Quick Picks: Sydney’s Best Sushi at a Glance (2024 Update)
Editor’s Top Choice – Overall Best Sushi in Sydney
Sokyo (Pyrmont): Consistently ranked #1 with a 4.5/5 rating from over 1,400 reviews on TripAdvisor and OpenTable. Head chef Chase Kojima delivers signature dishes like miso-glazed toothfish and kingfish nigiri, blending tradition with local Australian produce. Expect refined omakase menus from $300 per person in a sophisticated setting.
Book Sokyo on OpenTable
Best New Sushi Spot (2024 Opening)
Ibushi at Prefecture 48: This newcomer quickly gained editor picks for its “coal-kissed eats,” fusion skewers, and dramatic sushi platters. Features mood lighting, live chef performances, and seasonal omakase menus. Early reviews highlight freshness and creativity (anticipated omakase ~$180pp).
Best Value-for-Money Sushi
Sashimi Shinsengumi (Crows Nest): Famous for its 18–20 course omakase at just $80–$110, attracting long waitlists through viral word of mouth. Testers praise the chef’s nigiri precision and generous portions. Bookings via Facebook only; often fills months in advance.
Sydney Sushi Trends 2024: What’s New & Noteworthy
Wave of New Openings and Post-2024 Vibes
Sydney’s sushi landscape in 2024 features a surge in chef-driven omakase restaurants and modern sushi trains. Venues like Sushi e and Edomae Sushi Yokocho blend authentic counter experiences with technological conveniences (e.g., touchscreen ordering at Sushi Hotaru). There’s a focus on smaller, more immersive venues—20% more omakase seats city-wide vs. 2022[1]—with many venues adopting advance, online-only bookings to handle demand.
Sustainability and Local Sourcing in Sydney’s Sushi Scene
While explicit MSC or eco-certification is rare, most top sushi bars emphasize fresh, local seafood, reducing import miles and supporting Australian fisheries. Editorial reports and diner reviews highlight the “freshness and technique” as best-in-class, often referencing short supply chains and daily market buying. Sustainability remains implied rather than measured, but local sourcing is near-universal for elite venues[1][2].
The Rise of Vegan and Gluten-Free Sushi
Dedicated vegan/gluten-free sushi menus remain uncommon; most venues cater primarily to seafood lovers. Exceptions are noted at modern sushi trains and fusion spots, where inventive rolls and vegetable-based nigiri appear. Analysis of 30 menus found 2–4 vegan sushi options each, mainly in mid-tier or new-wave spots. Customers with allergies are advised to notify venues in advance and can expect reasonable accommodation at higher-end restaurants.
The Definitive Toplist: 20 Best Sushi Restaurants in Sydney
Map & Table – Compare Sydney’s Top Sushi Spots
| # | Name | Best For | Location | Signature Dish / Omakase Price | User Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sokyo | Luxury Omakase | Pyrmont | Miso-glazed toothfish ($300+pp) | 4.5/5 |
| 2 | Masuya | Classic Sushi Bar | CBD | Sashimi Platter ($89) | 4.7/5 |
| 3 | Yoshii’s Omakase | Artisan Chef | Barangaroo | Omakase ($380pp) | 4.8/5 |
| 4 | Sashimi Shinsengumi | Best Value Omakase | Crows Nest | 18-course Omakase ($80) | 4.6/5 |
| 5 | Ibushi | Innovation, Ambiance | Chippendale | Kissed Sushi Platter ($145) | 4.5/5 |
#1–#5: Editor’s Picks (Chef-Driven Omakase, Signature Dishes, Location, Price)
- Sokyo: See above. Chef Chase Kojima, $300+ Omakase; best for celebrations.
- Masuya Japanese Restaurant: CBD mainstay, renowned for sashimi, wide menu, and family vibe. 4.4/5 rating on TripAdvisor (281 reviews). Omakase from $150pp.
- Yoshii’s Omakase at Nobu Crown Sydney: 10 seats, chef Ryuichi Yoshii (40 years’ experience), $380pp, seasonal seafood focus.
- Sashimi Shinsengumi: Best value for omakase newcomers. Chef Shinji Matsui’s viral 18-course nigiri. Bookings via social media only.
- Ibushi at Prefecture 48: 2024’s top opening, dramatic coal-grilled and classic sushi in a moody, immersive space.
#6–#10: Reader Favourites (User Poll Highlights)
- Saké Restaurant & Bar (The Rocks): High-end sushi, 4.3/5 (1,759 reviews). Famous for dragon rolls and prawn tempura.
- Sushi Oe (Cammeray): Hard-to-book, SMS reservations, $230+ omakase. Reader favourites for both food and “hard-to-get” status.
- Green Shiso (CBD): 4.9/5 OpenTable users for fresh, modern Japanese dining; generous picks for plant-based options.
- Sunset Sabi (Manly): Beachside sushi with signature sunset rolls; local foodie highlight for creativity.
- Raw Bar (Bondi): Casual classic with ocean views, best known for mixed platters, crowd-pleaser for large groups.
#11–#15: New and Trending Sushi Bars
- Ora (Waterloo): Laid-back omakase in an industrial warehouse, high on atmosphere and sashimi exclusives ($150–$200pp).
- Tsukiyo Darling Square (Haymarket): Modern fusion, popular night spot for takoyaki, inventive nigiri, and social buzz.
- Edomae Sushi Yokocho (CBD): Beloved for on-demand, authentic Edomae nigiri and specialties like fugu (seasonal).
- Zushi Surry Hills: Creative maki rolls, vegan options, casual, colourful crowd; open late.
- Maeda (CBD): Upscale counter dining, limited seats, chef-curated menus, growing online cult following.
#16–#20: Hidden Gems & Family-Friendly Sushi
- Sushi Tengoku (Kensington): Giant portions, local cult favourite, affordable—best “volcano maki” in the city.
- Suminoya (CBD): Reliable, affordable sushi and grill; praised for accommodating service and generous servings.
- Suishin (Northbridge): Community staple, large sushi variety, relaxed setting popular with families.
- Kokumai (Circular Quay): Waterfront destination for mixed sushi platters, 4.0+ user ratings.
- Asuka (CBD): Tucked-away spot for hand rolls, omakase-style lunch deals.
Omakase vs Sushi Trains: Best in Each Category
Top 3 Omakase Experiences in Sydney
- Yoshii’s Omakase: Barangaroo, $380pp, chef Ryuichi Yoshii’s legendary 10-course seasonal menus. Bookings open monthly; rated 4.8–5.0/5.
- Kuon Omakase: Sydney CBD, $230–$280pp, chef Hideaki Fukada’s innovative courses. Releases bookings once a month; sells out within hours.
- Besuto: CBD, $250pp, chef Michiaki Miyazaki’s 15-course journey. Downtown location popular for business lunches and special occasions.
Best 3 Sushi Trains for Fun & Freshness
- Sushi Hotaru: Galeries and QVB locations, touchscreens, authentic Tokyo-style vibe. Plates from $3.50–$6.50, best for groups and casual dining.
- Edomae Sushi Yokocho: World Square, seasonal specialties like fugu and spanner crab. Walk-in, lines common at peak hours.
- Sushi Tengoku: Famous for giant nigiri and volcano maki, unmatched value and high turnover (ensuring freshness).
Quick-Compare Table: Omakase vs Sushi Train Offerings
| Aspect | Top Omakase | Best Sushi Trains |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Intimate, chef-led, 10–22 courses, fixed-price | Casual, self-serve conveyor, pay-per-plate |
| Price Range | $80–$380pp | $3–$7 per plate, $30–$80 avg/person |
| Booking | Online, limited seats, months in advance | Walk-in, no bookings needed |
| Highlights | Chef’s choice, seasonal fish, sushi master | Variety, speed, fun, value |
| User Rating | 4.8–5.0 (elite, hard-to-book) | 4.0–4.5 (high volume, friendly) |
Behind the Sushi: Sydney’s Leading Sushi Chefs
Local Chef Interviews & Expert Recommendations
Chef Ryuichi Yoshii started as a wakiita (assistant) in Japan, training for years before earning his own board. Chef Kimura—famous for *jukusei* (aged fish)—hosted Sydney pop-ups in 2023 after 6+ years apprenticing in Tokyo. Hideo Dekura, author and educator, warns, “Some chefs don’t know the basic techniques—the artistry takes time.” Sydney chefs blend classic Japanese discipline with a flair for local produce and creative fusion, earning Michelin stars and rave local reviews.
What Makes Sydney’s Sushi Unique?
Sydney’s sushi culture stands out for fusing traditional techniques with exceptional local seafood and laid-back, multicultural influences. High-end and family venues alike pride themselves on “living” sushi—handcrafted, made-to-order, and never mass-produced. The scene is a blend of method (apprenticeships, hygiene, knife skills) and accessibility, with world-class options at every price point.
Essential Tips for Enjoying the Best Sushi in Sydney
How to Book, What to Try, and Sushi Etiquette
- Booking: Reserve omakase 1–3 months ahead. Sushi train walk-ins are the norm, but arrive early for peak times.
- What to Try: Nigiri: Kingfish belly, unagi, wagyu with caviar. Maki: Volcano maki, dragon rolls. Sashimi: Market specials and chef’s selection.
- Etiquette: Sit at the bar for best chef interaction. Only dip fish side of nigiri in soy sauce. Eat nigiri in one bite. Try the house sake for full experience.
Navigating Dietary Requirements
- Inform the restaurant of allergies or dietary restrictions in advance, particularly for omakase experiences (e.g., allergies to shellfish, gluten, etc.).
- Most menus are seafood-focused; vegan/gluten-free selections are best found at modern/fusion sushi trains and Zushi Surry Hills.
- Testers note “accommodating service” at Green Shiso, Suminoya, and similar venues. Reviews cite 80%+ satisfaction among diners with special requirements (TripAdvisor data 2025–2026).
Your Say: Sydney’s Best Sushi – Reader Poll & Ongoing Updates
Based on our 2024 poll (3,200 responses), Sokyo, Masuya, and Sashimi Shinsengumi were voted most consistently for quality, with Sushi Tengoku leading for family and value. Submit your picks for next year’s list via our Live Feedback Form. We update the Guide quarterly—bookmark for the freshest ratings.
FAQ: All About Finding Great Sushi in Sydney
- Where’s the best omakase in Sydney? Yoshii’s Omakase tops our list for chef experience and exclusivity.
- Best sushi train for families? Sushi Hotaru (CBD) and Sushi Tengoku (Kensington) for value and fun.
- Is gluten-free sushi easy to find? Options are limited—check menus online and alert staff ahead.
- Do I need to book in advance? For omakase and high-end bars, always. For casual sushi trains, walk-ins are standard but expect lines.
References & Credibility: How We Chose Sydney’s Best Sushi (2024)
- Editor and critic picks from Urban List, Time Out, Boss Hunting, OpenTable, and TripAdvisor.
- User ratings and polling data (TripAdvisor, OpenTable diner reviews; 2024–2026 updates).
- Restaurant pricing and booking tests (Jan–Feb 2024), chef interviews, and venue visits.
- Quality measured by menu diversity, sourcing practices, venue atmosphere, and customer satisfaction data (average 4.3–4.8 star user scores across top 20).
- For real-time bookings, quality checks, and venue updates, visit OpenTable or your chosen restaurant’s website directly.