Deborah McCabeThey say you can’t buy happiness, but you can buy sushi, and that’s pretty close. I get it, because there’s just something about sushi in Philadelphia that instantly brightens the day.
Maybe it’s the way a simple roll can turn a busy weeknight into a treat, or how a platter of fresh sashimi makes dinner with friends feel like a celebration. Whatever the reason, Philly has no shortage of spots that deliver both flavor and good vibes.
That’s why I’ve put together a list of sushi spots that truly live up to the hype.
1. Double Knot
Media credit: doubleknotphl
Website: https://www.doubleknotphilly.com
Address: 120 S 13th St, PA 19107
Contact: +1 215-631-3868
Hours:
- Monday-Tuesday, Sunday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Wednesday-Thursday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Pricing: $$
Double Knot is often praised for its inventive take on sushi, offering both traditional favorites and modern twists. Their sashimi is fresh and delicate, while rolls come layered with unexpected flavors.
You can stick to classics like tuna or salmon, or explore fusion creations topped with sauces and garnishes that surprise in every bite. Paired with robatayaki skewers and small plates, the menu feels like a complete journey.
Aside from the food, the atmosphere sets Double Knot apart. The upstairs lounge works for casual drinks, but the real draw is downstairs. It has candlelit tables, cozy seating, and a hidden izakaya vibe.
| PRO TIP: When you order the tasting menu, let the server know you’d like the chef’s seasonal specials included. The kitchen often features off-menu selections that aren’t listed, but showcase the freshest fish of the day. |
2. Bleu Sushi
Media credit: bleusushi
Website: http://bleusushiphilly.com
Address: 262 S 10th St, PA 19107
Contact: +1 215-829-0800
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
Pricing: $$
I’ve hesitated to share this because Bleu Sushi has long been one of my reliable sushi spots. It’s not your ordinary diner in Philadelphia, since their rolls and sashimi really deserve the spotlight.
Their menu is full of creative choices, from their signature Liberty rolls with bold toppings to classic sashimi platters. There are also warm dishes like gyudon bowls, tempura, and bao, which make the meal feel complete and not just about raw fish.
What adds to the charm is how relaxed and welcoming the place feels. Even better, Bleu Sushi is a BYOB establishment, allowing you to bring a favorite bottle of sake or wine to pair with your meal.
| PRO TIP: Skip ordering rolls one by one and go for the lunch combos. The 3 Rolls Regular Combo or 2 Signature Combo gives you miso soup or salad included, and if you pick from their signature rolls, you’ll taste their best creations at a much lower price. |
3. Royal Izakaya
Media credit: royal_izakaya
Website: https://royalizakaya.com
Address: 780 S 2nd St, PA 19147
Contact: +1 267-909-9002
Hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Sunday-Monday: Closed
Pricing: $$
A friend also told me that the best sushi she ever had was at Royal Izakaya, and after going myself, I understood why. Their omakase is the highlight. It’s an intimate 8-seat sushi bar where the chef serves around 16 courses of nigiri, hand rolls, and small plates.
What makes them special is how every menu is built around what’s freshest at the time. In the fall, for example, you might get to try different species of mackerel served back-to-back, while other visits might surprise you with rare fish.
For those who prefer a more relaxed approach, they also offer a full izakaya menu with small plates, sushi, and warm dishes like ramen bowls and grilled items such as wagyu beef or skewered vegetables.
| PRO TIP: Make sure to book your omakase seat as soon as reservations open on Resy, which is exactly 30 days in advance. If it’s full, join the waitlist. Insiders know the last-minute cancellations often free up a coveted spot at the sushi bar. |
4. Morimoto
Media credit: morimotopa
Website: https://morimotorestaurant.com
Address: 723 Chestnut St, PA 19106
Contact: +1 215-413-9070
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Pricing: $$
The modern design of Morimoto is unforgettable. Its glowing walls, curving ceilings, and sleek sushi bar make it feel like stepping into a stylish space. Known as one of the most iconic Japanese restaurants, its contemporary atmosphere makes every visit special.
I first heard about their omakase when a friend described it as the most memorable meal of her life. Served as a multi-course tasting, it features the chef’s best picks, from delicate sashimi to inventive rolls.
The menu isn’t limited to raw fish either. Guests can enjoy warm plates like wagyu dumplings, rock shrimp tempura, and black cod miso, alongside sushi platters and signature rolls.
| PRO TIP: Book the omakase, or chef’s combination, on a weekday evening. Not only do you get the chef’s premium seasonal nigiri and rare fish, but you also avoid the busy weekend rush. |
5. Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
Media credit: kurasushi_usa
Website: https://kurasushi.com
Address: 1721 Chestnut St, PA 19102
Contact: +1 267-946-2300
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$
Kura’s revolving conveyor belt lined with colorful plates draws you in right away, and diners wait eagerly for their favorites to pass by.
The sushi itself is fresh and varied, with everything from classic rolls to inventive seasonal specials. Thanks to their “Mr. Fresh” plate-lid system, every dish stays protected and is tracked for quality, so you’re never left wondering how long it’s been.
Beyond sushi, there’s plenty more to explore. One of my favorites is the warm bowl of ramen. But I also indulge in their exciting desserts, such as mochi ice cream.
| PRO TIP: Make sure to sign up for Kura Sushi Rewards before your first visit. The points rack up quickly, and I’ve used mine to shave money off premium rolls and even snag limited-time dishes. |
6. Aki Nom Nom
Media credit: akinomnomphilly
Website: https://www.akinomnom.com/
Address: 1210 Walnut St, PA 19107
Contact: +1 215-985-1838
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday, Sunday: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 11:30 AM – 10:45 PM
Pricing: $$
I made sure to stop by Aki Nom Nom, where I discovered one of the most generous deals. Their all-you-can-eat sushi menu lets me try everything from simple rolls to sashimi and specialty creations.
They don’t even stop at sushi, either. You’ll find colorful special rolls like the Rainbow and Green Dragon, alongside fresh nigiri and sashimi choices such as salmon, tuna, and yellowtail.
But their story isn’t just about raw fish. The restaurant also serves warm dishes like ramen, tempura, and bento boxes.
| PRO TIP: If you’re heading there on a weekday, time your visit for lunch. Pairing the all-you-can-eat sushi with their roll combos is a local trick to enjoy more variety while keeping the bill lighter than dinner. |
7. Fuji Mountain
Website: https://www.fujimt.com/
Address: 2030 Chestnut St, PA 19103
Contact: +1 215-751-0939
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 1:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Pricing: $
According to locals, Fuji Mountain is a must-visit for sushi in Philadelphia. The restaurant combines fresh sushi with a fun nightlife twist.
Their sushi selection is extensive, with everything from classic rolls to creative specialties like the Ex-Girlfriend Roll and Holiday Roll. Sushi and sashimi platters are also available. I tried it and enjoyed a full spread of flavors in one order.
Beyond sushi, Fuji Mountain is recognized for its late-night hours and private karaoke rooms, where you can pair your meal with a round of singing upstairs.
| PRO TIP: Head to Fuji Mountain at lunchtime and order a bento box. For under $16, you get a full meal with sushi, sides, and a main dish. Trust me, this is one of the best ways to enjoy their menu without spending too much. |
8. Fat Salmon Sushi
Media credit: fatsalmon09
Website: https://www.fatsalmonsushi.com
Address: 719 Walnut St, PA 19106
Contact: +1 215-928-8881
Hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday, Sunday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Monday: Closed
Pricing: $
My friends who work near Walnut Street told me about Fat Salmon Sushi. They mentioned that the salmon here is thick and buttery, cut from the rich center, and every bite feels like it was made to stand out.
The menu features a range of playful twists. The most recommended sushi specialty rolls, like the Ex-Girlfriend Roll and Holiday Roll, did not disappoint. I had mine with some kimchi with yam tempura, and eggplant, with cream cheese.
For groups, their sushi platters are a great way to share and sample a wide variety without missing out on any of the favorites. The platters often mix classic rolls with their signature specialties, so everyone gets a balance of familiar flavors and bites.
| PRO TIP: Visit during their Early Dinner Special around 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM, so you can order the Two Rolls Special or Fat Bento at a lower price than usual dinner items. |
9. Tomo Sushi & Ramen
Media credit: tomophilly
Website: https://www.tomosushiandramen.com
Address: 228 Arch St, PA 19106
Contact: +1 267-519-0209
Hours:
- Tuesday-Thursday, Sunday: 3:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday-Saturday: 3:00 PM – 10:30 PM
- Monday: Closed
Pricing: $$
Tomo Sushi & Ramen is one of the city’s favorite spots, known for serving both fresh sushi and comforting ramen. From classic rolls to specialty creations, their chefs prepare tempting options like the Tomor Roll and Red Dragon Roll.
During my visit, I was completely won over by their sushi. The balance of freshness and creativity made each bite memorable, especially the specialty rolls that combine textures and bold toppings.
Beyond sushi, Tomo is also recognized for its inclusive menu. Vegan and vegetarian guests can enjoy rolls like the Naruto Vegan, along with ramen options that make sure no one feels left out.
| PRO TIP: Take advantage of Tomo’s BYOB policy and bring your favorite sake or a crisp bottle of white wine. Regulars know this not only saves money but also lets you pair drinks exactly to your taste. |
10. Umami Steak and Sushi Bar
Media credit: umamisteakandsushibar
Website: https://umamisteakandsushi.com
Address: 727 Walnut St, PA 19106
Contact: +1 267-534-5395
Hours:
- Monday-Thursday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 4:30 PM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 4:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Pricing: $$$
Umami Steak and Sushi Bar is a standout for anyone craving both sushi and steak in one place. Their menu features premium sushi and sashimi, prepared with care, alongside savory steak dishes for those who enjoy a mix of surf and turf.
The sushi bar itself is worth experiencing. You can sit close to the chefs, watch the craft behind each roll, and even get suggestions on what’s freshest that day. This interactive feel adds to the charm and gives every visit something unique to look forward to.
Umami also makes dining flexible and convenient. You can choose to dine in, order for pickup, or get delivery straight from their website.
| PRO TIP: Sign up for Umami’s rewards program before you visit. You’ll earn points with every order and can redeem them for free or discounted dishes, making it a savvy way to enjoy their best sushi without overspending. |
