William SmithSushi’s a big deal in New Zealand. And who can blame them?
Freshness, healthiness, and a love for diverse cuisines make sushi a hit. But knowing where to find the best sushi? That’s the ultimate flex.
Check out our list of top sushi spots in Auckland and become the ultimate sushi connoisseur among your crew! Psst, our lips are sealed on where you got the insider info!
Cocoro
— Media credit: cocoro_restaurant
Website: https://www.cocoro.co.nz/
Address: 56a Brown Street, Ponsonby, Auckland 1021, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 360 0927
Hours:
- Closed from Sunday to Monday
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:30 PM–9 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM–2 PM, 5:30 PM–9 PM
Price range: $$$$
Ever heard of Cocoro? It’s Japanese for ‘the heart and soul’ — and this spot’s all about feeding both with mouthwatering Japanese delights.
Just imagine a big communal table stealing the spotlight, calling out to pals and lovebirds alike for a memorable meal. Sushi and sashimi courses or tapas-style dining, it’s where you call the shots!
At Cocoro, sushi is all about the nigiri style: a flawless blend of sweet and salty rice topped with a delicate slice of fish. We love getting into bluefin tuna and smoked daikon pickles.
Here’s to broadening your culinary horizons. Kanpai!
Pro Tip:
If you want a different style, go for a sashimi adventure! And with a sake selection that seems bottomless, you’ll find the perfect match for every bite.
Musashi
— Media credit: musashi.newlynn
Website: https://www.musashi.group/
Address: 3073 Great North Road, New Lynn, Auckland 0600, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 826 0622
Hours:
- Closed on Monday
- Tuesday to Thursday: 5:30 PM–9:15 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 11:45 AM–2:15 PM, 5:30 PM–9:15 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
You’ll be spoiled for choice with Musashi’s multiple restaurants scattered across Auckland. And, you won’t have to travel far to get your Japanese fusion fix!
That’s because each Musashi joint puts its own spin on tradition. You’re guaranteed servings of mouth-watering blends of local Kiwi ingredients with a Japanese twist.
Just let yourself indulge in an array of sushi delights that’ll have you ordering more than you can handle. It’s about time you get a taste of how it feels to turn Japanese!
From soft-shell crab dripping in teriyaki goodness to Aburi scallops delicately housed in nigiri sushi, your taste buds are in for a wild ride. And let’s not forget the flame-grilled eye filet which is, in one word, divine.
Whether you’re dining with your squad or planning a romantic rendezvous, Musashi’s cozy ambiance is perfect for any occasion.
Pro Tip:
While these spots are BYO, it’d be downright rude not to dive into their selection of sake. Hot or cold, it’s a match made in heaven that you won’t want to miss out on!
Yuzu
— Media credit: 2hungryh0es
Website: https://www.facebook.com/YuzuRestaurant/
Address: 145 Ponsonby Road, Ponsonby, Auckland 1011, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 378 6040
Hours:
- Closed on Sunday
- Monday to Friday: 11:30 AM–2 PM, 5 PM–9 PM
- Saturday: 5 PM–9 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
In Ponsonby’s lineup of polished establishments, cult-favorite Yuzu holds its own. Its menu features izakaya, sizzling hot plates, and rolled sushi — truly something for everyone!
Perfect for a quick lunchtime bite or an easy dinner, Yuzu has long been a favorite neighborhood spot for Ponsonby locals and beyond. And let’s be real, there’s a darn good reason for that!
Pro Tip:
If you’re looking for something to pair your sushi selection with, get their miso soup, a plate of takoyaki, and a serving (or two) of tempura!
Sushi Train
— Media credit: super.fooodie
Address: 85/89 Customs Street West, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 358 3434
Hours:
- Open daily from 11:30 AM–10 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
In Auckland, these culinary creations are as common as sheep on a farm. Sushi Train is like a sushi carnival, bringing Japanese cuisine to your fingertips in a fun and relaxed setting.
There’s no need for fancy menus here! Just grab whatever catches your eye as it glides past you on the conveyor belt.
The best part? Pricing is as easy as matching colors — the more colorful your plates, the more you’ll pay.
And, there’s plenty of bang for your buck! Just mix and match to your heart’s content, from bigeye tuna nigiri sushi to sweet chili prawn rolls.
And if you’re craving something special, just give a shout-out! They’re here to please, so hop aboard the sushi train and let your taste buds take a joyride. Choo choo!
Pro Tip:
You’ve gotta try their Trio Boat. It’s a mouthwatering delight packed with sashimi, tempura, karaage, crumbed oysters, and teriyaki chicken — perfect for 2-4 people!
&Sushi
— Media credit: andsushinz
Website: https://www.andsushi.co.nz/
Address: 2 Commerce Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 600 3299
Hours:
- Closed from Saturday to Sunday
- Monday to Friday: 10:30 AM–3 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
When you’re tired of the same old lunch routine, you know it’s time to do something! Well, pack your chopsticks and head on over to &Sushi, sitting quietly in the middle of the hustle and bustle of City Works Depot.
Your taste buds will be tickled with their daily fresh rolls. They usually have classic combos like teriyaki chicken, king salmon, and veggies, alongside some seriously special dishes.
And let’s talk presentation as &Sushi doesn’t mess around. Their Japanese delights are meticulously arranged, making every bite Instagram-worthy.
Whether you’re craving a custom lunch box or feeling the urge for teriyaki chicken donburi or tofu yakisoba, they’ve got you covered.
Lunchtime? Dinner time? Whenever hunger strikes, &Sushi has your back like the food ninja it is.
Pro Tip:
With locations citywide at City Works Depot, Newmarket, Britomart, Eastridge, and Smales Farm, &Sushi has become synonymous with top-notch sushi. It’s time to find the one nearest you!
Ebisu
— Media credit: ebisubritomart
Website: https://savor.co.nz/ebisu
Address: 116 – 118 Quay Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 300 5271
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12 PM–2 PM, 5 PM–10:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 5 PM–10:30 PM
Price range: $$$$
Nestled snugly in Auckland’s Britomart precinct, Ebisu’s taking things up several notches with its contemporary Japanese cuisine. And, it’s all served up in a swanky space overlooking the waterfront.
Think moody vibes and mouthwatering dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing!
And their menu? It’s a culinary love affair between Japan and Europe, resulting in a tantalizing mix of new-style sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese dishes with a twist.
Wash it all down with a sake-infused cocktail or a cold brew — they’ve got options for days.
Oh, and did we mention Ebisu’s trophy shelf? It’s practically overflowing with awards and accolades, making it a staple on every ‘Best Of’ list in the city.
So yeah, you could say they know a thing or two about wowing their guests!
Pro Tip:
You can swing by for a leisurely lunch and treat yourself to their Ebi Mayo Roll — eight pieces of sushi perfection with a delicious twist. Trust us, it’s the kind of dish sushi dreams are made of.
Tokyo Bay
— Media credit: tokyobaynz
Website: https://www.tokyobay.co.nz/
Address: 20 The Strand, Takapuna, Auckland 0622, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 390 7188
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM–3:30 PM, 5:30 PM–9 PM
- Friday to Saturday: 12 PM–9:30 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM–9 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
Set against the stunning backdrop of Takapuna Beach with a sky filled with floating silvery fishes, Tokyo Bay has truly captured the soothing essence of the ocean in its sleek décor.
Just sitting down, you can already picture yourself lounging on the patio beneath oversized Japanese-styled umbrellas, soaking in the modern twist on Japanese cuisine.
And there’s no need to stress about what to order! Just go for a variety of sharing plates to sample a bit of everything or go solo with your favorite dish.
This means deep diving into crunchy tiger prawn sushi rolls or indulging in the ever-popular teriyaki chicken for a truly serene evening in this oasis.
And hey, with a fully licensed ‘fugu’ blowfish sushi chef on board, you know you’re in good hands for your sushi fix.
If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the small plates menu for a mix of traditional and fusion dishes. Trust me, the eggplant miso-yaki is a creamy delight that might even win over the eggplant skeptics among your crew!
When it comes to lunchtime Tokyo Bay has you covered with a touch of fancy without breaking the bank. Who said lunch couldn’t be a little luxurious?
Pro Tip:
Don’t miss out on the duck dumpling shumai — it’s a flavor-packed treat that’ll satisfy even the most devout meat lovers. And for those who can’t decide, bento box options offer a little taste of everything without the menu overwhelm.
Oji Sushi
— Media credit: ojisushi_
Website: https://ojisushi.co.nz/
Address: 21 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Hours:
- Opens daily from 11 AM–7:30 PM
Price range: $$
In Freemans Bay’s Wynyard Quarter sits Oji Sushi, the brainchild of Yukio Ozeki. If you don’t already know, he’s the mastermind behind Auckland gems Azabu and Ebisu.
And this new venture dishes out fresh Japanese delights. You can just taste the salmon from Stewart Island’s Big Glory Bay, bursting with flavor, protein, and omegas to fuel your body, mind, and mood!
Forget pre-packaged fare. Here, everything’s whipped up from scratch daily, ensuring you snag the smartest grab-and-go bites in town.
Oji Sushi prides itself on serving up locally sourced, sustainable treats. That’s why items on the menu feature fresh, seasonal goodies (hint hint: the aforementioned salmon).
From rolled sushi to mouthwatering sandos and rice bowls, the menu screams vibrant flavors for picky palates. It’s like your favorite takeout, but with a healthy twist: simple yet oh-so-satisfying!
Pro Tip:
Be prepared for a bit of wait as everything needs to be carefully checked for freshness. Remember, it’s all made from scratch!
Tanuki Japanese Restaurant
— Media credit: tanukisushiandsakebar
Website: https://tanuki.co.nz/
Address: 319 Queen Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland 1010, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 379 5353
Hours:
- Closed from Monday to Tuesday
- Wednesday to Sunday: 5 PM–10 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
Tucked next to the Town Hall and just a skip away from Aotea Square is Tanuki Japanese Restaurant. It’s your go-to for a tantalizing array of Japanese delights.
Just slide open the traditional door and voilà! You’re whisked away to a cozy sake bar in Japan.
Now prepare your taste buds for a colorful, mouthwatering, and budget-friendly menu. It’s like Japanese tapas — order a bunch and dive into a flavor fiesta!
Our top pick? The broccoli with sesame and mayo sauce. Trust us, one plate won’t cut it!
Pro Tip:
Don’t forget about Tanuki’s Cave downstairs. It’s the perfect post-dinner hangout.
Gion Japanese Restaurant
— Media credit: gion_parnell
Website: https://www.gion.co.nz/
Address: 1/168 Parnell Road, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand
Contact: +64 9 379 3344
Hours:
- Closed from Sunday to Monday
- Tuesday to Saturday: 11:45 AM–2 PM, 5:45 PM–9 PM
Price range: $$ – $$$
Gion Japanese Restaurant, where ancient Kyoto meets Auckland’s lively streets. We mean kimono-clad ladies welcoming you with a smile and a cup of steaming green tea.
Zen, right? Inside, traditional Japanese decor sets the stage for an unforgettable dining adventure.
Akira is the sushi maestro straight from Kyoto. His mission for the night is to dazzle your taste buds with the freshest sashimi and sushi in town.
But hold onto your chopsticks — this isn’t your average sushi spot! It’s a posh paradise for Japanese cuisine enthusiasts.
Here, simplicity is key. From classic salmon and avocado sushi to the daring rainbow roll bursting with five types of fresh fish, there’s a flavor for everyone!
Pro Tip:
Why not shake things up and try the grilled eel with cucumber and Kabayaki sauce?
