If you want authentic sushi in Manhattan, this is the place! 4 Recommended Sushi Restaurants

You’ll often come across signs for “SUSHI” all over Manhattan, New York—some say there are even more sushi spots than Starbucks. Of course, sushi restaurants vary widely in quality and style. However, compared to years past, the level of sushi and the skills of the chefs have significantly improved.
In the heart of New York—Manhattan—you can now enjoy authentic sushi prepared by well-trained chefs. This article highlights four sushi restaurants known for their skilled chefs and excellent flavors, including those popular among local Japanese residents and some that have earned Michelin stars.

1. Sushiden

“Sushiden,” which has many branches across Japan, also operates two locations in Manhattan. The Madison Avenue branch is the New York flagship store, and the one on 6th Avenue is the second branch. With over 25 years of history in Manhattan, this long-standing restaurant is committed to a style that draws out the natural flavors of carefully selected ingredients without unnecessary frills.
The authentic Edomae-style sushi prepared by chefs rigorously trained in Japan tastes just like what you'd get in Japan. It’s very popular among Japanese residents in New York. Appetizers are authentic too, such as rock oysters flown in from Seattle and live scallops from Boston. The main branch has five traditional Japanese tatami rooms with sunken kotatsu-style seating, making it comfortable even for Americans who aren’t used to sitting on the floor. It's also a great spot for business meetings or celebrations.

2. Sushi of Gari

“Sushi of Gari” was founded in 1997 by Masatoshi Sugio, who originally came to New York to help a friend’s Japanese restaurant. It quickly became legendary among sushi lovers in New York. Today, it has four locations in NYC and one in Los Angeles.
The menu spans from creative, New York-style sushi to traditional Japanese fare. One highlight is the sauce—Sugio was inspired to develop his own after wondering why Americans drowned their sushi in soy sauce. His custom sauce brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients and is applied directly to the sushi, so you can eat it as is.
Nearly 60% of the fish is imported from Japan, and the restaurant continues to explore unique combinations as a pioneer of creative sushi. Many regulars opt for the chef’s omakase course, a testament to the trust the restaurant has earned. It has held a Michelin star since 2007.

3. Sushi Azabu

If you’re craving traditional Edomae sushi, head here. All chefs are Japanese and trained in Japan. About 80% of the fish and even the rice are imported from Japan. Since 2010, it has consistently held a Michelin star. Operated by “Plan Do See,” a company known for hotels, weddings, and restaurants, it is located in the basement of their soba izakaya “Darumaya.”
The most popular option is the omakase course, available in several variations. Dinner can be pricey, but lunch offers more affordable options like seafood rice bowls and sashimi set meals, as well as a lunch omakase. With only a counter and three tables, reservations are essential.

4. USHI WAKAMARU

Owner-chef Hideo Kurihara trained in Japan and traveled around Los Angeles eating sushi at age 21, only to be shocked by the poor quality. He vowed to introduce authentic sushi to the world. After managing the sushi bar at “Chinzanso” in New Jersey for three years, he opened his own restaurant there at age 30. Eleven years later, he fulfilled his dream by opening “USHI WAKAMARU” in Manhattan.
Despite offering authentic taste, the prices are more affordable than many others, making it a favorite among Japanese locals. The rice is served slightly warm—a unique touch—and the restaurant even won first place in a New York nigiri competition. Originally located on West Houston Street, it has since moved to West 23rd Street.

◎Summary

We’ve selected sushi restaurants perfect for those who want to enjoy stylish, authentic sushi in New York. Aside from high-end sushi, Manhattan also offers more budget-friendly conveyor belt options like “Sushiro” and “Kaiten Sushi EAST.”
Most supermarkets also sell takeout sushi packs, so even if you suddenly crave sushi during your stay, Manhattan has you covered.

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

Search

Customer Support

Manage Reservation(s)

If you want authentic sushi in Manhattan, this is the place! 4 Recommended Sushi Restaurants