Best Sushi in Osaka: Michelin-Guide and Affordable Places

Sushi in Osaka: Average Price and Other Facts You Need to Know

Osaka, a seaside city, is an excellent destination for sushi lovers. While sushi is traditionally considered a luxurious dish enjoyed on special occasions and tends to be more expensive than other Japanese cuisines, it offers a range of options.

For a mid-range sushi lunch, expect to pay between 2,000 and 5,000 yen. High-end sushi restaurants can charge from 5,000 to 20,000 yen per meal.

Conveyor belt sushi places are generally more affordable, with meals typically costing between 2,000 and 3,000 yen.

Hakozushi, or Box Sushi: Taste Osaka-Style Sushi

Osaka's box sushi. Photo by Pixta

In addition to Edo-mae sushi, which originates from Tokyo, Osaka has its own local specialty called hako-zushi, or box sushi.

This unique Osaka-style sushi is made by pressing rice and a slice of fish into a wooden mold, resulting in evenly shaped pieces that allow the flavors to meld.

You can try Osaka-style sushi at restaurants like Yoshino Sushi, renowned for making authentic hako-zushi since its founding in 1841, Abaraya in Namba, or Sushi Tora. A hakozushi box costs between 3,000 and 4,000 yen and is usually also available for take-out.

Osaka Sushi Guide

Best Sushi in Osaka: For Gourmands Seeking the Best Sushi
1. Sushiroku: Luxurious, Michelin Guide Sushi
2. Sushi Haku: Michelin-Guide Omakase Courses at Mid-Range Price
3. Sushidokoro Kurosugi Shinkan: Award-Winning and Affordable Sushi
4. Endo Sushi: A Renowned Sushi Bar in the Central Market
5. Halal-Friendly Sushi: Hotel Plaza Osaka - KADEN
Best Affordable Sushi in Osaka: Conveyor Belt Sushi and More!
6. Harukoma
7. Genrokuzushi Dotonbori: The Originator of Conveyor Belt Sushi
8. Kaiten Sushi Sakae in Umeda: Open Until Late at Night
9. Sashisu Sushi Bar
10. Kura Sushi Namba-Motomachi Store
Sushi in Namba
Sushi Near Osaka Station
Sushi in Dotonbori
Sushi Making Experiences in Osaka

Best Sushi in Osaka: For Gourmands Seeking the Best Sushi

1. Sushiroku: Luxurious, Michelin-Guide Sushi

Sushiroku, featured in the Michelin Guide every year since 2023, offers an omakase experience that blends Edomae precision with Osaka soul. Chef Norihisa Horiuchi honors local tradition by serving persimmon leaf sushi, a Kansai staple rarely found in high-end sushi, between courses.

Expect rice seasoned with both red and white vinegar, handpicked toppings, and beautifully balanced flavors throughout the meal. This Michelin-starred restaurant presents a harmonious meeting of two sushi worlds.

Sushiroku also features an omakase course where expert chefs curate the entire menu. Expect to pay around 170 USD for dinner and to leave with a truly memorable dining experience.

2. Sushi Haku: Michelin-Guide Omakase Courses at Mid-Range Price

Picture courtesy of OMAKASE JapanEatinerary

At Sushi Haku, your dining experience is elevated by meticulous attention to detail, from the delicate sushi to the refined sake and wine pairings.

The counter offers a sensory immersion: the freshness of the ingredients, the quiet focus of the chefs' hands, and the comforting touch of wood.

Allow yourself to linger after your meal, savoring a drink, good company, and the peaceful atmosphere that envelops you.

The Omakase course is priced at around 177 USD.

3. Sushidokoro Kurosugi Shinkan: Award-Winning, Affordable Sushi

Picture courtesy of OMAKASE JapanEatinerary

While maintaining the high standards of its main branch, Sushidokoro Kurosugi Shinkan in Kitashinchi offers a more relaxed and accessible experience.

A key feature is their simply seasoned sushi rice, using only red vinegar and salt—without sugar—to ensure the pure flavor of each topping is perfectly balanced.

Patrons can opt for an omakase course or individually select nigiri, providing the freedom to enjoy their preferred choices at their own speed. Dinner courses cost between 84 and 102 USD.

The serene whitewood counter contributes a touch of understated elegance to each visit.

4. Halal-Friendly Sushi: Hotel Plaza Osaka - KADEN

For a refined taste of Japan that caters specifically to Halal dietary needs, KADEN presents a diverse menu including vegetable sushi, Halal skewered katsu, and nigiri prepared with Halal soy sauce. KADEN is located within Hotel Plaza Osaka near Umeda, the nearest station being Juso Station on the Hankyu Line.

Signature offerings such as the elegant kaiseki course and the hearty sukiyaki set feature carefully sourced Halal-certified beef.

The tranquil, traditional setting and the gracious service of kimono-clad staff further enhance the dining experience.

To ensure the availability of Halal options, reservations must be made at least three days prior to your visit. Guests seeking a more personal setting can reserve private rooms.

Hotel Plaza Osaka - KADEN
Location: Map
Website: https://plazaosaka.com/en/restaurant.html

Best Affordable Sushi in Osaka: Conveyor Belt Sushi and More!

5. Endo Sushi: Lowest Price But Top Quality

Endo Sushi, a century-old gem in Osaka's Central Wholesale Market, is famous for its distinctive "tsukami sushi"—lightly pressed, warm rice with melt-in-your-mouth fresh seafood.

For just 1,540 yen (approximately 11 USD), their signature "Maze" set features five seasonal sushi pieces, showcasing the day's freshest market finds. Their direct access to the market eliminates transportation expenses, allowing them to offer such high-quality sushi at an affordable price.

Despite its unassuming location, Endo Sushi draws locals and tourists who seek an authentic, high-quality sushi experience at reasonable prices.

Given its 6:15 AM opening and frequent queues, early arrival is recommended.

Endo Sushi
Location: Map
Website: http://www.endo-sushi.com/english.html

6. Harukoma: Affordable Sushi Meals at a Local Favorite

For generous portions of fresh sushi at affordable prices, Harukoma is a beloved local favorite in Osaka's Tenjinbashisuji Shopping Arcade.

Their thick slices of fish served over lightly vinegared rice are a highlight, with popular selections including the creamy tuna belly, bursting salmon roe, and savory negitoro-maki.

A sushi course at Harukoma costs between 2,000 and 4,000 yen (14 - 28 USD).

Attracting a loyal following of locals and tourists alike, lines often form before the restaurant opens. Harukoma's convenient location is just a short walk from Tenjinbashisuji-Rokuchome Station and Temma Station.

Keep in mind that the restaurant closes when they sell out of fish, so arriving early is a wise strategy.

Harukoma
Location: Map
Website: https://www.instagram.com/harukoma_5tenjinbashi/

7. Genrokuzushi Dotonbori: The Originator of Conveyor Belt Sushi

Picture courtesy of Genroku Sangyo Co.

As the 1958 birthplace of kaitenzushi (conveyor belt sushi), Genrokuzushi Dotombori is a historically significant and budget-friendly destination. Here, all plates are priced at just 125 yen, allowing everyone to enjoy a diverse selection of sushi.

The speed and precision of the sushi chefs in preparing dishes are a spectacle, making it a popular spot for photos. The restaurant's retro vibe and continuous lively activity create a memorable and authentic immersion into classic Osaka sushi culture.

Genrokuzushi Dotombori
Location: Map
Website: http://www.mawaru-genrokuzusi.co.jp/

8. Kaiten Sushi Sakae in Umeda: Open Until Late at Night

For those in Umeda seeking late-night or early-morning sushi, the main branch of the highly-rated Kaiten Sushi Sakae is open from 5:00 PM to 5:00 AM.

Enjoy fresh, generously sized sushi, and take advantage of the complimentary red miso soup available during lunch hours.

A plate with two pieces of sushi costs 154 yen; dining on sushi to your heart's content here costs about 2,000 yen (approx. 14 USD). We also recommend the generous lunch set with about 10 pieces of sushi and soup priced at 660 yen.

This casual spot offers excellent value for its quality and portions.

Kaiten Sushi Sakae
Location: Map
Website: https://kaiten-sushi-sakae.sakaesushi.co.jp/menu/

9. Sushi Sakaba Sashisu: A Sushi Bar Near Nippombashi Station

Sushi Sakaba Sashisu offers a unique and affordable approach to sushi, operating as a "sushi bar" where diners can enjoy both beautifully crafted rolled sushi and authentic nigiri prepared by on-site chefs, alongside a selection of fine sake and wines.

Sashisu's menu is particularly noteworthy, featuring unique creations like the Ebi 7 sushi, a decadent combination of seven shrimps and egg yolks.

Beyond traditional sushi, they also offer inventive dishes such as the Unagi Katsu Sandwich, featuring deep-fried eel sandwiched in rice, and Chawanmushi with cheese, a steamed egg custard dish.

Sushi Sakaba Sashisu
Location: Map
Website: Japanese site

10. Kura Sushi Namba-Motomachi Store

Kura Sushi Namba-Motomachi provides a fun and budget-friendly conveyor belt sushi experience in central Osaka.

With most plates costing only 100 yen, it's ideal for travelers on a budget. The restaurant offers an easy-to-use English tablet ordering system and a unique gachapon game that rewards every five plates eaten.

While the atmosphere is lively and can be noisy, the efficient service and diverse sushi selection make it a favorite for both locals and tourists.

Kura Sushi Namba-Motomachi Store
Location: Map
Website: https://www.kurasushi.co.jp/menu/

Sushi in Namba

Namba is a sushi lover’s paradise, offering options for every budget. For an affordable yet authentic experience, Genrokuzushi Sennichimae delivers fresh, quick-serve conveyor belt sushi starting at just 125 yen per plate, and it’s famed as the birthplace of conveyor belt sushi.

For a mid-range option, Aka to Shiro blends Edomae and Kansai styles using both red and white vinegared rice, earning it a Bib Gourmand nod for its balance of quality and value.

For a luxurious experience, Sushi Kanade offers an omakase course starting from 13,000 yen, showcasing seasonal ingredients with masterful craftsmanship in an elegant setting.

Sushi Near Osaka Station

Osaka Station and the surrounding Umeda area offer a diverse range of sushi experiences to suit various budgets.

For an affordable yet high-quality option, Harukoma in Tenjinbashi is renowned for its fresh, generously portioned sushi at reasonable prices, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

In the mid-range category, Kita-Shinchi Sushi Senkodou provides an elegant dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation, offering excellent value for its quality.

For a luxurious indulgence, Sushi Sanshin near Osaka Castle delivers a top-tier omakase experience in a serene setting, perfect for those seeking an exceptional culinary journey.

Sushi in Dotonbori

Dotonbori is a vibrant hub for sushi enthusiasts, offering options that cater to every budget.

For an affordable experience, Genrokuzushi Dotombori stands out as the birthplace of conveyor belt sushi, serving fresh nigiri at wallet-friendly prices in a lively setting that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

For a mid-range option, Sushihiro offers a diverse menu of quality sushi in a convenient location. A set of 10 pieces of sushi costs 3,400 yen, which is a good price for the quality they offer.

For a luxurious dining experience, Sushi Tsutsumi provides a serene atmosphere and refined omakase courses crafted with seasonal ingredients, ideal for those seeking an intimate and high-end sushi meal in the heart of Dotonbori.

Sushi Making Experiences in Osaka

Osaka Sushi Making Class in Dotonbori

Picture courtesy of Klook

Experience the most popular sushi-making class in Osaka's Dotonbori district, where you'll craft 12 pieces of sushi, including nigiri and gunkan-maki.

The class accommodates diverse dietary preferences with vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. For a fun and immersive experience, you'll also receive a sushi chef costume.

Participants can also enjoy Japanese sake or beer during the session, with instruction available in English, Chinese, and Korean.

Sushi Making Experience at Naruto Sushi Omakase in Osaka

Picture courtesy of Klook

Discover the legacy of Naruto Sushi Omakase, a century-old sushi restaurant in Namba, Osaka, with over 110 years of history.

This hands-on class provides a unique opportunity to learn sushi-making techniques directly from experienced Japanese chefs, all while enjoying an authentic omakase-style experience. It’s a immersive way to deepen your appreciation for Japan’s culinary culture in an iconic setting.

Osaka Sushi Miso soup Adventure: A Journey of Exotic Flavors

Picture courtesy of GetYourGuide

Join Chef Yuki’s sushi-making class in Osaka to master nigiri, hosomaki, tamagoyaki, and traditional miso soup, all guided by a chef trained by a sushi master with over 40 years of experience.

You will also learn practical techniques such as marinating tuna and curing salmon with kelp, useful skills for preserving fish at home.

Held in a cozy Japanese-style home in Higashi-Osaka, this hands-on experience provides an authentic cultural immersion into Japanese cuisine.

Enjoy Sushi in Osaka

We hope the information compiled above inspires you to enjoy sushi in Osaka. Whether you opt for award-winning luxurious menus or affordable sushi offered in a casual setting, it will surely be a memorable experience of Osaka's culinary traditions.

Main image by Pixta