16 of the best sushi spots in SA

(Image by iStock)

Cape Town

Kyoto Garden Sushi, Tamboerksloof
Easily the most authentic sushi place in Cape Town, condensing the essence of Japan into a medium sized restaurant. The owner is passionate about the food he serves and visits Japan regularly to get inspiration and serve it to you on a plate. That’s why you’ll find a variety of Japanese whiskeys, black sesame ice cream, sea urchin, and if you’re lucky you might get to try some proper wasabi grated right off the root – they currently have in stock so go go! Try the chefs creation and the miso soup which is hands down the best in town.

Izakaya Masturi, Green Point
This spot is simply lovely and Japanese owned by the chef himself. It filters onto the pedestrian walkway, Schiebe Street, offering outdoor seating beneath the trees along with other neighbouring restaurants. The menu consists of Japanese tapas like gyoza, edamame, tempura and age dashi, and then has an extensive sushi menu ranging from simple traditional items to exciting specialties. Try the Hot Night roll, the spicy tuna tempura roll and the Rock & Roll.

Obi, CBD
This sushi spot was surrounded by much anticipation earlier this year, when Takumi closed down and well-known Papa San started his own venture. The setting is very basic and relaxed, and the sushi is the same big rolls Papa San is known for. He combines age-old traditions with modern flavours and orginal concoctions. Try the Rocket roll, samari roll and the coriander roll.

Manga, Green Point
This one is brand new and right on the sea front in Mouille Point, making it the new place to be this summer. They offer contemporary style sushi in a sleek, understated space. The food fuses Japanese cuisine with South-Eastern Pacific cuisine. You’ll find creative sushi dishes like the Tommy Tuna Taco, sesame crusted  prawn toast and dim sum.

Sushi Box,  Newlands, Gardens and De Waterkant
This is a very popular takeaway spot or a quick in-and-out dinner or lunch place. They’ve particularly gained popularity for office workers needing a sushi lunch fix. The restaurant thrives on simplicity and uses popular local sushi combinations and flavours, like the salmon cream cheese combo and the loaded rainbow roll. They also cut most of their rolls into 10 so they are the ideal bite size.

Joburg

Big Mouth, Sandton
The Big Mouth also featured in our Stylish restaurants guide, because the décor and general look and feel is one of the best in Sandton. Accents of art deco, mixed with a trendy New York-like restaurant design, makes this place world class. The sushi is good too! They do an incredible signature sushi selection and if you stick in this section you will be totally over the moon.  

The Blackanese, Maboneng
This spot certainly deserves a mention for its sheer originality and innovative concept. Chef Vusi Kunene has combined the rich culture of Japan with that of Africa.  The space encapsulates the energy of South Africa and mixes this with the much-loved sushi. Vusi is doing much more than serving sushi, he teaches the art of making it as well, and has given many talks on his success in bringing a little bit of Japanese culture to an already very culturally rich part of Joburg. The amalgamation is inspiring!

Yamato, Illovo
This place is one of the most authentic in Joburg, with a simple, unpretentious setting and quality traditional sushi. Their aim is to not be ahead of trends but to rather focus on the art behind the age-old methods of sushi making. This is the place to get your classic California rolls, maki and sashimi. Yomata also does a range of hot dishes like tempura and miso soup.

Yamitsuki, Bedfordview
This place churns out sushi at a fast pace. They have a huge variety, including contemporary style sushi concoctions. They’ve been in the business since 2000 and have gained loads of regulars over the years who rely on their quality and consistent sushi. They also do noodles and dim sum.

Koi, Sandton, Fourways, Rosebank
Although Koi has multiple branches, they always deliver on quality and style and offer a unique dining experience. Each restaurant is beautifully designed with chic, sophisticated furnishings. The food is Asian fusion and always delivers on creativity with bold Asian flavours. The sushi stays true to this as well, and is immaculately presented, with many signature offerings.

Durban

Jack Salmon Fish House, Glenashley
Jack Salmon is renowned for their fresh, top quality seafood, so it’s only natural that they do sushi as well. The standard is always high and the sushi includes some interesting dishes from bamboo rolls, rice paper rolls, cucumber wrapped rolls and a variety of platters. The location is also perfect with a view overlooking the sea.

The Sushi Corner, Glenwood
This a cute sushi restaurant situated in the cool part of town. They are known for their insane sushi platters, fit for a king. These can be ordered and taken away, perfect for a dinner party at home. The space itself is simple, yet cosy and all rolls are served fresh. They stick to classic-style sushi so you’ll find all your favourites from California to maki to salmon roses.

Green Mango, Morningside
Head chef Roger has been making sushi for over 30 years, so he knows how it’s done! Green Mango combines traditional Japanese and Thai cuisine. The sushi features classic maki, Caifornia rolls, nigiri and sashimi. You can also order take away platters for functions or dinner parties.

PE

Blue Waters Café, Summerstrand
Blue Waters Café pulls regulars and tourists with their unrivaled view of Summerstrand’s pier and ocean view. They serve food throughout the day, with sushi starting from 11:30. They’ve kept their sushi offering unique with California jalapeno rolls, berry salmon roses and Springbok carpaccio roses. You’ll also find the classic options as well.

Fushin, Stanley Street
Fushin is very popular in the PE area, and due to this popularity they subsequently opened Fushin Lounge and Fushin Street Bar. Fushin really is the forerunner in the Eastern Cape area when it comes to sushi innovation. The menu is far from simple, and features many unique sushi dishes that sets the restaurant apart. The portions are generous, and always beautifully executed.

Foo Jiu Sushi
This spot has a brilliant atmosphere. The sushi kitchen sits in the center of the room surrounded by counter seating and lit up by purple and golden lighting mimicking an Asian nightlife scene. Sitting right by the counter, puts you in the action as you watch your sushi being prepared. You can choose from the conveyor belt, or you can order specific items. Many ingredients are imported, because Foo Jiu want the experience to be as authentic as possible.