This Is the Best Sushi Restaurant in Your State

Whether you're looking to venture beyond the California roll or you're a longtime sushi enthusiast who prefers the omakase (aka "trust the chef") menu, there are plenty of incredible sushi restaurants across the U.S. From old school traditional purists to wildly creative sushi bars, we tracked down the top sushi restaurant in every state based on high marks from hungry customers and food critics alike. And while some of these top spots can get a bit pricey, we've also highlighted where you save a bit while still enjoying an incredible meal.

Related: The Best Seafood Restaurants in All 50 States

Birmingham
This hugely popular sushi destination in the middle of downtown Birmingham is helmed by celebrated local chef Abhi Sainju who developed a loyal following with his pop-up Everest Sushi. Known for his elaborate sushi rolls at Bamboo on 2nd like the Fire Roll with spicy tuna, red snapper, avocado, and sriracha, you also don't want to miss Sainju's native Nepalese dishes like momos, steamed dumplings with ground turkey.

Related: The Best Seafood Restaurant in Every State

Anchorage
This homey Anchorage destination has a broad assortment of Asian dishes ranging from dim sum to teriyaki, but its surprisingly extensive sushi and sashimi menu benefits from its proximity to some of the best seafood in the country. Don't miss the Casanova Roll (shrimp tempura topped with seared salmon) or the Blackjack Roll ( crab, avocado, shrimp, and eel). 

Phoenix
This bustling, casual sushi spot in downtown Phoenix is probably best known for its purple-hued black rice, which adds a healthy and photogenic twist to their sushi. Harumi Sushi showcases high-quality seafood for their sashimi, nigiri and colorful rolls, including the Oh My God roll that's torched with flames at your table. They also use fresh wasabi – unlike the fake green paste used in most places – and you'll start your meal with complimentary seared tuna nigiri.

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Little Rock
Hidden inside of a strip mall, Kiyen's has earned the reputation as the best sushi in Arkansas thanks to chef (and former biological oceanographer) Kiyen Kim's dedication to using exceptionally fresh seafood delivered daily. For a treat, make a reservation for the multi-course omakase experience at the sushi bar. Or opt to order a la carte and choose from choice cuts of sashimi and nigiri, and generous and playful rolls like the unorthodox Western Texas with spicy crab and filet mignon.

Los Angeles
While L.A.'s Ursawa is regarded as having the best sushi outside of Japan, the long waitlist for a reservation (fans say it can be two or more months) leads us to another candidate. The simply named Q is an extraordinary, temple-like destination for traditional Edomae-style sushi. Chef Hiroyuki Naruke meticulously uses centuries-old techniques — including rice made with red vinegar and no sugar — and only the best ingredients (think beautiful pieces of toro and uni) for his 20-plus course omakase. Dinner is $300 per person, so it's a splurge, but you can save a bit by going at lunch ($150).

Denver
The award-winning flagship restaurant from brothers Toshi and Yasu Kizaki, Sushi Den is an essential visit for sushi enthusiasts. Known for its incredibly fresh seafood — much of it flown in daily from the brothers' home prefecture, Kyushu Island in Japan — the restaurant regularly has lines around the block for perfectly-prepared nigiri and signature rolls. Be sure to grab a seat at the sushi bar for a phenomenal omakase experience. And if you happen to be in Boulder, visit Sushi Zanmai.

New Haven
Get your omakase to go (thanks to Rockfish's specially-made box), or stay indoors to pull up a seat at the sushi bar to try some of the nigiri that has fans raving. Yelp reviews say the setting is refined but the fish is even better, including the mackerel and sea bream.

Rehoboth
A Delaware favorite since 1993, The Cultured Pearl serves up top-notch sushi in a stunning setting. During the warmer months, head up to the rooftop patio where you'll find traditional Japanese architecture, a 5,000 gallon koi pond, and great views. Stop by for happy hour, daily from 4 p.m.-6 p.m., for discounts on sushi, drinks, and the unique edamame bar.

Miami
While the Magic City is full of incredible sushi destinations, NAOE stands out as a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award restaurant. One meal will set you back about $350, but reviewers say it's on par with the best sushi in Tokyo. Chef Kevin Cory, who makes every dish himself, began his culinary training at age 19, and his family has been brewing their own soy sauce since 1825. As the restaurant space is small, reservations are required and should be made well in advance.

Atlanta
This tiny (30 seats!) and reservation-only sushi spot is a hidden gem, located on Buford Highway – far from trendy spots in Midtown and Buckhead. Make a reservation way in advance at Sushi Hayakawa to be treated to exceptional sushi with ingredients flown in from Japan, served by cheerful chef-owner Atsushi "Art" Hayakawa. Be sure to try the Lobster Box Sushi.

Honolulu
Be sure to make a reservation far in advance at this cozy sushi restaurant and try to get a seat at the sushi bar. At Morio's Sushi Bistro you'll be treated to an incredible omakase experience (and plenty of jokes) from chef/owner Morio, including an assortment of sashimi, oysters, Hokkaido uni, lobster miso soup, and plenty more. It's BYOB, and be sure to spread the aloha by sharing a drink with Morio as is customary.

Boise
This casual eatery is right next to a gas station, but don't let that put you off. There are devoted fans of the restaurant's dragon roll sushi as well a the monkey brains (don't worry: It's just spicy tuna and avocado deep-fried). There are a few noodle and Korean dishes, but the sushi menu is extensive.

Chicago
This celebrated sushi restaurant takes sliced raw fish to a new level, crafting mouthwatering bites of fresh fish that resemble works of art. Juno's signature smoked hamachi, which arrives under a glass dome filled with smoke, is an essential order, as is the Juno King with two bites of tuna wrapped around spicy King crab. For a full Omakase experience, check out their partner restaurant Mako.

Indianapolis
For decades, this Indianapolis favorite has been the place to go for excellent sushi and a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're enjoying a quiet date night or sharing a sushi boat with a big group, the prices at Sakura are reasonable and the portions generous. Be sure to try the soft shell crab roll and, of course, the Hoosier roll, and the sashimi lunch special is always a great deal.

Des Moines
Whether it's date night or family night, Wasabi Chi is a great destination for sushi. The creative rolls like the Marilyn Monroll and the Out of Control roll with spicy tuna and crab are big hits.

Kansas City
Don't let the strip mall exterior fool you, Sushi UNI offers an incredible selection of high quality sushi along with a friendly atmosphere. The Daikon maki with tuna, yellowtail, and salmon is a big hit as are the great lunch specials, including the assorted sushi plate for $16.95 and the sashimi platter for $24.95. And, of course, you should order up some uni.

Louisville
With an excellent name like Dragon King's Daughter — named after the Buddhist parable for the first woman to reach enlightenment – you already know you're in for a treat. The popular Louisville spot, with a location in New Albany, Indiana, offers creative fare like the Swanson roll with bacon and spicy shrimp or Sabor Con Fuego with red tuna and jalapeño, plus plenty of vegetarian options. If you're looking to save a little, the happy-hour specials are great, including the late-night one.

New Orleans
Eating seafood when you're in New Orleans typically means shucked oysters, po'boys, and crawfish boils, but if you're in the mood for sushi in the Big Easy, Asuka Sushi & Hibachi is your place. The tiny, laidback local favorite makes the most of the fresh ingredients coming off the docks for their sushi bar offerings and creative rolls. Though currently closed for dine-in, delivery is available. The Saints Go Go Go roll with crab, salmon, and eel is a local favorite as is The Tower with spicy salmon, tuna, and snow crab piled high.

Portland
This widely celebrated Japanese restaurant is a sushi lovers dream.  While temporarily closed, it's due to reopen in September and its sister restaurant, Pai Men, is open for business. Miyake showcases traditional Japanese techniques and ingredients, as well as an abundance of locally sourced seafood, vegetables and heritage meats from their own farm. The prix fixe tasting menus are a great way to explore the menu; and the omakase, while a bit of a splurge, is definitely worth it.

Baltimore
When you're not eating Maryland crabs with Old Bay seasoning, your next seafood-centric meal should be at Shoyou Sushi. This cozy, unassuming spot features an excellent sushi selection served up by chef Bruce Li. The sushi and sashimi offer up generous slices of deliciously fresh fish, while the large rolls like the Oriole Park are great. And don't miss the signature Japanese Burrito, packed with shrimp tempura, crab, spicy tuna, and avocado in a soy paper wrapper.

Boston
Regarded as not only the best of Boston, but one of the country's best, O-Ya is the place to go for sushi aficionados (and big spenders). Inside the sleek restaurant (a former firehouse), you'll find incredibly creative offerings, including signatures like kumamoto oysters with watermelon pearls and the tamago omelet roll with dash sauce and black truffle. Go big with the omakase option for $250 per person.

Detroit
Right in the heart of downtown Detroit (inside the Federal Building), Maru Sushi & Grill offers the city excellent sushi at a reasonable price in a beautiful setting. There are plenty of shareables like the yellowtail carpaccio and the signature rolls like the Madagascar with spicy tuna and tempura shrimp are popular options. While the signature rolls can get a bit pricey, you can save a bundle at lunch. They also have other locations throughout Michigan.

Minneapolis, St. Paul
With two locations, this Twin Cities favorite offers sushi lovers plenty of delicious options, sourced from sustainable fisheries and local farms. Kyatchi offers an excellent selection of nigiri, sashimi and rolls, including specialty rolls like the Iwana with arctic char. And it may be the only place in the region serving oshizushi — sushi pressed in neat rectangles like sea bass with shiso leaf. You also don't want to miss the Japanese-style chicken meatballs with yakitori sauce and impressive Japanese sake selection.

Pascagoula
Inside a shotgun shack in a city down the road from Biloxi, you'll find some of the most unorthodox and most uniquely Mississippi sushi you'll ever eat. Jack's by the Tracks serves rolls cooked Southern favorites sourced locally from the Gulf like fried shrimp, sauteed crawfish and soft shell crab, while also offering rolls and nigiri with sustainably sourced seafood. The rest of the menu is creative as well, and you should definitely stick around for the live music.

St. Louis
While this casual and modern spot features a wide variety of Japanese and Vietnamese dishes, the excellent sushi is a major draw. The sushi menu at Café Mochi features many of the usual hits, but its the deep fried Crunchy Bagel roll with salmon, avocado, and cream cheese that's a crowd favorite. The happy-hour specials with half off select rolls and discounted drinks are another great reason to visit.

Bozeman
Landlocked Montana may not be the first place you think of for sushi, but at the laid-back Dave's Sushi you'll find incredibly fresh seafood flown in from Japan, Hawaii, Seattle, and elsewhere. Inside the lively Dave's Sushi (appropriately a former fish market), you'll find favorites like line-caught Big Eye tuna sashimi, hamachi nigiri, and spicy salmon hand rolls, as well as creative rolls like one with fried chicken.

Omaha
Yoshitomo is a casual sushi joint that takes fish seriously. Daily specials are flown in from Japan and the restaurant prides itself on an "approachable" wine, beer, and sake list. It is possible to splurge here, though. They offer a private omakase table serving edomae-style sushi within Yoshimoto and requires reservations (it's likely you'll end up on the waitlist). 

Las Vegas
For a city in the middle of the desert, Vegas has a ridiculous number of excellent sushi options. Kabuto is regarded as the best in town (and one of the top sushi spots in the U.S.) and while it's pricey (this is Vegas after all), the experience is incredible. A perfect date spot, Kabuto specializes in traditional Edomae sushi, so you'll find only perfectly crafted nigiri and sashimi here — definitely no maki rolls or pressed sushi — served on handmade pottery. For a less expensive, yet still delicious option, try Soho Japanese Restaurant.

Manchester 
Known for its diverse menu and above-and-beyond service, Mint Bistro offers classic and creative sushi dishes in a chic and modern atmosphere. The signature rolls, such as the Devil's Breath with spicy tuna, avocado, jalapeño and sriracha, are particularly popular. The bistro also offers a dinner menu with modern American and Asian fare, so there's truly something for everyone. Reservations are recommended.

Lincoln Park
With walls covered in sticky notes and a rock 'n' roll attitude, it's fitting that Kenko Sushi is the best sushi spot in Jersey. Not for purists looking for a meditative experience and tidy nigiri, the overflowing sushi platters here offer colorfully raucous and delectable works of art. You'll find an extensive menu of sushi and fully loaded rolls, all at excellent prices, and staff will usually treat you to a complimentary roll and dessert now that the restaurant has reopened for indoor dining.

Albuquerque
At the charming Sakura Sushi and Grill you'll find a stellar lineup of well-priced sushi, sashimi, and elaborate rolls. You also may want to try the chirashi — a bowl of rice topped with a variety of fish — and the sushi tacos in fried wonton skins are a fun option. Be sure to ask for the kizami wasabi — the real deal fresh stuff instead of the dyed-green horseradish found most places.

New York
In a city full of world-class sushi, choosing the best can be tricky. But three-Michelin-starred Masa has retained top honors by offering the city's most sublime sushi experience — and also one of the country's priciest meals with dinner starting at $750 per person. Sushi master Masayoshi Takayama and his devoted team serve impeccable bites like toro with caviar and uni with white truffle on a sushi bar made of a single piece of Hinoki wood. For a less expensive yet excellent alternative from two Masa protégées, try Shuko.

Multiple locations
Another unorthodox approach to sushi, Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar unites surf and turf in irreverent ways. It's a great place to bring your friends who aren't (yet) sushi fanatics, but might be inclined to try some while they're here. You'll find a huge selection of classic sushi plus "burgerushi" mashups like a bacon cheeseburger roll, one with lobster and filet mignon, and a pulled-pork barbecue option. They also have spiked milkshakes to wash it all down.

Bismarck
For those who enjoy an eclectic menu, Oahu Hawaiian BBQ & Sushi Bar offers a lively mix of sushi with Hawaiian and Northern Thai specialties thrown in for good measure. You'll find the usual selection of nigiri, sashimi, and rolls here with a few twists like the peanut avocado roll. And, of course, you can pair your sushi with pad Thai or loco moco should you wish.

Cleveland Heights
Known for using premium ingredients, many of which are flown in from Japan, Pacific East has earned a loyal following in the Cleveland area. The portions are generous and the prices reasonable, including the sushi boats and bridges popular with groups. As an added bonus, they offer a menu of Malaysian cuisine, including clay-pot curries and roti.

Oklahoma City
Tokyo Japanese Restaurant offers not only an excellent selection of high quality sushi, but fans also love the great service and a warm and welcoming atmosphere. A popular spot since 1987, you'll find top-notch traditional sushi and creative rolls, plus well-priced lunch specials at the sushi bar. They also have a traditional Japanese-style private room for large groups.

Portland
In a town as eco-minded as Portland, it shouldn't come as a surprise that the most famous sushi spot also lays claim to being the first sustainable sushi restaurant. Bamboo Sushi sources all of its ingredients from fisheries with healthy populations and sustainable practices. Popular signature rolls include the Kimono with crab, cucumber, wild Alaskan salmon, pickled apple, and sage or the vegan-friendly Green Machine with tempura fried long bean and avocado. The happy-hour deals are great, and splurging on the omakase experience is recommended.

Philadelphia
"Iron Chef" star Masaharu Morimoto's flagship restaurant continues to hold the bar high for sushi excellence in the City of Brotherly Love. While you may not catch the celeb chef himself behind the sushi counter of Morimoto, you can count on his talented team to serve superb sushi selections, including species you don't find most places. While the prices tend toward the special-occasion category, the omakase isn't too unreasonable for a high-end spot. If you're looking for great sushi at a lower price point, try Fat Salmon.

Providence
This colorful and cozy Providence favorite serves up quality sushi and friendly service. Haruki East fans enjoy grabbing a seat at the sushi counter for a quality sushi selection that includes specials like salmon tartare with quail egg and naruto rolls that are wrapped with thin slices of cucumber instead of rice. They also have a special menu devoted to fish roe.

Multiple locations
While Charleston is certainly known for excellent seafood, sushi doesn't usually top the dining destinations. But at O-Ku you'll find the perfect destination for stellar sushi and a stylish atmosphere. The menu offers high quality traditional sushi and some fun variations, including the popular salmon and lemon roll. At happy hour, enjoy discounted rolls, and if you stick around into the evening, things are bound to get lively.

Sioux Falls
While the sushi choices in South Dakota are somewhat limited, Oshima Sushi offers fans an excellent lineup of nigiri, sashimi, and specialty rolls. The atypical jalapeño bombs, stuffed with spicy tuna and cream cheese, are an unexpected hit, and the lunch specials offer a great deal.

Nashville
This casual Nashville favorite, Sonobana Japanese Restaurant offers an extensive selection of great nigiri and specialty rolls at great prices. They also have a small Japanese grocery store, where you can pick up imported treats, including Japanese snacks, books, and movies. If you happen to stop by on Super Bowl Sunday, you'll likely find their all-you-can-eat sushi buffet.

Multiple locations
With locations in Austin, Houston, and Dallas, Uchi has become the preeminent sushi destination for the Lone Star state. The brainchild of celebrated chef Tyson Cole, Uchi may not be for traditional purists (though there are some straightforward options); adventurous eaters love creative selections like flounder with candied quinoa, big-eye tuna with goat cheese, or Spanish cured anchovy with avocado and tomato. There's also an extensive vegetarian menu.

Salt Lake City
Regarded as Utah's top sushi spot (and one of the best overall restaurants), Takashi is typically packed from opening until closing with fans of their excellent sushi. You'll find an extensive selection to choose from, including specialties like spicy mussels with quail egg, but snagging a seat at the sushi counter is highly recommend.

Burlington
This casual Burlington favorite offers an extensive sushi selection at very reasonable prices. The chirashi bowl is popular option at Hana, and the lunch specials are a big draw. They also have a full bar and offer the popular Scorpion Bowl for sharing.

Virginia Beach
This upscale Virginia Beach sushi spot has been a bustling destination for years. Zushi Bistro serves up high quality selections from the sea, including the popular Pink Lady roll. For something different, try the Spicy Jamaican Conch roll with cucumber, mint, and basil. You'll also find an extensive selection of sake and cocktails.

Seattle
Located next to Seattle's famous Pike Place Market, where fishmongers literally sling the freshest catches of the day, you can bet that Sushi Kashiba is the prime spot to enjoy exceptional sushi. Chances are you may even see celebrated chef Shiro Kashiba or one of his team at the market picking out the best. While the views of the Bay are stunning, the best view is at the sushi counter for the omakase menu.

Morgantown
This charming restaurant in Morgantown has been drawing crowds for years, thanks to the exceptional sushi served up by celebrated chef/owner Gunn Hong and his team. The sushi and sashimi combos are popular options at Ogawa Sushi, as are the more elaborate rolls. And as an added bonus, they offer Korean specialties as well.

Milwaukee
Quality ingredients and colorful presentations are the hallmarks of Rice n Roll Bistro, a bustling Milwaukee sushi joint. The generous nigiri selections are popular as are the loaded rolls like the Smoky Crunch with crab and smoked salmon, and the Double Tap with tuna, avocado, salmon, spicy miso mayo, and tobiko.

Cheyenne
While the hibachi grills are definitely a big draw at Wasabi Japanese Grill & Bar, the sushi bar also does brisk business thanks to a strong fanbase. The nigiri, sashimi, and rolls are all extremely well priced and feature quality cuts of fresh fish. They also have a full bar and happy hour specials.

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