Where To Find The *Absolute* Best Sushi & Japanese Food in Phoenix
The art of cuisine in Japan is some of the finest in all of the world. It’s not just sushi–there’s also incredible robata, ramen, and bento in this seafood, jasmine rice, and miso rich cuisine. Phoenix boasts an array of restaurants serving a number of mouthwatering Japanese dishes. We have researched and put together a list of the best restaurants in Phoenix that can help guarantee an incredible and authentic Japanese cuisine experience. So without further ado, here are some of the best Japanese restaurants in Phoenix!
Blue Fin
1401 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004
(602) 254-3171
Blue Fin is situated in Downtown Phoenix and has been slinging fresh Japanese flavors since November 1981. Locals prefer their swiftly prepared yet immensely delicious home-cooked Japanese food. The restaurant does not add MSG seasoning to their food and instead, focuses on serving food with only their natural flavors. Among many wonderful specialties, we suggest trying the Teriyaki Chicken Combo. For vegetarian options, they also offer delicious vegetarian meals such as the Yakisoba salad.
Yutaka Japanese Restaurant
751 East Bell Road #9, Phoenix, AZ 85022
(602) 843-8882
If you’re looking for a top-tier sushi experience in Phoenix, Yutaka Japanese Restaurant is one of the places to be. This restaurant has been a local favorite for over a decade, and for good reason. The sushi is some of the freshest in town, with expertly crafted rolls and perfectly sliced sashimi. The menu features a wide variety of options, from classic rolls to baked rolls, tempura rolls, and more. But Yutaka is more than just sushi, they also offer a range of Japanese dishes including teriyaki dishes and noodle bowls. It all adds together to make Yutaka not only one of the best Japanese and sushi restaurants in Phoenix, but one of the best restaurants in the city period!
Harumi Sushi
114 W Adams St c101, Phoenix, AZ 85003
(602) 258-0131
Harumi Sushi is distinguished for their trademark purple rice, which combines traditional Japanese food with present-day cuisine. They only serve the freshest fish which ensures only the highest quality sushi. In fact, it’s one of the best places for just sushi in the whole city! For starters, try the spicy appetizers such as Tuna Tataki or the Ahi Tower! Both are perfect for tuna lovers.
Hana Japanese Eatery
5524 N. 7th. Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013 – 1702
(602) 973-1238
Hana Japanese Eatery is a family-owned and run establishment, featuring a variety of food from squid Masayuki to Hana tempura. They offer a wide range of sushi and Japanese cuisines with a selection that varies periodically without compromising the taste of their sushi. Besides the main meals, we suggest their spicy appetizers like Gyoza and Ika Kara-Age. Sakamushi and the Scallop Edamame Kasane-Age are also highly recommended.
Shogun Restaurant
12615 North Tatum Boulevard, Phoenix, AZ 85032
(602) 953-3264
Shogun Restaurant has been bringing the flavors and traditions of the land of the rising sun to the valley of the sun since 1983. For over three decades, Shogun has been Arizona’s original sushi bar. The sushi menu is always being updated with new chef and guest-inspired creations. Don’t worry though, they also offer a variety of traditional Japanese fare including steak, noodles, and rice bowls. At Shogun, there is truly something for everyone.
Nishikawa Ramen
3141 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, Arizona 85016
(602) 368-8774
Nishikawa Ramen offers four categories of ramen to choose from: Tonkotsu, Miso, Shio, and Vegetarian. Tonkotsu is always a classic and comprises of your classic pork broth based soup with extra toppings such as green onion and Kikurage. Ramen is served with a choice of either a hard or soft-boiled egg. Choose from straight noodles or curved noodles.
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Editor’s Note: This article was originally published on January 31, 2022 and last updated on April 25, 2023. Please refer to restaurant websites and social media pages for the most up-to-date information.