For sushi lovers in New York City, the search for the ultimate sushi experience is never ending. Finding the best sushi restaurants can prove to be a difficult challenge. But with the help of this foodie’s guide, you’ll be sure to find some of the most authentic, delicious, and creative sushi dishes that the Big Apple has to offer. So, let’s get to it – here’s our list of the best sushi restaurants in New York City!
Table of Contents
Quick Recap
Sushi Tatsu in Midtown East, Sushiden Fifth Avenue and Haru Sushi in Tribeca are all highly-rated sushi restaurants located in New York City. Be sure to read reviews online to get an idea of which restaurant offers your desired type of sushi.
High-End Sushi Restaurants in New York City
New York City is renowned for its great sushi restaurants, both high-end, and accessible. Sushi aficionados often crave elevated experiences, with exquisitely prepared sushi rolls, rare fish dishes, elaborate presentations and an ambience to match. For those looking for a luxurious experience, here are the best high-end sushi restaurants in New York City that will do just that.
One of the most acclaimed upscale sushi eateries in the city is Sushi Ginza Onodera. With multiple locations around the world, it is definitely worth a visit if you are looking to spoil yourself with a decadent dinner. Guests can choose between omakase (chef’s selection) or ala carte dining, offering some of the freshest seafood delicacies. The restaurant was created mainly to showcase the art of edomae sushi: preparation with traditional techniques where you can savor every exquisite bite in just one mouthful.
Another noteworthy high-end Japanese restaurant specializing in sushi is Jewel Bako. It features two distinct menus – Edomae (Edo-style) and Yellowtail Bar – each providing its own unique offering of top-of-the-line seafood from Tokyo market Tsukiji and beyond. jewel Baka has developed a reputation as one of New York’s premier gourmet sushi establishments, famed for its famous maguro jyouzu – cubes lightly seared tuna set atop bamboo shoots cooked in sake and sake lees sauce topped off with mustard aioli and thinly sliced red onion petals.
When it comes to higher end sushi restaurants in New York City there is always Yujean Kang’s Sushi of Gari. Offering both omakase and à la carte options, this charming Japanese eatery offers carefully crafted dishes utilizing an innovative approach focusing on delicate flavors and intricate presentation. Dishes range from classics such as delicate chawanmushi – steamed egg custard with a hint of seafood broth – to more creative offerings like orange miso marinated salmon maki roll dressed up with edible flowers for a truly dramatic effect.
To finish out your meal indulge in something sweet from their extensive dessert menu including matcha ice cream served with kurogoma syrup and mochi dumplings covered in roasted almonds – perfect pairings to the already stellar cuisine guaranteed to satisfy your palate.
For those looking for one of the best culinary experiences available in New York City, these high-end sushi restaurants truly deliver with unparalleled excellence in service plus fantastic food presented in stunning fashion. The next section will discuss Michelin-starred sushi restaurants that offer equally luxurious experiences that you won’t want to miss out on!
Essential Summary Points
New York City is home to a variety of top-notch sushi restaurants. High-end sushi restaurants like Sushi Ginza Onodera, Jewel Bako, and Yujean Kang’s Sushi of Gari provide exquisite dishes such as edomae sushi, maguro jyouzu, chawanmushi, and orange miso marinated salmon maki rolls. Diners can also indulge in delicious desserts like matcha ice cream and mochi dumplings with roasted almonds for the perfect ending to an extraordinary meal.
Michelin-Starred Sushi Restaurants
When it comes to top-of-the-line sushi, New York offers some of the best Michelin-starred restaurants around. Masa, located in the Time Warner Building of Columbus Circle, is a three-star Michelin winner and offers an exclusive tasting menu that is one of the most sought after experiences among foodies. Other two-star spots include Sushi Ikumi in Midtown East and Sushi Yasuda and Sushi Uo in Midtown West. These establishments offer exquisite lobster and uni offerings, along with their revered sushi menu and are known for their upscale atmosphere and elegant presentation. Some diners may expect to spend wildly on these coveted meals, but others see it as a special treat worth investing in.
For those looking for a more accessible sushi experience that still boasts Michelin star recognition, head over to one of Zutto restaurant’s four locations throughout the city. They offer modern Japanese comfort foods in a friendly, relaxing environment—all at reasonable prices. No matter if you want to try star-grade sushi or stick to a budget while still getting quality food, there’s something out there for everyone who craves the best what NYC has to offer.
The next section will explore traditional authentic sushi spots throughout NYC that require no reservations or high budgets, offering an entirely different kind of experience for newcomers to Japan’s favorite cuisine.
Traditional Authentic Sushi in NYC
For those wanting to experience a traditional and authentic taste of sushi in New York City, there is no shortage of options. From the classic Omakase-style restaurants where selections are left to the Chef’s discretion to smaller suburban gems, aficionados can find something to please even the most discerning palates. A key will be finding a place that values quality of fish and also prepares it with care and attention to traditions.
The debate over authenticity surrounds places that embrace more modern approaches by incorporating ingredients not typically found in Japan, but that have become favorites in other countries including Southeast Asia. Although this might fit the technical definition of “fusion,” many purists feel that these dishes aren’t truly representative of the core sushi spirit. However, others argue that this fusion style is true to its’ own heritage. In any case, diners should certainly make an effort to seek out tried and true traditional spots if they wish to experience genuine sushi flavors.
Finally, no discussion on authentic sushi in New York would be complete without mentioning one of the city’s longest-running establishments: Sushi Yasuda. Serving up classic tastes from Tokyo for nearly two decades, this restaurant stands as a testament to how fantastic a good omakase menu can be when prepared by skilled artisans with years of experience behind them.
Now, on to something potentially even more exciting – let’s take a look at how NYC serves up the taste of Edo!
Experience the Taste of Edo
Edo Style sushi, or often called Edomae sushi, is an authentic Japanese style of sushi that originated in Tokyo’s traditional fish market. It’s preparation uses fresh seafood that hasn’t been frozen, and only the freshest ingredients are used. To get a true taste of Tokyo and experience Edo style sushi, there are some great sushi restaurants to visit in New York City.
Many consider Sushi Yasuda the king of Edo style sushi in New York City, as it brings together the techniques used by sword wielding sushi masters from Edo-era history book with modern NYC dining. Some argue that despite the authenticity and quality, the high price tag may deter some diners from this restaurant. On the other hand, for those looking for an uncompromising sushi experience, Sushi Yasuda presents itself as a must-visit spot.
Takashi offers a flavor of Edo without an overwhelming price tag. Located on Hudson Street in the West Village, Takashi is renowned for its top-notch selection of sushi utilizing unique toppings such as truffle and caviar; diners here experience a breadth of flavors all at once. Those who don’t care to splurge but still want a proper taste of Tokyo should visit Takashi to experience some authentic Edo-style sushi.
No matter the price range for one’s experience with Edo style sushi, there are many options available in New York City. Now that we’ve explored how to best experience the taste of Edo, let’s move onto uniquely modern sushi restaurants.
Uniquely Modern Sushi Restaurants
Uniquely modern sushi restaurants are popping up all over New York City, offering a twist to the traditional sushi dining experience. These contemporary spots feature inventive presentations and dishes, ranging from sashimi tacos to pizza rolls. The artfully crafted dishes create a visually stimulating presentation and provide adventurous eaters the chance to explore new flavors. On one hand, some diners may enjoy the creative take on sushi that these restaurants offer, such as indulging in items like a ramen burger stuffed with tuna tartare and seaweed chips. On the other hand, purists may worry that these more modern eateries lack authenticity or stray too far from traditional sushi recipes. Regardless of where you fall on this debate, modern sushi restaurants provide an enjoyable way to try something different.
For those looking for a more scenic spot to try their sushi, the next section sets off on a journey to explore some of the best waterfront sushi restaurants in New York City.
Enjoy the Waterfront Ambiance
New York City is abundant with sushi restaurants that provide water-front amphitheater. A meal inside a restaurant with waterfront views allows for a relaxing atmosphere and unparalleled scenery as you indulge in superior sushi dishes. Certain waterfront views provide the perfect ambiance to enjoy the meal and conversation, while other locations offer nothing more than a view of passing by boats. But each location offers a unique experience that can’t be found elsewhere.
For those looking for the most opulent waterfront settings, there are some upscale sushi restaurants with charming terrace seating, offering exclusive access to the sparkling harbor waves and amazing sunsets. Inside these restaurants, diners will find plush chairs and exotic decor to enhance what’s sure to be an unforgettable experience. But it comes with a hefty price tag – some may argue that the cost isn’t worth the ambient appeal.
On the flipside, there are those who see the value in waterfront dining – they believe it enhances the entire experience, providing tranquil surroundings to savor their meals and conversations. There’s possibly nothing more enjoyable than sipping on sake while taking in Manhattan skyline views in the background. Consequently, these shoreline spots are constantly packed with patrons eager to sit back and enjoy a “waterside dinner.”
So ultimately, whether you choose to dine inside a luxury lounge overlooking the calm harbor waters or at an affordable spot near the Brooklyn Bridge, you’re sure to get paired with incredible scenery and delicious sushi dishes no matter where you go.(Lead In)
The next section will showcase some of the best sushi restaurants in NYC for all eaters – from casual spots serving up inexpensive plates to luxurious fine-dining paradises.
The Best Sushi in NYC for All Eaters
When it comes to sushi, there are two camps: those who prefer traditional Japanese-style sushi and those who enjoy more creative westernized rolls. Whatever flavor you crave, New York City has something for every sushi fan. From high-end omakase experiences to all-you-can-eat affairs, here’s a look at the best sushi in NYC for all eaters.
For purists, traditional Japanese-style sushi restaurants provide an immersive experience into Japan’s culinary world. Sushi Yasuda is a top destination for connoisseurs, where chefs prepare Edomae-style sushi with an emphasis on only the highest quality ingredients. The tuna selection is especially impressive, sourced from both coasts of the United States as well as seasonal options from different parts of the world. Visitors can confidently indulge in the omakase combined with a diverse selection of sake.
On the other hand, those looking to expand their taste buds should consider creative vegan and vegetarian options offered by restaurants like Beyond Sushi or Uma Temakeria – Rolling Sushi Bar. Whether a classic tempura roll or inventive combinations like spicy beet or shiitake mushroom rolls – these spots offer something for everyone. While upmarket chains such as Blue Ribbon Sushi have managed to capture much of the city’s attention, smaller gems located outside Manhattan push boundaries and continue to serve unique flavors at reasonable prices.
It doesn’t matter if you like your maki classic or modern – there is something for everyone in NYC’s vibrant sushi scene. To help further expand palates, we now turn our focus to some of our favorite sushi restaurants offering delicious options in New York City.
Our Favorite Sushi Restaurants
New York City is almost synonymous with sushi, offering some of the most diverse and delicious sushi in the world. But what are the absolute must visit destinations for a sushi foodie? To answer this question, we’ve rounded up some of the best sushi restaurants in the city to give you an idea of what is on offer.
One highly-regarded restaurant is Sushi Katsuei. Located in Midtown East, Sushi Katsuei serves an omakase menu with an incredible assortment of chefs’ signature nigiris. This restaurant blends traditional and modern flavors with its innovative take on classic sushi dishes. The price per person also makes it one of the more attractive spots for sushi fans looking to try something new without breaking the bank.
On the other hand, there’s Ushiwakamaru in Greenwich Village. Ushiwakamaru gives customers a range of options to match precisely their personal taste preferences, from traditional-style Edomae sushi to creative maki rolls or seafood-focused sashimi dishes. This spot has a larger price tag than Sushi Katsuei but its fresh seafood is worth every penny due to its top-notch quality.
Regardless of your preference between traditional and creative takes on authentic Japanese dishes, there’s no denying that both Sushi Katsuei and Ushiwakamaru provide exceptional experiences for those who truly appreciate expertly crafted meals.
For a different experience, head to 15 East, located nearby in Union Square India Square. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers chef Masa Takayama’s inventive interpretations of Omakase-style sushi that is known to be some of the highest quality in New York City. In addition to their individual courses, they also offer special multi-course menus tailored for larger groups. Despite being more expensive than other restaurants in the city, 15 East still stands out as a must-visit spot for it’s unique brand of sushi dining experience.
These three sushi spots are just a few examples of why New York City is considered one of the premier places for high quality Japanese cuisine around the world. From classic flavors to inventive dishes, any true sushi foodie will leave these restaurants feeling satisfied and impressed by their offerings and service.
With so many options available for sushi connoisseurs, it can be difficult to narrow down which ones are the absolute best of the best when it comes to sampling tasty treats from a variety of styles and locations—which brings us to our final section about: “Final Reviews and Recommendations”.
Final Reviews and Recommendations
Sushi Doki on the Upper East Side is a top-rated sushi restaurant in New York City. Sushi Doki offers a variety of fresh rolls and traditional Japanese dishes as well as a selection of sake and specialty cocktails, perfect for an enjoyable evening out with friends or family. The atmosphere is inviting, with modern decor and great ambiance. The prices are on the higher side, but the excellent quality of sushi more than makes up for it.
On the other side of town, many recommend Kuni Sushi in Williamsburg. This hole-in-the-wall sushi spot offers quick takeout service with a variety of delicious menu items. The sushi is prepared fresh daily, with no MSG or additives added, making it a healthier option for dinner. Prices here are much more affordable than other places around town, making Kuni Sushi an ideal choice for those looking to get their sushi fix without breaking the bank.
For something unique, many turn to Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill in the Meatpacking District. There’s something for everyone at Blue Ribbon, from creative sushi rolls to tempura and steak dishes. The setting is upscale and lively, creating an energetic vibe as you enjoy your meal. Keep in mind that portions here can be quite small, so come prepared to pay more if you’re especially hungry!
No matter your budget or taste preferences, there’s something for everyone when it comes to finding the best sushi restaurants in New York City. Take the time to do some research before committing to a spot so you can ensure you’re getting the best value and quality available. With these final reviews and recommendations, exploring the city’s sushi scene has never been easier!
Responses to Common Questions with Explanations
How can I find the highest quality sushi restaurants in NYC?
To find the highest quality sushi restaurants in NYC, one should look for recommendations from local experts and food critics who review restaurants on a regular basis. Additionally, online resources offering ratings and reviews from customers can be invaluable in selecting high-quality sushi experiences. Furthermore, a sushi establishment’s reputation within the sushi community is indicative of the quality of their products; therefore, learning about a restaurant’s credentials — such as its chef or their swordfish sourcing — can help to identify high-end sushi destinations. Finally, considering whether the restaurant offers traditional or creative offerings can be an indication of the quality of their dishes. For those looking for an unforgettable experience, more traditional places are likely to have higher quality sushi than those that put a modern twist on classic recipes.
What makes a sushi restaurant stand out in New York City?
A sushi restaurant stands out in New York City by offering a truly unique and exceptional dining experience. Quality is paramount; the freshest, finest ingredients must be used to create imaginative and delicious dishes. Eating at a sushi restaurant should also be more than just about the food–it should be an experience that is memorable, entertaining and immersive. A good sushi restaurant will generally have knowledgeable staff who can talk guests through the menu, provide engaging conversation and give detailed information about the different dishes available. Ambiance also matters; great restaurants have an atmosphere that fits in with their concept, which might involve contemporary decor with soft lighting, open spaces or even traditional Japanese designs. Lastly, presentation is key; a sushi restaurant should present its food in an attractive and aesthetically pleasing way.
What criteria should a person consider when selecting a sushi restaurant?
When selecting a sushi restaurant, there are several criteria to consider:
1. Quality of the ingredients – it’s important to select a restaurant that uses high-quality fish and other ingredients. Ask around for recommendations or read reviews to get an idea of which restaurants serve the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.
2. Variety – look for a sushi restaurant that offers a wide selection of classic and modern sushi rolls as well as dishes like sashimi, nigiri, etc. A good selection of beer, sake and other drinks should also be available.
3. Atmosphere – make sure the restaurant is clean and comfortable with an inviting atmosphere and polite staff who know their sushi menu.
4. Value – while it may be tempting to choose the cheapest option, don’t forget that you usually get what you pay for when it comes to sushi. Find a restaurant that offers good quality food at a reasonable cost.
5. Location – consider where the restaurant is located and how accessible it is for you in terms of convenience and transportation options.
These are all factors you should take into account when selecting a sushi restaurant in New York City or any other city for that matter!
