Istanbul has evolved into one of the most exciting sushi destinations in the region. From intimate omakase counters to creative neighborhood gems and high‑end global brands overlooking the Bosphorus, the city offers unforgettable Japanese dining experiences across every budget. This comprehensive guide highlights the best sushi restaurants in Istanbul in 2025, covering essential details such as menu style, atmosphere, pricing, and what makes each venue stand out.
Budget‑Friendly Sushi Spots
Sushi Lab – Akaretler, Beşiktaş
A small yet dynamic sushi bar in Akaretler, Sushi Lab has become one of the city’s most talked‑about budget-friendly sushi destinations. Beyond its compact footprint, the restaurant has built a loyal following by consistently delivering fresh, flavorful, and creatively assembled rolls at prices approachable for everyday dining. Their now-famous Amazon Roll—a richly layered combination of shrimp tempura, salmon, truffle oil, and the house‑made “Lab mayo”—is often cited as one of the most memorable fusion rolls in Istanbul. In addition to crowd‑pleasers like spicy tuna and crispy tempura rolls, Sushi Lab frequently updates its menu with seasonal specials, showcasing combinations such as torched salmon, citrus-marinated fish, or herb‑infused sauces. These playful variations make it an ideal spot for diners eager to explore new flavor profiles without committing to a fine‑dining budget. Regular customers also praise the restaurant’s efficient service and the chef’s willingness to customize rolls to match personal preferences, further elevating the overall experience.
- Why Go: 🍣 Fresh, innovative rolls at budget pricing, plus a rotating lineup of seasonal specialties and chef‑driven creations.
- Atmosphere: 🏠 Cozy, modern, and ideal for casual sushi lovers looking for a relaxed dining experience where quality still takes center stage.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺300–600 per person, offering excellent value in comparison to similar venues.
- Reservations: 📞 Not typically required, though calling ahead helps during peak evening hours.
Sushico – Multiple Locations
Sushico remains one of Turkey’s most recognizable Asian restaurant brands, known for making sushi widely accessible long before the cuisine became mainstream in Istanbul. With multiple branches scattered across both the European and Asian sides of the city, Sushico offers convenience without sacrificing consistency. The menu spans a broad spectrum—from entry‑level California rolls and vegetarian maki to sashimi platters, warm noodle bowls, stir‑fries, and Asian‑inspired appetizers—making it an excellent choice for mixed‑taste groups or family outings. While sushi enthusiasts may gravitate toward their dragon rolls, crunchy tempura options, or simple nigiri sets, casual diners often appreciate the ability to pair sushi with other comfort dishes like ramen or sweet‑soy glazed chicken. Sushico’s long-established supply chain ensures steady ingredient availability, meaning diners can expect predictable quality across locations. Its approachable price point has also cemented it as a go‑to choice for students, office workers, and families looking for a versatile menu.
- Why Go: ✔️ Consistency, affordability, and convenience, plus a diversified menu suitable for sushi beginners and seasoned fans alike.
- Atmosphere: 👨👩👧👦 Casual and family‑friendly, with interiors designed for comfort rather than formality.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺200–400 per person, keeping it among the city’s most budget‑friendly Asian dining options.
- Reservations: 📞 Rarely needed; most branches accommodate walk‑ins and offer fast delivery service.
Mid‑Range Sushi Restaurants
Itsumi – Levent, Beşiktaş
One of Istanbul’s most respected and enduring Japanese restaurants, Itsumi has been serving authentic Japanese cuisine since 2003 and remains a benchmark for traditional technique in the city. Run by Japanese chefs who have dedicated years to perfecting the subtle balance of temperature, texture, and timing essential to Japanese gastronomy, Itsumi offers a dining experience rooted deeply in craftsmanship. Their sushi is prepared with meticulous attention to detail—perfectly seasoned rice, precisely sliced fish, and balanced flavor combinations that highlight ingredient purity rather than embellishment. In addition to sushi and sashimi, Itsumi serves umami‑rich udon and ramen bowls, delicately crisp tempura, donburi dishes, and specialties such as their beloved unagi omelette, where glazed eel and soft egg create a harmonious blend of sweetness and savoriness.
Guests who opt for the restaurant’s omakase experience are treated to a carefully curated progression of seasonal bites, each reflecting the chef’s perspective on Japanese culinary tradition. This guided tasting has earned acclaim from long‑time patrons, Japanese expats, and Istanbul food enthusiasts who appreciate the restaurant’s consistency and respect for heritage. Whether visiting for a quiet lunch or a more elaborate dinner, diners can expect exceptional precision, balanced flavors, and a serene pace that mirrors classic Japanese dining culture.
- Why Go: 🇯🇵 Authentic Japanese flavors prepared by seasoned chefs, delivered with unwavering attention to traditional culinary technique.
- Atmosphere: 🪷 Modest, traditional, and quietly elegant—ideal for those who prefer intimate, substance‑focused dining rather than theatrics.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺600–800 per person, offering strong value for genuinely authentic Japanese cuisine.
- Reservations: 📞 Recommended, especially for evenings and the omakase menu.
İOKİ Nau Karaköy – JW Marriott Karaköy
A standout in Istanbul’s thriving Japanese‑Peruvian (Nikkei) dining movement, İOKİ Nau has become one of the city’s most stylish and sought‑after mid‑range sushi destinations. Blending Japanese precision with the vibrant acidity and bold flavors of Peruvian cuisine, the restaurant presents a menu filled with dynamic contrasts—delicate yet expressive, traditional yet adventurous. Signature dishes include tuna tartare brightened with citrus, truffle‑infused rolls, and an array of expertly prepared ceviches that highlight the restaurant’s emphasis on fresh, high‑quality fish.
Set within the JW Marriott in Karaköy, the restaurant features a sleek interior that transitions seamlessly into a terrace offering partial Bosphorus views, making it an appealing choice for sunset dining. İOKİ Nau balances sophistication with warmth: servers are attentive yet relaxed, portions are generous, and the kitchen consistently delivers visually striking plates without slipping into overly theatrical presentation.
Beyond sushi, guests can explore small plates seasoned with peppers, citrus, and aromatic herbs typical of Peruvian cuisine, as well as grilled items that complement the raw menu. The restaurant’s fusion style appeals to diners seeking creative reinterpretations of classic sushi without sacrificing ingredient quality or technical execution.
- Why Go: 🔥 Trendy fusion cuisine with upscale flair—perfect for diners who enjoy bold, colorful, and modern interpretations of Japanese dishes.
- Atmosphere: ✨ Stylish, modern, and energetic, with an inviting terrace that becomes especially atmospheric during sunset.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺800–1200 per person, aligning with its elevated yet accessible fine‑casual concept.
- Reservations: 📞 Strongly recommended, particularly on weekends when both indoor and terrace seating fill quickly.
Kaen Sushi – Koşuyolu, Kadıköy
A beloved neighborhood gem on the Asian side, Kaen Sushi has steadily grown into one of Kadıköy’s most talked‑about Japanese dining spots thanks to its thoughtful blend of authenticity, creativity, and warm hospitality. While the restaurant is modest in size, its menu is surprisingly expansive, offering a rich variety of sushi, sashimi, and hot Japanese‑inspired dishes. Signature rolls such as the Jakku Roll and Kōsei Roll showcase the restaurant’s flair for balancing texture, flavor, and visual appeal. These rolls often combine elements like lightly torched fish, crispy toppings, citrus accents, or house‑made sauces, making them favorites among regulars who appreciate Kaen’s commitment to both freshness and innovation.
The restaurant’s sashimi selection is another highlight, with seasonal offerings that emphasize fish quality and knife precision. Diners frequently praise the melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture of Kaen’s salmon and tuna cuts, and the kitchen occasionally introduces limited‑time sashimi specials sourced according to availability. Beyond its cold menu, Kaen offers a strong lineup of hot dishes, including Mongolian beef, crispy shrimp tempura, gyoza, and spicy edamame—giving diners the flexibility to enjoy a full multi‑course meal rather than solely sushi. This combination of comforting hot plates and well‑executed raw dishes makes Kaen attractive to groups with mixed preferences.
Kaen’s ambiance is one of its greatest strengths. Its cozy interior—accented with warm lighting, minimalist design elements, and a layout that encourages quiet conversation—creates a boutique dining atmosphere rarely found at this price point. The service is known for being friendly and attentive, with staff members who often remember returning guests’ preferences. This personal touch enhances the sense of community the restaurant has cultivated in Koşuyolu.
- Why Go: 🌟 High‑quality sushi in a cozy, boutique setting, with a menu that skillfully blends comforting classics and inventive house specialties.
- Atmosphere: 🕯️ Warm, intimate, and modern, ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special weekend outings.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺400–700 per person, offering excellent value given the menu variety and ingredient quality.
- Reservations: 📞 Recommended due to limited seating, especially during peak evenings and weekends.
Maderia Sushi Bar – Nişantaşı, Şişli
Located in the upscale Lotus Walk, Maderia Sushi Bar has quickly distinguished itself as one of Nişantaşı’s most refined and innovative Japanese dining destinations. While the restaurant embraces traditional Japanese techniques, its culinary philosophy is defined by a thoughtful integration of seasonal Turkish ingredients, elevating classic sushi compositions with regional nuances. This harmonious blend results in dishes that feel both globally sophisticated and locally expressive. Their chefs place strong emphasis on ingredient seasonality, which means the menu evolves throughout the year—featuring fresh fish varieties, aromatic herbs, and produce that reflect the best of each season.
Beyond the technical finesse evident in their nigiri, maki, and sashimi selections, Maderia is equally celebrated for its artistic presentation. Every plate is crafted with meticulous attention to color, shape, and balance, often resembling modern Japanese art. The restaurant’s culinary team has earned multiple accolades for this approach, setting Maderia apart as a venue where aesthetics and flavor carry equal importance. Hot dishes such as miso‑glazed seafood, delicate tempura, and charcoal‑kissed grilled plates provide additional depth for diners seeking a broader Japanese dining experience.
The ambiance at Maderia further enhances its appeal. Situated within Lotus Walk—an elegant, architecturally striking complex—the restaurant embodies a polished, contemporary style that aligns seamlessly with Nişantaşı’s fashionable atmosphere. Sleek lighting, minimalist wooden accents, and thoughtfully spaced seating create a space that is both luxurious and welcoming. It is the kind of restaurant ideal for celebratory dinners, stylish date nights, or elevated gatherings with friends.
Service at Maderia is polished but warm, with a staff known for making knowledgeable recommendations based on seasonality and guest preferences. Whether you’re a sushi purist or an adventurous diner seeking new flavor profiles, Maderia’s team ensures a curated experience that feels personal and thoughtfully guided.
- Why Go: 🌸 Innovative Japanese dining with fine‑dining execution, combining traditional precision, artistic presentation, and Turkish seasonal inspiration.
- Atmosphere: 🥂 Stylish, contemporary, and sophisticated—perfect for guests who appreciate elevated decor and a cosmopolitan ambiance.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺800–1000 per person, appropriate for its high craftsmanship, seasonal sourcing, and award‑winning menu.
- Reservations: 📞 Advisable, especially during weekends and evenings when demand is highest.
Fine Dining & Luxury Sushi Experiences
Nobu Istanbul – Ritz‑Carlton, Şişli
Nobu’s Istanbul location is a luxurious fusion of Japanese‑Peruvian culinary artistry framed by one of the city’s most captivating Bosphorus terrace views. As part of the globally renowned Nobu brand, this restaurant effortlessly blends classic Japanese techniques with vibrant Peruvian influences, offering a dining experience that is both refined and adventurous. While signature dishes like the Black Cod with Miso and Yellowtail Jalapeño rightfully command attention, Nobu Istanbul enhances its reputation with an expanded selection of pristine sushi, sashimi, tiradito, and chef‑driven specials unique to the Istanbul location.
The restaurant’s sushi program is meticulously executed—each cut of fish reflects precise training, while rice is seasoned and formed to complement subtle flavor notes. Nobu’s miso pastes, citrus marinades, and signature sauces provide layered depth without overpowering the natural freshness of the seafood. The menu also features a variety of hot dishes, including Wagyu beef selections, crispy tempura, and Peruvian‑inspired seafood preparations. A well‑curated cocktail menu and an extensive sake list further elevate the dining experience, with staff trained to guide guests toward pairings that enhance the meal’s progression.
The ambiance at Nobu Istanbul is equally noteworthy. Set within the Ritz‑Carlton, the restaurant offers a chic, cosmopolitan energy characterized by polished interiors, warm lighting, and a stylish mix of contemporary Japanese and modern luxury décor. The terrace, overlooking the shimmering Bosphorus, transforms the dining experience—particularly at sunset—into something cinematic. Service is polished and attentive, balancing professionalism with approachability, ensuring guests feel equally at home whether they are seasoned Nobu patrons or first‑time visitors.
- Why Go: 🌍 Global fine dining with a breathtaking Bosphorus backdrop, showcasing iconic Nobu dishes and exclusive Istanbul specials.
- Atmosphere: 💼 Chic, polished, and cosmopolitan, with a terrace view that ranks among the city’s most memorable dining settings.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺1500+ per person, reflecting its luxury positioning, ingredient quality, and world‑class culinary pedigree.
- Reservations: 📞 Essential; often booked weeks ahead, particularly for terrace seating and weekend evenings.
Zuma Istanbul – İstinye Park, Sarıyer
Zuma offers a contemporary izakaya interpretation of Japanese cuisine, presenting a sophisticated yet energetic dining experience that blends traditional Japanese methods with modern culinary creativity. As one of the most recognized global Japanese brands, Zuma Istanbul has upheld a consistently high standard since its arrival, attracting both international visitors and Istanbul’s elite dining crowd. The restaurant’s menu is built around its expertly executed sushi program, top‑quality sashimi, and a diverse set of robata‑grilled specialties, which add depth and contrast to the raw offerings.
The signature gyoza—delicate dumplings with perfectly crisped bottoms and a juicy, aromatic filling—has become a must‑order item, often praised for its balance of spice, acidity, and texture. Zuma’s premium nigiri selections highlight the restaurant’s commitment to ingredient quality, featuring cuts of buttery salmon, rich tuna, and seasonal fish varieties prepared with precision. Beyond its sushi, Zuma excels with small plates like miso‑glazed eggplant, crispy calamari, spicy beef tenderloin, and assorted seafood skewers from the robata grill, each crafted with layers of flavor that reflect Zuma’s refined yet bold culinary style.
The dining room itself amplifies the experience. Designed with contemporary Japanese aesthetics—clean lines, natural materials, warm lighting, and subtle artistic touches—the atmosphere feels both upscale and inviting. Zuma’s layout encourages social dining, with a lively open kitchen and bar that contribute to the restaurant’s unmistakable energy. On weekends, the space becomes especially vibrant, drawing a fashionable crowd that enhances the restaurant’s cosmopolitan ambiance.
For those seeking a high‑end sushi night infused with social buzz, Zuma stands out as one of the city’s premier choices. The combination of exceptional food, stylish décor, and a spirited dining atmosphere ensures a memorable evening, whether you’re gathering with friends, hosting international guests, or celebrating a special occasion.
- Why Go: 🔥 Trendy, high‑end sushi with a lively social atmosphere, world‑class ingredient quality, and a menu that blends refined technique with bold flavors.
- Atmosphere: 🎎 Refined, energetic, and design‑driven—ideal for stylish dinners, celebrations, and nights out.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺1200+ per person, consistent with its luxury positioning and premium ingredient sourcing.
- Reservations: 📞 Recommended, especially for weekend evenings when demand is highest.
Sankai by Nagaya – Bebek
Istanbul’s first Michelin‑starred sushi restaurant, Sankai by Nagaya has rapidly become one of the most coveted dining experiences in Türkiye. With only 24 seats, this ultra‑exclusive omakase destination offers an atmosphere of refinement and intimacy rarely found in the city. Guests are guided through an expertly choreographed progression of seasonal nigiri, small plates, and premium seafood—each course showcasing a level of precision, harmony, and balance that reflects the philosophy of acclaimed Chef Yoshizumi Nagaya. Every detail, from the temperature of the rice to the cut of the fish, is handled with obsessive craftsmanship, making the omakase here feel more like a culinary ceremony than a traditional dinner.
The menu evolves regularly depending on seasonal availability, with fish often flown in directly from Japan to ensure extraordinary freshness. Nigiri pieces may feature buttery toro, sweet botan ebi, delicate hirame, or uni with an elegant salinity. Interludes between sushi courses include jewel‑like small dishes such as chawanmushi, lightly grilled fish, or chef‑selected sashimi presented with minimalist artistry. Guests frequently describe the experience as transformative—each bite intentionally sequenced to build depth, contrast, and emotion.
Sankai’s dining room embodies serene luxury: soft lighting, natural wood textures, and an open counter where diners can observe the chef’s meticulous work. The ambiance encourages quiet appreciation, creating a meditative environment where flavor, craftsmanship, and hospitality take center stage. Service is exceptionally attentive yet unobtrusive, with staff offering detailed explanations of ingredients, techniques, and pairings. The curated beverage program includes premium sake flights and wine pairings designed to complement the omakase progression.
- Why Go: ⭐ A world‑class, intimate omakase led by expert Japanese chefs, offering a Michelin‑caliber experience unmatched anywhere else in Türkiye.
- Atmosphere: 🧘 Minimalist, serene, and luxurious—crafted to heighten focus on the artistry of each course.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺5000+ per person, reflecting the exclusivity, imported ingredients, and master‑level execution.
- Reservations: 📞 Mandatory; limited seating fills quickly, often requiring bookings weeks in advance.
Sunset Grill & Bar – Ulus, Beşiktaş
A long‑time fine dining institution, Sunset Grill & Bar stands as one of Istanbul’s most iconic culinary landmarks—renowned not only for its exceptional food but also for its commanding panoramic views of the Bosphorus, the July 15th Martyrs Bridge, and the Asian shoreline. Since opening its sushi bar in 1999, Sunset has been at the forefront of blending Japanese culinary precision with Mediterranean sophistication, making it a trailblazer in Istanbul’s fusion dining scene. Over the decades, the restaurant has consistently elevated its sushi program, sourcing premium fish, refining techniques, and incorporating artistic presentation styles that appeal to both purists and modern fusion enthusiasts.
Guests often describe Sunset as a destination that delivers a complete sensory experience. The sushi offerings—ranging from classic nigiri and sashimi to elegant signature rolls—are celebrated for their freshness, balance, and refined flavor profiles. Specialty items, such as delicately torched maki, creative truffle‑accented rolls, and handcrafted sashimi platters, showcase the kitchen’s ability to merge technique with innovation. Complementing the sushi menu is Sunset’s broader fine‑dining selection, which includes expertly prepared seafood, steaks, and Mediterranean dishes, allowing diners to create diverse and luxurious multi‑course meals.
The restaurant’s ambiance is equally unforgettable. Perched atop Ulus Park, Sunset’s terrace becomes a breathtaking vantage point during golden hour, offering guests front‑row seats to one of the most beautiful sunsets over Istanbul. Soft lighting, elegant table settings, and a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere make the space ideal for romantic dinners, celebrations, and high‑profile gatherings. Indoors, modern art pieces, sleek architectural design, and a curated music program add sophistication to the dining experience.
Service at Sunset is polished, warm, and highly attentive. Staff members are knowledgeable about both the sushi menu and the extensive wine and cocktail lists, often making tailored recommendations based on guest preferences. With decades of experience serving an international clientele, the team excels at delivering hospitality that feels both luxurious and personal.
- Why Go: 🌅 Exceptional sushi with world‑class views, combining Japanese precision, Mediterranean elegance, and one of the city’s most spectacular sunset panoramas.
- Atmosphere: ❤️ Romantic, polished, and iconic—ideal for special occasions, intimate evenings, and memorable dining experiences.
- Price Range: 💸 ₺1200+ per person, reflecting its fine‑dining status, premium ingredients, and unparalleled location.
- Reservations: 📞 A must—terrace tables are in extremely high demand, especially during spring and summer evenings.
Final Thoughts
Whether you seek an affordable roll, a refined mid‑range dinner, or a once‑in‑a‑lifetime omakase, Istanbul’s sushi scene offers extraordinary depth and diversity. From the artistic plates of Sankai to the sunset views at Nobu and Sunset Grill, each restaurant delivers a distinct flavor of the city’s global culinary evolution.
Use this guide to explore Istanbul’s top sushi destinations and discover new favorites across the European and Asian sides of the city.