Top 12 Nagoya Sushi Spots You Can't Miss
Nagoya is famous for its unique culture and history, and it’s also a great place to enjoy some amazing sushi. This city in the heart of Japan offers everything from cozy, traditional sushi spots to innovative restaurants that are reinventing how sushi is served, all while providing a variety of good food.
Here are twelve top sushi places in Nagoya that stand out for their quality and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you live in Nagoya or are just visiting, these sushi spots provide a delicious insight into the city’s culinary delights.
Best Sushi Restaurants in Nagoya
1. Hamagen
Hamagen is a unique sushi restaurant in Nagoya, known for its blend of traditional flavors and innovative cooking. With just six counter seats, it offers an intimate experience where you can dine while watching the chef, who trained in a renowned Tokyo restaurant, prepare your meal. This place is all about quality, from the carefully selected seafood to the beautifully presented dishes.
Each visit to Hamagen is a journey through Japan’s culinary arts. The chef uses his Michelin-star training to craft an Omakase menu that changes with the seasons. The restaurant’s interior, inspired by old-world charm, adds to the exclusivity of the experience, making it a must-visit for those seeking a memorable sushi meal in Nagoya.
📍 1 Chome-28 Minamiwakecho, Showa Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
🌐 Hamagen
📞 +81 52-853-1841
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2. Sushi Hijikata
Sushi Hijikata is nestled in the vibrant heart of Nagoya’s entertainment district, offering an upscale sushi experience with just six seats. This intimate setup ensures personalized attention as the chef prepares a special menu, utilizing ingredients fresh from Tsukiji Market.
The quality of the nigiri offered at Sushi Hijikata is exceptional, with each piece showcasing the freshness and flavor of the fish. The “Chef’s Special” menu highlights the chef’s ability to transform simple ingredients into exquisite culinary creations.
The charm of Sushi Hijikata lies in its commitment to quality and the sushi-making process, which guests can watch from their seats. This setup allows for a personalized meal and an educational experience as diners learn about the art of sushi from a master.
📍 第２ワシントンＡＮＮＥＸ 1F, 3 Chome-12-30 Nishiki, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-950-6515
3. Koshino
Koshino stands out in Nagoya’s sushi scene with its impeccable attention to detail and quality. The chef here selects only the finest ingredients each day, ensuring that every piece of sushi is as fresh as possible. In addition to sushi, Koshino offers a variety of hot and cold appetizers to enhance the dining experience. Renowned for its artistic presentation, Koshino treats sushi preparation as an art form, making each visit a visually stunning experience.
Photography inside Koshino is prohibited, which encourages guests to fully immerse themselves in the dining experience. This policy highlights the restaurant’s philosophy of living in the moment and enjoying the food with all senses.
📍 2 Chome-14-15 Haruoka, Chikusa Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 50-5484-1197
4. Sushi no Yoshino
Sushi no Yoshino in Nagoya is a celebrated spot known for its creative approach to sushi. The restaurant combines traditional sushi techniques with influences from French cuisine, creating unique dishes that surprise and delight. A popular item on the menu is the bento box, which is often praised for its variety and quality. Located in a prime spot within the LINCMARUNOUCHI building, it offers a serene setting ideal for enjoying refined sushi creations.
Getting a reservation here can be challenging due to its popularity, which speaks volumes about the quality and innovation of its menu. Sushi no Yoshino is a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to explore a different side of sushi, where classic meets contemporary in a harmonious blend of flavors and styles.
📍 ＬＩＮＣ ＭＡＲＵＮＯＵＣＨＩ, 3 Chome-10-29 Marunouchi, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-951-1155
5. Tanaka Sushi Head Office
Tanaka Sushi Head Office in Nagoya’s Sakae area offers a deep dive into traditional sushi craftsmanship. The menu also features high-quality steak, appealing to those seeking hearty meat dishes alongside sushi.
Despite its modest exterior, the restaurant is a sanctuary of exceptional sushi making. The sushi chefs here are committed to quality, often exceeding expectations with dishes like the Toro and Uni sushi, which are both a delight in flavor and presentation. The pricing reflects the high standard of ingredients used, making it a worthwhile visit for true sushi lovers.
This place also surprises first-time visitors with its humble service and the quality of its offerings, which could easily rival more ostentatious establishments. For those willing to look beyond initial impressions, Tanaka Sushi offers a rewarding experience where the focus is squarely on the food, making every visit memorable.
📍 第一御園山田ビル 1F, 1 Chome-4-12 Sakae, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-201-2558
6. Kappa Sushi Nagoya Shirakabe
Kappa Sushi Nagoya Shirakabe offers a fun and interactive dining experience with its conveyor belt sushi setup. The restaurant also features a variety of salad options, such as the refreshing Wakame salad, to complement the main offerings. Here, you can pick plates off the moving belt, enjoying fresh sushi that comes around to your seat.
It’s a popular place for families and groups, known for its welcoming atmosphere and budget-friendly prices. The restaurant features a digital menu on tablets at each table, making ordering additional dishes beyond the belt offerings easy and accessible, even for visitors who don’t speak Japanese.
Patrons often highlight the restaurant’s cleanliness and efficiency. Kappa Sushi’s commitment to providing a seamless and enjoyable dining experience is evident in its attentive service and the quality of its sushi, making it a favorite among locals and tourists seeking a lively and casual meal.
📍 3 Chome-11-25 Shirakabe, Higashi Ward, Aichi
📞 +81 52-930-6801
Discover Nagoya's vibrant mix of tradition and modernity with this tour.
7. Sengoku Sushi Head Office
Sengoku Sushi Head Office is known for its spacious setting and affordable sushi options, making it an excellent choice for families or large groups. They also offer online ordering for customer convenience, allowing you to place your meal orders from the comfort of your home.
Located in Nakamura Ward, this restaurant offers a variety of sushi and other Japanese dishes at prices that won’t strain your wallet. One of their most popular items is the “Special Lunch Kaisendon,” a bowl brimming with fresh seafood over rice, which is praised for both its generous portions and delicious taste.
Not only does Sengoku Sushi provide value for money, but it also focuses on a relaxed dining experience. The ambiance allows guests to enjoy their meals without feeling rushed, creating a welcoming environment for both quick lunches and leisurely dinners.
📍 4 Chome-4-3 Taiko, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 50-5485-5767
8. Hanamaru Kichijitsu
Hanamaru Kichijitsu offers a unique sushi experience in Naka Ward, staying open until 3:00 AM to cater to the late-night crowd. You can also order online for added convenience. This restaurant is perfect for those looking to enjoy sushi after most other places have closed. The menu features a range of sushi options, from traditional favorites to unique creations by the chef, all served in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
What sets Hanamaru Kichijitsu apart is not just its late hours but also its commitment to quality. Each dish is prepared with attention to detail, ensuring that even a late-night meal is a delightful culinary experience. This spot is highly recommended for night owls and sushi enthusiasts looking for a place to relax and indulge in some excellent sushi after dark.
📍 Aichi, Nagoya, Naka Ward, Sakae, 5 Chome−1, 21MLアシスト栄ビル1F
📞 +81 52-261-1870
9. Tokiwa Sushi Honten
Tokiwa Sushi Honten is celebrated for its exceptional service and the freshness of its sushi. Located conveniently near Mitsui Garden Hotel in Nakamura Ward, it's a popular spot for both locals and hotel guests. The sushi bar offers a variety of classic and innovative sushi dishes, all crafted from the freshest ingredients. The friendly staff and inviting atmosphere make it an ideal place for a casual lunch or a special dinner.
The restaurant also prides itself on its ability to blend traditional sushi art with modern twists, making each visit a new experience. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or trying it for the first time, Tokiwa Sushi Honten offers a warm welcome and dishes that cater to all tastes, ensuring every guest leaves satisfied.
📍 4 Chome-16-23 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-571-6055
10. Sushi Ishiguro
Sushi Ishiguro offers a tranquil retreat just a short walk from Nagoya Station, where the focus is on delivering a sublime sushi experience. This spot is known for its Omakase menu, where the chef presents a series of dishes that highlight the freshest ingredients of the season. The atmosphere is quiet and refined, ideal for those who appreciate the art of sushi making and enjoy a more contemplative dining experience.
The restaurant's dedication to creating a harmonious dining environment is matched by the chef's meticulous attention to detail in preparing each dish. Guests can expect to enjoy a variety of sushi and sashimi that not only tastes exquisite but is also beautifully presented, making each visit a memorable culinary journey.
📍 メゾン野村, 2 Chome-40-11 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-562-5500
11. Sushi Hanakuruma
Sushi Hanakuruma is a gem in Nagoya, known for challenging the notion that the best sushi is only found in Tokyo. This restaurant prides itself on its Edomae sushi, which is prepared using time-honored techniques and the freshest fish. The setting is minimalist yet welcoming, focusing entirely on the quality of the food and the skill of the sushi chefs.
The warm hospitality of Sushi Hanakuruma is complemented by its dedication to providing a top-notch dining experience. Regulars and newcomers alike rave about the quality of the sushi, which is often described as comparable to that found in the finest sushi bars in Tokyo. It’s an excellent spot for anyone seeking authentic sushi crafted with passion and precision.
📍 The 3rd Horiuchi Building, B1F, 4 Chome-6-23 Meieki, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-433-5855
12. Sushi Zanmai
Sushi Zanmai offers a vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for a fun and engaging sushi experience. Located in Naka Ward, this restaurant is known for its wide selection of sushi, friendly service, and lively environment. It's a great place for family gatherings or dining out with friends, where everyone can enjoy the buzz of the city along with delicious sushi.
Not only is the sushi at Sushi Zanmai fresh and flavorful, but the restaurant also makes sure that all guests feel welcome and well taken care of. The energetic vibe is contagious, and the quality of the sushi ensures that Sushi Zanmai remains a popular choice among locals and tourists alike looking for a dynamic dining experience.
📍 Ｍｉｎｅｘ８８ 1F, 3 Chome-18-12 Nishiki, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi
📞 +81 52-684-6270
A Taste of Nagoya's Delicious Sushi Scene
Exploring these fifteen sushi spots in Nagoya offers more than just a chance to dine on some excellent food. Each restaurant showcases its own style, from traditional sushi craftsmanship to modern culinary twists that keep the city’s sushi scene fresh and exciting.
Whether you’re sitting down to the elegant dishes at Sushi Ishiguro or enjoying the lively atmosphere at Sushi Zanmai, you’re getting a real taste of what makes Nagoya special.
Discover the local market of Nagoya with our exciting private Morning Yanagibashi Fish Market and Sushi Tour!
FAQs
Is Nagoya known for sushi?
While Nagoya isn’t primarily famous for sushi as cities like Tokyo or Osaka might be, it still offers a rich sushi dining experience with a variety of traditional and innovative sushi restaurants where you can enjoy good food. Nagoya’s geographic location provides access to fresh seafood, making it a noteworthy spot for sushi enthusiasts to explore.
What is the most popular food in Nagoya?
The most popular food in Nagoya is arguably its unique take on miso, particularly the miso katsu—a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet smothered in a rich, savory miso sauce. This dish epitomizes the local love for deep, umami flavors and is a must-try for visitors.
What is the specialty of Nagoya?
Nagoya is renowned for several specialty dishes. Besides miso katsu, other specialties include hitsumabushi (grilled eel over rice), tebasaki (spicy chicken wings), kishimen (flat udon noodles), and tenmusu (tempura shrimp rice balls). Each dish offers a glimpse into the region’s culinary heritage and preference for bold flavors.
Which part of Japan is famous for sushi?
Tokyo is famous for its sushi, particularly because it's home to the world-renowned Tsukiji Market (now partially moved to Toyosu Market), which was the largest wholesale fish and seafood market in the world. Tokyo's status as a sushi hub is well-established, with a vast array of sushi bars ranging from high-end restaurants to casual conveyor belt sushi spots.
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