Many people don't know about this spot; it's one of the best kept sushi secrets in Alameda. I think it's because it's a simple little glorified booth inside the same market place building which hosts Alameda Natural grocery store. But Sushi King is worth a visit of its own. And the eight or nine seats mean you can eat there and actually receive the kind, thoughtful service of the waitresses.

All the food is incredibly fresh and delicious. I often go for the chirashi which gives seven or eight generous cuts of fish and sometimes some tamago (egg) as well with fish roe and a bit of seaweed, all served over perfectly made sushi rice. The meal comes with miso soup, sometimes a small dish of edamame beans and tea, and even with tax it's all under $10. I've gone to far fancier places in San Francisco where the cost would be two or three times that and not be as delicious.

Everything else is great too. I often get their veggie rolls to go, which are loaded with Japanese pickled radish and avocado. Their California rolls taste as if they are made with real crab, not the artificial stuff. Both the seaweed salad and calamari salad are vibrant, mixing perfect degrees of spice and vinegary tartness. Each mouthful is brimming with health.

The waitresses, as well as the sushi chef are some of the sweetest people. It's one of those places I just feel great about supporting in town.

Most days I see people down on Shoreline Drive at the beach waiting in long, patient lines to get into the cavernous Sushi House, the local culinary temple where they will often receive curt service and mediocre fish. I'm always tempted tell folks, "Do you know that five minutes from here you can have much better sushi and instant gratification?"

But probably no one would believe me.
Now at least you know.
Better service, better food, no wait.
What more could you want?