Guide to the 5 Best Sushi Spots in Austin
Where to find the best Japanese cuisine in East Austin
Words by Sam Lauron Photo by Eric Morales
Austin’s food scene is recognized for many food groups: tacos, barbecue, and even brunch. But the impressive sushi options this city has to offer are fresh.
Fukumoto
After working as the Head Sushi Chef at Musashino and studying traditional yakitori in Japan, Kazu Fukumoto opened his eponymous restaurant in 2015. The izakaya offers traditional sushi and yakitori in a cozy, yet elevated, gastropub setting. The sushi is fresh, selective, and sure to delight the palate with its curated flavors. Fukumoto also features an extensive menu of Japanese sake and beer that are meant to be paired with the dishes and extend the savory experience.
514 Medina St. | fukumotoaustin.com
Kyoten Sushiko
Dinner at Kyoten Sushiko is not simply a meal. An evening spent here is an experience not to be forgotten. After a brief hiatus, Kyoten has reopened with an updated take on their omakase-style dinners. The intimate setting offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with the chef while tasting a range of fresh dishes. With room for only six guests at each dinner, it’s safe to say that the evening feels like being treated to an upscale dining experience at a friend’s home—it’s inviting, intentional, and unifying.
4600 Mueller Blvd. | kyotensushiko.com
Sweet Chive
The recently-opened Sweet Chive focuses on Taiwanese cuisine, but as of May, they also started serving sushi. The sushi menu includes sashimi, nigiri and traditional rolls, in addition to house rolls like the inventive Cilantro-Made-Me-Do-It. The original roll is made with spicy yellowtail, avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, togarashi, sriracha, and yuzu ponzu. Sweet Chive is BYOB, so come equipped with your favorite beverage and stay for the sushi rolls and traditional Taiwanese dishes.
2515 E Cesar Chavez St. | sweetchivetx.com
Uroko
One of Springdale General’s newest tenants, Uroko, is bringing a unique three-in-one concept to the Eastside. In addition to offering traditional omakase sushi dinners on weekends, Uroko’s space includes a casual Temaki bar as well as a classroom where hands-on sushi classes are held. This original format features several ways to experience all that this Japanese cuisine has to offer.
1023 Springdale Rd., Bldg. 1, Ste. C | urokoaustin.com
Komé
Contemporary Japanese cuisine meets a warm and welcoming atmosphere at Komé. The sushi restaurant serves up traditional sushi along with noodle dishes like ramen, and fried plates like vegetable tempura, chicken wings, or Komé’s signature fries. Don’t forget to order a side of the homemade gyoza. The pork and cabbage dumplings are made in house using a longstanding family recipe.
5301 Airport Blvd., Ste. 100 | kome-austin.com
