Look, what we really want is a personal sushi chef who follows us around Fort Lauderdale. But that’s going to require some serious negotiation skills, and dinner reservations don’t make themselves. So here’s the next-best thing: a definitive list of the 20 best Japanese restaurants that aren’t just passing through.
Sushi By Bou
$$$$ | (888) 670-5996 | WEBSITE
Sushi By Bou primarily offers an omakase experience, but there are also a few interactive elements at any given time – like Jeff and Jordan, the energetic chefs who bring vibrant personalities that make every moment enjoyable. Regardless of what you order, we’d suggest engaging with the chefs and participating in the preparation of your meal, adding to the fun atmosphere.
Sushi-One
$ | (954) 761-9009 | WEBSITE
Sushi-One serves a popular chicken curry special that comes with a side of rice. But unless you’re craving something hot and hearty, we suggest you go for the New Times roll (they also do bento boxes).
Poke Ice
$ | (954) 626-0084 | WEBSITE
Poke Ice is a humble, mom-and-pop style spot in Fort Lauderdale. The one you need to know about (for poke bowl purposes) is on their main street, and has very fresh fish and crisp vegetables that come in generous portions. The poke is described as very flavorful, with the option to try unique toppings like shrimp tempura. Customers love the variety of mix-ins and the ability to create their own customized bowls. The staff is super nice and the service is fast.
Poke Ice offers an exceptional poke experience at affordable prices, with a free soda included with every meal.
El Tiesto Cafe Fort Lauderdale
$$ | (954) 900-4583 | WEBSITE
El Tiesto Cafe Fort Lauderdale is a Dominican/sushi fusion spot where you can get creative rolls and Dominican appetizers. They also have impressive drinks, and they’re flavorful and balanced without being too strong. Order the El Dragon, and add Mofonguitos.
Sushi To Go
$ | (954) 485-9966 | WEBSITE
Sushi To Go is a family-owned spot in Fort Lauderdale that also happens to make excellent spicy salmon rolls. Grab a seat at the counter and order the baked salmon roll and a JB roll for dinner, then take home some spicy tuna to-go. It’s typically served in combo platters, but if you ask for a single roll they’ll happily accommodate.
Trapbachi
$$ | (786) 280-1314 | WEBSITE
There’s a modern Japanese spot in Fort Lauderdale, and it’s incredibly inviting. It’s also very creative, and you’ll probably wind up with leftovers while you wait for your lemon pepper wings.
Sushi
$$$ | (954) 779-2735 | WEBSITE
If you woke up this morning in the mood to eat some fresh, beautiful sushi, you should probably do it at Sushi near Galleria Mall, where you can get a Boat for 2 with nice thick pieces of sashimi for just $38. The sushi here is very good – a nice combo of fresh and delicious. Sometimes they have other dishes too, like pho or Tom Yum Soup with perfectly cooked shrimp, which you can opt to enjoy alongside your sushi or on their own.
LUCKY CAT STREET EATERY
$ | (954) 909-5301 | WEBSITE
Lucky Cat Street Eatery is a Thai-Japanese spot in Fort Lauderdale with a few standout dishes that are very good, very flavorful – like fried duck, bao buns, and sushi. There isn’t much signage or advertisement that they have boba, so you just have to ask.
Mastro’s Ocean Club
$$$$ | (954) 561-4800 | WEBSITE
Mastro’s Ocean Club doesn’t need a whole lot of explanation. It’s classic and foolproof. You’re here for something exceptional, like the New York strip or Chilean sea bass, ideally paired with that must-try pretzel bread basket (although you’ll also find rotating live music performances, like Valerie Marie). There are tons of special occasions celebrated here, and we’re not going to include them all here – but they do have their own attentive staff you can rely on for a seamless experience.
17th Street Thai Sushi
$$ | (954) 994-1717 | WEBSITE
Sushi cravings aren’t the only thing people line up for at 17th Street Thai Sushi. 17th Street Thai Sushi is the Thai and sushi spot in the south east of Fort Lauderdale, and they’re famous for their lunch specials and dinner menu, which are both exceptional. It’s a tough choice for us between the Sakura Roll and the Pomegranate cocktail.
Sushi Addicts
$ | (954) 404-7552 | WEBSITE
If you love sushi and appreciate honest value, this is your kind of place. Pick from their fresh selection, where everything tastes like it just came from the water. Options include salmon ceviche, salmon addict, volcano rolls, and the must-try tostones tuna—crispy outside, tender inside. The number of delicious choices will either excite you or make decisions difficult, depending on your personality.
Okinawa Teriyaki & Sushi Express
$ | (954) 533-1208 | WEBSITE
Do you need a California roll that’s fresh and well-made? Better question: do you want it? Because that’s exactly what you can get at this spot in Fort Lauderdale. The sushi itself is consistently excellent, and you can choose between chicken teriyaki, vegetarian options, and other Japanese favorites, plus a few different bento box combinations like the popular to-go option.
(You can also just get sushi on its own, or a generous portion of teriyaki.) If you do add the bento box – and you should seriously consider it, since the affordable price/good value combination feels great – we’d suggest sticking to the under $12 special.
Phat Boy Sushi, Kitchen & Bar – Oakland Park
$$ | (954) 533-4218 | WEBSITE
This sort of feels like a neighborhood gem, only the neighborhood is Oakland Park and the offerings are things you can almost convince yourself you need – like smoky salmon sushi trios, marinated steak with ginger, and pork belly that’s been described as the best ever tasted. It’s also a sushi and ramen spot that makes cocktails.
Theirs are crafted by highly skilled bartenders, but they don’t taste like anything besides very refreshing drinks like the cucumber cooler and smooth options like the old fashion.
Beg for More Thai Sushi
$$ | (954) 900-3082 | WEBSITE
Beg for More Thai Sushi is a full-service restaurant tucked away in a small strip mall on a busy street, but this hidden gem also offers exceptional food and service that makes you want to beg for more. The standout dishes include the pineapple rice, Beg for More Chicken, and Drunken Noodles, all served in fresh and generous portions. You can also enjoy good quality sushi with generous fish portions, along with a variety of menu options like miso soup, wonton soup, and octopus salad.
The friendly, polite, and attentive staff contribute to a fabulous meal experience, and the restaurant is always clean and welcoming. While the ambiance could be improved due to its location, the great prices and delicious food—such as the Pad Se Eaw, Picasso roll, and Red curry with chicken—make it highly recommended for those seeking a tasty and satisfying meal.
Thai Moon by the Sea, Thai Food & Sushi
$$ | (954) 772-7766 | WEBSITE
The sushi at Thai Moon by the Sea in Fort Lauderdale is all fresh and made daily, with the ocean safari roll being a standout. The menu changes pretty often, but we particularly like the Massaman Curry and the Lobster Crunch Roll.
MISO Japanese Tapas
$$$ | (954) 530-3351 | WEBSITE
MISO Japanese Tapas may be pricey (around $18 for small plates) and some diners might spend more time admiring the stylish, minimalist décor than actually eating, but everything at this cozy Fort Lauderdale spot also happens to be exceptional. The fresh sushi, which includes highlights like the Miso Edamame or scallops, is served in a lovely dining area (the type you’d choose for a date night), and complemented by things like customizable veggie ramen and okonomiyaki tots.
Sushi Sake
$$ | (954) 870-7337 | WEBSITE
While the sushi itself at Sushi Sake is definitely fresh, the creative fusion rolls and unique drinks set this place apart (the specials rotate regularly, and might include things like the Latin-inspired Calle Ocho and the spicy Hamachi Roll). The Marlin roll with seared scallop is expertly prepared but never overwhelming, and the drinks, like their signature blue berry mojito, are so refreshing you’ll want to order a second one immediately.
Don’t do that – just enjoy the happy hour pricing instead.
Koi – Sushi Lounge
$$ | (954) 525-3541 | WEBSITE
You’ve likely heard about Koi – Sushi Lounge’s happy hour deals, which feature discounted drinks and appetizers. The Tuna Tartar here has a unique, creamy texture, while the Toro slices are reasonably priced. The Sashimi three ways offers vibrant flavors that enhance the fish’s natural taste. The outdoor seating area provides a pleasant atmosphere with high walls for privacy, and the sushi bar inside is a cozy spot to avoid the bustle.
The shrimp and lobster soup is excellent for takeout, with fresh, delicious ingredients throughout. This spot feels like a hidden gem, offering friendly service and a welcoming environment for families. The Fry Ri and lamb appetizers are solid choices. While the sushi might not reach Nobu’s level, the value for money is strong, and the flavors are satisfying. It’s wise to skip the happy hour specials or discounted meals, as the sushi quality can dip during those times.
Overall, Koi – Sushi Lounge is worth checking out for its consistent quality and attentive service, even outside of promotional hours.
TAKATO
$$$$ | (954) 414-5160 | WEBSITE
Salmon Tataki, Brussels Sprouts, Duck Bao Buns. These are some of the dishes you can order from the friendly servers at TAKATO. Two other things to know: you will be enjoying ocean views, and you should try the Watermelon mocktail.
Tee Jay Thai Sushi
$$ | (954) 771-4447 | WEBSITE
Tee Jay Thai Sushi offers two standout rolls: the Chicken Shitakti, and the lobster sushi. They each deliver fantastic flavor and, if you can’t decide which you want, you can also get both as part of a combo. The Apple martini is a must-try alongside them. With plenty of vegetarian options available, it’s a great place for sushi, offering authentic Thai and sushi choices.
Despite occasional busy times that can slow things down, the consistently delicious and fresh food always hits the spot, making it a favorite for both dine-in and takeout.