Melbourne’s culinary scene is a treasure trove of diverse flavours, but when it comes to sushi, we’re truly spoiled for choice. From hidden gems tucked away in laneways to high-end restaurants with breathtaking views, the city offers a sushi experience for every palate and occasion. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or just dipping your chopsticks into this Japanese delicacy for the first time, Melbourne’s sushi landscape is sure to impress.
As someone who’s spent years exploring Melbourne’s Japanese food scene, I can confidently say that the quality and creativity of sushi in this city rivals that of Tokyo itself. The best sushi in Melbourne isn’t just about fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice – it’s about the entire dining experience. From the moment you step into the restaurant to the last bite of your meal, every detail contributes to the enjoyment of this Japanese art form.
Let’s explore a curated list of Melbourne’s top sushi spots, each offering its own take on this popular Japanese cuisine. We’ll explore everything from traditional sushi bars to innovative fusion restaurants, giving you a comprehensive guide to finding the best sushi in Melbourne.
Traditional Sushi Mastery in Melbourne
For those seeking an authentic sushi experience, Melbourne has several establishments offering traditional Japanese techniques and flavours. These Japanese restaurants take pride in their traditional Japanese cooking, often using family recipes passed down through generations. They source the freshest ingredients and prepare each dish with precision, offering a taste of the best sushi in Melbourne.
Kenzan: A Time-Honoured Tradition
Kenzan has been a cornerstone of Melbourne’s Japanese dining scene since 1981. This restaurant has maintained its commitment to traditional Japanese cuisine, offering a dining experience that transports you straight to Tokyo. The sushi chefs at Kenzan are masters of their craft, expertly slicing fish and forming nigiri with precision and care.
What sets Kenzan apart is its dedication to sourcing the freshest seafood available for the best sushi in Melbourne. The sushi menu changes daily based on the catch, ensuring that you’re always getting the best of what’s in season. Their chirashi sushi – a bowl of sushi rice topped with an assortment of sashimi – is a must-try for sushi lovers looking to sample a variety of fish in one dish.
Minamishima: The Art of Omakase
For a truly exceptional best sushi in Melbourne‘s experience, Minamishima in Richmond is unparalleled. Chef Koichi Minamishima brings decades of experience to his omakase-style restaurant, where each piece of sushi is crafted as an extension of his culinary philosophy.
The omakase menu at Minamishima is a journey through the finest seafood, prepared with meticulous attention to detail. From the temperature of the rice to the precise cut of the fish, every element is considered. It’s not just a meal; it’s a performance of sushi artistry that elevates the dining experience to new heights. Prepare to be amazed by the chef’s skills and the exquisite flavours of each carefully crafted piece as the best sushi in Melbourne.
Innovative Fusion: Where Tradition Meets Creativity
Melbourne’s sushi scene isn’t just about tradition – it’s also about innovation. Several restaurants are pushing the boundaries of what sushi can be, blending Japanese techniques with local ingredients and international flavours.
Supernormal: Asian Fusion with a Sushi Twist
Supernormal, located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, offers a unique take on Asian fusion cuisine, including some inventive sushi rolls. Opened in 2014, this restaurant has quickly become a favourite best sushi in Melbourne among locals and tourists alike for its creative menu and vibrant atmosphere.
While not strictly a sushi restaurant, Supernormal’s sushi offerings are noteworthy. Their lobster roll, for instance, combines traditional sushi elements with a luxurious twist. The fusion of Japanese flavours with modern Australian cuisine results in sushi that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
Mr Ryu: Modern Gastronomic Delights
Mr Ryu in South Yarra is where traditional Japanese cuisine meets modern gastronomy. Their menu is a testament to the chef’s creativity, offering sushi that pushes the boundaries of flavour combinations and presentation. This contemporary Japanese restaurant is known for its use of Australian ingredients and its signature dishes that are both beautiful and delicious.
One of their standout dishes is the tuna sashimi tacos, a playful fusion of Japanese and Mexican cuisines. This unique approach to sushi makes Mr Ryu a must-visit for those looking to experience the cutting edge of the best sushi in Melbourne.
Casual Sushi Spots for Every Day
Sometimes, you just want a quick, delicious sushi fix without the formality of a high-end restaurant. Melbourne has plenty of casual spots that deliver quality sushi without breaking the bank.
Hinoki Japanese Pantry: A Sushi Bar and More
Hinoki Japanese Pantry in Fitzroy is a local gem that serves as both a sushi bar and a Japanese grocer. This unique setup allows them to offer an impressive variety of the best sushi in Melbourne made with top-quality ingredients.
Their sushi counter boasts over 80 options, ranging from classic nigiri to creative maki rolls. What’s great about Hinoki is that you can enjoy your sushi on the spot or take it home along with some Japanese groceries to recreate the experience in your own kitchen.
Sakura Kaiten Sushi: The Joy of Sushi Trains
For a fun and interactive best sushi in Melbourne‘s experience, Sakura Kaiten Sushi offers a delightful sushi train setup. This style of dining allows you to see all the options passing by and pick whatever catches your eye.
Sakura Kaiten Sushi is particularly known for its fresh sashimi. The variety and quality of fish available make it a great spot for sashimi lovers to indulge in their favourite cuts. Whether you prefer salmon, tuna, kingfish, or something more exotic, you’re sure to find something to tantalise your taste buds.
Sushi with a View: Dining Experiences to Remember
Melbourne’s stunning cityscape provides the perfect backdrop for enjoying sushi. Several restaurants combine great food with breathtaking views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Nobu: Celebrity Chef Sushi with Skyline Views
Nobu, part of the global empire of celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, offers a high-end sushi in Melbourne experience with views to match. Located in Crown Melbourne, Nobu combines innovative Japanese cuisine with stunning views of the Yarra River and city skyline.
While Nobu is known for its fusion dishes, their sushi and sashimi are of exceptional quality. The yellowtail sashimi with jalapeño is a signature dish that perfectly encapsulates Nobu’s blend of traditional Japanese flavours with international influences.
Saké Restaurant & Bar: Sushi with Southbank Scenery
Saké Restaurant & Bar at Hamer Hall offers not just excellent sushi but also panoramic views of the Southbank promenade. This makes it an ideal spot for a pre-theatre, best sushi in Melbourne dinner or a special night out. Their extensive drinks menu includes a wide selection of sake, Japanese whisky, and cocktails, making it the perfect place to enjoy a drink with your meal.
Their sushi menu is extensive, featuring both traditional and contemporary options. The dragon roll, with its unagi and avocado combination, is a crowd favourite that pairs perfectly with the restaurant’s curated sake selection.
Hidden Sushi Gems
Some of Melbourne’s best sushi can be found in unexpected places. These hidden gems might not have the flashy locations, but they make up for it with exceptional quality and authentic flavours.
Komeyui: A Neighborhood Treasure
Komeyui in South Melbourne embodies the Japanese concept of gathering around good food. This unassuming restaurant serves some of the freshest and most meticulously prepared sushi in Melbourne. They also offer a range of Japanese snacks and small plates, perfect for sharing.
Their omakase sushi set is a highlight, offering a chef’s selection of the day’s best catches. What makes Komeyui special is not just the quality of the sushi, but the warm, familial atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re dining in someone’s home.
Wabi Sabi Salon: Collingwood’s Sushi Secret
Wabi Sabi Salon in Collingwood might be easy to miss, but it’s a spot that sushi enthusiasts swear by for the best sushi in Melbourne. This small restaurant, tucked away on Smith Street, combines traditional Japanese dishes with modern Australian influences.
Their sashimi platter is a work of art, featuring an assortment of fresh fish beautifully presented. The intimate setting and attention to detail in every dish make Wabi Sabi Salon a hidden gem worth seeking out.
Conclusion
The best sushi in Melbourne isn’t just about one restaurant or style – it’s about the incredible variety and quality available across the city. From traditional sushi bars that transport you to Japan to innovative fusion spots that push culinary boundaries, Melbourne’s sushi scene has something for everyone.
Whether you’re in the mood for a high-end omakase experience, a casual sushi train adventure, or a hidden neighborhood gem, the best sushi in Melbourne is waiting to be discovered. So grab your chopsticks and embark on a sushi journey through this diverse and delicious city. You might just find your new favourite spot among the wealth of options Melbourne has to offer.
