Kani salad. California rolls. Yellowtail jalapeño. These are all staple dishes in any sushi restaurant you may visit. However, it is always refreshing to see how each venue manages to prepare these and other typical dishes differently. This uniqueness is especially true of Manhattan‘s Upper East Side. Below, we profile the top 10 sushi restaurants in the area.
With six separate locations scattered across the city, Haru Sushi is always growing and expanding upon popular demand. Originally beginning on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, Haru is now one of the most recognizable names in the sushi industry. The Upper East Side location, on the corner of Third Avenue and East 76th Street, has been serving customers since 1997. Recently renovated, the new and improved Haru features a spacious and elegant inside, outdoor seating, and seasonal specials to complement the already-lavish menu.
Located right off of 1st Avenue on 78th Street, Sushi of Gari truly portrays what it means to dine in the Upper East Side. With conservative, classy decor, a large menu and three other locations scattered across the city, it’s easy to understand why this restaurant is so popular today. The menu offers everything from signature rolls to cooked black seaweed.
Tanoshi Sushi Sake Bar, New York | Image Courtesy of Sushi Seki
Tanoshi Sushi Sake Bar
Tanoshi Sushi Sake Bar proves that sometimes the simpler a dish, the better. Open-minded Chef Toshio, who created new wave sushi in the past, has now committed himself and his restaurant to reviving the classic preparation of sushi. His large menu, which features a wide variety of dishes, also features his specialty, “loosey-sushi.” In other words, this is sushi made with minimal ingredients that practically melts in your mouth.
Sushi Seki has been long regarded as one of the leading sushi restaurants in New York City. The restaurant is owned and operated by Chef Seki Shi, a master sushi chef who completed his training in Tokyo and has now committed himself to preparing only the finest dishes for his customers. With a combined 30 years of experience between the restaurant’s present sushi chefs, Sushi Seki is one of the finest and most authentic eateries you can find in the City.
With an inviting and contemporary atmosphere, Yuka Japanese Restaurant offers a truly unique restaurant experience. Staying true to Japanese tradition, Yuka Japanese Restaurant strives to achieve the best when it comes to food and service. With an accommodating and helpful staff, paired with a menu that has options for everyone, Yuka is a can’t-miss restaurant for any sushi lover.
Matsu Sushi has maintained its reputation as one of the leading sushi restaurants on the Upper East Side. A small alcove carved out of a busy New York street, Matsu offers solace from the hustle and bustle of city life. With classic Japanese to Americanized menu options, Matsu ensures that all diners are satisfied and excited to come back again.
If what you’re looking for is a quick sushi lunch or takeout Japanese, Ko is the place to go. Situated on the corner of Second Avenue and 70th Street, Ko Sushi is a popular choice among locals and tourists alike. Serving everything from your traditional rolls to live lobster specials, it’s no wonder why this traditional Japanese eatery is a popular choice.
Since 1997, Isohama has served the residents of the Upper East Side quality food at reasonable prices. Boasting a full menu that will cater to anyone’s dining preferences, Isohama has truly made its mark as a quality and long-standing Japanese establishment.
For a classic sushi dinner, Wajima Japanese Restaurant will definitely not disappoint. Friendly service and an inviting atmosphere have made this restaurant a staple of the community. From fresh sashimi, to tempura dishes, to soba noodles, Wajima incorporates aspects of not only classic sushi dishes, but of all traditional Japanese delicacies.
For diners who want a fun and laid-back option, Wasabi Lobby is an excellent choice. Boasting an exceptionally large menu, especially for lunch, there seems to be an option for everyone here. With colorful and appealing dishes that could make anyone hungry, Wasabi Lobby is a sure bet for any sushi lover.
