The 10 Best Sushi Restaurants in Ottawa That Sushi Lovers Rave About
My friend’s birthday is just around the corner, and I’ve been tasked with finding the best sushi restaurant in Ottawa for the special celebration.
As a good pal, I want to make sure we have an incredible dining experience with delectable sushi plates, so I took the challenge right away.
It appears that Japan’s great sushi traditions have found a home in Ottawa, with many fantastic spots offering their own unique flair and flavors.
I’ve narrowed down the choices and discovered some standout places that promise a fantastic meal. Now, I’m excited to share the top sushi restaurants in Ottawa that will make every celebration truly special!
1. Sapporo Sushi Ottawa
— Media credit: sapporosushi.ottawa
Website: https://sapporosushiottawa.com
Location: 1671 Carling Avenue
Contact Details: (613) 729-6018
Business Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Lunch)
- Monday to Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM (Dinner)
Sapporo Sushi Ottawa is where tradition meets a trendy touch in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere perfect for sushi lovers of all levels.
Established in March 2017 by the Ham brothers, Charles and Mike, it continues a proud family legacy that started back in 1995.
From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice the laid-back yet polished vibe with sushi options that will surely satisfy your cravings.
They’ve got all your favorites, but their standout rolls are next level. This includes the fan favorite Spicy Salmon Roll, perfect for those who like a little kick with their sushi.
You can also have a bite of their Rainbow Roll. This beauty lives up to its name, offering a colorful medley of fresh fish layered on top of a classic California roll.
Pro tip:
Explore the sake menu and let the knowledgeable staff help you find the perfect pairing for your sushi. It’s a great way to enhance your dining experience.
2. J:unique Kitchen
— Media credit: juniquekitchen
Website: https://www.juniquekitchen.com
Location: 381 Cooper Street
Contact Details: (613) 234-8877
Business Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
J:unique Kitchen brings a taste of Vancouver-style sushi to Ottawa, offering a sushi experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Their vibe is all about mixing fresh ingredients with some cool techniques. The crew here is on a mission to make your visit unforgettable, with sushi that’ll wow your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
Their menu may be short, but it’s oh-so-sweet, featuring killer rolls like the Unagi Roll, Spider Roll, and the awesome Spicy Yam Tempura Roll. These bites blend classic flavors with a fun, modern twist.
Pro tip:
Try the Spicy Yam Tempura Roll with a glass of plum wine. The sweet, earthy flavors of the wine perfectly balance the kick from the spicy yam.
3. Shinka Sushi Bar
— Media credit: shinkasushibar
Website: https://shinkasushibar.com
Location: 2900 Sheffield Road, Unit 3
Contact Details: (613) 565-8998
Business Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Shinka Sushi Bar has its roots in New Generation Sushi, opened by Chef Peo “John” Diep in 2004. Over nearly two decades, the restaurant has evolved into a modern Japanese dining spot.
Known for its epic omakase experience, Shinka mixes tradition with a fresh twist, serving up sushi made from the best Japanese fish and some awesome vegan options, too.
They’ve got a mind-blowing selection of assorted sushi, like their 34-piece Assorted Combo, which includes goodies like Spicy Salmon, Dragon Eyes, and New Style Sashimi.
And for those seeking a more elevated experience, the 32-piece Premium Combo includes Lobster Tail, Rainbow Aburi, and Unagi Foie Gras.
All these tasty options are available for gluten-free and plant-based eaters, so everyone can dig into Shinka’s delicious sushi without worry.
Pro tip:
For a more relaxed and intimate vibe, visit Shinka on weekday evenings when it’s less busy. You’ll have more time to savor the sushi and enjoy the ambiance.
4. Tomo Restaurant
— Media credit: iliracooks
Website: https://tomorestaurant.ca
Location: 109 Clarence Street
Contact Details: (613) 241-0990
Business Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday & Sunday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Tomo Sushi brings over 40 years of sushi magic to the table, making sure every roll is packed with care and precision.
It’s like a sushi dream team, where many of the chefs have years of experience, so you know you’re getting the good stuff.
And speaking of good stuff, their menu is a fun mix of flavors! From the signature Tomo Roll to the Kiss Roll, there’s something to keep things exciting.
Not feeling adventurous? The Avocado Cucumber Roll has you covered with its refreshing simplicity.
But here’s the real twist. It’s not just the sushi that makes Tomo unforgettable—the sleek decor and warm energy make it a spot you’ll want to come back to again and again.
Pro tip:
Want to level up your night at Tomo? Book their bottle service for a VIP experience. It’s perfect for special occasions, offering premium selections.
5. Kuidaore
— Media credit: kuidaore.izakaya
Website: https://www.kuidaore.ca
Location: 420 Preston Street
Contact Details: (613) 422-7537
Business Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Kuidaore, a name that means “to eat yourself into bankruptcy”, perfectly captures the essence of this venue in Ottawa.
Inspired by Osaka’s famous food district, Dotonburi, Kuidaore brings authentic Japanese flavors to the table while offering a modern izakaya vibe.
The menu is packed with all the classics, but you can never go wrong with their sushi selections like the Unagi Avocado Roll, which is a fan favorite for its creamy avocado and smoky eel ingredient.
Then there’s the Spicy Tuna Roll, which offers a kick of heat that complements the freshness of the tuna, making it an exciting option for sushi lovers looking for something a little bolder.
Pro tip:
Looking for the perfect gift? Kuidaore’s gift cards are ideal for sushi lovers. Buy online or in-store for any occasion.
6. Sushi 88
— Media credit: lilduonger
Website: https://sushi88.ca
Location: 690 B Somerset Street West
Contact Details: (613) 233-3288
Business Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Sunday: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Sushi 88 is a hidden gem in the heart of Ottawa’s Chinatown, perfectly positioned next to the iconic Chinatown Arch.
Since 2003, this cozy sushi spot has been a go-to for sushi lovers across the city, gaining a reputation for offering some of the best sushi in Ottawa.
The menu offers an extensive selection of signature rolls, nigiri, battera (pressed sushi), and a variety of hot dishes. They also have sushi combos that guarantee exceptional value for the price.
One of the popular choices is the Farmer’s Pick, a fresh and flavorful selection of vegetable sushi that appeals to plant-based diners and those looking for a healthy option.
Another highly recommended is the Le Rock Star, a bold, flavor-packed roll that is popular among those who enjoy a creative twist on sushi.
Pro tip:
If you order a combo with miso soup, consider mixing in a dash of soy sauce or even a small spoonful of wasabi for an extra layer of flavor.
7. Sushi Fresh
— Media credit: sushifresh.byward
Website: https://www.sushifresh.ca
Location: 48 Byward Market SQ
Contact Details: (613) 789-5291
Business Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Located in the heart of the lively Byward Market, Sushi Fresh is known for combining high-quality ingredients with a creative touch on every plate.
Whether you’re a fan of traditional sushi or someone who loves trying bold, inventive rolls, Sushi Fresh has something for you.
Part of their popular picks is the Spicy Crab Roll, featuring a tasty mix of crab sticks, spicy mayo, cucumber, and crunchy tempura crumbs.
But that’s not all because they also have unique offerings like the Sweet Potato Roll, Wakame Roll, and Red Dragon (Ruby) Rolls. All these are best paired with some Edamame and Gyoza for a satisfying experience.
Pro tip:
If you’re a fan of variety, go for one of their combo platters! It’s a great way to sample different rolls and sashimi without having to choose just one.
8. Sushi-ro
— Media credit: sushi_ro_1123
Website: https://www.sushi-ro.com
Location: 1123 Wellington Street West
Contact Details: (613) 724-6088
Business Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Sushi-ro, a top-tier sushi place in Ottawa, offers an enticing range of rolls that seamlessly blend traditional Japanese flavors with contemporary creativity.
Their mission is to combine high-quality ingredients and homemade sauces for an extraordinary dining experience.
Crowd-pleasers like the Butter Fish roll and the Albacore roll stand out for their balanced flavors, while options such as the Unagi (BBQ Eel) showcase a rich profile and slightly higher quality compared to others.
Let’s not forget the restaurant’s warm and modern interior, with clean lines and thoughtful decor that creates a relaxed yet stylish setting that you can enjoy while savoring expertly crafted sushi rolls.
Pro tip:
Enhance your meal by starting with appetizers like miso soup, edamame, or gyoza. They complement the sushi and can elevate your overall dining experience.
9. Kochu
— Media credit: eatkochu
Website: https://www.kochu.ca
Location: 266 Preston Street
Contact Details: (613) 236-0000
Business Hours:
- Monday & Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: Closed
- Thursday & Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Kochu, a cherished destination in Ottawa, has been winning hearts since it first opened its doors on Elgin Street in 2008.
Born from the vision of two sisters, the restaurant was created with a simple yet powerful goal in mind—to bring fresh, healthy Asian cuisine to the community.
Over the years, Kochu has become a staple for locals seeking an unforgettable dining experience.
For those looking to explore some of their most popular options, the Fish and Chips Roll, Crazy Roll, and Salmon Plus Roll are must-tries.
Each roll is carefully prepared using premium ingredients, promising a delicious and memorable bite every time.
To add to the experience is Kochu’s warm and inviting atmosphere which makes it an ideal spot for catching up with friends over a relaxed meal.
Pro tip:
The sushi here pairs beautifully with beverages like green plum juice, iced tea, or ginger ale.
10. Burrito Sensei
— Media credit: burrito.sensei
Website: https://burritosensei.com
Location: 199 Bank Street
Contact Details: (613) 680-0802
Business Hours:
- Wednesday to Friday: 11:30 PM – 2:00 PM (Lunch)
- Tuesday to Sunday: 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM (Dinner)
Burrito Sensei is a unique restaurant that combines the best of sushi and burritos in a relaxed, rustic vibe that’s perfect for a casual meal.
But this isn’t your typical sushi joint. While many places stick to traditional sushi rolls, Burrito Sensei takes it up a notch by serving sushi in burrito form.
It’s basically all your favorite sushi ingredients—fresh fish, crisp veggies, and savory sauces, wrapped up in a large seaweed and rice roll that you can enjoy on the go.
This joint is committed to using only the freshest ingredients. Because of that, you can guarantee oozingly flavorful option like One Punch Salmon and Tuna Chop Burritos.
Pro tip:
When trying sushi burritos for the first time at Burrito Sensei, don’t be afraid to customize your order. Mix and match and enjoy a delicious creation.