Situated on the Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk, Virginia knows a thing or two about fish. But it’s not just the fried, grilled and baked that local chefs excel in. Inspired by the traditions of Japanese cuisine, dedicated sushi chefs are changing the game right here in Mermaid City.
From intimate, family-run establishments to modern takes on the classic Japanese cuisine, the city caters to a wide range of palates. So, if you’ve found yourself in Norfolk and are wondering where’s the best sushi nearby, look no further than our guide to sushi restaurants.
Daiwa Sushi
Plenty of fresh fish options to choose from here, along with milk tea, Ramune sodas, miso soup, yakitori and more. Located near Naval Station Norfolk. (8401 Hampton Blvd.)
Hokkaido Sushi Bar
Situated on bustling Granby St.,this ornate restaurant offers an extensive sushi selection alongside Japanese cuisine. Stop in for the daily lunch specials that mix affordability, flavor and just-right portions. (233 Granby St.)
Ichran Japanese Ramen
While ramen takes center stage here, Ichran also boasts a delicious sushi menu, great for a well-rounded Japanese dining experience. (5720 Hoggard Rd F)
Katana Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi
Enjoy the entertainment of hibachi cooking alongside a menu featuring classic and specialty sushi rolls at this casual spot. (520 W. 21st St.)
Koshi
It doesn’t get more traditional than Koshi, where flaming salmon belly, rockfish, uni, yellowtail and other favorites come alive alongside dishes such as udon soup, fried oysters and Korean bibimbap bowls. If there’s a wait to get in, it’s for good reason: Koshi goes to great lengths to make each diner’s experience unforgettable. (201 W. 21st St.)
Kotobuki
A staff favorite, this family-owned gem offers a warm and friendly atmosphere with a traditional Japanese menu including vegetarian options alongside their sushi offerings. For the best of both worlds, order the chicken teriyaki and sushi box and thank us later. (Address: 721 W. 21st St.)
Osaka
A favorite of students, this ODU-area ramen joint serves up hot bowls of comfort and a small selection of sushi dishes, as well. (4300 Monarch Way)
Pokey
Proving that some trends deserve to stick around, Pokey takes the deconstructed sushi concept and features fresh, cubed fish over rice bases. Their ramen is excellent, as well. (215 Granby St.)
Poketastic
Specializing in fast, convenient, and delicious poke bowls, Poketastic offers premium ingredients and fresh, sushi-grade fish. (1551 Premium Outlet Blvd.)
Sai Gai Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar
This traditional Japanese steakhouse features a full sushi bar alongside its sizzling teppanyaki tables. (7521 Granby St.)
Sake Sushi Restaurant
A straightforward and delicious option, Sake Sushi offers a host of sushi choices. (1213 North Military Hwy.)
Sakura Elite Sushi Bar & Hibachi
Found upstairs in the MacArthur Center Mall, Sakura Elite offers tasty Asian fusion cuisine, including sushi, for a satisfying mid-shopping break. (300 Monticello Ave.)
Sushi King Little Creek & Sushi King Monticello
These two locations offer an all-you-can-eat sushi experience with a focus on fresh, sustainable ingredients and minimal waste. Each also features hibachi cooking along with salad, soup and desserts for a complete meal. (Sushi King Little Creek – 4249 East Little Creek Rd. & Sushi King Monticello – 420 Monticello Ave. #100)
Tokyo Express
Featuring yakisoba, sushi, sashimi and other Japanese favorites, this Wards Corner location is open every day for lunch and dinner except Monday. (7674 Granby St.)
Volcano Sushi & China Bistro
This modern restaurant offers a unique twist, combining delicious all-you-can-eat sushi with a fusion of Chinese, Thai, and Japanese cuisine. (339 W 21st St.)
Everyone Else
Gone are the days when sushi is only found in traditional Japanese settings. Plenty of places around town serve up some version of sushi or poke, including Craft on Colley, Stockpot, Zeke’s and many others. Grab your chopsticks and enjoy the fresh bounty of the sea, Norfolk style.
