5 Best Sushi in Shinjuku

Best Places to Eat Sushi in Shinjuku, Tokyo

Best Sushi in Shinjuku

If someone were to ask what the most famous Japanese food is, many might think of various dishes like ramen, tempura, or okonomiyaki. However, sushi is likely to come to mind first for most people. The sushi we know today has its roots in Edomae sushi, which originated during the Edo period. Back then, sushi was sold at stalls, resembling rice balls, and was a popular fast food choice for the working class. In contrast, sushi is now generally regarded as a high-class cuisine.

Today I will introduce some famous Sushi restaurants where you can enjoy a variety of side dishes as well in Shinjuku, Tokyo.

If you’re looking for a general guide to the Shinjuku area, check out our All-in-One Guide to Shinjuku.

*Please note that this article contains affiliate links.


Sushi Culture in Shinjuku: A Magnet for Global Palates

Shinjuku, arguably Tokyo’s busiest neighborhood, is a sushi lover’s playground. From high-end omakase counters to budget-friendly conveyor belt joints, the district offers a spectrum of experiences that cater to both seasoned aficionados and curious newcomers.

For international visitors, the appeal lies not just in the variety but also in the accessibility. Many establishments provide English menus and have staff adept at assisting non-Japanese speakers, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all. Modern touches, such as touchscreen ordering systems, further simplify the process, allowing guests to focus on simply enjoying the food.

Shinjuku’s sushi establishments also cater to different budgets and dining preferences. Late-night services allow for nightly cravings to be satisfied, and the all-you-can-eat options ensure there’s something for every appetite and schedule.

Best Sushi in Shinjuku

1. Himawari Sushi Shintoshin

Himawari Sushi
© 2024 Copyright himawari-sushi-shintoshin

At Himawari Sushi Shintoshin (ひまわり寿司 新都心店), the sushi is served in a style known as Kaiten Sushi, or conveyor belt sushi, which means “rotating sushi.” Plates of sushi rotate around the customers on a conveyor belt, allowing you to simply pick the pieces you want to enjoy.

If you’re concerned about the freshness of the fish on the belt, you can ask the Itamae, or sushi chef, to prepare custom sushi for you. One of the best features of this restaurant is that you can enjoy a seafood don for just 600 yen during lunchtime, which is the most reasonable price in the Shinjuku area.

What makes this spot a must-visit:

Himawari Sushi offers a delightful conveyor belt experience with a wide variety of fresh options. Notably, their multilingual menus and friendly staff make it especially accommodating for overseas visitors.

Related: Himawari Sushi: the Best Quality Conveyor Belt Sushi in Shinjuku, Tokyo

2. Shinjuku NADAMAN Hinkan

Shinjuku Nadaman
© 2025 NADAMAN inc.

If today is a special anniversary for you and you want to have a little gorgeous Japanese cuisine, Shinjuku NADAMAN Hinkan (新宿 なだ万賓館) should be your top choice. Not only can you eat sushi gently shaped by Itamae, but also other delicious Japanese foods cooked by skilled Japanese cooks.

What’s interesting in this restaurant is that they will explain the details of the dishes you ordered when they bring them to your table. So, while you enjoy those luxury Japanese foods, you can also be a Japanese food expert.

Why this place stands out:

A refined dining experience that showcases the artistry of traditional Japanese cuisine. Shinjuku NADAMAN Hinkan offers meticulously prepared dishes using seasonal ingredients, providing guests with an authentic taste of Japan’s culinary heritage

Shinjuku NADAMAN Hinkan is a very popular Sushi restaurant in Tokyo, so it’s highly recommended to make a reservation in advance.

<<Book your table at Shinjuku NADAMAN now!>>

3. Sushi Kotobuki

Sushi Kotobuki
© 2025 【公式】すし寿 – 個室チャージなし – 本格江戸前寿司

Tucked away in the basement of the Queens NS Building in Nishi-Shinjuku, Sushi Kotobuki (すし寿) offers an intimate dining experience with just 20 seats, ensuring personalized attention to each guest.

The restaurant is renowned for its commitment to traditional Edomae sushi, where seasoned chefs meticulously prepare each piece using time-honored techniques and the freshest seasonal ingredients. The minimalist decor and serene ambiance provide a tranquil setting, allowing diners to focus solely on the culinary artistry presented before them.

What makes this place noteworthy:

An exclusive Edomae sushi experience in a quiet, intimate setting. Sushi Kotobuki’s dedication to traditional techniques and seasonal ingredients offers a refined dining experience that appeals to both sushi connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

<<Book your table at Sushi Kotobuki now!>>

4. Shinjuku Gyioenmae Sushi Labo

Shinjuku Gyoenmae Sushi Labo
© 鮨らぼ 津本式の熟成寿司

Just a minute’s walk from Shinjuku Gyoenmae Station, Sushi Labo (新宿御苑前 鮨らぼ) offers a fresh take on Edomae sushi by blending traditional techniques with modern innovations. Staffed by graduates and students of the Tokyo Sushi Academy, the restaurant serves meticulously prepared dishes that highlight seasonal ingredients and unique flavors. The minimalist decor and intimate setting provide a comfortable environment for both sushi aficionados and newcomers alike.

What sets this place apart:

A fusion of tradition and innovation, offering high-quality sushi crafted by emerging talents from the Tokyo Sushi Academy. Sushi Labo delivers an exceptional dining experience that combines the artistry of seasoned chefs with the fresh perspectives of the next generation.

5. SUSHI ZANMAI

Sushi Zanmai
© 2020 Sushizanmai

Sushi Zanmai Shinjuku (すしざんまい 東新宿店) is part of a well-known chain that started as Japan’s first sushi restaurant open 24/7 throughout the year. It is extremely popular among the Japanese people.

One of the standout features of this sushi restaurant is the tuna-cutting demonstration, which showcases tuna brought in from the season’s first bid. After the demonstration, customers can enjoy sushi made from this freshly cut tuna at very reasonable prices. If you’re looking to sample a variety of sushi, Sushi Zanmai offers an extensive selection sourced from Tsukiji, the largest fish market in Japan.

What makes this place noteworthy:

A reliable choice for quality sushi at any hour. Sushi Zanmai in Higashi Shinjuku is renowned for its fresh seafood offerings and extended hours, staying open until 5 AM to satisfy nocturnal sushi lovers.


▽This Complete Sushi Guide introduces all about authentic Japanese sushi▽

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