Best Sushi Restaurants in Calgary, Alberta

Ari Sushi

Considered one of the best restaurants for sushi in Calgary, Ari Sushi in Inglewood is celebrated for its authenticity and premium quality. Led by Head Chef Mike Hakjin Kim, who brings 18 years of experience from the JW-Marriott Japanese Restaurant in South Korea, Ari Sushi is dedicated to serving the freshest ingredients in perfectly crafted dishes. This top-rated Calgary sushi restaurant emphasizes the freshness of each ingredient, ensuring a delightful sushi experience for every customer. For convenience and based on the updated 2023 protocols at Ari Sushi, one of the best restaurants in Calgary, reservations can be made via OpenTable and both dine-in and take-out orders are accommodated, suiting different dining preferences.

Zushi

Zushi in Calgary, located at Lake Fraser Dr SE, is highly regarded for its exceptional sushi offerings. Praised for its fresh and high-quality sushi by TripAdvisor traveler reviews of Calgary, Zushi has gained a following for its salmon don buri and crab temaki roll, which are particularly popular. YYC residents have also enjoyed the miso soup at Zushi, describing it as the best they’ve ever had. Adding to the list of the best restaurants in Calgary, Zushi’s ambiance is described as cozy and inviting, and the staff is noted as being friendly and accommodating. Included in Calgary’s top sushi restaurants, Zushi offers an acclaimed Omakase sushi seating, praised as a top dining experience.

Sho Sushi Bar & Kitchen

Located on Macleod Trail, the well-regarded Sho Sushi Bar & Kitchen is one of the top 10 best Japanese restaurants in Calgary, offering a unique blend of Japanese and contemporary design. Amongst the best restaurants in Calgary, Sho Sushi Bar & Kitchen is known for creating a lively atmosphere where engaging conversations can flourish along with delicious food. As one of the best Calgary sushi restaurants, Sho Sushi Bar & Kitchen emphasizes the consistency in service and premium food quality, aiming to exceed patrons’ expectations. Distinguished dishes like Pressed Ebi Sushi and Assorted Tempura have added to Sho Sushi Bar & Kitchen’s reputation as one of the top 10 best sushi restaurants in Calgary. The restaurant is also praised for its classic sushi selection and creative presentations. Sho Sushi is a warm, inviting place that feels like a home away from home for sushi lovers​

Sushi Bar Zipang

Sushi Bar Zipang, nestled in Northeast Calgary, has garnered a reputation for offering authentic sushi, sashimi, and traditional Japanese cuisine. This restaurant, with over 15 years of serving fresh Japanese dishes, prides itself on delivering the “cleanest cuts in the city”. It’s a go-to destination for those seeking a traditional Japanese dining experience, characterized by its friendly atmosphere and traditional dishes. The menu at Sushi Bar Zipang, one of the best Calgary sushi restaurants, caters to both dine-in and take-out customers, promising a fulfilling dining experience for all guests. The restaurant has a strong commitment to tradition, quality food, and excellent service, making it a beloved spot for sushi enthusiasts in Calgary.

Li-Ao Sushi

Li-Ao Sushi, with locations in Nolan Hill and Bridlewood, Calgary, has been serving the community since 2011. This sushi establishment is known for offering fresh, delicious, classic, and innovative Japanese cuisine. They aim to provide a casual, friendly, vibrant, yet elegant dining atmosphere. Customer favorites include the Winter Soldier Roll, California Rolls, Spicy Roll Combo, Salmon Sashimi, Rainbow Roll, Sushi Pizza, and Beef Rolls. The restaurant is praised for its large portions, huge selection, and great taste. It’s recommended for those seeking a great sushi option in South Calgary. Li-Ao Sushi is also noted for its fast service, friendly staff, and reasonably priced offerings, making it a must-visit for sushi lovers in the area.

Big Catch Sushi

Big Catch Sushi in Calgary has earned accolades for its fantastic sushi. Patrons who have moved away still reminisce about its unmatched quality, often noting nothing quite compares. Two recommended rolls are the “Nine One One” and the “Chicago Roll”. The restaurant is praised for its impressive presentation, especially for takeout, and the sushi is noted for its generous portions of fresh fish. The quality of the ingredients is top-notch, contributing to the overall excellent dining experience. Big Catch’s personalized customer service is also a highlight, with the staff often recognizing and greeting returning customers. It’s regarded as a hidden gem, with creative sushi that rivals high-end restaurants.

Globefish Kensington

Globefish Kensington in Calgary, located in the Northwest area, is renowned for its blend of authentic Japanese cuisine with a touch of modernity. The restaurant has been well-received for its diverse food selection, ranging from traditional maki to Western-inspired sushi options. It’s particularly appreciated for its ability to cater to various dietary needs, offering gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly options.

Customers have praised Globefish Kensington for its fresh sushi and professional, prompt service. Highlights include the GlenCross superroll, noted for its sweet and crunchy texture topped with fresh tuna and sashimi. Additionally, the restaurant is commended for its celiac-friendly and delicious gluten-free options, including tempura and special rolls. The atmosphere is described as welcoming, and the staff’s attention to detail ensures a great dining experience for all guests, even on busy nights.

KE Charcoal Grill & Sushi

KE Charcoal Grill & Sushi in Calgary is a destination for those seeking a mix of traditional and modern sushi experiences. The restaurant is praised for its diverse range of Japanese dishes, including sushi and seafood, with a special mention for their truffle shrimp tempura, spicy tuna roll, and salmon sashimi. Customers have particularly highlighted the bluefin tuna, yakitori, negima, and the signature truffle prawn roll as favorites.

Patrons appreciate the restaurant for its great atmosphere, with the staff being described as super friendly. The quality of food at KE Charcoal Grill & Sushi is consistently noted as being fresh, with a particular emphasis on the grilled items like lamb, and the overall freshness of the sushi. While some reviews mention it as slightly pricey, the consensus is that it offers good value for the quality of food provided. The restaurant is also recognized for its excellent service, adding to the overall pleasant dining experience.

Kinjo Sushi & Grill 

Kinjo Sushi & Grill, located in the Dalhousie area of Calgary, is a notable destination for sushi enthusiasts. The restaurant is known for its expansive menu that includes a variety of Japanese dishes beyond sushi, such as sashimi, ramen, udon, and fried rice. Customers particularly enjoy the kissing dragon roll, ginger beef, takoyaki, and the kinjo cones.

Reviews highlight the restaurant’s good atmosphere, with an open dining space and attentive staff. The prices are considered reasonable, and the quality of food receives positive feedback, with a focus on freshness and taste. While some customers mention the restaurant being very busy, particularly on Friday evenings, the overall consensus is positive, appreciating the variety and quality of the food.

Sukiyaki House

Sukiyaki House in Calgary is a distinguished Japanese restaurant that has been serving the community since 1976. Located on 9th Ave, the restaurant focuses on authentic sushi, Japanese tapas, and hotpot, using traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. The chefs at Sukiyaki House are dedicated to delivering an artistic and exquisite culinary experience. The restaurant is known for its modern contemporary setting, where customers can enjoy a blend of authentic and innovative Japanese cuisine.

Sushi Hiro

Sushi Hiro in Calgary is a well-regarded Japanese restaurant known for its authentic cuisine and attentive service. It has a rich history, being one of the first sushi restaurants in Calgary, established by Hiro and his wife. The restaurant is now managed by their son, continuing the family tradition. Patrons have praised the restaurant for its excellent service, great food, and family-run atmosphere. The sashimi and sushi, in particular, have been noted for their freshness, with some reviews highlighting the Uni from BC as a standout. Additionally, the restaurant is appreciated for its ability to cater to various dietary needs with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. The lychee ice cream has also been recommended as a delightful dessert choice. Sushi Hiro has a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor and is ranked #224 of 2,261 restaurants in Calgary, with particular acclaim for its Asian cuisine​​.

Sushi Bistro Anzu

Sushi Bistro Anzu in Calgary is a noteworthy destination for authentic Japanese cuisine. The restaurant has gained a reputation for its high-quality food, served in a traditional and respectful manner. Reviews consistently praise the freshness and authenticity of the dishes, with a focus on traditional Japanese flavors and presentation.

One of the unique aspects of Sushi Bistro Anzu is the clear influence of Japanese ownership, which reflects in the authenticity of the dishes. The restaurant offers a diverse selection of sashimi and other Japanese dishes, not just limited to sushi, ensuring a varied dining experience. Their Yakiniku beef and Ikageso (calamari) are particularly recommended, noted for their excellent preparation and taste.

The cozy atmosphere of the restaurant, combined with friendly and efficient service, adds to the overall dining experience. Despite its relatively small size, the restaurant seems to manage a busy service with a smile, maintaining a pleasant and welcoming environment.

Midori Japanese Cafe

Midori Japanese Cafe in Calgary is known for its traditional Japanese setup and quality food, offering a range of sushi and other Japanese dishes. The cafe has a long-standing reputation and is appreciated for its authenticity, reminiscent of dining experiences in Japan. Reviews often highlight the freshness, quality, and good portion sizes of their dishes. The restaurant provides excellent food and service, making it a favorite spot for lunch. The sushi bento and lunch specials come highly recommended for their taste and value. The atmosphere inside is described as small but high-quality, contributing to an authentic dining experience. Overall, Midori Japanese Cafe is celebrated as a go-to place in the neighborhood for traditional and quality Japanese cuisine​​.

Takumi Sushi

Takumi Sushi in Calgary is highly regarded for its quality sushi and efficient service. It stands out for its fresh sashimi, delicious Udon, and crispy tempura, with particular praise for its Flames roll and signature roll. The restaurant is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff are noted for being accommodating. Takumi Sushi’s extensive menu offers a variety of choices at reasonable prices, making it a popular dining option in the area. It has earned favorable reviews from customers, who consider it one of the best sushi places in Calgary for its combination of great food and quick service.

FAQs about Calgary Japanese Restaurants / Izakaya

Q: What are the best sushi restaurants in Calgary?

A: The best sushi restaurants in Calgary include Big Catch Sushi Bar, Shibuya Izakaya, Hana, and many others that offer a delightful sushi dining experience.

Q: Where can I find the best sushi in Calgary?

A: You can find the best sushi in Calgary at various Japanese restaurants and sushi spots across the city, especially in areas like Marda Loop.

Q: What makes Big Catch Sushi Bar a top sushi spot in Calgary?

A: Big Catch Sushi Bar is renowned for its delicious Japanese cuisine, impressive sushi rolls, and sushi burritos, making it one of the best sushi spots to satisfy your sushi cravings in Calgary.

Q: When was the list of best sushi restaurants in Calgary updated?

A: The list of best sushi restaurants in Calgary was updated in 2023 to ensure that it includes the top sushi spots based on recent reviews and ratings.

Q: Are there any highly recommended Japanese restaurants in Calgary?

A: Yes, there are several highly recommended Japanese restaurants in Calgary, offering the best Japanese food in the city, catering to sushi enthusiasts and those seeking authentic Japanese cuisine.

Q: Where can I find the best Japanese food in Calgary?

A: You can find the best Japanese food in Calgary at various Japanese restaurants, izakayas, and sushi spots that promise an unforgettable dining experience for enthusiasts of Japanese cuisine.

Q: What are some popular areas in Calgary for sushi lovers?

A: Sushi lovers in Calgary are drawn to areas like Marda Loop, known for its excellent Japanese restaurants and sushi spots, catering to those with discerning tastes for sushi and Japanese cuisine.

Q: What are some key factors to consider when looking for the best sushi in Calgary?

A: When looking for the best sushi in Calgary, consider factors such as TripAdvisor traveler reviews, the variety of sushi options, the ambiance of the restaurant, and the overall dining experience for a truly satisfying meal.

Q: Where can I find the top Japanese restaurants in Calgary?

A: The top Japanese restaurants in Calgary can be found by exploring the city’s culinary scene, whether you’re looking for the best sushi, izakaya dining, or a comprehensive list of the best Japanese restaurants catering to different preferences.

Q: What are some of the best sushi restaurants in Calgary recommended by locals?

A: Locals recommend various sushi restaurants in Calgary, including hidden gems and well-known establishments, promising some of the best sushi and Japanese cuisine in Alberta, ensuring you’ll ever find a delightful dining experience.