Sushi has long ceased to be a dish that can only be tried in Japan. Today, good sushi is prepared in many countries around the world – somewhere traditions are carefully followed, and somewhere the Japanese classic is transformed into a vibrant local cuisine.
Of course, taste is subjective. Some appreciate almost warm rice, a thin layer of wasabi, and the pure taste of fish, while others love large rolls, sauces, avocado, and unexpected combinations. But there are countries where the sushi culture is particularly well-developed.
This list can only begin with Japan. It is here that sushi is perceived not as a trendy dish, but as a whole art, where every detail is important: the temperature of the rice, the direction of the fish cut, the amount of sauce, and even the moment the piece is served to the guest.
Japan. The Place Where It All Began
Talking about sushi without Japan is like talking about wine without a vineyard. In Tokyo, in a tiny eight-seat bar in the Ginza district, a master with forty years of experience places a piece of tuna on the rice, and in this gesture lies an entire philosophy. Rice cooked to perfect elasticity. Fish that he personally selected at dawn at the Toyosu Market. A single knife stroke, honed by thousands of repetitions.
Here, sushi is not eaten – it is *experienced*. Osaka, Kyoto, Hokkaido – each region offers its own character. And it is in Japan that you understand: simplicity is more complex than any refinement.
Tokyo is especially famous. The city is home to both renowned omakase restaurants, where the menu is completely entrusted to the chef, and small establishments near the fish markets. The Michelin Guide features dozens of Tokyo restaurants specializing in sushi. (Michelin Guide)
In Osaka, sushi is often more democratic and homely, while in Hokkaido, the main advantage is the freshest seafood: sea urchin, scallops, crab, and fatty fish from cold waters.
What to go for: nigiri, omakase, tuna, sea urchin, eel, and seasonal fish.
USA – Sushi Without Fear of Experimentation
In the United States, sushi has gained new life. It is here that rolls with avocado, cream cheese, spicy sauces, and crispy toppings have become particularly popular.
The best sushi can be found in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Honolulu. Today, New York offers not only signature rolls but also very serious traditional omakase restaurants. Michelin notes that the city offers some of the best Japanese cuisine and high-quality seafood outside of Japan. (Michelin Guide)
American sushi will appeal to those who love rich flavors and large portions. Here, chefs boldly add jalapeños, truffles, mangoes, mayonnaise, tempura, and various sauces to the fish.
What to go for: California roll, spicy tuna, crab rolls, signature omakase.
Singapore – The Perfect Combination of Asia and High Service
Singapore is one of the best cities in the world to explore modern Asian cuisine. Thanks to its proximity to Japan, developed logistics, and demanding public, fresh fish and seafood are regularly delivered here.
The city has many sushi bars of various levels, from simple establishments to expensive restaurants with intimate service. Sushi is also widely represented in the current Michelin Guide to Singapore. (Michelin Guide)
A local specialty is the precision of Japanese technique combined with tropical and Southeast Asian accents. Sometimes citrus sauces, hot spices, and rare types of local fish appear on the menu.
What to go for: omakase, fatty tuna, Japanese sea urchin, sushi with Asian sauces.
Peru – The Brightest and Most Unusual Sushi
Peru has become the birthplace of Nikkei cuisine – an amazing fusion of Japanese techniques and Peruvian ingredients. It emerged thanks to the Japanese community that formed in the country at the end of the 19th century.
Peruvian chefs have maintained a respect for raw fish, but have added lime, aji pepper, cilantro, sweet potato, and bright sauces. Michelin describes Nikkei as a combination of Japanese fish preparation methods with characteristic ingredients and the temperament of Peruvian cuisine. (Michelin Guide)
In Lima, sushi often resembles a roll, ceviche, and a work of modern art all at once. It's not always classic, but it's almost always very expressive.
What to go for: tiradito, Nikkei rolls, tuna with aji, white fish with lime.
Brazil – Lots of Fish, Cream Cheese, and Generosity
Brazil is home to one of the largest Japanese diasporas outside of Japan, especially in São Paulo. Therefore, Japanese cuisine has long been a part of the urban culture here.
Brazilian sushi is usually more satisfying and vibrant. Rolls often feature cream cheese, fried salmon, passion fruit, mango, and sweet sauces. They are not afraid of large portions and unexpected combinations.
Traditional Japanese restaurants in São Paulo coexist with endless sushi buffets and modern fusion bars. Therefore, in one city, you can try both strict nigiri and the most extravagant rolls.
What to go for: salmon rolls, hot rolls, sushi with tropical fruits.
South Korea – Fresh Fish and Its Own Character
South Korea does not copy Japanese sushi culture but offers a similar yet independent tradition. Fresh raw fish, called 'hwe', is very popular here and is eaten with spicy sauces, garlic, herbs, and lettuce leaves.
In Seoul and Busan, it's easy to find both classic Japanese sushi bars and Korean establishments where the flavors are spicier and richer. It's a special pleasure to try fish near the fish markets, where the product can reach the table almost immediately after preparation.
What to go for: sushi made with local fish, hwe, sea urchin, and dishes with spicy sauces.
Australia – Ocean Freshness and Light Style
Australia is ideal for sushi thanks to its high-quality seafood. In Sydney and Melbourne, both traditional Japanese restaurants and modern sushi bars with a light, almost beachy vibe are popular.
Australian chefs often use local tuna, salmon, king prawns, scallops, and avocado. The presentation is usually simple, fresh, and not overloaded with sauces.
What to go for: nigiri with local fish, rolls with avocado, scallops, and tuna.
Dubai – Luxury, Impeccable Presentation, and the World's Best Products
Dubai has become one of the most exciting gastronomic destinations for sushi lovers. Renowned international chefs work here, high-level restaurants open, and fresh fish and seafood are regularly delivered from Japan and other countries.
The main feature of Dubai sushi is its spectacular presentation. An ordinary dinner often turns into a real show: dishes are decorated with edible gold, caviar, truffles, and rare sauces. At the same time, it's easy to find not only luxurious restaurants in the city but also more affordable sushi bars.
Establishments with views of skyscrapers, the Persian Gulf, or famous city landmarks are particularly popular. The menu features classic omakase alongside modern rolls that combine Japanese techniques with Middle Eastern and international flavors.
What to go for: premium omakase, fatty tuna, sushi with caviar, truffles, and signature rolls.
Thailand – Fresh Seafood and Tropical Boldness
Thailand is another country where sushi has acquired a distinct local character. Serious Japanese restaurants operate in Bangkok, and in popular resort areas, sushi is prepared using fresh seafood that comes almost directly from the coast.
Thai chefs love to combine Japanese restraint with rich Asian flavors. Rolls may feature mango, lime, spicy chili, coconut sauces, and aromatic herbs. Such sushi is rarely strict classic, but it perfectly captures the atmosphere of a tropical country.
At the same time, in Bangkok, you can find traditional omakase restaurants where chefs work with Japanese fish and carefully adhere to the rules of rice preparation, cutting, and serving. Therefore, Thailand is suitable for both lovers of classics and those seeking unusual combinations.
What to go for: sushi with local shrimp and tuna, rolls with mango, spicy sauces, and tropical fusion.
So, Where is it the Tastiest?
For impeccable classics, you should go to Japan. For luxurious presentation and premium products – to Dubai. For fresh seafood and tropical combinations – to Thailand. For bold fusion – to Peru and Brazil, and for a strong modern sushi culture – to the USA, Singapore, South Korea, and Australia.
Each country has its own view on sushi. Somewhere, tradition is key, somewhere – experimentation, and somewhere – atmosphere. That is why a journey around the world of sushi can be no less interesting than a trip to famous landmarks.
