In Cape Town, we love our sushi! What’s more, the city has become a treasure trove of spots where creative fusion takes on this Japanese staple. Many places hit the spot whether you like fresh and simple sashimi or saucy, spicy, elaborate new-style rolls. Here are some of the latest additions to the Mother City’s sushi scene.
We asked locals which places they choose every time and rounded up the best sushi spots according to Capetonians.
Soi Bar
Soi Bar offers unique fusion sushi that you’ve most likely never heard of. Their carpaccio roses for instance has carpaccio springbok, cream cheese, peppadews, and teriyaki; while the mango kiss combines tempura prawn california with salmon, mango and strawberry sauce.
Website: www.soibar.co.za
Nobu at the One&Only
Nobu offers a contemporary twist on authentic Japanese cuisine. This is the place to go if you’re after a special meal in a beautiful setting. The chef’s signature tasting menu is the way to go, but you can order individual sushi servings too. The yellowtail jalapeno sashimi is sublime: the light fish pairs beautifully with the subtle spice and crunch of the jalapeno. Their new style of sushi is also beautiful. Try one of their set menus or canapé menus to get a broad selection of their most popular sushi dishes.
Website: www.oneandonlyresorts.com/cape-town/dining/nobu
Willoughby & Co
Willoughby & Co does Japanese cuisine and specialises in seafood, but it’s their sushi that has a dedicated local following. Here, you’ll find all the classics along with some new and exciting creations. Don’t miss their beautiful, delicate sashimi. Consider ordering a platter with a good bottle of Cape wine to enjoy on a summer’s day at the vibrant V&A Waterfront. The sushi attracts crowds, so arrive early to secure a table.
Website: www.willoughbyandco.co.za
Aiko Sushi
Aiko Sushi has an extensive menu of sushi options for all tastebuds, but what makes them unique is their vegan offering. Vegans have plenty of options to choose from, including the mouth-watering Mushroom Bomb. Aiko also offers banting and vegetarian options as well. If you’re looking for something different, why not try their sushi burger, sushi doughnut, sushi pizza or sushi burrito?
Website: www.aikosushi.co.za
Haiku
Haiku is on Burg Street, near the bustling heart of the city. Try a hand roll if you’re hungry, or the tuna tacos if you’re hankering for some delicious fusion food. You won’t find their octopus sashimi anywhere else, and the crunchy salmon roses are another unique spin on a classic.
Website: www.bukhara.com/haiku
MAKE
MAKE is in the heart of Sea Point. They have an extensive selection of rolls and sashimi but don’t neglect the “creative sushi” section of their menu. For a taste of all they have on offer, order the very affordable platters, and enjoy a sushi feast with friends.
Website: www.facebook.com
Beluga
Situated at the scenic Cape Town Cruise Terminal at the V&A Waterfront, Beluga is the perfect place to settle in for sushi and cocktails with friends. The sushi menu is one of the most extensive in town, and the fusion sushi selection is an adventure of taste and texture.
Website: www.beluga.co.za
Nuri Sushi
Nuri is the go-to place for affordable platters of unique sushi. They have a rice-free selection, as well as poke bowls and salads for the health-conscious. The gourmet sushi options are indulgent, and the menu items are unique. You’ll find traditional sushi on the menu too if you prefer to keep things simple.
Website: www.nuri.co.za
Rock Thai Sushi
A family-friendly Thai and sushi restaurant located at Rondebosch Village in Klipfontein Road, Rock Thai Sushi offers melt-in-your-mouth sushi that’ll satisfy any craving. Their fusion sushi is both tasty and gorgeous to look at.
Website: www.web.facebook.com/RTSRondeboschHalaal
3 Wise Monkeys
3 Wise Monkeys is a little Asian eatery on Sea Point’s Regent Road that packs a big punch. A favourite with the locals, it has established itself as a hotspot in Sea Point’s competitive foodie scene. There’s sushi, poke bowls, ramen, beer on tap and bao buns. What more could you wish for?
Website: www.threewisemonkeys.co.za
Genki Sushi Bar & Japanese Tapas
Situated in a cobbled courtyard in the leafy town of Stellenbosch. Genki provides a uniquely tranquil and informal setting for Japanese tapas. The sushi is great, there’s a great wine list (Stellenbosch is in the Winelands) and the atmosphere is a laidback Asian/European hybrid.
Website: www.genkisushi.weebly.com
Oishi Sushi
Oishi specialises in simple, fresh flavours. Their sushi is available for delivery only, so it’s a great choice if you’re after a quiet night in. Their salmon roses are some of the best in town, and the Glen Box is a great choice for two to four people.
Website: www.oishi.co.za
Blue Marlin
Blue Marlin’s sushi is affordable and tasty. The restaurant is in the arty, vibrant suburb of Observatory. Grab some sushi here before heading out to catch some live music or visit one of the area’s many bars.
Website: www.bluemarlinasiancuisine.co.za
Salushi
Located on Cavendish Street in Claremont, Salushi offers bespoke sushi in the form of classic sushi, signature dishes, fusion mixes and platters.
Website: www.salushiexpress.co.za
Harbour House
Kalk Bay has been ranked as one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world and the Harbour House is high on the list when it comes to restaurants with spectacular views. Situated right on Kalk Bay harbour overlooking the sea, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot to enjoy sushi and sundowners. The menu is fantastic, and the drinks menu is extensive.
Website: www.harbourhouse.co.za
J&S Sushi
J&S Sushi offers a wide range of sushi choices, as well as specials and combos for those looking for affordable options.
Website: www.jandssushi.co.za
