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21 Must-Try Sushi Places in Boston

Whether you’re looking to catch a Red Sox game at Fenway park or get lost at Quincy Market, no doubt you’ll come across an empty stomach at some point in time. Thankfully,  Boston has some of the most incredible seafood restaurants in the world, and sushi has found an adopted home here as well. 

No matter if you’re looking for an elaborate omakase feast or a simple tuna roll, you’ll find it in The City.

salmon sushi rolls served on a black plate at a sushi restaurant in Boston

The term sushi encompasses a wide range of dishes, so when selecting restaurants, I try to show you a bit of everything, including upscale restaurants, casual places, and more. You’ll find spots for dates, families, friends, and other situations.

Whether you’re a Beantown local or just visiting, delicious and fresh sushi is waiting for you. Check out my list of the best sushi in Boston:


O Ya

9 East St, Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-654-9900
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Chefs Tim and Nancy Cushman have created an authentic Japanese-inspired restaurant right here in Boston. They’re committed to traditional preparation methods, fresh ingredients, and true tastes. It’s a fun and fancy place that’s perfect for a night out. They’re on the north end of the Leather District on East Street between Atlantic Avenue and South Street. They’re right across East Street from Boston Sports Clubs.

They offer the traditional omakase menu, where each night the chef selects 20 courses. You’ll find a variety of nigiri, sashimi, and cooked dishes. Menu items vary by season.


Oishii Boston

1166 Washington St, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-482-8868
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Oishii has been home to world-class sushi in Boston since 1988. Chef Tin San learned the art of Japanese cooking from his father. Today, he combines these traditional methods and a commitment to fresh ingredients with contemporary Boston flavors. They’re right across the street from Peters Park, on Washington Street, near the intersection of Perry Street. They’re right next door to Cathedral Station and Dan and Scott’s.

They have a large menu with plenty of customization options. They have several Chef’s Choice sushi and sashimi options and a strong variety of other Japanese dishes. They’re an ideal spot if some folks in your party like sushi but others don’t, as Oishii also serves lamb chops, Japanese A5 steak, and more.


Douzo Sushi

131 Dartmouth St, Boston, MA 02116
Phone: 617-859-8886
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Douzo is a stylish restaurant with a high ceiling, dark wood, and a welcoming atmosphere. I love going here with guests from out-of-town because dinner feels like a special night out. They’re located in the Back Bay within a short walk of the South End and Theater District. You’ll find them right on Dartmouth Street, just a block up from Columbus Avenue. 

Their large menu includes steak, seafood, sushi, sashimi, and maki rolls. I’m a fan of many of their special rolls, such as their Rainbow Roll, with cooked shrimp and crabstick, and their Tiger Roll, with eel and cucumber.


Uni

370A Commonwealth Avenue, Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-536-7200
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Uni is an inventive, contemporary sushi history with a unique Boston history. It started as a sushi bar within Clio, a popular sashimi bar located inside The Eliot Hotel. Eventually, Uni expanded, taking over the Clio space. You’ll find Uni in the Back Bay, just a few blocks from the Charles River, near the intersection of Commonwealth Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue. They’re right next to the Harvard Club of Boston.

They have sashimi, makimono, and nigiri. One of my favorites is their Enter the Dragon makimono, which has shrimp katsu, unagi, and avocado. The full menu is open to the public, with a slightly more limited menu available as room service for hotel guests.


Fuji at Ink Block

352b Harrison Ave, Boston, MA 02118
Phone: 617-936-3282
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Whenever I want to introduce sushi to a friend who has never had it before, I take them to Fuji at Ink Block. Their menu is authentic and accessible, while the restaurant itself is stylish and welcoming. You’ll find them on Harrison Avenue between Herald Street and Traveler Street, next to sweetgreen and Yellow Door Taqueria South End.

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They offer nigiri, sashimi, and makimono. If you’re looking for something on the traditional side, try their Seared Sake Toro or their Seared Hamachi Toro. For those looking to expand their horizons, check out their Tako (octopus) or Ika (squid).


Cafe Sushi

1105 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138
Phone: 617-492-0434
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You’ll find Café Sushi right in Harvard Square along Massachusetts Avenue between Trowbridge Street and Remington Street. They’re right next to the Boston Burger Company and Zoe’s. With a bright neon sign, the restaurant is easy to find – and while it might not look all that fancy, trust me when I say they deliver some of the freshest and best-tasting sushi in town.

They’re primarily a take-out joint, offering combos, a la carte options, and Bento Boxes. They also have different platters available depending on the day of the week. On Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, you can order their nigiri platter for two. They also have a weekend platter with sashimi, nigiri, and maki.


Ruka Resto Bar

505 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-266-0102
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Ruka Resto Bar is a sight to behold, with beautiful wood floors, vibrant art on the walls, and elaborate, sculpted columns. It’s a great place to go with a group or on a date. They’re conveniently located between Boston Common and the Lafayette City Center at the intersection of West Street and Washington Street.

They serve a variety of makimonos. Some of my faves are the Ruka Spicy Tuna and the Huaca Dragon. Aside from makimono, they also have many contemporary dishes such as St. Louis Sticky Ribs and Japanese Long Fries. They’re another great choice if you need a restaurant that will appeal to a large group with diverse tastes.


JP Seafood Cafe

730 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
Phone: 617-983-5177
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JP Seafood Café has a comfortably cool vibe that’s perfect for hanging out with friends and family.  They’re at the corner of Centre Street and Harris Avenue, on the same block as the Boston Fire Department Engine 28.

Their menu includes both traditional favorites and unexpected combinations. One of my top picks is the Sunshine Maki, which features salmon, lemon, cilantro, and cucumber. With light, citrusy flavors, I think it’s some of the best sushi in Boston for lunch. 


Empire Boston

1 Marina Park Drive, Boston, MA 02210
Phone: 617-295-0001
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Empire offers upscale, elegant dining. It’s where I take my family when we have something to celebrate, such as a graduation or birthday. You’ll need to dress up, and some of the menu items can get pretty pricey, but you’re guaranteed a night to remember.

They offer both traditional and specialty maki, including unique creations such as their Shrimp Tempura Futo and Empire “House” Maki. If you’re looking for a deal, I recommend the Sushi Deluxe Platter, which includes 36 pieces of sashimi, nigri, and maki for $95.


Basho Japanese Brasserie

1338 Boylston St, Boston, MA 02215
Phone: 617-262-133
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On Boylston Street, near Fenway Park, you’ll find the Basho Japanese Brasserie, one of the first Japanese restaurants to open in the city. It’s a stylish place featuring a long bar, multiple TV screens, and adornments made from real bamboo. I like to go here when I’m in the mood for sushi and cocktails in an upscale, social setting.

Their menu is heavily seasonal but always includes a robust selection of spicy tuna, yellowtail, and other familiar favorites. I’m a big fan of their lunch specials, such as their Basho Bowl, which features tuna salmon, yellowtail, tamago and ikura on sushi rice with spicy mayo and unagi sauce.


Umami Omakase

2372 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02140
Phone: 617-868-2121
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Umami Omakase offers an inventive and delicious modern sushi experience. It’s where to get sushi in Boston when you’re looking for a fun, fancy place to take a special someone. They’re located on Massachusetts Avenue between Alberta Terrace and Dudley Street, just a few blocks north of Cedar Square.

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The menu varies daily, with the chef selecting 18 courses for your party. You’ll enjoy a bevy of dishes, including assorted sushi, Japanese fish, sashimi plates, hand rolls, and more. All meals include recommended sake pairings.


Chiharu Sushi & Noodle

370 Boylston St, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: 617-487-8684
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Chiharu is a warm, inviting restaurant that’s perfect for both those trying sushi for the first time as well as existing fans. It’s helmed by Chef Li, the former executive chef of Haru, a famous local sushi place. At Chiharu, he’s created a family-friendly environment with an emphasis on fresh, authentic flavors.

The menu at Chiharu is simple, which is another reason the place is great for sushi newbies. Dishes include either two pieces of sushi or three pieces of sashimi. Other options available include sushi rolls, hand rolls, and special rolls. If you (and some friends) have a big appetite, I recommend trying the chirashi, a large bowl of rice with vegetables and eight pieces of raw fish.


Laughing Monk Cafe

737 Huntington Ave, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 617-232-8000
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The Laughing Monk is a casual, vibrant place with a welcoming and sociable atmosphere. I love going here as the first stop on a night out with friends. You’ll find the place near Francis Street and Huntington Avenue intersection, close to the Huntington / Fenwood bus stop.

They have a large, full menu featuring both Japanese and Thai foods. Their sushi bar is the main focus, and you can even sit right at the sushi bar to watch the action up close. If it’s your first time visiting the Café, you definitely should order the Monk Sampler, which includes five pieces of nigiri.


Ebi Sushi

290 Somerville Ave, Somerville, MA 02143
Phone: 617-764-5556
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Whenever I’m in Union Square and in the mood for sushi, I head over to Ebi Sushi. It’s a hip, casual spot that serves up a wide-ranging menu of Japanese-inspired dishes. They’re near Somerville Avenue and Prospect Street, just down the street from The Museum.

Their large menu includes a variety of Asian foods, including dumplings, nigiri and maki combos, donburi, and more. I’m a fan of basically all of their specials, such as their Suzuki Ume Shiso, which is striped bass with pickled plum mayo on a shiso leaf, and their Wasabi Tuna, made with pickles, wasabi root, tuna, and cucumbers.


Oppa Sushi

185 Harvard Ave, Allston, MA 02134
Phone: 617-202-3808

Oppa Sushi is a small, casual spot that’s decidedly unpretentious. They also serve up some of the best sushi in Boston! You’ll find them at the corner of Glenville Avenue and Harvard Avenue. They’re right across the street from Wonder Bar, within steps of the Harvard / Commonwealth bus stop.

The place is probably best known for its whole-fish sashimi plates. Some other popular dishes include the Fire Bruins Maki and the Patriots Maki. If you visit around March, April, or May, they offer live uni from the shell.


FuGaKyu Japanese Cuisine

1280 Beacon St, Brookline, MA 02446
Phone: 617-738-1268
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FuGaKyu is where I take my foodie friends. The restaurant combines both traditional and modern Japanese cuisine with delicate precision. Plus, the décor and entire presentation are elegant and sophisticated. You’ll find them just north of Coolidge Corner, at the intersection of Charles Street and Beacon Street.

They have a large menu of modern Japanese cuisine, including a sushi bar and sushi combo platters. Some of their platters, such as the Ichiban Mori Combo or the Matsu Combo, have over 40 pieces, making FuGaKyu one of my top recommendations if you’re looking for a place where a large group can dine together. Keep in mind that you’re probably better off making reservations, although some walk-in options are usually available.


Irashai Sushi and Teriyaki

8 Kneeland St, Boston, MA 02111
Phone: 617-350-6888
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Located in the middle of Chinatown, Irashai adds inventive, modern twists to classic sushi dishes. They’re just a block east of Emerson College, near Kneeland Street and Knapp Street. The restaurant is right across the street from Tuft’s University School of Dental Medicine.

While they have a substantial menu with tempura, noodles, and more, they’re best known for their sushi and sashimi. Each order includes either one piece of sushi or two pieces of sashimi. I’m a fan of the Smoked Salmon and the Hamachi – Yellowtail, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the 20+ options.

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Zuma Boston

2nd Floor Four Seasons Hotel, 1 Dalton St, Boston, MA 02115
Phone: 857-449-2500
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Zuma is an upscale, but accessible, sushi restaurant located inside the Four Seasons Hotel One. They’re in the Back Bay on Dalton Street near Belvidere Street. They have a fun, modern style with a sushi bar, robata grill, and sake bar. Aside from the full dinner service, they also have a fantastic lunch special, which has three courses for just $25.

They serve food izakaya-style, which is ideal for sharing with your tablemates. They serve omakase, nigiri, and sashimi. Aside from sushi, they also offer a wealth of modern Japanese dishes, including one of my faves, the Kinoko No Kama Meshi, a hot pot of rice, mushrooms, and vegetables.


Momi Nonmi

1128 Cambridge St, Cambridge, MA 02139
Phone: 617-945-7328
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Moni Nomni combines traditional Japanese cooking with Hawaiian style. It’s a fun, lively place that I recommend for families and groups of friends. They’re on Cambridge Street near the corner of Norfolk Street, right next door to Pino Bros Ink.

I strongly encourage you to try their meat skewers or their Premium Sushi Omakase, which includes 18 pieces of Chef-selected sushi for $98. If you’re looking for a smaller (and less expensive) option, they also offer a mini Omakase experience with ten pieces of sushi for $59 per person.


Genki Ya

Multiple locations
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Genki Ya is a beloved Boston-based eatery with locations in Brookline, Cambridge, Somerville, Dedham, and more. They offer contemporary Japanese cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. It’s a casual, stylish place that’s great for dates, family dining, hanging with pals, and more.

Their menu has tons of traditional favorites and original creations. Some of their most popular dishes include their Genki Ya Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, and Volcano Roll. With one of the largest and most varied sushi menus in all of Boston, you and your fellow diners are sure to find plenty of delicious options.


Fat Baby

118 Dorchester St, Boston, MA 02127
Phone: 617-766-3450
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When in Southie and looking for tasty sushi, head over to Fat Baby. It’s a fun, friendly place known for sushi, drinks, and high energy. The music is always bumping, and the joint is always jumping. They’re right at the intersection of Dorchester Street and Silver Street, right across the street of The Junction and New Bay View Liquor.

They have a variety of specials throughout the week. On Sunday, you can enjoy fried dumplings for just $1. Stop by on Monday for unlimited maki from 4 to 10 pm for just $27. They’re also one of my top spots to watch the big game on Sunday.


Folks in Boston sure do love their sushi, and there are plenty of world-class choices throughout town, from fancy places to local neighborhood takeaways and everything in-between. Whether you’re a local resident or only visiting for a short time, the best sushi in Boston is always close at hand.

Of course, Boston has plenty of other tasty options to try, too. Check out our favorite steakhouses if you’re in the mood for a prime rib or filet mignon.

Do you have a favorite Beantown sushi spot that didn’t make my list? Let me know in the comments below so I can check the place out myself!

Why Trust Us?

When it comes to local restaurant recommendations, we pride ourselves on being a reliable and trustworthy resource. Our suggestions are not just based on our personal experiences, ensuring a more authentic and well-rounded perspective, but also on extensive online research. We diligently searched the internet and reviewed 6 credible sites and blogs, including Boston.eater.com and Bostonmagazine.com. 

We compiled all the findings in one location and sorted them by the frequency of mentions to ensure you receive top-notch recommendations. We strive to present you with a curated list of establishments that truly stand out, allowing you to enjoy the best dining experiences possible. 

Interested in the sources we consulted? Check out the list of all 6 sites we referenced below this paragraph, offering transparency and an opportunity for our readers to explore further. Our commitment is to deliver trustworthy and unparalleled recommendations, helping you make informed decisions on your culinary journeys.

https://boston.eater.com/maps/best-sushi-restaurants-boston
https://www.bostonmagazine.com/restaurants/best-sushi-boston/
https://www.timeout.com/boston/restaurants/best-sushi-in-boston
https://www.gayot.com/restaurants/best-boston-ma-top10-sushi_12bo.html
https://www.thefoodlens.com/boston/guides/best-sushi-in-boston/
https://bostonuncovered.com/best-sushi-boston/

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Written by Brian Nagele

Brian attended West Virginia University, then started his career in the IT industry before following his passion for marketing and hospitality. He has over 20 years experience in the restaurant and bar industry.

As a former restaurant owner, he knows about running a food business and loves to eat and enjoy cocktails on a regular basis. He constantly travels to new cities tasting and reviewing the most popular spots.

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