22.6K
40+ OF OUR FAVORITE SUSHI RESTAURANTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST
EMBARK ON A CULINARY ODYSSEY: DISCOVER THE MIDDLE EAST’S PREMIER JAPANESE DINING DESTINATIONS IN OUR CURATED COMPILATION OF TOP PICKS
EGYPT
IZAKAYA
Izakaya is one of Cairo’s most prominent Japanese-Peruvian (Nikkei) dining destinations, inspired by the informal Japanese gastropub concept. The restaurant combines traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques with Peruvian flavors, resulting in a menu that balances authenticity and creativity. Signature offerings typically include premium sushi, ceviche-inspired dishes, robata-grilled specialties, and sharing plates. The atmosphere is contemporary and energetic, appealing to affluent diners seeking a social dining experience. Izakaya is particularly known for its stylish design, cocktail program, and vibrant evening scene.
KAMALA
Located within the Conrad Cairo, Kamala offers a sophisticated Asian dining experience with a strong Japanese influence. The restaurant caters to both hotel guests and local diners looking for refined service and premium-quality ingredients. The menu focuses on sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, and pan-Asian specialties prepared with attention to presentation and consistency. Kamala’s elegant setting, professional service, and upscale hotel environment position it as a destination for business dinners, celebrations, and premium dining occasions.
KAŹOKU
Kazoku has established itself as one of Egypt’s benchmark contemporary Japanese restaurants. The concept combines traditional Japanese culinary principles with modern dining trends, creating an experience that feels both authentic and accessible. The menu includes an extensive sushi selection, robata-grilled dishes, premium seafood, and creative signature plates. The restaurant’s architecture and interior design emphasize minimalism and sophistication, attracting a fashionable clientele. Kazoku is often recognized for its consistency, ingredient quality, and high-end dining experience.
NAIRU
Situated within The Nile Ritz-Carlton, Nairu offers an upscale Pan-Asian experience with Japanese cuisine playing a central role. The restaurant is designed around a luxurious and contemporary aesthetic, featuring views of the Nile and a lively social atmosphere. Guests can expect a menu of sushi, sashimi, dim sum, and Asian-inspired specialties that blend traditional techniques with modern presentation. Nairu appeals to both hotel guests and local diners seeking premium Asian dining in a prestigious setting.
REIF KUSHIYAKI
Founded by acclaimed chef Reif Othman, Reif Kushiyaki brings a more casual and street-food-inspired interpretation of Japanese cuisine to Egypt. The concept focuses heavily on kushiyaki (grilled skewers), ramen, sandos, donburi bowls, and innovative sushi creations. Unlike traditional fine-dining Japanese restaurants, Reif Kushiyaki emphasizes bold flavors, accessibility, and culinary creativity. The restaurant attracts younger diners, food enthusiasts, and guests seeking a contemporary Japanese experience with strong personality and chef-driven innovation.
JORDAN
MATII
Matii is a modern Japanese-inspired restaurant in Amman that combines sushi, contemporary Asian cuisine, and stylish hospitality. The restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients and visually appealing dishes designed for sharing. Its menu includes classic sushi, specialty rolls, appetizers, and fusion creations that cater to local tastes while maintaining Japanese influences. The atmosphere is contemporary and social, making it popular among young professionals and groups.
SKYLINE SUSHI
Skyline Sushi is positioned as a modern sushi destination offering panoramic city views alongside an extensive sushi menu. The restaurant emphasizes fresh seafood, artistic presentation, and a relaxed dining atmosphere. The menu features traditional nigiri and sashimi alongside specialty rolls and fusion options. Its appeal lies in combining quality sushi with a comfortable, lifestyle-oriented dining experience.
THE SUSHI DEN
The Sushi Den focuses primarily on traditional Japanese sushi preparation and seafood quality. The restaurant offers a broad selection of sushi rolls, nigiri, sashimi, and Japanese appetizers. Compared with more nightlife-oriented concepts, The Sushi Den positions itself as a dedicated sushi restaurant where the food remains the primary attraction. The emphasis on freshness and variety makes it popular among regular sushi consumers.
YUGEN
Skyline Sushi is positioned as a modern sushi destination offering panoramic city views alongside an extensive sushi menu. The restaurant emphasizes fresh seafood, artistic presentation, and a relaxed dining atmosphere. The menu features traditional nigiri and sashimi alongside specialty rolls and fusion options. Its appeal lies in combining quality sushi with a comfortable, lifestyle-oriented dining experience.
KUWAIT
ROKA
Roka is one of the world’s most recognized contemporary Japanese restaurant brands, originating in London. Its concept revolves around robatayaki cooking, where dishes are prepared over open-flame charcoal grills. The menu combines sushi, sashimi, robata-grilled seafood, meats, and vegetables. Roka is known for premium ingredients, energetic service, and sophisticated interiors. It attracts a luxury clientele seeking a polished and internationally recognized dining experience.
MAKI
Founded in Kuwait, Maki is one of the Middle East’s most successful homegrown Japanese restaurant brands. The restaurant gained popularity by introducing innovative sushi rolls that incorporate Middle Eastern flavors and ingredients. The menu balances traditional Japanese offerings with highly creative fusion dishes. Maki appeals to a broad audience due to its approachable style, strong brand recognition, and continuous menu innovation.
SAKURA
Sakura is one of Kuwait’s longest-standing Japanese dining establishments and is widely regarded as a pioneer of Japanese cuisine in the market. The restaurant focuses on traditional Japanese cooking methods and dishes, including sushi, sashimi, tempura, and teppanyaki. Sakura’s reputation is built on consistency, authenticity, and a loyal customer base developed over many years.
LEBANON
CLAP
CLAP Beirut combines contemporary Japanese cuisine with an upscale lifestyle and nightlife experience. The restaurant offers premium sushi, robata dishes, wagyu, and creative Japanese-inspired plates. Its dramatic architecture, rooftop atmosphere, and entertainment-driven concept attract affluent diners and social audiences. CLAP positions itself as both a dining destination and a luxury social venue.
GINGER & CO
Ginger & Co is a contemporary Asian restaurant offering Japanese, Thai, and fusion dishes. Sushi plays a central role on the menu, complemented by wok dishes, appetizers, and sharing plates. The concept is designed to be accessible and modern, appealing to diners seeking quality Asian cuisine in a relaxed yet stylish environment.
IKI
Iki is a contemporary Japanese concept emphasizing fresh ingredients, elegant presentation, and modern hospitality. The menu includes sushi, sashimi, signature rolls, and Japanese-inspired specialties. The restaurant appeals to diners seeking a polished and modern interpretation of Japanese cuisine.
KAMPAI
Kampai is considered one of Beirut’s most established Japanese restaurants. It offers a broad menu ranging from traditional sushi and sashimi to robata grilling and hot Japanese dishes. The restaurant has built a strong reputation through consistency, ingredient quality, and years of operation. Kampai appeals to both traditional sushi enthusiasts and diners seeking a complete Japanese dining experience.
LE SUSHI BAR
Le Sushi Bar is one of Lebanon’s most respected premium Japanese brands. The restaurant is known for meticulous presentation, high-quality seafood, and refined service standards. The menu includes traditional sushi alongside signature creations developed for regional tastes. Le Sushi Bar positions itself firmly within the premium dining segment and is often associated with special occasions and business dining.
MOMAKI
Momaki has developed a distinctive identity through highly creative sushi concepts and customizable menu offerings. The restaurant emphasizes innovation and customer personalization while maintaining strong quality standards. Its colorful presentations and unique flavor combinations appeal particularly to younger diners and those seeking something beyond traditional sushi.
OBI
Obi offers a modern interpretation of Japanese dining with a focus on simplicity, freshness, and quality ingredients. The menu combines classic Japanese dishes with contemporary presentations. The restaurant’s minimalist design and approachable atmosphere create a comfortable setting for both casual and upscale dining occasions.
SHOGUN
Shogun is one of Lebanon’s longest-running Japanese restaurants and is widely associated with authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant offers sushi, sashimi, tempura, teriyaki, and teppanyaki prepared according to traditional methods. Its longevity and reputation have made it a trusted destination among Beirut’s Japanese food enthusiasts.
STEAKBAR SUSHI
Steakbar Sushi combines two highly popular categories—premium steaks and Japanese cuisine—under one concept. Guests can choose from sushi platters, sashimi, wagyu, grilled meats, and fusion dishes. This dual focus allows the restaurant to attract diverse groups and occasions, making it a versatile dining destination.
OMAN
AKIKO
Akiko is a contemporary Japanese restaurant that combines traditional Japanese techniques with modern culinary trends. The menu focuses on premium sushi, sashimi, and creative signature rolls while maintaining a strong commitment to ingredient quality. Its stylish interior and upscale atmosphere make it a popular choice among Muscat’s affluent dining crowd.
TAKARA
Takara is often regarded as one of Oman’s premier Japanese dining destinations. Located within a luxury hotel environment, the restaurant offers sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki, and robata-grilled specialties. Takara is particularly recognized for authenticity, premium seafood sourcing, and attentive service, making it a preferred destination for business dinners and special occasions.
THEATRUM
Theatrum is a unique multi-cuisine dining concept that incorporates Japanese cuisine within a broader theatrical dining experience. The venue features live cooking stations and an immersive atmosphere where guests can explore multiple cuisines. The Japanese section includes sushi, sashimi, and contemporary Asian dishes prepared in an interactive environment.
QATAR
MAKI
Originally founded in Kuwait, Maki has become one of the Gulf region’s most recognizable Japanese fusion brands and has established a strong presence in Qatar. The concept is built around innovative sushi creations that incorporate regional flavors and ingredients into traditional Japanese preparations. Maki is particularly known for its signature maki rolls, creative sauces, and contemporary approach to sushi. The restaurant balances accessibility with quality, making it appealing to both experienced sushi diners and newcomers. Its modern atmosphere and broad menu have helped position it as a mainstream favorite in the premium-casual dining segment.
NEO RESTAURANT
Neo is a contemporary Japanese-inspired restaurant that focuses on modern design, innovative cuisine, and a social dining experience. The concept emphasizes artistic presentation and creative interpretations of sushi and Asian flavors. Guests can expect premium sushi, specialty rolls, small sharing plates, and modern Japanese dishes designed for group dining. Neo appeals to younger, trend-conscious consumers who value atmosphere, aesthetics, and culinary creativity alongside food quality.
NOBU
Nobu Doha is part of the globally renowned Nobu restaurant group founded by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Widely considered one of the world’s most influential Japanese restaurant brands, Nobu pioneered the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine. The menu features iconic dishes such as Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño, premium sushi, and signature sashimi preparations. Located in one of Doha’s most distinctive waterfront settings, Nobu combines luxury hospitality, exceptional service, and world-class culinary standards. It serves as a destination restaurant for both residents and international visitors.
MORIMOTO
Created by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, Morimoto Doha brings a highly refined interpretation of Japanese cuisine to the Qatari market. The restaurant combines traditional Japanese culinary techniques with contemporary innovation and artistic presentation. The menu includes premium sushi, omakase experiences, Japanese wagyu, and chef-driven tasting menus. Morimoto is positioned within the luxury dining segment and attracts diners seeking a sophisticated, globally recognized Japanese dining experience.
ZENGO
Zengo offers a unique fusion concept that blends Japanese, Thai, Chinese, and Latin American influences. Sushi remains a central component of the menu, but it is complemented by a variety of pan-Asian and international dishes. The restaurant’s energetic atmosphere, creative cocktails, and rooftop appeal make it a popular social dining destination. Zengo targets guests seeking a lively environment and contemporary interpretations of Asian cuisine rather than a purely traditional Japanese experience.
UAE
CLAP
CLAP Dubai is a luxury Japanese restaurant and lifestyle destination that combines contemporary Japanese cuisine with sophisticated entertainment and nightlife elements. The menu includes premium sushi, sashimi, robata-grilled dishes, wagyu beef, and creative signature plates. The restaurant’s striking design, rooftop location, and high-energy atmosphere make it one of Dubai’s most recognizable dining venues. CLAP appeals to affluent consumers seeking both exceptional cuisine and a premium social experience.
GOLDFISH & YAKITORI
Goldfish Sushi & Yakitori is a contemporary Japanese concept known for combining high-quality sushi with traditional yakitori grilling. The restaurant focuses on fresh seafood, premium ingredients, and carefully crafted handrolls. Unlike many larger luxury concepts, Goldfish offers a more intimate and approachable experience while maintaining high culinary standards. Its modern design and chef-driven menu have made it popular among Dubai’s growing community of Japanese food enthusiasts.
KOKORO HANDROLL BAR
Kokoro has built its reputation around handcrafted sushi and premium handroll experiences. The concept emphasizes simplicity, ingredient quality, and meticulous preparation. Guests often interact directly with chefs, creating a more personal and immersive dining experience. Kokoro appeals to diners who appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and a focused menu rather than extensive fusion offerings. The restaurant has become particularly popular among consumers seeking a more specialized sushi experience.
ORIGAMI
Origami is one of Dubai’s leading homegrown Japanese restaurant brands. Inspired by Japanese minimalism and craftsmanship, the restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients, clean flavors, and elegant presentation. The menu includes sushi, sashimi, handrolls, donburi bowls, and Japanese comfort dishes. Origami has successfully positioned itself between casual dining and premium hospitality, attracting a loyal following through consistency and quality.
REIF KUSHIYAKI
Reif Kushiyaki is the flagship concept of award-winning chef Reif Othman and is widely regarded as one of Dubai’s most influential contemporary Japanese restaurants. The restaurant focuses on Japanese street food, kushiyaki skewers, ramen, sandos, and innovative sushi creations. Its casual atmosphere contrasts with many traditional luxury Japanese venues, but its culinary quality remains exceptionally high. Reif Kushiyaki has helped redefine modern Japanese dining in the UAE through creativity, accessibility, and strong chef-driven identity.
SUSHIYAKI
Sushiyaki combines sushi, grilled Japanese specialties, and Asian fusion influences within a modern dining environment. The concept is designed to offer a broad range of Japanese-inspired dishes that appeal to diverse customer preferences. The menu balances traditional offerings with contemporary creations, making it suitable for both casual meals and group dining occasions.
SALMONTINI
Salmontini is a premium seafood-focused restaurant built around high-quality salmon sourced from leading international suppliers. While salmon remains the brand’s signature ingredient, the menu extends to sushi, sashimi, tartares, seafood specialties, and healthy lifestyle dishes. Salmontini’s emphasis on freshness, nutritional value, and ingredient quality has positioned it as a popular choice among health-conscious consumers and seafood enthusiasts.
TEZUKURI
The name “Tezukuri,” meaning “handmade” in Japanese, reflects the restaurant’s commitment to traditional preparation methods and culinary craftsmanship. The concept focuses on handcrafted sushi, fresh seafood, and authentic Japanese flavors. Tezukuri appeals to diners seeking a more traditional and understated Japanese dining experience compared to Dubai’s larger entertainment-driven concepts.
ZUMA
Zuma is widely regarded as one of the most successful contemporary Japanese restaurant brands in the world. Based on the Japanese izakaya concept, Zuma combines premium sushi, robata grilling, sharing plates, and an energetic dining atmosphere. The Dubai location has become one of the city’s most iconic restaurants, attracting business leaders, tourists, and luxury consumers. Zuma is known for consistency, exceptional service, and a sophisticated yet lively dining environment.
99 SUHSI BAR
Originating in Spain, 99 Sushi Bar brings a fine-dining interpretation of Japanese cuisine to Dubai. The restaurant specializes in premium seafood, luxury ingredients, Japanese wagyu, caviar, and highly refined sushi preparations. Presentation, service, and culinary precision are central to the concept. Positioned firmly within the luxury segment, 99 Sushi Bar attracts affluent diners seeking an exclusive and elegant dining experience.
SAUDI ARABIA







