a while now. Cheap enough to be in regular rotation, good enough to warrant happy returns, and always crowded, probably because they don't deliver. There is a permanent "15 minute" wait, even at 11pm. Takahachi is everything you want out of your local Japanese home away from home. There are no frills, no omakase, and there aren’t even Japanese people cutting up your sushi - last time I went, we had a guy from Ecuador. What there is, however, is a large menu of reasonably priced cooked and raw things that will certainly leave you satisfied. This is not mind blowing food, this is "it's Tuesday, and I'm hungry food." On any given night, it’s safe to assume 75% of the restaurant are regulars. It's that kind of spot. Everyone seems to know one another, and everyone definitely knows Mr. Takahachi himself, who works the room, shakes hands, and kisses all the babies. Good food and a personal connection, no wonder people keep coming back. Next time you need sushi in the East Village, Takahachi is the move.