Ottawa is known for many things – Gatineau Park, the Rideau Canal, Parliament Hill, and an array of lively festivals.
But one thing it doesn’t get enough credit for? Incredible sushi restaurants! Indeed, any sushi connoisseur who’s been there can tell you that the capital city brings its A-game when it comes to fresh sushi. We have no doubt that you’ll enjoy the top-notch nigiri, sashimi, and extensive variety of rolls along those picturesque riverbanks – most sourced from the freshest of ingredients, of course.
Whether you’d like to curb your sushi craving through Uber Eats or want to enjoy an exceptional dining experience at an upscale Japanese restaurant, these are the top spots for the best sushi in Ottawa.
Sushi-ro
Location: 1123 Wellington St.
Here’s one that always seems to hit the spot as far as the top sushi spots in Ottawa are concerned!
Just a quick warning before we get into that one though: With a high star rating, Sushi-ro is really busy so be sure to call ahead. Weekends can get especially crowded, so we recommend visiting on a weekday.
The restaurant is all set to deliver a great experience, with plenty of delicious sushi on the menu, including various types of Sashimi, Nigiri, Maki Rolls, and Moriawase. Along with a varied sushi menu, this place also serves other Japanese dishes like Tonkotsu Ramen, Bento Boxes and Takoyaki which are deep-fried octopus coated in a light batter.
Shinka Sushi Bar
Location: 2900 Sheffield Rd.
Next up on our list of the best sushi in Ottawa is Shinka Sushi Bar, a place that’s bound to please fans of creative Maki rolls. This restaurant is especially known for using gloriously fresh ingredients – perfect for winning over even the fussiest of taste buds!
Inside, Shinka Sushi Bar has a classy, club-like atmosphere, which complements its minimalist, yet innovative dishes. Think Sea Bass Nigiri, Spicy Lobster Gunkan, Hokkaido Scallop Sashimi, and the like. With a super friendly service, the sushi bar also offers just about every type of poke bowl you can think of.
Plus, they’ve also got a diverse selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options as well.
Orchid Sushi
Location: 445 Laurier Ave W.
Easily one of the most popular places to eat sushi in Ottawa, Orchid Sushi features an innovative menu that’s both scrumptious and stunning.
This casual restaurant is always packed, but you can always order through the restaurant’s website if you prefer.
Describing itself as a ‘premier Asian food destination’, Orchid Sushi offers classic Japanese food like the Ahi Tuna Poke Bowl and the Shrimp Tempura Poke. They’re especially known for their signature rolls like the Salad Roll or the Chef’s Famous Roll, which are deep-fried seafood rolls served with plum sauce and assorted vegetables. Yum!
If you’re visiting during the day, you can always pick something from their Lunch Combo Menu, which features platters with 12, 15, 16, or 20 sushi pieces.
Sushi 88
Location: 690 Somerset St W.
Sushi isn’t exactly known for being cheap but rest assured that Ottawa does have some budget-friendly restaurants that don’t compromise on quality. If you’re looking for the most affordable spots, you can always check out Sushi 88, located in the city’s Chinatown!
From their creative sashimi platters to their extensive selection of sushi rolls, this spot’s certainly got it all. The only downside is that mealtimes can get pretty busy.
Sushi 88 is an excellent option for groups since it offers options like the 70-piece Sashimi Sushi Party Platter or the 48-piece Maki Mix. Bear in mind that platters take longer to prepare, so you can always call ahead or order them through the restaurant’s website.
Genji Japanese Restaurant
Address: 175 Lisgar St.
We sure hope you’ve worked up an appetite because you’re going to need it!
Not only does Genji Japanese Restaurant offer a variety of options as far as sushi and classic Japanese fare are concerned, but they’re also known for their selection of wines and sakes, all served in a traditional Japanese setting.
One of the best things about Genji Japanese Restaurant is that it’s something of a hidden gem in Ottawa since not a lot of out-of-towners seem to know about it. While you’ll find plenty of classic options on the menu, Genji also features more contemporary offerings like the Great Canadian Maki, which combines lobster, asparagus, smoked salmon, cucumber, and Japanese mayo.
Tomo Restaurant
Location: 109 Clarence St.
Quirky murals, a creative menu, and the finest ingredients beckon at Tomo Restaurant, a trendy spot located in downtown Ottawa.
This mid-priced restaurant boasts an eclectic menu, from traditional favourites to more creative inventions like their signature Tomo Roll which consists of tempura shrimp, masago, lightly seared beef, spicy mayo, and avocado. Pair this with a glass of Sake and you’ve got yourself a winning combo!
Along with sushi, Tomo also offers traditional Japanese dishes, with specialties like Octopus Carpaccio, Grilled Squid, and their popular 12 oz Wagyu Steak. If you don’t want to dine in, you can always opt for pickup or delivery through the restaurant’s website.
Hanabi Japanese Cuisine
Location: 434 Bank St.
Classic Japanese aesthetics, reasonable prices, and a super versatile menu? Uhm, yes, please!
Located on Bank Street, Hanabi is a fan favourite – as evidenced by the crowds of people that usually flock there at lunchtime. The menu boasts quite a varied selection of Japanese dishes like Chashu Tonkotsu Ramen, Tempuras, and Teriyaki Seafood Bowls.
Sushi-wise, this place is especially known for its Deluxe Maki Dinner. This 23-piece platter combines Teriyaki Chicken, Tuna, Spicy Salmon, California, Gold Dragon, and Black Dragon rolls.
Alternatively, you can always order from their Fusion Special menu which offers scrumptious options like the signature Hanabi House Roll. This 8-piece roll comes with your own choice of fish topping, tempura bits, avocado, cucumber, fish roe, cheese, and unagi sauce. Talk about the ultimate blend of flavours, right?
For something that’s classically Japanese, you can also try their famous Bento Boxes.
Japanese Village
Location: 170 Laurier Ave W.
With table-side hibachi performances, Japanese Village serves up a lively vibe with some of the best sushi in Ottawa. Unlike other sushi restaurants, Japanese Village even accepts custom orders so you can mix and match various flavours to create your own unique dish.
With teppanyaki tables that promise plenty of entertainment, Japanese Village is also known for its generous portions.
Their sushi rolls are prepared right in front of you and there’s plenty to choose from. Fan favourites include Una Don (barbecued eel), Fugtsu, and Kagetsu which features 4 types of sashimi, 4 pieces of sushi, and a Makisushi roll. They also have an a la carte sushi menu filled with the classics.
You can always cap off your meal with a Japanese-themed dessert like their Green Tea Ice Cream!
J:unique Kitchen
Location: 381 Cooper St.
Last up on our list of best sushi in Ottawa is J:unique Kitchen, which is known for its creative fusion dishes. If you’re on a budget, you’ll be glad to learn that the restaurant features shareable combo meals that usually consist of a drink, an entrée, and a soup or a salad. Most dishes are affordable and no, they do not skimp on portion sizes either!
While they do serve traditional sushi, their menu also has a ‘Special Roll’ section where you can sample some of their more unique rolls like Crazy Boy (deep fried roll with crab meat), Crazy Girl (crab meat, smoked salmon, and cream cheese) or Godzilla Bite (deep fried rice sheet with seaweed, tuna, scallops, salmon, and signature sauces).
The only downside to this restaurant is that it’s often busy. Reservations aren’t accepted so be sure to head there early to snag a table.
Hokkaido Sushi
Location: 272 Dalhousie St.
If you’re looking for the best sushi in Ottawa combined with amazing customer service and an innovative menu, then you can’t miss a visit to Hokkaido!
Not only is the menu inspired by traditional Japanese flavours, but the restaurant perfectly harmonizes presentation and taste. Now, while Hokkaido Sushi does respect classic preparation methods, they don’t shy away from innovations. As such, you can expect unique items like the Surf Clam Sashimi and the House Special Beef Sashimi.
There’s also an extensive selection of sushi rolls like the Yam Tempura & Avocado roll, Mango & Shrimp roll, and Fish Dragon roll.
Looking for things to do?
We hope this guide helps you plan your next culinary adventure in Ottawa!
After getting your fill of sushi, however, you’ll probably be on the prowl for more exciting things to do in Ottawa. It is the capital of Canada, after all!
For more things to do in Ottawa, check out the travel guides below:
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