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A factor of Brazil having the second largest Japanese community outside of Japan and a local love of their exotic gastronomy, Rio de Janeiro has a surprisingly large number of outstanding sushi restaurants. Some of the best in the city are concentrated in Rio’s wealthiest neighbourhood, Leblon. The price tag is steep compared to the rest of the city but with it comes quality sushi.

Deusimar Sushi

Restaurant, Japanese

Sushi
© Nelson Porto, Lapa La na/Flickr

Taking its name after the chef that inspires and creates the menu, Deusimar sushi in Leblon is a small yet popular venue with several sushi options in addition to other authentic Japanese food. Take a seat on the sidewalk to watch the elegant crowds in Leblon mingle on the weekend while enjoying a combination of sushi and sashimi served on a boat-themed plate.

Manekineko

Restaurant, Sushi, Japanese, Asian

Tuna sushi
© Nelson Porto, Lapa La na/Flickr

This modern chain has a wide selection of typical sushi and temaki, followed by a dessert menu that is decidedly more North American (think brownies and ice cream.) The main options for dining are the rodizio which is an all-you-can-eat sushi menu at a fixed price or the combos which include a set number of various sushi types at different price tiers depending on quantity.

Minimoki

Restaurant, Japanese

Sushi
© NelsonPorto, Lapa La na/Flickr

Located on Leblon’s main after-hours strip of Rua Dias Ferreira, the upscale surroundings hint at the prestige and quality of the food inside. It may be small and compact yet the fresh sashimi and diversity of sushi options draws in a big crowd who happily place their names on the waiting list and kill time drinking before finally getting a seat to enjoy a night of beautifully presented and delicious sushi.

Sushi Carioca

Restaurant, Japanese

Sushi options
© Nelson Porto, Lapa La na/Flickr

This contemporary Japanese restaurant is one of the most popular of its kind in Leblon. The tasting menu gives a sample of everything granting a culinary experience that explores several Japanese food types in addition to sushi. The rodizio is ideal for those with a big appetite and looking to try as much sushi on the menu as possible. Be sure to try the salmon and cream cheese harumaki. It may not be the most authentic Japanese experience out there but it is mouth-wateringly delicious.

Sushi Leblon

Restaurant, Japanese, Sushi

Temakinhos
© Nelson Porto, Lapa La na/Flickr

Its elegant and perfectly considered décor seems something straight out of New York or London with the price tag to match. This has created a love-hate relationship with many clients who feel the pinch when the bill comes. Yet the contemporary sushi dishes that rarely fail to amaze for their taste and creativity keep even the most reluctant spender coming back for more. A mix of the freshest fish and wonderful flavour combinations has made Sushi Leblon the busiest venue on Rua Dias Ferreira.

Togu

Restaurant, Japanese, Asian

Various sushi choices
© Nelson Porto, Lapa La na/Flickr

Togu is an Asian-fusion restaurant that perfectly blends the flavours of Thailand, India, Vietnam, China and Japan. The rich diversity of the menu satisfies a large audience yet for those looking specifically for sushi, Togu still has solid options including combo sushi, temaki and sashimi choices. Wash it all down with their chilled, authentic saké.

About the author

Sarah is a British freelance journalist and writer based in Rio de Janeiro. Her favourite travel experiences so far include swimming with whale sharks in Mexico, trekking through Rio's urban forest and enjoying the city life in Madrid. Find her on Instagram @sbgrio

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