Japan and the United Arab Emirates may be thousands of miles apart, but sushi is becoming the hottest new restaurant type in Dubai. Here are 8 must-try spots for any refined, well-heeled visitor or Dubai local.
Hōseki (Jumeirah)
Perched on the fourth floor of the Bulgari Resort, Hōseki is Dubai’s most exclusive sushi experience, seating just nine guests per omakase sitting. Chef Masahiro Sugiyama crafts a bespoke menu nightly, using the freshest Japanese imports-think glistening otoro, uni, and seasonal white fish. The minimalist décor, with sweeping city views, sets a tranquil, meditative mood. Sake pairings are expertly curated, and appetizers like chawanmushi and delicate pickles showcase true Japanese finesse. For purists and connoisseurs, Hōseki is the pinnacle of refined sushi dining in the city.
TakaHisa (Jumeirah, Banyan Tree Dubai)
TakaHisa is a Michelin-recognized gem, famed for its omakase and premium wagyu. Chefs Takashi Namekata and Hisao Ueda import the best seafood directly from Japan, serving up exquisite nigiri, sashimi, and signature maki. The Kobe Beef Tataki and Wagyu Sashimi are must-tries, while the sushi counter offers an immersive view of the chefs at work. The elegant, contemporary space features a grand piano and a terrace, making it ideal for both intimate dinners and special occasions. The sake list is extensive and expertly matched to the menu.
Nobu Dubai (Palm Jumeirah)
Nobu Dubai at Atlantis, The Palm, is a destination in itself, blending Japanese technique with Peruvian flair. The menu is a parade of signature dishes-yellowtail jalapeño, black cod miso, and creative sushi rolls. The sushi selection is top-tier, with standout toro and salmon nigiri. The chic, modern interiors and panoramic views of the Palm create a lively, upscale vibe. Pair your meal with Nobu’s signature cocktails or a bottle from their impressive sake and wine list for the ultimate Dubai night out.
Origami Sushi (Jumeirah & The Dubai Mall)
Origami is a homegrown favorite, recently unveiling a stunning, minimalist space in The Dubai Mall. The design evokes underground Tokyo sushi bars-dim lighting, textured clay walls, and a cocoon-like ambiance. The menu is a celebration of quality: try the fatty tuna nigiri, crispy rice with spicy tuna, and the scallop sashimi. Starters like edamame and seaweed salad are fresh and vibrant. The drinks menu features Japanese teas, sake, and creative mocktails. It’s a sanctuary for sushi lovers seeking both authenticity and style.
SUSHISAMBA (Palm Jumeirah, St Regis Hotel)
Soaring 51 floors above Palm Jumeirah, SUSHISAMBA dazzles with 360-degree skyline views and a vibrant, theatrical setting. The menu fuses Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian flavors-don’t miss the samba rolls, Amazonian ceviche, or wagyu gyoza. Sushi is inventive, with standout salmon tiradito and spicy tuna maki. The open kitchen and robata grill add drama, while the cocktail menu is as creative as the cuisine. For a lively, glamorous night out, SUSHISAMBA is unmatched.
Kiku (Garhoud, Le Meridien Dubai)
Helmed by Chef Yoshiyuki Seno, Kiku is a bastion of traditional Japanese dining. With over 27 years’ experience, Chef Seno delivers pristine sushi, sashimi, and kaiseki. The omakase menu is a highlight, featuring seasonal fish flown in from Japan. Appetizers like agedashi tofu and tempura set the tone, while the sake selection is both broad and authentic. The décor is understated and serene, echoing classic Tokyo eateries-a true escape for sushi aficionados.
Sumosan (Downtown Dubai)
Sumosan brings contemporary flair to traditional Japanese cuisine, with a menu that’s both inventive and crowd-pleasing. Sushi highlights include the spicy king crab roll, salmon rice pizza, and lobster salad maki. The interiors are sleek, with Japanese art and a DJ spinning tunes, creating a chic, upbeat atmosphere. The wine and sake list is thoughtfully curated, and appetizers like truffle tiradito and wagyu tataki are essential starters. It’s a hotspot for Dubai’s stylish set, perfect for both date nights and celebrations.
SHI Restaurant & Lounge (Bluewaters Island)
SHI fuses Chinese and Japanese influences in a glamorous, waterfront setting on Bluewaters Island. The sushi menu is extensive-try the signature dragon roll, wagyu nigiri, and king crab maki. Begin with spicy edamame or miso soup, and explore the sake and Asian-inspired cocktail list. The décor is plush and contemporary, with sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf. SHI’s blend of luxury, flavor, and location makes it a favorite for Dubai’s sushi lovers seeking a touch of drama.
From serene omakase counters to sky-high fusion palaces, Dubai’s sushi scene is as dynamic and dazzling as the city itself.
