Welcome to my guide on finding the best sushi in Austin! As a passionate explorer of global cuisine and culture, I’ve dedicated time to navigating Austin’s vibrant food scene, specifically in pursuit of exceptional sushi experiences. This city offers a diverse range of options, from high-end omakase temples to casual neighborhood gems.
Whether you’re a seasoned sushi connoisseur or looking for your first taste of authentic Japanese flavors (or perhaps some creative Austin twists!), this guide is designed to help you discover top-notch sushi spots across different price points. I’ll share my personal insights, focusing not just on the taste but the overall experience, because finding the best sushi in Austin is about more than just the fish – it’s about the craft, the atmosphere, and the story behind each bite.
Exploring Austin’s Premier Sushi Scene
Austin’s culinary landscape has exploded in recent years, and the sushi scene is no exception. While landlocked, the city boasts chefs and restaurateurs dedicated to sourcing high-quality fish and creating memorable dining experiences. From traditional Edomae style to innovative fusion concepts, there’s a sushi spot to satisfy every craving and budget. Let’s dive into some of my top recommendations for the best sushi in Austin.
High-End Omakase & Sushi Experiences ($$$)
For those seeking a truly unforgettable culinary journey and are willing to invest, Austin’s high-end omakase scene offers artistry and exquisite ingredients. These spots represent the pinnacle of the pursuit for the best sushi in Austin.
Tsuke Edomae
Chef Mike’s Tsuke Edomae is often cited as a contender for the absolute best sushi in Austin, and my experiences there consistently reinforce this. Offering a 21-course omakase that blends cooked dishes with pristine Edomae-style sushi, the current price is $135 per person plus a 20% service fee (as of 2024). Having tried omakase experiences in other cities, including some priced significantly higher, I can attest that Tsuke Edomae delivers exceptional value for its quality.
What truly distinguishes Tsuke Edomae is Chef Mike’s meticulous approach. He serves the fish at room temperature, a technique that allows the inherent quality and subtle nuances of the seafood to shine without being dulled by cold. The rice is equally remarkable – perfectly cooked, each grain distinct and gleaming, sourced from a highly exclusive supplier known to only a select few restaurants globally. Chef Mike’s dedication, honed further by training under master Hiro Sato of Hakkoku Japan, is evident in every piece. The omakase evolves with each visit, always reaching new heights.
An interesting tradition here is the “15-second rule” for each sushi piece – a gentle nudge from Chef Mike to enjoy the sushi at peak temperature and freshness. Should you linger, he’ll promptly replace it. At the conclusion of the omakase, you have the chance to order à la carte, including any favorite pieces or daily specials. My personal recommendation? Always ask for handrolls!
Chef Mike meticulously preparing Edomae style sushi at Tsuke Edomae, a contender for the best sushi in Austin
A stunning selection of nigiri sushi served at Tsuke Edomae Austin
Book your Tsuke Edomae reservation here.
Follow Tsuke Edomae on Instagram here.
Craft Omakase
Born from the shared vision of three Uchiko alumni – Charlie Wang, Nguyen Nguyen, and Tim Boyer – Craft Omakase presents a deliberate and refined sushi experience in Austin. Their 22-course omakase is priced at $175 per person, plus a 20% service charge.
The culinary philosophy at Craft Omakase is centered on showcasing the inherent quality of ingredients. The rice, sourced from Hokkaido, is kept in a controlled cold environment to maintain its optimal state. Seafood is primarily imported from Japan, with select exceptions like ocean trout. Minimalism is key in presentation, allowing the natural flavors and textures of each piece to be the focus. The rice is cooked and seasoned expertly, achieving what I’d rate a flawless 10/10 texture and flavor balance.
What distinguishes Craft is their innovative approach to fish preparation; roughly 60% of the seafood undergoes curing, smoking, or dry aging techniques, resulting in a fascinating array of unique flavors and textures. Each small bite is presented with artistic flair. Cultural influences are subtly woven in, with condiments like fish sauce and chili crisp occasionally appearing, reflecting the chefs’ diverse backgrounds and infusing personality into the meal.
The pacing of the omakase is excellent, allowing you to savor each course without feeling rushed. Portions are satisfyingly substantial and consistently well-executed. Craft Omakase is undeniably a culinary highlight and a strong candidate when searching for the best sushi in Austin.
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An exquisite selection of artfully prepared sushi pieces at Craft Omakase in Austin
Check out Craft Omakase on Instagram.
Make reservations for Craft Omakase here.
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Toshokan
Dining at Toshokan (@toshokanatx) is a sought-after omakase experience in Austin. Located discreetly, their standard 14-course omakase is priced at $150 per person. I highly recommend opting for the additional three courses, which often include standout bites like uni and foie gras – definite highlights of the meal. Chef @sainew guides diners through a journey inspired by his travels, incorporating elements of fire, smoke, and powdered toppings that add complexity.
One dish that particularly resonated was the Atlantic cod, which not only tasted delicious but genuinely reminded me of traditional kaiseki meals I’ve enjoyed in Japan. Overall, Toshokan offers one of the finest omakase experiences available in Austin. My only minor note is on the rice texture, which I personally found slightly softer than my preference for a firmer grain. Despite this, the overall omakase journey is incredibly enjoyable and packed with flavor.
For those with heartier appetites, the 17-course option is definitely the way to go to feel completely satisfied. Toshokan is undoubtedly a compelling choice for discerning palates seeking the best sushi in Austin.
Artfully presented sushi with unique toppings at Toshokan Austin
A close-up shot of a sushi piece featuring delicate garnishes at Toshokan ATX
Another view of an intricate sushi piece with unique preparation at Toshokan in Austin
Reserve your spot at Toshokan here.
Tare
Tare, initially a successful at-home omakase concept by Chef Michael, has evolved into a physical location in North Austin, offering a unique tasting experience. The 15-course meal spans approximately 1.5 hours, with seating priced at $135 per person, which includes a prepaid tip and service fee (though tip can be adjusted). Tare’s approach is very non-traditional, incorporating Mexican and South Texas influences into a fusion omakase menu.
While the fusion concept is intriguing, I personally found the rice a bit too mushy and served cooler than preferred, despite using koshikari rice similar to Toshokan’s. It’s crucial to approach Tare with an open mind for a departure from classic sushi. Standout pieces for me included the scallop, knifejaw, and the akami imo. The menu leans heavily on citrus flavors (lime and lemon), and I found myself wishing for a greater presence of savory and salty notes.
Service was attentive and excellent. À la carte options, often featuring Uni specials, are available at the end. While Uni wasn’t available during my visit, the tres leches dessert was truly outstanding – perfectly balanced and not overly sweet, with just the right hint of matcha. Tare offers a distinct take on omakase for those looking for something different in the Austin sushi scene.
An array of meticulously prepared fusion sushi pieces at Tare Austin
Make reservations for Tare Austin here.
Sushi By Scratch
Venturing slightly outside of Austin proper, Sushi By Scratch is located within the beautiful Hyatt Regency Lost Pines in Cedar Creek. Created by Michelin-starred Chef Philip Frankland, the drive is absolutely worth it for the experience in this elegant colonial-style setting.
I admit I was initially hesitant about the drive, but I’m so glad I made the trip. The 17-course omakase is currently priced at $165 per person (it was 16 courses with a drink during my visit). The pace here is notably faster than at Tsuke Edomae. Sushi pieces are often served with sauces, searing, and creative garnishes. While some purists might argue that techniques like searing, using bone marrow fat, or matcha powder could mask the fish’s quality, I found that here, these additions actually enhanced the flavors, making the fish taste incredibly rich and melt-in-your-mouth.
One potential downside is that some fish pieces can taste similar due to consistent use of seasonings and cooking methods. Also, there isn’t a strict rule about eating sushi immediately, which means some guests may let their pieces cool while chatting. The experience involves three chefs serving you, offering a different dynamic compared to the sole focus of a single chef like at Tsuke Edomae. On the upside, this often makes securing a reservation easier, making Sushi By Scratch a strong option for finding high-quality sushi near Austin.
A chef presenting seared sushi pieces with creative toppings at Sushi By Scratch near Austin
Closeup of intricately prepared nigiri sushi with unique garnishes at Sushi By Scratch Lost Pines
Book your reservation for Sushi By Scratch here.
Mid-Range Sushi Spots ($$-$$$)
Moving into the mid-range, Austin offers several well-established and popular sushi restaurants that provide quality and variety, making them accessible options for finding great sushi in Austin without committing to a full omakase price point.
Musashino Sushi Dokoro
For a long time, Musashino was my absolute favorite spot in Austin for consistently high-quality sushi without venturing into the omakase price tier. Even with the rise of new fancy spots, Musashino holds its own thanks to its reliable quality and delicious offerings.
While they do offer nigiri, I personally believe Musashino shines brightest with its sushi rolls. The Roadrunner, Texas Hybrid, and Bumble Bee rolls are standouts and my personal top recommendations. If you are keen on nigiri, the Avocado Kama and Scallop Nigiri are good choices, though I’d rate their overall nigiri quality as average compared to the top-tier omakase places.
Musashino is a popular spot, so be aware that they don’t take reservations for parties smaller than four. However, you can join their Yelp waitlist online, which is a lifesaver for minimizing wait times when you’re craving some of the best sushi in Austin in this category.
Assortment of sushi rolls and nigiri on a plate at Musashino Sushi Dokoro in Austin
Check out the Musashino Sushi Dokoro menu here.
Uchi
Uchi is an Austin institution, famous for its innovative Japanese cuisine and vibrant atmosphere. While it’s often mentioned in conversations about the best sushi in Austin, I primarily recommend it for its happy hour (daily from 4-6:30 pm) and non-sushi dishes.
Uchi offers intriguing hot and cool tasting menus alongside its sushi. From the cool menu, the Hama Chili is an absolute must-try – a dish I could eat endlessly. Their Brussels sprouts are also arguably among the best in town.
However, if your sole focus is finding the absolute highest quality traditional sushi fish, Uchi might fall slightly short compared to dedicated omakase places like Tsuke Edomae or Sushi by Scratch. I’ve found the fish here can sometimes have a chewier texture, and the rice seasoning isn’t quite as balanced as at the top-tier spots. That said, Uchi provides a fantastic overall dining experience with excellent small plates and is definitely worth visiting, especially during happy hour.
Various creative dishes and sushi served at Uchi Austin during their happy hour
Another selection of unique sushi and cooked dishes from Uchi Austin
Explore the Uchi Austin menu and hours here. They do accept reservations.
Uchiko
As the sister restaurant to Uchi, Uchiko shares a similar innovative Japanese culinary philosophy. I generally find the food at Uchiko to be perhaps just a touch better than Uchi, though its happy hour menu isn’t as extensive.
My personal favorites at Uchiko include the Tiger Cry roll, the Hama Chili (a staple I love at both locations), and the various daily specials they offer. Their desserts are also consistently delicious. Like Uchi, Uchiko provides a modern, high-energy dining experience with a focus on creative Japanese dishes, making it a strong contender for a contemporary sushi experience in Austin.
A beautifully presented sushi roll and other dishes at Uchiko Austin
View the Uchiko Austin menu and hours here. They also take reservations.
Soto
Soto gained popularity with its original North Austin location (Lakeline) and has since expanded with a second spot on South Lamar. While their happy hour, once a major draw, has changed and is less extensive now (daily from 5-6:30 pm), Soto remains a solid option for sushi in Austin.
A highlight of Soto’s offerings is their lunch bento set, which feels remarkably like a multi-course meal in a box. Must-try dishes for me include the Fire Salmon, the Uni Pasta, and their unique potato chip nigiri. However, I do feel that the nigiri portions can be on the smaller side for the price. Similar to Uchi and Uchiko, Soto tends to incorporate fruit elements into their nigiri, which is a stylistic choice that some may enjoy more than others. Soto offers a lively atmosphere and creative menu options.
Selection of sushi rolls and nigiri served at Soto South Lamar in Austin
Another view of creative sushi preparations at Soto Austin, featuring vibrant colors
Browse the Soto South Lamar food menu here. Reservations are accepted.
Neighborhood Sushi
Neighborhood Sushi on South Congress was a delightful discovery! Located in the bustling SOCO district with limited parking, it offers a convenient option for those in the area. In terms of fish quality, I’d place it on par with Uchi and Uchiko – fresh and reliable. Their rolls were also quite good. Prices are comparable to other restaurants on South Congress, meaning it leans towards the pricier side for this category.
The one item I wasn’t particularly fond of was their handrolls. While the concept is appealing, they are folded like tacos with crispy bits on top, making them impractical and messy to eat as toppings tend to fall off immediately. Despite this minor critique, Neighborhood Sushi provides a pleasant dining experience with solid sushi options in a prime Austin location.
A colorful arrangement of sushi rolls and nigiri at Neighborhood Sushi on South Congress, Austin
View the Neighborhood Sushi menu here. Reservations are available.
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Affordable & Casual Sushi Finds ($-$$)
You don’t always need to break the bank to enjoy good sushi. Austin and its surrounding areas offer several more affordable and casual options that are perfect for a weeknight meal or a relaxed outing, proving you can find good, accessible sushi in Austin.
Kane Sushi (Cedar Park)
Discovering Kane Sushi (@kane.cedarpark) in Cedar Park was a truly pleasant surprise – it’s become my favorite sushi spot in the area! Located in a new shopping center, it quickly impressed me with its consistent quality. We sampled various dishes, and the must-try Red Crane Roll was delicious, as was the crispy Spider Roll.
The fish is served slightly on the colder side, but the well-seasoned rice and overall freshness compensate beautifully. The Hamachi Carpaccio with uni and citrus sauce was a definite standout. I also highly recommend their buttery uni pasta! Portions are notably generous here – expect to spend around $30 per person, or $50 if you’re very hungry, and you might even have leftovers.
The service was excellent, with friendly and attentive staff ensuring a great experience. As a side note, Kane Sushi boasts one of the most aesthetically pleasing restaurant interiors I’ve seen! It’s a top pick for satisfying sushi cravings outside central Austin.
A vibrant sushi roll, possibly the Red Crane Roll, served at Kane Sushi in Cedar Park
Follow Kane Sushi Cedar Park on Instagram.
Sushi Yume (Round Rock)
Sushi Yume (@sushiyume_) is elevating the sushi scene in Round Rock, and arguably competing with some spots in Austin proper. I’d heard buzz about their sushi and decided to check it out. I was thoroughly impressed! The chef was incredibly generous, offering several complimentary items, a practice I later saw mentioned in online reviews. Despite being crowded, the service was exceptionally friendly and quick.
The nigiri was excellent. The fish-to-rice ratio was well-balanced, and the rice seasoning was spot-on – not too sweet or sour, just perfect. For serious sushi enthusiasts, the quality here reminds me of Chef Choo’s sushi from his Hanabi days, though I’d say the fish quality at Sushi Yume is a step above. The rice is cooked perfectly, avoiding the mushy texture that is my biggest pet peeve. The fish tasted very fresh. The chirashi bowl was also generously sized. Sushi Yume is a strong contender for quality sushi in the greater Austin area at a reasonable price point.
A 10-piece sushi combination featuring various fresh fish and perfectly seasoned rice at Sushi Yume Round Rock
Make a reservation for Sushi Yume here.
Yuki ATX
Yuki ATX has carved a niche for itself as Austin’s premier handroll bar. They offer made-to-order handrolls available à la carte or in combo sets. While the concept is exciting, I lean towards recommending their raw fish handrolls over those featuring cooked crustaceans or shellfish, as the latter can sometimes be mixed with mayo that is overly sweet for my preference. Although the overall sushi can occasionally err on the sweeter side and the pieces might lack consistency, I find their green tea rice particularly flavorful and appealing.
A fresh handroll being served at Yuki ATX, a popular handroll bar in Austin
Uroko
Uroko is a fantastic spot for both casual handrolls and a more structured, yet still approachable, omakase experience. Their handrolls are served cold in the traditional style, distinct from the warm-rice versions found in some places like LA. They are also very reasonably priced, typically $6-8 each, and two are usually enough to fill you up. For maximum value, try their make-your-own temaki set, allowing you to customize your handrolls.
A vibrant assortment of ingredients for make-your-own temaki handrolls at Uroko Austin
A collection of completed handrolls in stands at Uroko, ready to be enjoyed
Adjacent to Uroko, their neighboring concept, Tonari, offers a 45-minute omakase experience on Fridays and Saturdays for $84 per person, including 12 tastings. While I found the toppings and flavor profiles at Tonari to be excellent, the fish wasn’t served as warm as I prefer, and the rice quality didn’t reach the exceptional level of Tsuke Edomae. Nevertheless, it’s still a great experience, offering a more accessible omakase entry point in Austin.
Close-up of a nigiri piece from the Tonari omakase experience at Uroko Austin
Another view of skillfully prepared nigiri included in the Tonari omakase tasting
Check out the Uroko menu online here.
Reserve the Tonari omakase at Uroko here.
Chef Teddy (Delivery/Private)
Chef Teddy is a personal friend who has built a strong reputation for his at-home sushi box deliveries and private sushi party catering in Austin. He’s a highly skilled specialist in creating beautiful sushi rolls and nigiri sets. I first discovered his work on Instagram when he was offering poke bowl deliveries. Delivery costs are typically included in the price, and he regularly posts tempting daily specials on his Instagram page.
The quality of sushi Chef Teddy provides is exceptional – the fish is consistently fresh and high-quality. His sushi rolls, in particular, are incredibly delicious. He offers a convenient and high-quality option for enjoying great sushi in Austin without leaving your home or for special events.
A curated sushi platter with various rolls and nigiri from Chef Teddy’s private sushi service in Austin
Another artistic sushi and sashimi platter prepared by Chef Teddy ATX
You can easily reserve platters or inquire about private events by direct messaging him on Chef Teddy’s Instagram.
Chef Choo Omakase (Take-home)
Chef Choo is a well-known figure in the Austin sushi scene, having previously worked at restaurants like Haru, Hanabi, and Ichiumi. Following his departure, the sushi quality at those establishments reportedly declined, while Chef Choo thrived during the pandemic by offering sought-after at-home sushi platters and omakase boxes.
He continues to offer these convenient take-home omakase options and has also opened a brick-and-mortar location selling grab-and-go sandos and omakase boxes. The sushi quality is significantly better than what places like the old Hanabi offered. However, the cost for the take-home sushi can feel a bit high for individual portions. It’s often more cost-effective to purchase a large box (around 45 pieces for about $390) and share it with a group, whereas a personal sushi bento costs around $30. Chef Choo provides a great option for enjoying quality sushi at home in Austin.
A carefully arranged take-home omakase box featuring a variety of sushi and sashimi by Chef Choo Austin
Purchase Chef Choo’s products and reserve omakase boxes through this link.
Kome
Kome is my top choice for more affordable sushi and rolls in Austin. While the fish might not be the absolute highest quality compared to the $$$ options, their roll combos are truly exceptional and offer great value. I highly recommend trying the Spooky rolls, Sunshine roll, and many others – the flavor combinations are genuinely unique and delicious.
The main drawback at Kome is that it can get quite busy, leading to potentially long wait times, although this is less of an issue during off-hours and weekdays. They do not accept reservations, so plan accordingly. Kome is a go-to for tasty, creative, and budget-friendly sushi rolls.
A plate featuring a selection of colorful and creatively named sushi rolls at Kome Austin
Another view of delicious and unique sushi rolls presented on a plate at Kome Austin
Find the Kome Austin menu here. Note that reservations are not accepted.
Osaka Mansun
Growing up in Austin, I noticed that many sushi spots were Korean-owned. While many were average, Osaka Mansun stood out and remains my favorite casual Korean-owned spot for its decent fish quality and well-seasoned rice. While some of the fish can occasionally be a bit “fishy,” they offer large slices and very affordable options. This mom-and-pop sushi joint provides a comfortable and budget-friendly option for a casual sushi meal during the week.
An assortment of sushi and rolls on a traditional plate at Osaka Mansun in Austin
View the Osaka Mansun menu here.
Muse Fusion
Muse Fusion was a genuinely pleasant surprise in terms of taste and quality for Americanized-style sushi. If your preference leans towards rolls featuring cream cheese, tempura, or imitation crab, this fast-casual spot is definitely worth checking out, especially given its low price point for sushi.
While it caters to a specific taste, I was impressed by the quality of the salmon and hamachi I tried – both were quite good and not overly fishy. The flavor combinations are rich and clearly designed for those who enjoy more American-style sushi and rolls. It’s interesting to note that Muse Sushi is owned by the same group behind Happyrito in Lakeline. For affordable and satisfying Americanized sushi in Austin, Muse Fusion is a solid pick.
Various Americanized-style sushi rolls with generous toppings at Muse Fusion Sushi in Austin
Browse the Muse Fusion Sushi menu here.
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What’s Next on the Sushi Horizon in Austin?
The Austin sushi scene continues to evolve. While I’ve had the pleasure of exploring many fantastic options, there are still a few on my list to try, including Otoko, Sushi Bar, and Osome. Friends who have visited these mention that while they are good, they still consider Tsuke Edomae to offer the ultimate best sushi in Austin experience.
Finding Your Favorite Sushi in Austin
As you can see, Austin offers a wide spectrum of sushi experiences, from luxurious multi-course omakase dinners to casual, creative rolls. The “best” sushi in Austin truly depends on your budget, preference for traditional vs. fusion styles, and desired dining atmosphere. I encourage you to use this guide as a starting point and embark on your own sushi journey through the city. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a delicious roll, Austin’s diverse sushi restaurants have something to offer. Happy eating!