About The Counter
The Counter is a go-to lunch sushi & poke spot in Columbus, OH, with a modern feel and counter-service seating with reclaimed wood tables. The kitchen leans into sushi & poke done well, produce is delivered fresh from local growers six days a week.
The signature item to try first is the Ahi Crispy Rice, which has earned a loyal following. The rest of the menu rounds it out with options like Spicy Tuna Roll, Salmon Poke Bowl, Dragon Roll, plus rotating specials that change with the season. Portions are generous for the price point ($$$), and the kitchen is consistent — orders come out fast even when the place is full.
On a typical day you'll find couples on date night and groups celebrating birthdays, especially around the lunch and dinner rushes. The bar pours craft sodas, local kombucha on tap, and house-brewed iced tea. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are clearly marked on the menu. The dining room is clean, the music is at a reasonable volume, and the wifi works.
For ordering, you can text ahead to skip the line during the lunch rush. Regulars say the staff remembers their order after only two or three visits. Whether you're new to Columbus or a longtime resident hunting for a reliable sushi & poke fix, The Counter earns a spot in the regular rotation.
Menu highlights
A snapshot of the most-ordered items at The Counter. Prices and availability change — call ahead to confirm.
Customer reviews
Recent ratings averaged 4.3 out of 5 across 448 reviews.
I work nearby and stop in at least twice a week. The California Roll hits every time. Service is quick, the space is clean, and they take dietary requests seriously which I appreciate. Easy five stars from me.
Brought the family on a Saturday and we all walked out happy. Kids loved their food, my partner ordered the California Roll and finished every bite. Prices feel fair for the portions. The dining room was a little loud but that's expected on weekends.
Mixed feelings. The Dragon Roll was excellent and the cashier was friendly, but my side came out cold and they were out of two of the things I wanted to order. Probably worth another try, but not the experience I was hoping for.
Solid spot. The Salmon Poke Bowl is a standout — bold flavors, well-seasoned, comes out hot. Took off a star only because the wait at the counter was longer than I expected on a weekday. Still, I'd come back without hesitation.
Honestly impressed. We tried three different items between the table and the Salmon Poke Bowl stole the show. The staff genuinely seemed to enjoy being there which makes a difference. Cannot recommend enough.
Location & neighborhood
The Counter is located at 4836 Mulberry Ln in Columbus, OH. Street parking is generally available in the surrounding blocks, and most public-transit routes that serve the downtown core stop within a short walk. The neighborhood around the restaurant has steady foot traffic during lunch and dinner, with a mix of office buildings, apartments and other small businesses on the block.