Best Sushi Restaurants in Miami: Our Top Picks for Fresh and Flavorful Rolls

Miami is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food scene. With its proximity to the ocean, it’s no surprise that Miami is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the country. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a first-time sushi eater, Miami has something to offer everyone.

From casual spots where you can wear flip-flops to upscale restaurants that fly in fish from Japan, Miami’s sushi scene has it all. Some of the top sushi spots in Miami include Paperfish, Zuma Miami, and B-Side. Paperfish offers a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, while Zuma Miami is known for its high-end sushi and Japanese fare. B-Side, located inside the 1-800-Lucky food hall, offers a more casual atmosphere with delicious sushi rolls and other Asian-inspired dishes.

History of Sushi in Miami

Sushi has been a popular cuisine in Miami for many years. However, it wasn’t until the late 1990s that the city began to see an increase in the number of sushi restaurants. During this time, the city experienced a boom in the restaurant industry, and sushi was one of the cuisines that gained popularity.

One of the first sushi restaurants to open in Miami was Sushi Deli, which was located in South Beach. Sushi Deli was known for its fresh fish and creative rolls, and it quickly became a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Another popular sushi restaurant that opened around the same time was Moshi Moshi, which was located in the Design District.

As the popularity of sushi grew in Miami, so did the number of sushi restaurants. Today, there are dozens of sushi restaurants throughout the city, ranging from casual spots to high-end restaurants that fly in fish from Japan.

In recent years, Miami has also seen an increase in the number of omakase-style sushi restaurants. Omakase is a Japanese term that means “I’ll leave it up to you,” and it refers to a style of sushi where the chef selects the fish and creates a customized tasting menu for each guest.

Overall, sushi has become a staple cuisine in Miami, and it continues to evolve and grow in popularity. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic California roll or a more adventurous sushi creation, there’s no shortage of options to choose from in the Magic City.

Top Sushi Spots in Miami

Miami is home to some of the best sushi restaurants in the country. Whether you’re looking for traditional nigiri or modern sushi creations, Miami has it all. Here are some of the top sushi spots in Miami:

Nobu Miami

Nobu Miami is a world-renowned sushi restaurant located in the heart of Miami Beach. The restaurant is known for its innovative sushi creations that blend traditional Japanese flavors with modern techniques. Some of the must-try dishes at Nobu Miami include the Yellowtail Jalapeno, Black Cod Miso, and the famous Nobu Style Sashimi.

Zuma Miami

Zuma Miami is a contemporary Japanese restaurant that offers a wide range of sushi and sashimi options. The restaurant is known for its sleek and modern design, as well as its extensive sake list. Some of the must-try dishes at Zuma Miami include the Spicy Tuna Roll, Soft Shell Crab Roll, and the Wagyu Beef Tataki.

Makoto

Makoto is a Japanese restaurant located in the Bal Harbour Shops. The restaurant is known for its traditional sushi and sashimi options, as well as its unique omakase experience. Some of the must-try dishes at Makoto include the Toro Tartare, Uni Sashimi, and the Makoto Roll.

Kaido

Kaido is a Japanese-inspired cocktail lounge and restaurant located in the Design District. The restaurant is known for its creative sushi creations, as well as its extensive cocktail menu. Some of the must-try dishes at Kaido include the Tuna Tataki, Spicy Tuna Roll, and the Kaido Roll.

Katsuya South Beach

Katsuya South Beach is a modern Japanese restaurant located in the SLS South Beach Hotel. The restaurant is known for its creative sushi rolls and sashimi options, as well as its sleek and stylish design. Some of the must-try dishes at Katsuya South Beach include the Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Salmon Sashimi with Caviar, and the Katsuya Roll.

Overall, Miami has a diverse and exciting sushi scene that is sure to satisfy any sushi lover.

Affordable Sushi Restaurants

Miami is known for its high-end sushi restaurants, but that doesn’t mean you have to break the bank to enjoy delicious sushi. Here are three affordable sushi restaurants that offer great quality sushi at a reasonable price.

Kone Sushi

Kone Sushi is a popular sushi restaurant located in the heart of Miami Beach. The restaurant offers a wide selection of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri at an affordable price. The sushi rolls are creatively named and presented, and the fish is always fresh.

One of the standout dishes at Kone Sushi is the Crunchy Tuna Roll, which is made with spicy tuna, avocado, and tempura flakes. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, including the Vegetable Roll and the Avocado Roll.

Sushi Garage

Sushi Garage is a trendy sushi restaurant located in Sunset Harbour. The restaurant has a modern and chic atmosphere and offers a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri at a reasonable price.

One of the standout dishes at Sushi Garage is the Salmon Belly Nigiri, which is made with fresh salmon belly and topped with a sweet soy glaze. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, including the Vegetable Roll and the Avocado Roll.

SuViche Wynwood

SuViche Wynwood is a Peruvian-Japanese fusion restaurant located in the Wynwood Arts District. The restaurant offers a unique twist on traditional sushi rolls by incorporating Peruvian flavors and ingredients.

One of the standout dishes at SuViche Wynwood is the Lomo Saltado Roll, which is made with beef tenderloin, onions, tomatoes, and french fries. The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, including the Ceviche Roll and the Avocado Roll.

Overall, these three affordable sushi restaurants offer great quality sushi at a reasonable price. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional sushi rolls or something with a unique twist, these restaurants have something for everyone.

Unique Sushi Experiences

Sushi by Bou

Sushi by Bou is a unique sushi experience where diners can enjoy an intimate omakase-style meal in a speakeasy-style setting. This hidden gem is located inside the Versace Mansion, and diners must first enter a secret code to gain access. Once inside, guests are treated to a 60-minute omakase experience, featuring fresh and expertly crafted sushi by Chef David Bouhadana. The setting is intimate, with only four seats available at the sushi bar, making it a perfect choice for a romantic evening or special occasion.

Tanuki

Tanuki is a sushi restaurant that offers a unique fusion of Japanese and Latin American flavors. This vibrant and colorful restaurant features a menu that includes traditional sushi rolls, as well as innovative dishes like the Tanuki Ceviche Roll and the Spicy Tuna Guacamole. The restaurant also boasts a lively atmosphere, with a full bar and outdoor seating available. Diners can enjoy a unique sushi experience that combines the best of both worlds.

Sakura 736

Sakura 736 is a sushi restaurant that specializes in omakase-style dining. This intimate restaurant features a sushi bar with only eight seats, where diners can watch Chef Takeshi Kamioka expertly craft each dish. The omakase menu changes daily, depending on the freshest ingredients available. Diners can enjoy a unique and personalized sushi experience, with each dish tailored to their individual tastes and preferences. The restaurant also features a sake bar, with an extensive selection of premium sake to complement the meal.

In summary, Miami offers a variety of unique sushi experiences, from intimate omakase-style dining to fusion cuisine that combines Japanese and Latin American flavors. Sushi by Bou, Tanuki, and Sakura 736 are just a few of the restaurants that offer a unique and memorable sushi experience.

Sushi Etiquette Tips

Sushi is a delicate and intricate cuisine that has its own set of rules and etiquette. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when dining at a sushi restaurant in Miami.

Use Chopsticks

Traditionally, sushi is eaten with chopsticks. If you are not comfortable using chopsticks, it is perfectly acceptable to ask for a fork. However, keep in mind that using chopsticks is part of the experience and can add to the enjoyment of the meal.

Dip Sushi Correctly

When dipping sushi in soy sauce, it is important to dip the fish side, not the rice side. Dipping the rice side can cause the sushi to fall apart in the soy sauce. Also, do not overdo it with the soy sauce. A little goes a long way.

Eat Sushi in One Bite

Sushi is meant to be eaten in one bite. This allows you to fully experience the flavors and textures of the sushi. If the sushi is too large to eat in one bite, it is acceptable to use your chopsticks to cut it in half.

Use Ginger as a Palate Cleanser

Ginger is provided as a palate cleanser between different types of sushi. It is not meant to be eaten with the sushi. Instead, take a small piece of ginger and eat it between bites to cleanse your palate and prepare your taste buds for the next sushi.

Don’t Mix Wasabi in Soy Sauce

In sushi restaurants, wasabi is usually already included in the sushi. It is not necessary to mix wasabi in the soy sauce. Doing so can overpower the flavor of the sushi and is considered a faux pas.

Following these simple sushi etiquette tips can enhance your dining experience and show respect for the sushi chef and the culture of sushi.

Conclusion

Miami is a city that is known for its diverse culinary scene, and sushi is no exception. With so many great sushi restaurants to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to go. However, after researching and sampling some of the best sushi restaurants in Miami, there are a few that stand out above the rest.

Dragonfly Izakaya & Fish Market is a standout sushi restaurant in Miami. Inspired by traditional izakayas, Dragonfly features Japanese comfort food dishes like ramen and tempura, as well as a wide selection of sushi and sashimi. The restaurant’s fish is flown in daily from Japan, ensuring the freshest and highest quality ingredients.

Another top sushi restaurant in Miami is Azabu Miami Beach, located in the Marriott Stanton South Beach hotel. The omakase experience includes an array of sushi and sashimi, as well as hot dishes like Wagyu beef and uni risotto. The restaurant’s sleek and modern decor adds to the overall dining experience.

For those looking for a more casual sushi experience, B-Side located inside 1-800-Lucky is a great option. While Itamae chefs Valerie, Nando, and Fernando Chang are known for making some of the best sushi in town, their casual eatery offers a more laid-back atmosphere. The menu features a variety of sushi rolls and small plates, and the restaurant also offers a selection of sake and Japanese beers.

Overall, Miami’s sushi scene offers a wide range of options, from high-end omakase experiences to more casual sushi spots. No matter what type of sushi you’re in the mood for, there’s sure to be a restaurant in Miami that will satisfy your cravings.