The Region’s Coolest Sushi Spots

Zuma Abu Dhabi is a sushi institution in the region, firmly establishing itself on Al Maryah Island as a benchmark for Japanese dining. The modern wood and stone interiors, open sushi counter, and robata grill for show-cooking create a space that balances elite dining with lively izakaya energy. Signature sushi dishes range from the Dynamite Spider roll and California Maki to expertly crafted nigiri, so whether you’re seated at the sushi bar or overlooking the waterfront terrace, Zuma remains a go-to destination for those seeking premium Japanese fare with a timeless Abu Dhabi vibe.

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If you’re after a quick sushi stop, artisanal cocktails and a soundtrack of old-school hip hop, YUBI is the place to be. Touted as the UAE’s first home-grown hand-roll bar, the concept, launched at 25 Jump Street (One Central) near Dubai’s World Trade Center, was designed in collaboration with chef Reif Othman. Guests can also enjoy interactive counter seating, where they can watch their hand-rolls be made and served straight into their hands.

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With several locations across Dubai, including Dar Wasl, Dubai Hills and Time Out Market, REIF Japanese Kushiyaki puts a bold and inventive spin on kushiyaki and izakaya-style dining. From the moment you step inside, the rich interiors and open kitchen set the scene. Created by chef-owner Reif Othman, each dish balances richness and delicacy, with standout plates including the otoro maki (fatty tuna belly with yuzu tobiko and kizami wasabi), spicy salmon over kurogoma rice with wasabi garlic sauce and gochujang mayo, and the deeply comforting 18-hour chicken-broth ramen.

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A long-time favourite among Dubai’s sushi lovers, Origami has grown from a small local gem in Umm Suqeim to a staple in the city’s Japanese dining scene, with six branches now across the UAE. Known for its modern and clean aesthetic, and fresh sushi, Origami combines authenticity and creativity. The extensive menu covers all the classics – from salmon sashimi and spicy tuna rolls to their crispy shrimp maki and truffle butter edamame. 

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Meaning “jewel” in Japanese, Hōseki is a hidden gem within the Bulgari Resort Dubai, offering one of the city’s most exclusive sushi experiences. With only nine seats overlooking the serene Jumeirah Bay, it redefines omakase dining through quiet luxury and precision. Under the mastery of chef Masahiro Sugiyama – a six-generation sushi master – each course is crafted with elegance and care, using the finest imported ingredients. Hōseki has been awarded one Michelin star by the Michelin Guide Dubai for four consecutive years since 2022, solidifying its place as a true treasure of Japanese dining in the UAE.

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A fusion of 1920s Osaka glamour and Dubai’s modern sophistication, Mimi Kakushi delivers Japanese dining with bold style and unmistakable flair. Located in the Four Seasons Hotel on Jumeirah Beach Road, the restaurant blends vintage allure, artful design, and exceptional sushi. The menu reimagines modern Japanese classics with dishes like black cod gyoza, crispy ebi tempura maki, and creamy matcha éclairs to finish – a perfect mix of nostalgia and contemporary cool.

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Set in Riyadh’s King Abdullah Financial District, Kuuru is a celebration of Nikkei cuisine, blending Japanese precision with vibrant Peruvian flavours. The space is striking, with deep-wood accents and an open sushi bar that lets diners watch chefs at work. Signature plates like the three-ceviche platter, Wagyu A Lo Pobre nigiri, and tiradito Hotate of Hokkaido scallop with truffle and yuzu kosho showcase bold, inventive flavours in an elegant, modern setting – making Kuuru a must-visit for those in Saudi Arabia, with a sister location also open in Jeddah.

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With locations in both Riyadh and Jeddah, Miyazu embraces contemporary Japanese cuisine through open-kitchen theatre, chic lounge seating and a dedicated mocktail corner called “Miyazu Art”. The menu showcases premium sushi, sashimi platters, wagyu cuts and inventive rolls, including the decadent Toro Maki, which layers buttery bluefin tuna with a delicate crunch, served alongside crispy potatoes with black garlic aioli and manchego cheese. 

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Set on the buzzing Gouraud Street in Beirut’s Gemmayzeh neighbourhood, Mitsu-Ya instantly transports you to Japan the moment you step inside. The intimate space features dark wood tables, minimalist Japanese design touches and subtle lighting. Meanwhile, the menu focuses on fresh sashimi, inventive nigiri and izakaya-style sharing plates, while the omakase counter invites diners to let the chef guide the journey. Whether sampling delicate cuts of tuna or exploring more adventurous flavours, Mitsu-Ya makes Japanese cuisine feel both authentic and elevated in the heart of Beirut.

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Ideal for a fun night out in Beirut, Saifi Village’s newly opened Suki brings the spirit of Japan to the city. Spread over two floors, the stylish interiors feature sake barrels, indoor seating and a terrace, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The menu, designed by celebrated chef Reif Othman, offers top-quality sushi, dim sum and bold Asian-inspired dishes. 

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For those in Kuwait, Roka inside the Waldorf Astoria Kuwait at The Avenues is the go-to sushi destination. A modern Japanese robatayaki spot buzzing with izakaya energy, it pairs scenic, design-led interiors with meticulously crafted dishes. Menu highlights include wagyu tartare maki with Japanese mustard, soft-shell crab maki, a selection of fresh sashimi and the Roka dessert platter to round off the meal. 

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Set inside the vintage Gulf Hotel Bahrain in Manama, one of the Kingdom’s landmark properties, Sato immediately transports diners to Japan with bamboo-panelled walls, softly lit tatami rooms, and a teppanyaki counter. The menu highlights traditional Japanese classics – think tempura, sashimi and sushi sets. Whether you’re watching the chefs in action at the sushi bar or enjoying a private tatami-room experience, Sato offers a serene Japanese dining escape in the heart of Bahrain.

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