By Lexi Baker By Lexi Baker | August 29, 2024 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guide, Guides,
From surf and turf rolls to omakase, we round up the top sushi spots in Washington.
Nobu continues to craft incredible bites like fluke sashimi.
Kaz Sushi Bistro
For 25 years and counting, chef Kaz Okochi has collected a following of sushi lovers who keep returning for his clever sushi creations. The salmon nigiri with mango puree and the Japanese yellowtail nigiri with spicy yuzu are just a few tasty items at this Glover Park eatery. For a truly unique experience, try the Kaz Original Sushi Tasting as you sip premium sake or Japanese spirits from the extensive cocktail menu. 1915 I St. NW,202.530.5500,kazsushi.com
Kyojin Sushi
At Kyojin Sushi, each visit is unique, with chef Kannasute’s recommendations. Savor the scallop salad and indulgent foie gras nigiri as chefs walk you through every part of your meal, crafted right before you. 3315 Cady’s Alley NW,202.629.2131,kyojindc.com
Salmon topped with caviar at Nobu.
Nobu
Nobu brings Japanese elegance to the capital with its chic ambiance and innovative cuisine. Perfect for a fall picnic, sushi cups offer 10 delightful preparations for a gourmet experience on the go. 2525 M St. NW,202.871.6565,noburestaurants.com
O-Ku
This Union Market restaurant offers a variety of sushi, from the Western Wagyu roll to the surf and turf roll. Come for the modern, chic atmosphere, and stay for the fresh ingredients and traditional techniques. On the rooftop, dine in style as you enjoy favorites like the Snow King roll with aburi salmon and miso truffle aioli. 1274 Fifth St. NW,202.888.8790,o-kusushi.com
Perry’s
Join James Beard-nominated chef Masako Morishita at Perry’s for a tasty Saturday Japanese breakfast and sushi-fulled dinners. Foodies can start the day with comfort food or treat their tastebuds in the evening to nigiri, sashimi, maki and more. 1811 Columbia Road NW,202.234.6218,perrysam.com
Sushi Nakazawa
Arrive hungry at this Michelinstarred eatery in Shaw as chef Daisuke Nakazawa presents an unmatched 20-course omakase. While the items served are a surprise, guests can expect beautifully cut, fresh fish from local purveyors and Japan with a symphony of flavors. Whether you dine at the sushi bar or in the dining room, the refined, intimate atmosphere ensures an unforgettable culinary adventure. 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. NW,202.289.3515,sushinakazawa.com
Sushi Taro
The Omakase Counter—as it has been dubbed at Sushi Taro—welcomes diners to watch as each seasonal sashimi and sushi dish is expertly crafted. This Dupont Circle gem also has a Kaiseki tasting menu with the chef ’s selection of items. For those who know what they want, choose from the collection of sushi dishes, including wagyu sushi and tekka chirashi. 1503 17th St. NW,202.462.8999,sushitaro.com
Expect exceptional sushi presentations at SHŌTŌ.
SHŌTŌ
In the heart of DC, artfully prepared sushi awaits at SHŌTŌ. This downtown eatery offers high-quality ingredients sliced, chopped and rolled into contemporary Japanese sushi. In the upscale and luxe dining room, enjoy corporate executive chef/partner Alessio Conti’s innovative takes on shrimp tempura rolls, seared salmon belly and more. 1100 15th St. NW,202.796.0011
Yume Sushi
Let your imagination run wild as you design your roll at this North Arlington eatery. Sushi lovers can choose from vegetables, fish and one of chef Saran Kannasute’s handmade sauces, like the creamy jalapeno or pink ginger, to craft their dream bite. The restaurant also offers traditional sushi-a-la-carte and omakase for those looking to leave their meal up to the chef. 2121 N. Westmoreland St. Ste. A-2,703.269.5064,yumesushiva.com
Zeppelin
Shaw’s Zeppelin is not your average sushi spot—foodies can take the stage for a karaoke tune or two between bites of unbeatable rolls. Its curated selection of sushi, nigiri and sashimi features favorites like the Spiderman roll with soft shell crab tempura and the Godzilla roll with salmon. As you ponder your next song choice, indulge in sake or a specialty cocktail like the Heartbreaker with Ilegal Mezcal Joven and passionfruit. 1544 Ninth St. NW,202.506.1068,zeppelindc.com
Photography by: COURTESY OF NOBU; REY LOPEZ