From traditional nigiri to inventive fusion rolls, I’ve curated the ultimate list to satisfy your sushi appetite with trusted insider tips.
Jump directly to details on each sushi restaurant below
Sushi in Johannesburg: A Culinary Exploration
Johannesburg’s sushi scene has blossomed impressively over the last decade, blending traditional Japanese culinary artistry with South African flair. As someone who has sampled sushi across several continents, I can confidently say that the city’s offerings are not to be missed. Whether you prefer the purity of authentic sashimi or dynamic flavor-packed rolls, Johannesburg’s sushi restaurants offer something for every palate.
In this detailed review, I combine my firsthand tasting notes, current user ratings from platforms like Google and TripAdvisor, pricing, ambience, and accessibility to give you a comprehensive sushi roadmap.
1. Umai Sushi Bar – Johannesburg CBD
Umai Sushi Bar is a compact yet vibrant sushi destination right in the heart of Johannesburg’s Central Business District. Renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and ultra-fresh ingredients, Umai offers an impressive variety of nigiri, sashimi, and specialty rolls.
- Menu Highlights: Toro (fatty tuna) nigiri, Umami Roll, and tempura prawn rolls
- Price Range: R100–R250 per dish
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11:30AM – 9:30PM
- Ratings: 4.6/5 on Google (1200+ reviews)
- Personal Insight: “The balance of textures in their Umami Roll blew me away — a perfect blend of creamy avocado and crispy tempura.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 000 1234
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
2. Koi – Rosebank
Koi is the place where modern elegance meets inventive sushi artistry in Johannesburg, set inside the upscale Rosebank shopping precinct. Known for its fusion rolls and innovative plating, it’s a hotspot for social dining and sushi lovers who enjoy novel flavor pairings.
- Menu Highlights: Dragon Roll, Spicy Tuna Tartare, Miso Black Cod
- Price Range: R150–R300 per dish
- Hours: Daily, 12PM – 10PM
- Ratings: 4.7/5 on TripAdvisor with over 800 reviews
- Personal Insight: “I keep returning for their expertly balanced Dragon Roll and the ambient vibe makes any occasion special.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 498 7654
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
3. Momo Sushi – Parkhurst
Momo Sushi brings a laid-back, neighborhood vibe with a sharp focus on authentic Japanese flavors and fresh seafood. This spot is perfect for casual sushi lovers who appreciate generous portion sizes and welcoming service.
- Menu Highlights: Salmon Sashimi, California Roll, Wagyu Beef Tataki
- Price Range: R120–R220
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12PM – 8:30PM
- Ratings: 4.5/5 on Google with 600+ reviews
- Personal Insight: “The salmon sashimi was notably fresh and the wagyu tataki had this smoky richness that lingered beautifully.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 400 1239
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
4. Fuji Japanese Restaurant – Sandton
Fuji Japanese Restaurant stands as an iconic staple in Sandton, cherished for delivering an authentic experience with traditional Japanese décor and a broad menu ranging from tempura to sushi classics.
- Menu Highlights: Dragon nigiri, assorted sushi platters, seaweed salad
- Price Range: R140–R280
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, 11:00AM – 10PM
- Ratings: 4.4/5 on Google with 1500+ reviews
- Personal Insight: “Their sushi platters are perfect for sharing, particularly the delicate dragon nigiri — a true crowd pleaser.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 432 1234
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
5. Tokyo Express – Melrose Arch
If you want quick, fresh sushi in a trendy, fast-casual setting, Tokyo Express hits the mark in Melrose Arch. The sushi here balances affordability with quality, ideal for casual lunches or a quick bite on the go.
- Menu Highlights: Salmon avocado roll, spicy crunchy roll, miso soup
- Price Range: R80–R170
- Hours: Monday to Sunday, 10AM – 8PM
- Ratings: 4.3/5 on Google, highly praised for quick service
- Personal Insight: “Perfect for a speedy sushi fix; the spicy crunchy roll keeps me coming back.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 543 2123
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
6. Sushi Pulse – Maboneng Precinct
Sushi Pulse is a vibrant, contemporary sushi bar situated in Johannesburg’s dynamic Maboneng area. It is lauded for its creative rolls and fresh fish sourced daily. Great for adventurous sushi users who want to try inventive flavors.
- Menu Highlights: Passion Roll, Rainbow Roll, and fresh octopus sashimi
- Price Range: R130–R260
- Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 1PM – 10PM
- Ratings: 4.6/5 on Google, praised for atmosphere and quality
- Personal Insight: “Sushi Pulse’s Passion Roll is a firework of flavors — sweet, tangy, and delicate all at once.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 234 5678
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
7. Edo Sushi Bar – Melville
Edo Sushi Bar in Melville is admired for its quiet, intimate setting and precise sushi preparation. This gem emphasizes quality over quantity, with a minimalist menu focusing on excellence.
- Menu Highlights: Classic tuna nigiri, avocado rolls, miso soup
- Price Range: R110–R210
- Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 5PM – 10PM
- Ratings: 4.5/5 on Google with consistently positive reviews on freshness
- Personal Insight: “Their expertly cut tuna nigiri exemplifies the sushi craft at its purest form.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 233 3322
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
8. Nami Japanese Bistro – Fourways
Nami Japanese Bistro is a family-friendly spot in Fourways with a relaxed atmosphere. Their sushi maintains a consistent standard, balanced by a great selection of sushi sets and salads.
- Menu Highlights: Tuna tataki, sushi combo platters, edamame
- Price Range: R130–R240
- Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 12PM – 9PM
- Ratings: 4.4/5 on Google with many praising service quality
- Personal Insight: “A reliable go-to for family dinners with a neat variety of combo platters.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 400 1237
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
9. Tokyo Town – Emmarentia
Tokyo Town delivers a straightforward sushi experience with a focus on classic recipes and fresh fish. The Emmarentia location is popular among locals for affordable and well-prepared sushi in a casual setting.
- Menu Highlights: California rolls, salmon sashimi, tempura baskets
- Price Range: R90–R180
- Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11AM – 8PM
- Ratings: 4.2/5 on Google with many repeat customers
- Personal Insight: “Simple, dependable sushi when you want great taste without fuss.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 111 1222
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
10. SushiBox – Rosebank
SushiBox is a modern sushi delivery and takeout service with a trendy deli in Rosebank offering fresh, ready-to-eat sushi at affordable prices. Perfect for when you want high-quality sushi at home or work.
- Menu Highlights: Bento box meals, salmon rolls, vegetarian sushi options
- Price Range: R90–R190
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 10AM – 7PM
- Ratings: 4.3/5 on Google, known for quick turnaround and fresh packaging
- Personal Insight: “Their bento boxes are a great value — simple, fresh, and perfect for a work lunch.”
- Contact: [email protected] | Phone: +27 11 987 6543
- Location & Map: View on Google Maps
Frequently Asked Questions About Sushi in Johannesburg
Where can I find the freshest sushi in Johannesburg?
From my experience, Umai Sushi Bar and Sushi Pulse source their fish daily and have excellent freshness consistently. Checking recent user reviews online also helps ensure quality for your visit.
Are there vegetarian sushi options available?
Yes, many places including SushiBox and Momo Sushi offer creative vegetarian rolls using avocado, cucumber, pickled vegetables, and tofu. Always ask to confirm as menus can vary seasonally.
What price range should I expect for sushi in Johannesburg?
Expect to spend between R80 and R300 per sushi dish depending on the restaurant. Fast casual spots like Tokyo Express are budget-friendly, while sit-down places like Koi charge premium prices for high-end ingredients and ambiance.
Do these sushi restaurants provide delivery or takeaway?
Several, such as SushiBox and Tokyo Express, provide delivery and takeaway. It’s best to check their official websites or contact them directly for real-time options and delivery zones.
Final Tip for Sushi Lovers
When visiting any sushi spot in Johannesburg, always try to make reservations during peak hours to secure your spot and check for seasonal specialties — many places feature limited-time rolls that are culinary delights you don’t want to miss. Exploring local Japanese festivals or markets can also reveal hidden sushi gems.
