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These guys offer a great deal, there's a reason why there's almost always a line and they can't be bothered to offer take out or delivery. Fresh fish, good size portions at very reasonable prices. A Gramercy institution. And I have to say, Jeff's comment above in 'NYC Standard' saying "I guess Nobu stands out" is way off the mark - Nobu does great cooked food, very inventive and top-shelf fusion stuff, but their sushi is nothing special at all, and they way over-rely on that annoying cucumber & shiso wrapping on their rolls.

Amazingly buttery fish served in huge portions at good prices. This place is packed every night.

Every sushi reviewer in Zagats thinks the sushi restaurant in their neighborhood is the greatest thing since sliced tuna. Yama happens to be one of the better sushi establishments in the city for consistent value. I have been to many, many sushi restaurants and while Yama is not the most innovative, nor are their cooked items the most spectacular I've ever had (that is where I think a place like Nobu stands out), they do have the most consistently fresh and delicious sushi I've ever had, and lots of it. I've actually heard people complain that their sashimi pieces are too large. Now while I can understand that they are not the size of traditional Japanese slices that are a single mouthful, I can't see how you can complain about having too much, especially when it's this good! The drawbacks to the place is the the decor is minimal, the room is too small, and some of the wait staff seem to be half asleep (though not totally inattentive). If you go for dinner expect to wait a long time, perhaps an hour or more if you go after 6:30. I personally prefer to go for lunch which is generally not nearly as crowded. The chirashi at lunch may be the best value in the city!

Decided to try this place based on the previous reviews. Phenomenal sushi at a decent price. Had 2 special rolls and an eel avocado inside out. Fish came out quickly, and was very fresh and tasty. spicy salmon with scallion and avocado was especially good. not a huge selection of special rolls, but the two i tried were on the money. the place itself is tiny, two rooms with maybe six or seven small tables each, and the kitchen in between. no bar or standing room so you have to wait outside for your table. weather was nice out so this wasnt a problem but i prob wouldnt go here during bad weather.

So good. I was floored. Try the fried green tea ice cream for dessert

the fish is super fresh and served in large pieces. the sauce used to make spicy rolls is the best i have ever had. Yama on Irving is actually reasonably priced and will satisfy your stomach. the tempura green tea ice cream is a great dessert of you're into that sort of thing and who doesnt love dissapearing down a few steps, right off a nyc street and into a little food heaven.

The food is amazing at Yama. It's always packed - it's a small space carved out of an old basement where people jam themselves in. Service is excellent - the space is a little too crowded for comfort, ergo the 3 for Atmosphere. But if you love sushi, definitely check out Yama. In my opinion, one of the top 5 sushi restaurants in Manhattan.