Photo: Roots&Rolls
Do you want to try the best sushi restaurants in Barcelona? If you’re looking for quality sushi that won’t break the bank, keep reading on to find out which ones offer the best value for your money in the Catalan capital.
In this life, there are only two types of people: those who hate sushi and those of us who love it. It’s a phenomenon with no middle ground, and don’t ask me why, it just is. The good thing is that those of us who are addicted to sushi also become experts and can tell when sushi is good or a disaster.
There are hundreds of sushi restaurants in Barcelona. I won’t lie to you, I haven’t been to all of them. However, I know a few places where they prepare delicious Japanese delicacies. If you’re looking to try traditional maki, fresh nigiri, or unique fusion rolls, keep reading to discover the best sushi in Barcelona in 2023.
One of the best gifts that Western culture has received is Japanese cuisine which embraces Healthiness, freshness and deliciousness. In Barcelona, sushi has gone from being a trend to becoming a tradition. In the following list of restaurants, you’ll find the freshest fish, perfect cuts, and rice cooked to perfection.
“Meshiagare”
I’m going to start this list on a high note, with the first Japanese restaurant in Barcelona to receive a Michelin star. Koy Shunka is the ideal place when you want to taste authentic Japanese sushi and you’re ready to spend some money. Every cent will be worth it. Here, you’ll experience a unique and magical dining experience. The chefs behind the counter put on a show, perfectly controlling the fish cutting, rice timing, and texture. They offer only two tasting menu formats, and reservations are mandatory.
Ikibana is another reason why Japanese cuisine has become part of Barcelona’s culture. In this sushi restaurant, you can taste the exquisite Japanese-Brazilian fusion. This was my first encounter with this type of cuisine, and thanks to dishes like the Amazonia, Toro Uramaki, and Birimbau Uramaki, I have fallen completely in love with Ikibana. I come here at least three times a year to indulge my cravings through their remarkable tasting menu.
Japanese restaurant Nori Sushi is my go-to place when the sushi cravings take over and I don’t have the energy to improvise. I’m such a fan that I could live on their sushi and eat nothing else. The restaurant is designed with modern decor that helps you escape reality and unwind from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. People with celiac disease can eat here with total confidence as they provide detailed information about all the ingredients they use on their menu and they only work with rice flour instead of wheat.
This sushi restaurant in Barcelona is a special choice for romantic dates among lovers of Japanese cuisine. The dim lighting, decor, and layout of the place greatly enhances the intimacy of a romantic evening. They also have a small terrace and large or round tables perfect for group outings. The “Sexy Tuna” is their specialty, with an exceptional mix of flavours between caramel and tuna. Don’t forget to try the Anticuchero, another gem from their tasting menu.
If you’re a fan of both sushi and rice, then you absolutely must visit the restaurant renowned for its exceptional paella recipes in Barcelona. Maná 75 guarantees a dining experience like no other, serving up exquisite dishes crafted with the utmost quality. While it may not be an Asian establishment, their seafood, fish, and rice creations are sure to delight every palate. With an open kitchen, inviting round tables, a vibrant and thoughtfully decorated space, and a cozy yet tranquil atmosphere, Maná 75 offers a unique ambiance that sets it apart from the rest.
× Starter
× Main dish
× Dessert
× Coffee
Perfect to try the specialty of the house:
PAELLA!
For me, Jara Sushi is the most classic Japanese restaurant in Barcelona. From the tables and decor to the service, everything transports you to a corner of Kanazawa. Despite the menu’s limited range, Jara Sushi excels in crafting meticulously prepared dishes that highlight the freshness of their ingredients and the meticulous attention given to each creation. Here, they prepare the best nigiri sushi in Barcelona, which is the size of the palm of your hand. The seating capacity is approximately ten people, so it’s best to reserve in advance.
No sushi enthusiast’s list would be complete without a sushi buffet in Barcelona, and while this is not the sole recommendation I have for you, Joy undoubtedly stands out as one of the most cost-effective choices. For just €15 (excluding drinks), you can indulge in an abundant sushi feast. However, it’s important to note that, as is customary with most sushi buffets, any uneaten food on your plate may result in additional charges, potentially making it a pricier affair than initially anticipated. On a positive note, Joy also provides a daily set menu featuring five delectable dishes from their à la carte selection.
While I don’t frequent this sushi restaurant often, one memorable evening stands out when my partner treated me to dinner at this establishment. Situated on a charming street in Gràcia, the venue boasts tasteful decor and a spacious terrace. Although the prices may be slightly higher due to its prime location, the culinary experience is truly unparalleled. Expect a delightful fusion of oriental flavours intertwined with the finest Mediterranean ingredients.
Sushi He 6 is a delightful addition to Barcelona’s Japanese food scene, captivating diners with its impressive array of dishes. Their focus on using high-quality salmon is evident in the impeccable freshness that lingers in every delectable bite. The restaurant follows a classic buffet concept, occasionally surprising guests with a playful touch as a charming robot, resembling a cat, delivers your chosen delicacies. With its spacious and elegant ambiance, Sushi He 6 ensures a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The sushi pieces are wonderfully generous, and I must say, their sashimi stands out as one of the best I have ever savoured.
This sushi restaurant holds a special place in the hearts of Barcelona locals. Their extensive menu features a delectable selection of sushi, nigiri, meats, fish, and noodles, catering to a range of culinary preferences. Stepping inside, you’ll be embraced by a warm and traditional atmosphere reminiscent of a cozy Japanese tavern.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore their impressive sake menu, showcasing options from Japan, as well as a thoughtfully curated selection of local and international wines. The culinary mastery of Mitsutaka Kawata, a highly experienced Japanese chef with a remarkable background in renowned Barcelona establishments like Baluarte and Can Fabes, guarantees an exceptional dining experience with dishes that boast impeccable quality.
Situated a short distance from Plaça d’Espanya, this restaurant has garnered a strong following in the city. Renowned for their highly coveted delivery service, they are known for their swift and reliable service. The takoyaki, in particular, boasts a distinct and exceptional touch, while their sushi dishes consistently impress. With such remarkable offerings, it’s highly recommended to sample a variety of options. Each week, they unveil enticing new offers and promotions, providing an opportunity to savour their exceptional fare at a more affordable price. Don’t miss out on exploring these exciting deals to indulge in their superb cuisine without compromising on quality.
Whenever I gather with a sizable group of sushi-loving friends, Hachiko consistently takes the top spot. Their combination platters present an array of sushi delights, including sashimi, nigiri, makis, and California rolls, allowing everyone to sample a diverse selection. Sharing and indulging in various flavours becomes effortless here. Moreover, their prices are remarkably reasonable, with combination options spanning from €11 to €60, catering to vegetarians as well. Do keep in mind that the venue isn’t overly spacious, so I highly advise making advance reservations or opting for takeaway to secure your dining experience.
Enjoy the good weather on the GREEN terrace of Maná75. Sea breeze, smell of rosemary and the flavor of paellas…
Discover the paradise of La Barceloneta!
Allow me to unveil my hidden gem for sushi enthusiasts: Sushi Samba. Today, I’m extending this secret to you. Its discreet location shields it from the city’s commotion and the stream of tourists seeking top-notch sushi. Yet, don’t let its seclusion fool you, as they serve sushi of unparalleled quality at an unbelievably reasonable price. I wholeheartedly urge you to savour their ceviche and duck magret, which rank among the finest I’ve encountered in Barcelona.
Barcelona never fails to offer a diverse range of experiences, and Kyoka epitomises this notion. This sushi all you can eat buffet has emerged as one of the city’s favourites, drawing in crowds, particularly from the vibrant Sant Gervasi neighbourhood. Intrigued by its popularity, I embarked on a culinary expedition to uncover the secret behind its allure. It wasn’t until I savoured my first maki that I understood the hype. The explosion of textures and flavours with each bite was simply remarkable. At Kyoka, you can indulge in an array of delectable dishes at an unbeatable price.
This is yet another all you can eat buffet in Barcelona that garners a loyal local following. With its modern ambiance and exquisite decor, it exudes a contemporary charm. Boasting ample space across two floors and multiple private rooms, it proves to be an ideal choice for gatherings, special occasions, or group outings. Personally, I frequent this establishment at least twice a month, and I can sincerely attest that the quality of the rice and fish is truly invaluable. Do note that the buffet offerings vary depending on the day, whether it’s a weekend, weekday, or holiday. Be sure to secure a reservation in advance to avoid the disappointment of being turned away.
Considered one of Barcelona’s premier sushi establishments, this restaurant is bound to earn a spot on your “must-repeat” list after just one visit. Be sure not to overlook their tantalising offerings, such as the hotate foie (scallops with foie gras), eel rice, truffled Maguro tartar, and a delightful assortment of makis/rolls featuring foie gras. While it may not be your everyday dining spot, it is an absolute must for aficionados of Asian cuisine. Keep in mind that securing a reservation in advance is essential to savouring the full experience.
Do you want to know the ultimate delight of sushi in Barcelona? Enjoying it in the comfort of your own home. While many establishments excel at providing an exceptional dining experience in their restaurants, they often falter when it comes to delivery logistics, leaving you disappointed. But fear not, for on those days when sushi and my cozy couch beckon (accompanied by a glass of wine, of course), KITSUNE emerges as the perfect choice. With a wide range of delectable dishes, exquisite flavour combinations, and speedy service, they deliver an unparalleled sushi experience right to your doorstep. And if you prefer a change of scenery, their restaurant warmly awaits your visit with a prior reservation.
Upon my friend Michel’s recommendation, I ventured to this Vegetarian sushi restaurant known for its remarkable range of vegan offerings. Michel, a dedicated vegan and a true food enthusiast, highly praised it. While my personal weakness lies in salmon and tuna, I must acknowledge that the vegan sushi showcased a quality that effortlessly overshadowed the absence of fish. For a comprehensive experience, I suggest indulging in their mixed tray, allowing you to savour a delightful assortment of flavours. The peanut sushi and mushroom sushi went above and beyond my expectations. As it tends to be quite bustling, securing a table in advance through a reservation is highly advisable.
I paid a visit to Sushi Hanaki for my niece’s birthday celebration. The presence of food-serving robots left the children in awe—they never saw it coming. The highlight of the experience was when “Kitty,” the adorable robot, arrived with desserts, serenading us with the cheerful tune of “Happy Birthday.” It was a delightful touch that truly made the occasion special. The restaurant boasts an array of dishes catering to diverse palates, presented in an all-you-can-eat buffet priced at €15. For a unique dessert experience, I highly recommend indulging in the Baileys coulant—a true delight.
When it comes to dining at sushi in Barcelona, my partner isn’t particularly keen on sushi itself. Instead, he opts for other delectable dishes like the chicken rice at Sushifresh. Out of all the sushi establishments, this one holds a special place in his heart, mainly due to his fondness for that specific dish. While the chain primarily focuses on delivery service, they also offer the option to dine in at their restaurant. As for me, I can never resist ordering the tuna tartare and the delightful gyozas. The restaurant truly offers an exceptional balance between quality and price.
We’re concluding our list just as we started, with the top-rated establishment taking the spotlight. 99 Sushi Bar stands as the premier sushi bar in Barcelona. Their culinary creations effortlessly blend traditional Japanese recipes with innovative cooking techniques and locally-sourced Mediterranean ingredients. It may sound unconventional, but the results are truly astonishing. The menu offers a plethora of options, each one surpassing the last. Personally, I can’t resist indulging in the wild boar gyozas, the heavenly Arzúa cheese, and, of course, the toro sashimi with a touch of wasabi. While you may not encounter the conventional sushi found elsewhere, their unique creations will undoubtedly leave you in awe.
I trust that one of the aforementioned establishments will fulfil your quest for an authentic Asian experience. Within their walls, you’ll discover not only the freshest ingredients and inventive sushi creations but also soak in the vibrant essence of Barcelona and its youthful energy.
These esteemed sushi restaurants are truly the crème de la crème in Barcelona, so don’t hesitate to indulge in a remarkable culinary adventure at a reasonable price. Alternatively, if you seek a distinctive and locally-inspired cuisine, Maná 75 eagerly awaits, promising a delightful taste of the Mediterranean. Remember to secure your table in advance to avoid disappointment.
Savour the delights of Barcelona’s finest sushi restaurants—Gochisousama!
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