Fort Lauderdale’s sushi scene isn’t just about fresh fish—it’s a coastal community where chefs have been perfecting their craft for decades. This stretch of Florida coastline boasts one of the state’s most concentrated collections of authentic sushi bars, each with its own story woven into the fabric of the city.
BKK Thai & Sushi by Cilantro
$$ | (954) 900-2428 | WEBSITE
This Fort Lauderdale spot has been a neighborhood favorite since it first opened, and I’m definitely a fan. They’re authentic Thai with a sushi twist, and their BKK salt pepper duck is really good. BKK Thai & Sushi is welcoming and cozy at the same time, something the owners clearly aimed for in creating a place where everyone feels comfortable. Other standout dishes include the beautifully presented Moo Yang, the crispy pork belly, and the Som Tam tray.
With friendly servers like Tik and Kartoon, plus that second-floor setup perfect for game days, it’s easy to see why this place comes so highly recommended.
Phat Boy Sushi, Kitchen & Bar – Downtown
$$ | (954) 990-8669 | WEBSITE
Sushi is often lumped together with generic Asian cuisine, because many spots offer similar rolls and ingredients, and some sushi bars will also serve a lot of pan-Asian dishes. “I specifically mentioned the Phat Girl and Dragon rolls because you won’t find those at typical sushi places,” says the bartender. The crispy bok choy and salmon sashimi stand out as unique offerings, while the chicken karaage and ramen dishes have become particularly popular with regulars.
The staff is generally friendly and knowledgeable, though some customers have noted that the manager’s interactions with employees in front of clients can be demeaning, which may contribute to staff turnover. Overall, Phat Boy Sushi offers a high-quality experience with a lively downtown atmosphere, where the bartender’s excellent recommendations and top-notch service make it a great spot for delicious food and drinks.
TAKATO
$$$$ | (954) 414-5160 | WEBSITE
With sushi bars, you’ll find the traditional experience, which focuses on pristine fish and minimalist presentation; and the modern experience, which incorporates fusion elements and creative small plates. TAKATO has both, but they are known for the modern approach, like their Salmon Tataki and Duck Bao Buns.
Their fried chicken fried rice is also really good, it’s akin to a comfort dish, but not as heavy, and balanced with fresh vegetables and something like Brussel Sprouts, which are roasted until crispy, with a savory and slightly sweet flavor.
Sushi To Go
$ | (954) 485-9966 | WEBSITE
“For sushi that hits the spot every time, Sushi To Go is the best,” says one regular. “We have these rolls called specialty rolls, which are fresh fish or sometimes cooked ingredients, with spicy mayo, avocado, and sesame seeds. Sushi To Go’s spicy salmon roll and baked salmon roll are both really good, and you eat them with soy sauce and wasabi.” Combo platters are another staple of the menu, and the JB roll is almost like the signature dish, says the regular.
“Sometimes they’ll bake it or top it with sauces like spicy mayo, eel sauce, and tempura flakes.”
Sushi Rock Las Olas
$$ | (954) 462-5541 | WEBSITE
Any Fort Lauderdale sushi list, this place needs to be on there. I believe it’s one of the best sushi spots on Las Olas Street. I usually order the Wallflower roll, which has a little kick to it, and I also enjoy the fried gyoza.
17th Street Thai Sushi
$$ | (954) 994-1717 | WEBSITE
“Thai” in the name might suggest one thing, but this spot in the southeast of Fort Lauderdale is where Thai and Japanese traditions beautifully collide. 17th Street Thai Sushi, much like other fusion spots (though this one feels particularly authentic), serves up a menu where the lunch specials are amazing and the dinner offerings are exceptional. For vegetarians, there’s the delicious steamed tofu.
The standout is the Sakura Roll, a beautifully plated creation packed with fresh fish, offering an excellent mix of texture and taste. It’s paired perfectly with their recommended Pomegranate cocktail. The Green Salad, with its ultra-fresh greens and a house-made ginger dressing, is surprisingly vibrant. The Hamachi Sashimi, served as Hamachi Jalapeño, is melt-in-your-mouth tender with a delicate kick. The Tom Yum Soup is delicious, and the Pad See Ew is loved.
The Papaya Salad is perfectly spiced, crisp, and vibrant, while the Kanisu provides a refreshing burst of cucumber-wrapped crab and avocado. The food is fantastic, the service is great and friendly, and the atmosphere is nice—cozy yet modern, laid back and family-friendly. The attention to detail truly makes the meal memorable. With generous portion sizes and everything from the food and drinks to the ambiance and service on point, it’s a hidden gem worth returning to again and again.
The amount of dine-in and takeaway customers is another sign that it’s a good decision to eat here.
Sushi Sake
$$ | (954) 870-7337 | WEBSITE
According to locals, Sushi Sake in Fort Lauderdale is the best place for sushi, or Japanese fusion cuisine. “I like their Marlin roll and Hamachi roll a lot,” they say. Sushi Sake also has a wide variety of creative dishes and drinks like the Calle Ocho, blue berry mojito, and seared scallop specialties.
S3 (Sun Surf Sand)
$$$ | (954) 523-7873 | WEBSITE
“S3 is one of the more stunning waterfront spots in Fort Lauderdale,” says the reviewer. They specialize in high-quality seafood and sushi. “They have this exceptional Omakase experience featuring nigiri and sashimi that’s really fresh and innovative,” says the reviewer. “And they do a popular dragon roll as well.”
MISO Japanese Tapas
$$$ | (954) 530-3351 | WEBSITE
We’re also really big into Japanese tapas. MISO Japanese Tapas has that lovely spot to share food with friends, family, or a date, and they serve fresh and tasty small plates. Their Miso Edamame is a big deal.
Sushi Song – Oakland Park
$$ | (954) 287-3875 | WEBSITE
This top-rated sushi bar has become a staple and has almost reached landmark status in Oakland Park, along with the other favorites in Fort Lauderdale, says this regular. “They have a great Boyzzz roll that’s always fresh and flavorful and is a go-to quick bite,” he says. “They have a skilled sushi chef in there so their fish is nice and high-quality, and they put that unique house salad dressing on the side.”
Casa Sensei
$$$ | (954) 530-4176 | WEBSITE
My go-to sushi bar in Fort Lauderdale, Casa Sensei serves my favorite fresh sushi. I also always get their octopus, which is tender and perfectly seasoned, and they have a really fun kimchi butter popcorn that’s addictive, that’s served as a starter. The spot is always bustling and it’s easy to spend around $25 if you want—even less if you only order sushi rolls.
