Nakama Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar - South Side

Sushi, Hibachi, and High-Energy Vibes in Pittsburgh’s South Side

Located on lively East Carson Street in Pittsburgh’s South Side, Nakama Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi Bar delivers a bold dining experience that blends sizzling hibachi theatrics with fresh, artfully prepared sushi. With a sleek, urban vibe and a reputation for fun, Nakama is just a short ride from many of the city’s major concert venues, making it a top pick for music lovers looking to fuel up before the show.

Step inside and you’ll find a bustling, modern interior with hibachi tables that double as entertainment and a sushi bar that caters to both traditional and adventurous tastes. Whether you’re after flame-seared filet or creative maki rolls, Nakama is all about flavor and flair.

Why Concert-goers love it

Proximity is key—Nakama is close to several popular music venues, making it a convenient dinner stop on your way to the show. Guests love the high-energy atmosphere and the quick, efficient service, especially at the hibachi tables where chefs keep things moving without sacrificing showmanship. The menu is varied enough to please groups with mixed tastes, and you can usually get in and out in under an hour if needed. Plus, the vibe is loud and lively, so you’ll feel amped for the night ahead.

Who this Restaurant is great for

• Groups of friends looking for a shared, interactive meal
• Solo travelers who want a seat at the sushi bar and some quality people-watching
• Couples enjoying a night out with dinner and a show
• Fans who want a fun, social pre-show space
• Budget-conscious diners who still want fresh sushi and a showy dinner

What People Say

Reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable praise Nakama’s entertaining hibachi chefs, fresh and creative sushi, and lively, upbeat vibe. Many guests mention that it’s a great place to start a night out, with drinks flowing and the energy high. The service is often described as fast and friendly, which is a big plus when you’re on the clock before a concert.

Areas for Improvement

Some diners note that the restaurant can get quite loud—perfect for a party vibe, but less ideal if you’re after a quiet meal. At peak times, wait times can stretch a bit, so reservations are a smart move if you're aiming to hit a show on schedule. Parking on East Carson can also be tricky, so plan ahead or ride-share if possible.

The Bottom Line

Nakama is a high-energy, crowd-pleasing spot that serves up sizzling hibachi, fresh sushi, and fast service just minutes from Pittsburgh’s best concerts.