There’s a high probability that, at some point during this Oakland evening, you’re going to think to yourself, ‘I should probably try that new sushi bar.’
Elephant Sushi
$$ | (510) 922-9226 | WEBSITE
Elephant Sushi is a hidden gem in Oakland with an incredible selection of creative, high-quality sushi. Their fresh seafood rolls are among the best in the Bay Area, and we have nightly dreams about their veggie rolls. If you’re looking for something more delicate, their spicy cucumber salad is also very good. They’re open for dinner a few days each week, but reservations fill up quickly, so call early and they’ll hold your table for you.
Judoku Sushi
$$ | (510) 645-1912 | WEBSITE
If you don’t appreciate Judoku Sushi’s sashimi, then honestly, we have to wonder about your standards for raw fish. Beyond their extensive sushi selection, this outstanding Oakland spot offers an impressive array of ramen, grilled squid, and fried shrimp pop. You’ll be tempted to order the entire menu, but prioritize the nigiri and sashimi if you haven’t experienced them yet. Grab some noodles or grilled meats while you’re there.
Indoor dining in their hip space, or patio seating in their large backyard.
Ebiko
$ | (510) 903-6506 | WEBSITE
Oakland’s compact-but-reliable sushi spot Ebiko has got you covered if you’re in the East Bay, with fresh California rolls starting at $6. We recommend their omakase roll if it’s available – this is a generous, high-quality fish assortment that we like to enjoy plain. They’ve also got a whole bunch of Japanese options, like rice bowls, avocado rolls, side dishes – oh, and Asian snacks and drinks, too.
Currently, service is quick and takeout-focused (and is only available via grab-and-go), so the best bet is to stop by for a fast, tasty meal.
TGI Oni Sushi
$$ | (510) 879-7006 | WEBSITE
TGI Oni Sushi sits in a quiet corner of Oakland that we can almost guarantee you’ve walked right past before. And in addition to consistently exceptional Toro and Uni, this sushi bar has some truly creative rolls, fresh sashimi, and one of the area’s best Lion King rolls with its smokey cheese sauce. Open for dinner nightly, with a peaceful, casual ambiance that makes it perfect for intimate conversations.
Kakui Sushi
$$ | (510) 338-1188 | WEBSITE
Kakui Sushi, the popular Oakland sushi destination (well, not right now) is open daily for takeout. They’ve got tremendous creative small plates and appetizers – our favorite is the chef’s choice sashimi – along with exceptional service, a welcoming atmosphere, and the must-try Warrior Roll. Order ahead on their website.
Koryo Sushi
$$ | (510) 594-0661 | WEBSITE
Truth be told, it’s a gutsy move to keep a restaurant open until the wee hours. But Koryo Sushi, the Oakland spot known for their fresh sushi and chill vibe, does exactly that every night. And if you’ve consistently failed at finding a satisfying late-night meal, Koryo will make you feel better—because as soon as you taste their tremendous tuna tataki or spicy edamame, you’ll know that you never could have made anything this good, anyway.
They’ve also got miso soup and hamachi Kama, too, if you want something heartier. Dine-in or takeout available until after midnight daily, with TVs playing Miyazaki films and a wide selection of sake at the sushi bar.
Samurai Sushi Boat
$$ | (510) 419-0601 | WEBSITE
This Oakland gem has long been a great source for fresh sushi and rolls, and that hasn’t changed over the years. Their boat-style service is excellent, as are their rotating selection of nigiri and sashimi, and their combo platter is so good it should be on the Oakland city flag. Vegan options available, perfect for dinner before a movie at the Grand Lake Theatre.
Geta
$$ | (510) 653-4643 | WEBSITE
Oakland’s excellent sushi spot Geta has got you covered with a large selection of high-quality sushi. They’ve got classic rolls, nigiri, and sashimi made with the best local and Japanese seafood products, and a killer omakase menu that’s perfect for a special and quick meal. They’ve also got some great vegetarian options, gluten-free products, and tamari, if you want something immediate. Their take-out window is open with quick and efficient service.
Sushi Salon
$$$$ | WEBSITE
After a brief closure for renovations, Sushi Salon is back in Oakland with its spectacular omakase experience. And along with their incredible 18-course tasting menu, expertly prepared by Mr. Nonaka, they’ve got their world-class Japanese ingredients, like unique cuts of fish sourced directly from Japan and hand-grated wasabi. You can also watch the chef work his magic with the freshest seafood right before your eyes. Reservations essential – for more information, check their website.
Coach Sushi
$$ | (510) 834-7866 | WEBSITE
Coach Sushi is a delightful Japanese restaurant by the lake in Oakland. But in addition to serving things like creative rolls and bento boxes, they’ve also got a wonderful selection of handmade ice cream that changes weekly. Our favorite is the purple potato flavor, but no matter what you order, be sure to get some miso soup on the side – it goes perfectly with basically anything. Open for lunch and dinner daily for dine-in and takeout.
Kuidaore Handroll Bar
$$ | (510) 392-2288 | WEBSITE
If you’re in Oakland, you’ve likely heard of Kuidaore Handroll Bar, the sushi spot that offers great quality at affordable prices. It’s time you visit. This excellent handroll bar serves tremendous uni, toro, and caviar options, and also features real wasabi. Currently offering attentive service with regular check-ins and automatic drink refills. Enjoy the clean ambiance with art-decorated walls, perfect for families, friends, or anyone seeking a high-quality dining experience.
Shogun Japanese Sushi & Grill
$$ | (510) 499-8639 | WEBSITE
Shogun Japanese Sushi & Grill serves their sushi across the east bay through delivery services. But head to their bustling restaurant in Oakland for the freshest, and thus, best, versions of these Japanese dishes. They’ve got specialty rolls starting at $14, like the Lion Princess or White Dragon, and generous plates like chicken katsu from $16, all served with complimentary sides like miso soup and salad. Dine-in daily for large portions and welcoming service.
Tomsa Sushi
$$ | (510) 530-8564 | WEBSITE
Though it’s not the fanciest spot, you can still get your fill of Tomsa Sushi’s tremendous rolls and fresh nigiri during a casual night out. They’re available every evening in their Oakland location, and the Tomsa combo is (usually) the most popular choice among regulars. They also often feature the vegetarian green roll that appeals beyond just vegetarians – check their menu for more details on this.
With free parking available in the drug store lot next door, Tomsa Sushi is a convenient and satisfying dining choice for families or groups of friends.
Fortune Restaurant
$ | (510) 533-3894 | WEBSITE
The Oakland location of Fortune Restaurant is even better than the original. The fried rice dishes are the best things here – our favorite (if they haven’t run out) is the crab fried rice, packed with generous chunks of crab and just the right amount of spice.
The wings are also worth your time (especially the garlic noodles version), and right now, they’re offering Mongolian beef without rice – but providing step-by-step pairing suggestions, too – so maybe you can finally get that combination you’ve been craving. Open for lunch and dinner daily for local delivery and pick-up.
Mujiri
$$ | (510) 879-6597 | WEBSITE
Mujiri makes regular appearances on Oakland’s best sushi bar lists – but for the first time, this excellent spot is also offering reservations (their seating fills up sort of fast, so check it out early). In addition to a bunch of high-quality sashimi options, they’ve also got some great signature rolls (especially their Salmon Shiso, filled with fresh salmon and shiso leaf). Make a reservation through their website, or check their Instagram for their daily specials and availability updates.
Matsuyama Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (916) 917-0129 | WEBSITE
Oakland’s Matsuyama Japanese Restaurant is known for fresh sushi like the Dragon Roll, Matsuyama Special, and Fantastic Roll. Order on a weekday (or for lunch) if you can – it’s the only time they’ve got their great popcorn shrimp roll, which is $14 each and pairs with basically anything, from a simple nigiri platter to whatever you’re craving for dinner. App delivery available, or order online for takeout pick-up.
Genji Japanese Restaurant
$ | (510) 350-7431 | WEBSITE
Genji Japanese Restaurant offers clean, fresh, and simple meals cooked to order, perfect for a healthy lunch break (like their grilled chicken teriyaki plate), a satisfying dinner (their salmon and prawn combo with rice and salad), and light appetizer needs (edamame and slaw). It’s all made to order and they also serve consistently high-quality sides, which you should definitely try. Order in person, or take it to go.
Sushi Bae
$$ | (510) 624-1550 | WEBSITE
Sushi Bae is delivering all the essentials for sushi lovers – and by that, we mean fresh fish, beautiful rolls, and cozy vibes. They craft their sushi with care, and it’s just as good in the Chirashi Bowl as it is in their unique rolls or with their gyoza. They’ve also got their regular menu available for dine-in, so grab some vegetarian options while you’re there. Fast service available.
Sushi Park
$$ | (510) 336-2388 | WEBSITE
Oakland’s family-run Sushi Park has some great sushi rolls, tempura, and sashimi that you need to know about if you’re in the neighborhood. Our favorite here is the Spicy Hamachi sashimi – it’s fresh, flavorful, and an ideal choice for a light yet satisfying bite. Open for dine-in and takeout, lunch and dinner.
Mijori Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (510) 465-8854 | WEBSITE
One of the most reliable sushi spots in all of Oakland, Mijori has you covered with everything from their famous agedashi tofu and double eagle roll to bento boxes and maki rolls. They’re a warm neighborhood operation now (with fresh fish only on market days), but the quality at this Japanese spot hasn’t suffered a bit. Vegetarian options available via their all-veggie bento, or classics via their regular menu.
