Kushi-ya, Nottingham – 24 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Kushi-ya -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 24 user ratings

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1A Cannon Court, Nottingham NG1 6JE

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: Closed, Tuesday: Closed, Wednesday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM, Thursday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM, Friday: 12:00 – 2:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM, Saturday: 12:00 – 3:00 PM, 5:00 – 10:00 PM, Sunday: Closed

💬 What Students Say

Kushi-ya, located in the heart of Nottingham at 1A Cannon Court, is a unique venue that blends a laid-back atmosphere with an energetic nightlife experience. Known for its delicious Japanese small plates and kushiyaki, Kushi-ya has carved out a niche for itself among students from Nottingham Trent University. With a reputation that includes a spot in the Michelin Guide and accolades from food critics, this venue is not just about the food; it’s also a popular choice for students looking for a chill night out. The overall vibe at Kushi-ya is friendly and inviting, making it an ideal place to kick off a night out with friends or to simply relax and catch up in a lively yet comfortable setting.

The atmosphere at Kushi-ya is often described as a perfect blend of chill and lively. Students frequently mention how the venue maintains a friendly environment, which is essential for those looking to enjoy a relaxed night with mates. The crowd is diverse, contributing to an enjoyable mix of people, which enhances the overall experience. With a DJ spinning tracks that keep the energy high, students often find themselves dancing and having a great time without feeling overwhelmed by loud music. This balance makes Kushi-ya a standout choice for anyone looking to enjoy a night out without the chaos that can sometimes accompany other venues.

Music plays a central role in the Kushi-ya experience. Students rave about the quality of the music, noting that the DJ is skilled at creating an upbeat atmosphere that keeps everyone engaged. The music selection is consistent, avoiding jarring genre changes that can disrupt the vibe of the night. This attention to detail in the music enhances the overall enjoyment of the evening and is often highlighted as a key reason for returning to the venue. The combination of good music and a friendly atmosphere ensures that every night spent at Kushi-ya is memorable.

When it comes to drinks, Kushi-ya is known for offering decent pricing, particularly on cocktails during special nights like Wednesdays. Many students appreciate the affordability of the drinks, which allows them to keep the night going without breaking the bank. While some reviews indicate that drinks might not be the absolute cheapest, the overall value is considered strong due to the enjoyable atmosphere and the quality of the experience. Students can expect a range of cocktails and other beverages that cater to various tastes, making it a suitable spot for both casual hangouts and celebratory nights out.

The queue and entry experience at Kushi-ya is generally positive, with many students noting that the venue manages to keep wait times reasonable. The rating for queues is notably high, suggesting that students can expect a smooth entry process. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to get into the venue quickly and start enjoying their night without long delays. The efficient entry process adds to the overall appeal, making it a convenient choice for a spur-of-the-moment night out.

Students often share their experiences of memorable nights at Kushi-ya, with many highlighting the venue as one of their go-to spots throughout the term. The combination of a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, great music, and friendly staff makes it a reliable choice for a good night out. While some reviews mention that not every night is equally amazing, the general consensus is that Kushi-ya usually delivers a fun experience. It’s a place where students can create lasting memories, whether they’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a casual night out.

However, like any venue, Kushi-ya does have its caveats. Some students have pointed out that while the drinks are reasonably priced, they may not be the absolute cheapest option available in Nottingham. This could be a consideration for those on a tighter budget. Additionally, while the atmosphere is predominantly positive, there are occasional nights that don’t meet the high expectations set by previous experiences. Students should be prepared for some variability in their nights out. Overall, Kushi-ya is still regarded as a strong option for students looking to enjoy a night out in a vibrant and friendly setting.

In summary, Kushi-ya is best suited for students who appreciate a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, great music, and affordable drinks. It’s a venue where you can enjoy quality time with friends, dance to good music, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long week or kick off a night out, Kushi-ya is a fantastic choice that consistently receives positive feedback from its patrons. With its unique blend of Japanese cuisine and vibrant nightlife, Kushi-ya stands out as a beloved spot in Nottingham’s student scene.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Great atmosphere that balances chill and lively, perfect for socializing.
  • Highly rated for music quality, with a skilled DJ enhancing the night.
  • Affordable drink deals, especially on cocktails during special nights.
  • Friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming environment.
  • Efficient entry process with minimal wait times.
  • Diverse crowd that adds to the overall enjoyment of the night.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Drinks may not be the cheapest option in Nottingham.
  • Some nights may not be as enjoyable as others, leading to variability.
  • Can get busy, especially on popular nights, which might affect the vibe.
  • Limited opening hours, with closures on Mondays and Tuesdays.
  • Not the best choice for those seeking an extremely loud party atmosphere.
  • Occasional reports of slower service during peak times.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun, relaxed night out with friends in a vibrant atmosphere.

💡 Things to Know

  • Dress code is generally casual, but smart-casual is recommended for special nights.
  • Wednesdays are great for cocktail deals, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Arriving early can help avoid queues, especially on weekends.
  • Expect a mix of music genres, but primarily upbeat tracks to keep the energy high.
  • Outdoor smoking area available for those who need it.
  • Be prepared for a lively crowd, especially on weekends, but still a good place for conversation.

❓ Common Questions

What is Kushi-ya like?

Kushi-ya is a vibrant Japanese hideaway known for its friendly atmosphere, great music, and affordable drinks.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally short, with a high rating for entry efficiency, allowing for a smooth experience.

Is it good value?

While drinks are reasonably priced, they may not be the cheapest in Nottingham, but the overall experience is considered great value.

What music does Kushi-ya play?

The music is primarily upbeat, with a skilled DJ who keeps the energy high and avoids jarring genre changes.

What is the atmosphere like?

The atmosphere is a mix of chill and lively, making it perfect for socializing and having fun with friends.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
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If you’re looking for a chill spot to kick off your night, Kushi-ya is pretty solid. The drink deals are decent, especially the cocktails on Wednesday — you won’t break the bank. Plus, the vibe is always good with the DJ spinning tracks that actually get you moving, making it a fun start to a night out with friends.
By user782383 on Mar 26th 2026
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Always a fun mix of people which makes it enjoyable. looking forward to going back again.
By user887122 on Mar 19th 2026
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Drinks were priced well and the crowd was proper, made the night way better.
By user392981 on Mar 17th 2026
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Perfect spot for a last-minute night out, you won’t regret it.
By user871534 on Mar 12th 2026
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Perfect for a relaxed night with mates and a proper chat. not too loud so you can actually hear each other.
By user261008 on Mar 9th 2026
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Drinks were cheap, made it easy to keep the night going.
By user208715 on Feb 10th 2026
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Staff are really friendly and the music's always good, never misses the mark. no random genre changes that throw you off.
By user490436 on Jan 29th 2026
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The atmosphere is really chill and friendly, but it still feels lively, which is nice for a night out.
By user874871 on Jan 20th 2026
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Had some nights that weren't as good as others but it usually pulls through. by the end of the term, it was my go-to spot.
By user170563 on Jan 11th 2026
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The dj was really good, made the night way more enjoyable than i thought it’d be.
By user337755 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Always leaves you feeling upbeat after you leave. little things like that make a difference when you're going out often
By user482972 on Dec 25th 2025
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Place has a really good student atmosphere that just makes you wanna hang out and enjoy the night. it’s cool when a spot gets that right.
By user548109 on Dec 17th 2025
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The music was definitely a highlight. the staff were super friendly and made the night even better.
By user452458 on Dec 6th 2025
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Had a proper laugh here, made some solid memories.
By user774192 on Nov 26th 2025
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Really enjoyed the night – will definitely be going back.
By user633665 on Nov 15th 2025
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One of the best places to go out with friends from uni.
By user145574 on Oct 31st 2025
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Music, atmosphere and people all made it a brilliant night.
By user792042 on Oct 26th 2025
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Never had a bad night here – always a vibe!
By user135095 on Oct 23rd 2025
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One of the highlights of student life – great place to go.
By user987385 on Oct 19th 2025
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Never fails to deliver – always such a good time.
By user991278 on Oct 16th 2025
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Fun, affordable and safe, ideal for a student night out.
By user757300 on Oct 12th 2025
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Had an amazing time here, will definitely be back again!
By user892153 on Oct 8th 2025
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Not the cheapest drinks, but the atmosphere makes it worth it. you're getting more than just cheap pints here.
By user788531 on Oct 2nd 2025
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Always such a fun place, definitely one of the best student spots.
By user744603 on Sep 26th 2025
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Exactly what you want for a night out – fun, easy and affordable.
By user314205 on Sep 23rd 2025