Sushi By The Sea: The 8 Best Sushi Restaurants in Cape Town

Picture an ideal evening in Cape Town, watching the sunset, a glass of Cape Sauvignon Blanc in hand and a platter of sushi on the table. It’s the Capetonian way!

There’s something about the way Cape Town does sushi that’s just different – maybe it’s the ocean’s proximity or the freshness of the local catch.

Fun fact: My first time trying sushi was in Cape Town, and it was love at first bite. I liked it so much that it became my meal of choice for the next five days – I just couldn’t get enough!

With so many spots to choose from, you’re never far from your next sushi fix.

Ready to sink your chopsticks into the finest sushi? Then use my handpicked guide to the city’s top sushi spots.

1. Obi Restaurant – Best Local Favourite

• Opening times: Tuesday – Saturday, 12 pm – 2 pm (lunch) and 6 pm – 9:30 pm (dinner)
• Where to find it: Shop 2 on 14 Long Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Average price you’ll spend: RR – RRR (average)

If you ever find yourself on lower Long Street and get hit by a craving for authentic sushi, Obi Restaurant is the local go-to that never disappoints. It’s a simple restaurant where the sushi speaks for itself.

Obi Restaurant is the brainchild of Chef Hatsushiro Muraoka, known affectionately as Papa San, and Chef Ben Bettendorf. Here, it’s about tradition – ramen, tempura, and sushi rolled the time-honoured way.

A quick glance at the menu will leave you spoilt for choice; from classic sushi rolls to signature dishes like the inside-out Shogun Roll. Picture sinking your chopsticks into creamy Norwegian salmon mousse and fresh avocado wrapped in an inside-out roll, topped with a sprinkle of charred salmon.

Swing by for lunch and get their Bento Box, or make an evening of it with the “Best 4X4 by far” dinner special. With this dish, you’ll enjoy four classic rainbow rolls and four sweet kiss rolls (your choice of fish with cucumber, avo, and spicy mayo topped with tempura shrimp) – alongside a bottle of Franschhoek Cellar Sauvignon Blanc for a steal of just R249!

A helpful tip: Make a reservation. This place fills up fast – you won’t want to miss out on what I’d dare to call some of the best sushi in Cape Town.

2. Nobu Cape Town – Best Luxury Experience

• Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 6 pm – 11 pm
• Where to find it: One&Only Cape Town, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
• Average price you’ll spend: RRR-RRRR (very expensive)

Nobu at the One&Only in Cape Town isn’t your average sushi spot. Think of it as sushi with a side of pizzazz, right at the V&A Waterfront. If you’re looking to splurge on a night out, you’ll certainly want to sink your teeth into the taste of Nobu!

Japanese celebrity chef and restaurateur Nobuyuki “Nobu” Matsuhisa has brought his legacy to South Africa’s western coast, and I am excited about it! With over 50 Nobu restaurants across the globe, this celebrated chain is known for its innovative fusion cuisine.

Dine in an environment where the decor is as compelling as the food, with double-height ceilings and a bar that dances with backlighting. The Ceviche Bar has more of a chilled vibe, where the sharing platters make you want to linger longer. Upstairs in the Nobu Lounge, you can sip on Sake or unique cocktails.

I know, it’s pretty exciting and I bet you’re eager to make that reservation. You can simply email or call the restaurant. I highly recommend booking a table on the outside terrace.

Nobu’s menu is a journey. It’s not only about perfecting classics, which they do with ease, but also about the surprising twists.

Their yellowtail and jalapeno sushi roll and sashimi salad with Matsuhisa dressing are real crowd-pleasers. And if you’re looking for something a bit unexpected, consider ordering the “House Special” before ending on a sweet note with the Chocolate Bento Box.

3. Aiko Sushi – Best For All-You-Can-Eat Sushi

• Opening times: Friday – Sunday, 11:30 am – 10 pm
• Where to find it: 4 Bree Street, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town
• Average price you’ll spend: RR-RRR (budget-friendly)

If you’ve got a hankering for sushi that just won’t quit, Aiko Sushi on bustling Bree Street is your go-to. City explorers and office workers make their way to this trendy little sushi joint for one thing in particular – the all-you-can-eat deal from Sunday to Wednesday.

Their all-you-can-eat deal for R249 is practically an open invitation to roll up your sleeves and indulge to your heart’s content. Plates of California rolls, nigiri, two portions of salmon roses, fashion sandwiches, and more are all up for grabs. As long as you can eat it all! Remember, you can’t share with all-you-can-eat sushi.

Remember, it’s a sushi marathon, not a sprint. Trust me, I’ve overstuffed my belly a number of times. But if you’re not here to test your sushi limits, there are other equally appetising options.

The Flaming VIP is a flavoursome choice. You can munch on 8 pieces of seared tuna and prawn tempura with avo, signature sauce, and Cognac! How about a sushi burger? Yup, it’s a thing here and it’s de-licious!

4. Harbour House Kalk Bay – Best For Sushi & Seafood

• Opening times: Monday – Sunday, 12 pm – 10 pm
• Where to find it: Harbour, Main Rd, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
• Average cost: RRR (expensive)

Overlooking the vibrant Kalk Bay harbour, Harbour House resembles a living painting with its ocean views and mountains in the distance.

But before I get carried away by this restaurant’s idyllic location, let’s chat about what you really want the scoop on: the sushi and seafood! The sushi is as authentic as it gets, with a side of sea breeze.

The sushi menu is straightforward – think platters of silky sashimi, tightly rolled makis, and inventive twists like the Tempura Eight and Salmon Bombs. And if you’re enjoying a dinner with mates, get the Tojo Platter (15 pieces) or Harbour House Platter (30 pieces).

It’s not all sushi though – seafood lovers can get their fix here too. From plates of steamed mussels in a creamy white wine and garlic sauce, to their signature dish, the Miso Mirin Seabass. You’ll be munching away with the waves as your soundtrack.

Of course, such an authentic taste of the sea does come at a premium. Sushi enthusiasts looking to indulge in about 8 pieces can expect to pay upwards of R250.

5. Plushi – Best For Vegan Sushi

• Opening times: Tuesday – Friday (12 pm – 5 pm) Saturday (12 pm – 8 pm)
• Where to find it: 196 Victoria Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
• Average cost: RR-RRR (average)

Plushi is Cape Town’s go-to for artisan vegan sushi that’s big on flavour and kind to the planet. It takes plant-based to the next level, mixing vegan goodness with Asian flair, delivered right to your door. They keep things fresh with a surprise roll each month, loaded with unexpected ingredients

Vegans can even enjoy sushi that mimics the classics. Their Salmoon Rose is a creative take on carrot ‘salmon’. Crave a crunch? The Tofu Crunch Rock ‘n Roll drizzled with a zesty ginger-lime mayo and sweet chilli is where it’s at!

You can chill at their cosy joint for a bite or get sushi to go.

Pro tip: Their assorted box is a fan favourite for a reason. You’ll get a little bit of everything they’re fishing out for the day.

It’s a spot that’s all about serving up sushi with a plant-based twist – all in sustainable packaging! They prioritise eco-friendliness with their zero-waste policy, creatively utilising entire vegetables to minimise food waste before composting, and recycling everything else.

6. Kyoto Garden – Best For Authentic Japanese Sushi

• Opening times: Tuesday – Friday (12 pm – 11 pm), Saturday (5:30 pm – 11 pm)
• Where to find it: 11 Kloof Nek Road, Gardens, Cape Town
• Average cost: RRR-RRRR (expensive)

Stroll up Kloof Street and you’ll bump into Kyoto Garden – where sushi is less about the roll and all about the soul. There are no mayo-drenched, deep-friend rolls here. Instead, Kyoto celebrates the subtle art of sushi.

Step inside Kyoto Garden and you’ll find out exactly why it was named Cape Town’s Best Seafood Restaurant in the 2018 Eat Out awards!

Scott Wood, the man behind the magic at Kyoto Garden, is serious about his supplies: real-deal wasabi root, Alaskan crab, and the freshest sashimi!

The vibe inside is calm – dim lighting, bamboo screens, and a tranquil dining setting. And let me tell you, the menu’s got some serious wow factor. Ever tried Mozambican conch or fancied a nibble of sea urchin? This is the place. Plus, the Alaskan king crab handroll? It’s got “order me again” written all over it.

Your wallet might feel a little lighter after a visit, but it’s worth it. There’s warm sake to wash it all down, and do yourself a favour – don’t skip the black sesame ice cream.

7. 1890 House Sushi and Grill – Best For Affordable Sushi

• Opening times: Monday – Saturday (12 pm – 9:30 pm), Sunday (12 pm – 9 pm)
• Where to find it: 40 Trill Road, Observatory, Cape Town
• Average cost: RR-RRR (budget-friendly)

Tucked away in the boho bustle of Observatory, 1890 House Sushi and Grill is that kind of spot locals might not tell you about because – it’s their little secret for ace sushi without the eye-watering bill. It’s a no-frills, good-vibes-only place.

Step inside and you’ll find a cozy, bustling atmosphere with lively chatter. You can hang at the counter, watching the sushi chefs do their thing, or slide into a booth and make it a chill night with friends.

Now, let’s talk sushi – it’s the kind of good that’ll have you nodding with every bite. The unagi? It’s a game-changer. And don’t even get me started on the dragon rolls; it’s a crowd-pleaser packed with sweet eel.

It may not be the most refined in Cape Town, but it strikes an impressive balance between quality and cost, arguably making it one of the best sushi restaurants in Cape Town.

8. Blowfish Restaurant – Best For Views

• Opening times: Monday – Friday, 7 am – 11 pm
• Where to find it: 1 Marine Dr, Bloubergstrand, Cape Town
• Average cost: RR-RRR (average)

Forget about those crowded waterfront spots; for a sushi experience with a view, Blowfish Restaurant is where it’s at. Perched right at the Dolphin Beach Hotel in Blouberg, this spot serves up top-notch sushi with a side of sea and mountain views.

Picture relaxing at their Sushi Bar with your favourite sashimi and Table Mountain’s majestic presence in the background. The sunset is so vivid, it’s like a live Instagram scene – no filter required!

Blowfish has been dishing out sushi delights for over 20 years. Whether you’re a fan of the classics or you’re itching to try some of their unique creations, you’re in for a moderately priced treat!

Plus, there’s always a chance to catch their sushi at half the price – just keep an eye on their social media for the details.

Overall, Blowfish Restaurant is perfect for any occasion that involves sushi – be it a romantic dinner, a celebration with friends, or even a business lunch with clients or colleagues.

FAQs

Which sushi restaurants in Cape Town are best for digital nomads?

If you’re a digital nomad with a penchant for sushi, Cape Town has got you covered. Aiko Sushi offers a comfy spot to tuck into a sushi feast while catching up on emails. Over at Chef Chen Sushi Bar in Sea Point, you’ll find a space with Wi-Fi while indulging in creative rolls, while Salushi in Claremont combines great sushi with a workspace-friendly vibe.

How much can I expect to spend at sushi restaurants in Cape Town?

When dining at Cape Town’s sushi spots, your wallet can feel vastly different impacts. If you’re eyeing premium places like Nobu or Kyoto Garden, brace yourself to shell out a minimum of R250 for a single sushi plate. This may only be just 4 or 6 pieces.

Of course, the city also has a wealth of budget-friendly spots that still serve quality sushi. In fact, many sushi restaurants have specials and year-round deals.

Do I need to make a reservation at sushi restaurants in Cape Town?

It’s not necessarily mandatory, but I definitely recommend booking a table in advance at one of these sushi restaurants in Cape Town. This is especially true if you’re planning to visit during busy hours or on weekends. Some of the above sushi restaurants encourage reservations and have a booking system on their website, but walk-ins are also welcome – just take a peek at their website for more details.

Final Thoughts

Wrapping up my list of the best sushi restaurants, Cape Town clearly has a sushi scene of never-ending yumminess. Thanks to the city’s harbourside location, the day’s fresh catch makes its way straight from the South African coast to your sushi plate.

Whether you’re grabbing a quick bento box, settling in for a feast of all-you-can-eat, or trying some vegan sushi magic, it’s all good!