Best NYC Sushi: 21 Best Sushi Restaurants in NYC for 2024
Only the best sushi in NYC will hit the spot when you're craving rich sashimi, elaborate rolls or a luxurious, well-orchestrated omakase experience. In New York, though, you’re always surrounded by some of the best food in the world. How can you possibly narrow down your options?
We’ve found some of the best sushi restaurants in NYC that serve both omakase and a la carte options for all types of sushi lovers. Read on to learn our favorites!
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Find the Best NYC Sushi
Finding the best NYC sushi in a city that may have the best sushi outside of Japan is an endless challenge. New spots are always popping up where you can get your sushi fix. A great way to acquaint yourself with local food is by trying out food tours in NYC so a guide can take you to all of the best popular spots and hidden gems.
In the meantime, here’s our list of some of the best sushi restaurants in NYC for your own explorations.
21 Best Sushi Restaurants in NYC
1. Nami Nori
Nami Nori is a popular name in the best NYC sushi scene. There are locations in both trendy Williamsburg and West Village, so whether you’re in Brooklyn or Manhattan, you can give this one a try. The menus at each location are slightly different, but you can expect tasty hand rolls and sushi house staples at both. They even offer vegan options.
The Vibe
This trendy spot feels relaxed and modern. The atmosphere is perfect for an early dinner outing with a small friend group after a day of your favorite things to do in NYC. It fills up fast there, so it’s best to make a reservation. There’s also an outdoor seating area.
What to Order
Nami Nori offers two sets: the signature set and the vegan set. Both come with four basic signature or vegan temaki rolls plus one extra roll. If you’ve never been to Nami Nori, ordering one of those sets is the way to go!
Nami Nori | Multiple Locations | $$$
2. Cagen
Sushi master and restaurant owner Chef Tomita makes some of the best NYC sushi at Cagen, a name that means “just right.” The omakase meals are carefully curated and made with fine attention to detail. This is one of the best sushi places in NYC for someone who wants a traditional sushi meal and trusts the judgment of an experienced sushi chef.
The Vibe
While the restaurant itself is high-end, the interior is unpretentious. It’s small and intimate, but you won’t feel uncomfortable chatting with your dinner date. This isn’t a good spot to hang out with friends on a night out, but it’s fantastic for a date night in NYC.
What to Order
When you order omakase, you “leave it up to you,” or in this case, leave it up to the chef. You get to choose between a $250 meal that includes 17 pieces of sushi and one hand roll or the $150 meal that offers 12 pieces of sushi and one hand roll.
Cagen | 414 E. Ninth St., New York, NY 10009 | $$$
3. Takeda
Takeda is a newer addition to the best NYC sushi world. It popped up in 2019 and served takeout throughout the earlier days of the pandemic, but it’s most known for its dine-in service. The chef serves mostly traditional fare but has a few unique recipes up his sleeve for customers who sit down for his omakase meal.
The Vibe
This is a tiny sushi joint with a lot to offer. The counter seats eight customers at a time, and customers communicate directly with the chef. This is a great spot for a single diner or a meal out with one friend or date.
What to Order
When you dine in, you’ll order the omakase. The chef will prepare about 19 courses for you to enjoy. Again, it’s best to trust the chef!
Takeda | 566 Amsterdam Ave., New York, NY 10024 | $$$
4. Geido
Geido is a relaxed and family-friendly sushi spot in Brooklyn. They offer a wide variety of maki rolls, soups, sashimi, teriyaki and so much more, so anyone should be able to find something delicious. Because the space is small, be prepared to wait for the best NYC sushi unless you call ahead.
The Vibe
Geido is small, loud and fun. The space looks somewhat chaotic, but it still maintains the quintessential Japanese sushi restaurant vibe that so many customers are looking for. This is the perfect spot to go with a small group of friends before a night out on the town.
What to Order
Traditional sushi isn’t the vibe here. Opt for something fun, like the signature Vampire roll with salmon, sweet chili and mango. If you’re feeling adventurous, a natto roll is a delicious vegetarian option that you won’t find everywhere.
Geido | 331 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11217 | $$
5. Uogashi
There are cheaper spots for sushi in the Big Apple, but Uogashi is definitely one of the most affordable options for omakase-style sushi in NYC. The top-quality meals are served alongside izakaya favorites. Many loyal customers think Uogashi has the best NYC sushi in Manhattan.
The Vibe
This is another small and cozy sushi restaurant that’s more than meets the eye. Customers can sit at the counter for traditional omakase service or at normal tables for the izakaya-style menu. This is a less formal spot than some other omakase sushi restaurants, but it’s best for a calm night with several friends or a quiet birthday dinner in NYC.
What to Order
If you’re here for sushi, you’re ordering one of the omakase meals. They come in three tiers, all of which serve everything from appetizers to a dessert. The premiere choice, the iki option, is distinguished by three types of sashimi and 13 pieces of sushi. Choose based on your hunger level because you can’t go wrong with any of those options!
Uogashi | 318 W. 51st St., New York, NY 10019 | $$
6. Sushi On Me
Are you looking for a party with your meal? Look no further than Sushi On Me for the best NYC sushi in Queens. This isn’t your traditional omakase. You’ll get unique dishes and all-you-can-drink sake for your hour-long reservation. You will definitely leave happy.
The Vibe
This is the place to go for sushi with friends. It’s a cash-only establishment, but once you pay, you’ll be in for an experience. There’s friendly service, great music and great sake. We think this is one of the best sushi places in NYC for a festive celebration meal.
What to Order
Because this is an omakase-style meal, you’ll have to trust the chef. They’ll make you one of the best meals you’ve had in years. Prepare yourself for the CBD and THC-infused items!
Sushi On Me | 71-26 Roosevelt Ave., Jackson Heights, NY 11372 | $$
7. Momoya
Looking for the best affordable sushi in NYC? Momoya might be one of your best options. They have some of the best NYC sushi and one of the most extensive menus. After doing some of your favorite indoor activities in NYC, come here for a lunch break!
The Vibe
Each of Momoya’s three locations feels modern, bright and casual. It’s a great place to sit and chat with friends or co-workers while you share a few unique sushi rolls.
What to Order
The Dragon roll is one of the “special” rolls, and it’s a treat. It has avocado, masago and eel with cucumber. The sweet potato tempura roll is also a delight. For lunchtime, their bento boxes are outstanding.
Momoya | Multiple Locations | $$
8. Blue Ribbon
As the name implies, Blue Ribbon is an award-worthy restaurant offering some of the best NYC sushi. They’re open late, making them the perfect spot for a quick bite after a long night out. Blue Ribbon has been around for decades, and customers keep coming back. The quality of this best NYC sushi is top-tier, and you won’t be disappointed.
The Vibe
The vibe here is casual and relaxed. Whether you’re inside or outside, you’ll get that cozy neighborhood feel that’s ideal for a chill meal with a few friends.
What to Order
If you want a luxurious meal, order the Blue Ribbon roll. It has lobster, caviar, shiso and smelt roe in an inside-out roll.
Blue Ribbon | 119 Sullivan St., New York, NY 10012 | $$
9. SUGARFISH
SUGARFISH (yes, the caps are essential here) is a modern and trendy spot for some of the best NYC sushi you can find. While this chain started in Los Angeles, it’s now popular amongst NYC locals. It blends tradition and modernity perfectly.
The Vibe
If you’re looking for a sleek and sophisticated spot, SUGARFISH is the answer. While it has some elements of a traditional omakase restaurant, it’s far more relaxed. It’s a perfect date night spot.
What to Order
Go with one of the “trust me” menus. These are omakase menus, and they’ll take the guesswork out of getting a great meal. The chef will make you something fantastic.
SUGARFISH | Multiple Locations | $$
10. KazuNori
KazuNori offers a unique take on the best NYC sushi. It’s deli-style, so customers come up to the counter, fill out slips of paper and get custom hand rolls. This is a great spot for a quick and tasty meal that puts a new spin on a classic.
The Vibe
This is unlike any other sushi restaurant you’ve been to before. There’s a long bar with single seats, so it has a “community” feel. It’s not ideal for a large group due to the small space.
What to Order
The 5 Hand Roll Set Menu is a great way to get a feel for hand rolls if you’re new to them.
KazuNori | Multiple Locations | $$
11. Rosella
Does Rosella have some of the best NYC sushi in the East Village? We think so. Rosella is known for using ingredients that you can find right here in the States, and that sets them apart. Lobsters from Maine and bass from Texas fit right in here.
The Vibe
Rosella feels both American and Japanese. While there are some elements of a traditional Japanese sushi bar, it feels like a bright and fresh eatery. It’s high-end, but not so much so that you won’t feel comfortable getting a casual lunch.
What to Order
Trust the chef with the omakase meal if you’ve never been here before. It’s exquisite, and one of the few omakase experiences with ingredients sourced so close to home.
Rosella | 137 Ave. A, New York, NY 10009 | $$$
12. Shuko
Shuko offers some of the best sushi in Downtown NYC. Their food is so fantastic that big names like Jay-Z stop in for the best NYC sushi they can find. If you’re looking for elegance, you’ll find it.
The Vibe
When you walk in, you’ll know this is a high-end sushi restaurant. The environment is cool and lively, but still glamorous. The service is unmatched.
What to Order
This is yet another sushi restaurant where the omakase is truly the best option. For $228, you’ll get some of the best NYC sushi you’ll ever have, complete with ingredients like gold leaf and caviar. As far as luxurious NYC food goes, this is literally it!
Shuko | 47 E. 12th St., New York, NY 10003 | $$$$
13. Sushi Ikumi
New Yorkers think Sushi Ikumi is one of the best new sushi restaurants in NYC. They offer Kyoto-style omakase in a tiny 10-seat location. The sushi is fresh and always beautifully displayed.
The Vibe
This restaurant is cozy and quiet. It feels elegant, and despite the small size, not too cramped or tight. It’s a great spot for a glamorous dinner alone.
What to Order
The chef makes both lunch and dinner omakase, and you can’t go wrong with it. The dinner omakase is $220 and well worth the price for the best NYC sushi.
Sushi Ikumi | 135 Sullivan St., New York, NY 10012 | $$$$
14. Ume
Ume feels quintessentially “Brooklyn.” It’s some of the best NYC sushi you can get paired with craft beer in a relaxed setting. It’s a unique place to get some fantastic sushi.
The Vibe
This sushi restaurant is unlike any other on the list. It has a garden cottage feel with traditional floor seating. It’s incredibly hip.
What to Order
While you can get individual items a la carte, the prix fixe menu is the best option for newcomers. It’s always a bit different, so you never know what you’re going to get!
Ume | 237 Kent Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11249 | $$$$
15. Amami
Amami might look more like a classic cocktail bar, but it’s actually a fantastic place to get some of the best NYC sushi in Brooklyn. Make sure to get a creative cocktail alongside your delicious sushi rolls.
The Vibe
Classy and classic can describe Amami. It feels intimate and cozy, and it’s the perfect place for a romantic first date.
What to Order
Order the Sushi and Sashimi for Two on your next date (or for yourself if you’re feeling hungry). You’ll get some of the chef’s favorite picks. Add a specialty cocktail to perfectly round out the meal.
Amami | 57 Nassau Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11222 | $$
16. Sushi Seki
Some people claim that Sushi Seki has some of the best sake in town, but do they also have the best NYC sushi? We think so! They’re open until 2 a.m., so if you love a late-night bite, this is the place to go.
The Vibe
With the classic sushi counter and cozy space, this feels like a genuine sushi restaurant straight out of Tokyo. When you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of big food halls in NYC, come here instead.
What to Order
The tuna with tofu sauce and chopped unagi with avocado are can’t-miss items on the menu. Whatever you get, pair the best NYC sushi with a bottle of sake.
Sushi Seki | Multiple Locations | $$$
17. Sushi On Jones
Don’t let the simplistic name fool you. Sushi On Jones has some of the best NYC sushi around. It’s an alfresco omakase bar that offers 30-minute tastings, making the traditional omakase-style meal more accessible.
The Vibe
Regardless of which location you choose, you’ll be in close quarters either inside or outside. You can get a traditional sushi bar experience in which you can watch the chef prepare your meal before your eyes. It feels traditional, but with modern fast-casual vibes.
What to Order
Of course, you have to get omakase. It’s what makes Sushi On Jones famous.
Sushi On Jones | Multiple Locations | $$
18. Sushi Yasuda
If you want the best NYC sushi in Midtown, check out Sushi Yasuda. It’s a Michelin-Star restaurant, so you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu.
The Vibe
This is a great place to eat alone and meet some other sushi fanatics while you sit at the sushi counter. People come from all over to try the best NYC sushi from Sushi Yasuda, so while it’s high-end, there’s still a communal vibe.
What to Order
Again, the omakase is the way to go here. Unlike some other sushi restaurants, the chefs at Sushi Yasuda will modify the meal if you have dietary restrictions or specific desires.
Sushi Yasuda | 204 E. 43rd St., New York, NY 10017 | $$$$
19. Kanoyama
Kanoyama offers some of the best NYC sushi you can get, and it’s another one of the best sushi places in NYC with a Michelin star. It’s a fan favorite, so make a reservation.
The Vibe
Despite the Michelin star, Kanoyama doesn't feel too fancy for a nice meal out with friends or family. Even if you make a reservation for the omakase, you’ll be able to relax during your delicious meal of the best NYC sushi.
What to Order
The a la carte menu changes every day based on what’s fresh. We recommend getting the omakase meal if you want the best of what the chef has to offer. The tuna ribs are also a unique and delicious option.
Kanoyama | 175 Second Ave., New York, NY 10003 | $$
20. Sushi Noz
Sushi Noz has the best NYC sushi even in comparison to other elevated omakase restaurants. They take traditional sushi and add their own flair. If you truly want a treat, this is the place to go.
The Vibe
Some people find Sushi Noz unnervingly quiet and refined, so if you’re looking for a casual party vibe, look elsewhere. If you want a luxurious and elevated meal, stay where you are.
What to Order
The omakase is $495 and worth every penny. You’ll taste things you’d never find at any other sushi restaurant in NYC or even the United States as a whole. You’ll be eating the best NYC sushi around.
Sushi Noz | 181 E. 78th St., New York, NY 10075 | $$$$
21. Yoshino
Tadashi Yoshida is a sushi master who came all the way from Nagoya to open up a restaurant in New York: Yoshino. This is the first time a sushi master has relocated to New York City to start a new venture (in this case, making the best NYC sushi). He takes influence from French cuisine to make his omakase stand out, making this one of the most unique places to eat in NYC.
The Vibe
This high-end sushi restaurant feels both open and intimate. It’s impeccably designed, with Japanese influences. The chef is friendly, so don’t be afraid to chat with him while he prepares the best NYC sushi.
What to Order
Yoshino is an omakase restaurant. Let the chef guide you through his top picks, and you will leave full and satisfied. Prepare to taste a meal from a true sushi master.
Yoshino | 342 Bowery, New York, NY 10012 | $$$$
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If you’re looking for the best NYC sushi, it’s clear that you have plenty of options. Whether you want to sit down for a full omakase meal or you’d rather mix and match your favorite menu items, any one of these restaurants would be a fantastic choice.
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