When it comes to sushi, ‘Japanese’ barely scratches the surface. The art spans from Tokyo’s minimalist Edomae to Osaka’s vibrant street-style, each with its own distinct philosophy. And yet, we get asked about the topic constantly. So the next time you crave pristine nigiri or maybe a creative omakase experience, start here. In the interest of keeping this guide focused, we’re sticking to our favorite Fort Lauderdale spots that master the essentials.
TAKATO
$$$$ | (954) 414-5160 | WEBSITE
So, no, TAKATO in Fort Lauderdale is not brought to you by the people behind some generic sushi chain. There are similar oceanfront views, the same warm, dinner party-like atmosphere, and they both look like they were designed by someone who went to interior design school in Japan. But only at TAKATO can you go for their Salmon Tataki, Duck Bao Buns, and Shrimp Fried Rice $45 sharing menu and throw in extras like crispy Brussel Sprouts and that must-try Watermelon mocktail.
The large menu gives the sushi bar the versatility to work for a lunch with friends and an exciting date where you’ll share a couple bottles and want to order everything in sight (you should). Plus, the friendly staff like Asia, Mia, Vincent, and Adam means you can take that warm hospitality to go.
KUBO Asian fusion and bar -Ft. lauderdale
$$ | (954) 533-9017 | WEBSITE
KUBO Asian Fusion and Bar has been a 17th Street staple since it opened, a hidden gem that’s become a local favorite for Asian food lovers. The casual spot serves fantastic crispy tuna, showstopping pork belly, and the best poke bowls within a five-mile radius. If you come late at night, they have a creative late-night menu with discounts after 10:30pm, perfect for a post-work bite.
If you come anytime you need comfort food, there’s the authentic chicken katsu curry and Shoyu Ramen that come with friendly, attentive service. It’s also got a great atmosphere, so if you’re like us and think good vibes should accompany every dish, you’ll feel right at home.
Phat Boy Sushi, Kitchen & Bar – Downtown
$$ | (954) 990-8669 | WEBSITE
Sure, Phat Boy Sushi is where you go when you want incredible sushi or can’t get into the trendier spots. But this lively downtown bar is also where you should walk in with a few friends or come for a solo meal and happily live off of crispy bok choy, salmon sashimi, and five different specialty rolls every day of the week. The portions are generous, so you can save the rest for lunch the next day and further delay cooking that chicken breast that’s been in your fridge for the past few days.
Sushi By Bou
$$$$ | (888) 670-5996 | WEBSITE
Sushi By Bou is an upscale omakase spot in Fort Lauderdale that works for nearly any occasion, whether you want a fun and interactive dining experience with friends, or you’re seeking a memorable culinary adventure on a special date night. The restaurant and chefs are vibrant, and when you’re seated at the counter, there’s nowhere in the city as engaging as their 17-course omakase experience.
Sushi Rock Las Olas
$$ | (954) 462-5541 | WEBSITE
Sushi Rock Las Olas is the Beyoncé of sushi bars–this Fort Lauderdale spot serves one flawless roll after another. The elegant dining room has a handful of intimate tables where you should settle in for a date night, or grab a solo seat at the sushi bar and watch the meticulous chefs work their magic. The creative menu includes the must-try Wallflower roll, impeccably fresh nigiri with real wasabi, and perfectly fried gyoza that crackle with flavor.
Everything here is crafted for enjoyment, so you can savor a few rolls by yourself or share a feast with friends, and in case you want something stronger than sake, there’s a lively bar scene just steps away on Las Olas Street.
Sushi Song – Oakland Park
$$ | (954) 287-3875 | WEBSITE
Sushi Song – Oakland Park isn’t just one of our favorites for a sushi fix—it’s one of the top restaurants in Fort Lauderdale, period. The cozy, dark spot is great for groups, date night, or eating solo at the bar, thanks to the fresh, high-quality rolls, like the Boyzzz roll and volcano roll, and other shareables, like spicy edamame and tuna tataki. Bottom line—everything they slice and serve here is exceptional.
The bill can add up, so you’ll want to be strategic about when you come for a celebratory, sake-heavy meal (especially since there’s nothing on the menu you’ll say no to). Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.
Sakana Nikkei
$$$ | (954) 376-3857 | WEBSITE
Sakana Nikkei is a fusion spot that’s as good for an elegant date night as it is for a foodie’s solo exploration of ceviche. At this upscale restaurant, you’ll find couples sharing beautifully plated tiraditos, groups celebrating over creative sushi rolls, and a stunning, modern atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.
The menu is what you’d hope for: incredibly fresh ceviches, next-level tiraditos, exquisite seafood pasta, and flavor-packed sushi rolls—almost all executed with Japanese precision and bold Peruvian flair. And while it’s a restaurant full of exceptional dishes, the friendly, knowledgeable service and amazing atmosphere make the experience feel special every time.
Koi – Sushi Lounge
$$ | (954) 525-3541 | WEBSITE
In a city of predictable sushi spots, Koi – Sushi Lounge is a refreshing hidden gem. If you love tuna, come during happy hour, when the bar serves Toro slices that are priced surprisingly well for their quality (don’t forget to try the Tuna Tartar with its unique consistency). But during regular dinner hours, you’ll find families enjoying the kid-friendly atmosphere and couples escaping the crowd at the intimate sushi bar inside.
The outside seating offers pleasant privacy with its high walls, perfect for savoring the Sashimi three ways with its complementary flavors. It’s all delicious—the exceptional service is just a bonus.
Sushi-One
$ | (954) 761-9009 | WEBSITE
This Japanese spot in downtown Fort Lauderdale has had a loyal following since opening thanks to its delicious sushi and unbeatable prices. The flow of the meal is casual but never rushed, and the experience feels satisfying whether it’s a quick lunch at the counter or a simple dinner with friends. From the crispy gyoza and creative New Times roll to the comforting chicken curry special and fresh weekly bento boxes, it’s all worth the trip to the bustling plaza.
Sushi To Go
$ | (954) 485-9966 | WEBSITE
This sushi spot in Fort Lauderdale is as essential to the local food scene as the beach is to the coastline. The staff treats every customer like family, the friendly space feels like a classic New York or Jersey sushi bar, and if the spicy salmon roll doesn’t impress you, the baked salmon roll absolutely will. They also have fresh fish options, affordable specialty rolls, and combo platters that cater to all tastes.
Casa Sensei
$$$ | (954) 530-4176 | WEBSITE
Fort Lauderdale’s Casa Sensei delivers consistently excellent sushi and service, but it’s also just a really fun place to spend an evening. Everyone arriving seems thrilled, heading straight for the water’s edge tables, so the waterfront dining feels like a celebration at a favorite spot. Although it’s technically a sushi bar, almost everything else coming out of the kitchen works better than their rolls. Go for the fresh octopus.
They prepare it several ways, and while they’re all delicious, the one served with kimchi butter popcorn is the one we’d bring back to share with friends.
Tokyo Sushi Omakase Restaurant
$$ | (954) 955-3749 | WEBSITE
There’s a lot to love about Tokyo Sushi Omakase Restaurant. The sushi is excellent, the omakase experience is even better, and their open kitchen concept sets it apart from most other spots in Fort Lauderdale. They serve the best Japanese dishes around—like gyoza, eel dragon roll, and yakitori chicken crafted with fresh ingredients, which makes it a perfect place for a special night out.
Stop by for some beautifully presented tuna sushi before diving into their unforgettable omakase courses or gather at the counter with a friend and bond over your love of the Volcano roll.
17th Street Thai Sushi
$$ | (954) 994-1717 | WEBSITE
17th Street Thai Sushi is a cozy, modern, family-friendly spot in southeast Fort Lauderdale that wouldn’t be out of place in a bustling food hall.
The laid-back vibe aside, 17th Street’s service is always friendly, it’s warm and welcoming for groups of all sizes, and if you’re prepared for a reasonable treat (lunch specials are amazing, dinner mains start around 20 bucks a pop), it works well for expertly crafted Sakura Rolls, vibrant Papaya Salad, and tofu-free steamed tofu that should be on every table.
Sushi Sake
$$ | (954) 870-7337 | WEBSITE
There are many reasons to fall in love with Fort Lauderdale’s Sushi Sake. The charming restaurant has creative fusion dishes, Latin-flavored sushi like the Calle Ocho, and other offerings that could inspire an impromptu 2,000 word ramble on the joys of Japanese cuisine. They also have unique drinks—like the $12 blue berry mojito—that taste like fresh berries and mint made a sweet, refreshing baby.
Like most happy hour specials, they’re fruity, balanced, subtly sweet, and don’t require a small loan to enjoy a few. Whether you come in for a quick Marlin roll with seared scallop or the spicy Hamachi Roll, the inventive menu at the friendly spot inspires tried and true satisfaction.