Article
Sushi in Leeds
Rosie Macdonald
The desire for Japanese cuisine, especially sushi, has taken root in many cities around the UK and Leeds is no exception.
In recent years the demand for sushi has skyrocketed, with delivery services like Deliveroo playing a vital role in opening sushi up to the masses. There are now more sushi restaurants in and around Leeds than you can shake a nigiri at. From every-day lunch spots such as Yo Sushi, Wasabi and Itsu through to fine-dining and food theatre, Leeds can satiate all manner of sushi cravings.
Image credit: Bevan Cockerill, teppanyakileeds.com
Teppanyaki
If you’re looking for an evening of entertainment in addition to sampling some spectacular authentic Japanese cuisine, you need look no further than Teppanyaki. This incredibly reasonably priced restaurant offers an immersive experience where you and your guests can sit around a teppan hot plate and watch whilst your food is prepared in front of you. The chefs are exceptionally skilled and use their culinary talents to theatrically juggle, flip and generally delight. After a flash of fire, the brave are given the chance to attempt their best seal impression and catch titbits of food with their mouths – an undisputedly fantastic bonding activity. Teppanyaki offers a choice of six different set menus, or an A La Carte menu with dishes ranging from prawn consommé to fillet steak and lobster tail surf and turf. This truly amazing, immersive restaurant is a must visit in Leeds.
Address:Belgrave Hall, Belgrave St, Leeds LS2 8DDWeb:teppanyakileeds.com
Hana Matsuri
Hana Matsuri has been heralded as a serious contender for the best sushi in Leeds. A relatively recent addition to the city, this small and quirky restaurant is situated in Meanwood and offers the very best in the way of Omakase: a Japanese fine dining tradition, whereby the guest entrusts their meal entirely to the chef. The Omakse menu starts at £50 per person and is a fantastic way for true foodies to experience authentic Japanese hospitality. The food is the epitome of elegant simplicity, with single nigiri’s served in procession. It is home to the most beautiful hosomaki and silky, smooth homemade green tea ice cream. The restaurant is tiny, so pre-bookings are essential. It is also worth noting that after 7pm no children under the age of 13 are permitted.
Address:580 Meanwood Rd, Leeds LS6 4AZWeb:sushibarhanamatsuri.co.uk
Image credit: littletokyoleeds.co.uk
Little Tokyo
A great date night sushi spot, Little Tokyo is a Leeds staple, celebrating its 20th year anniversary in 2020. It has one of the best sashimi selection platters around, eighteen different bento boxes to choose from and the added bonus of being able to eat overlooking an indoor carp pond complete with bridge! Meat deniers can also delight as there is a specific vegetarian and vegan section in the menu.
Address:4 Central Rd, Leeds LS1 6DEWeb:littletokyoleeds.co.uk
Issho
An undisputed favourite for a special occasion, Issho is a great late evening or summer restaurant and a perfect way to seamlessly move from dinner to drinks, with an award-winning bar and roof-top terrace. This is certainly not a cheap affair, but with the effortlessly glamourous interior, relaxed atmosphere and of course the sumptuous food, it is worth the extra cost. Issho was the winner of five awards at the 2019 Oliver Awards, taking home prizes for best bar, best brunch, best customer service and fine dining. The sashimi and the spicy pork bao buns are to die for and the afternoon tea is an automatic addition to the bucket list.
Address:Victoria Gate 3rd Floor Rooftop, George St, Leeds LS2 7AUWeb:issho-restaurant.com
Image credit: bluesakura.co.uk
Blue Sakura
An all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant. No, this isn’t a dream. There is an all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant in Leeds! You can enjoy all of the classic sushi favourites here, from dragon rolls to sashimi. Just be aware the all-you-can-eat element does not extend to drinks. Situated outside the Merrion centre, this is a perfect go-to for the hard-core sushi fan. The evening meal menu is £30-£35 depending on the day, or £20 at lunch, though checking the restrictions prior to booking is recommended, in case your favourite is only available in the evening. The décor is also gorgeous and adds to the ambience in the evening, with pops of colour from the huge cherry blossoms situated all over the restaurant. This is a serious must for the sushi-lover on a budget, who’s always left wanting more.
Address:2-3 Merrion Way, Leeds LS2 8BTWeb:bluesakura.co.uk
Yummy Sushi
If you long for the feel of street food style dining, this is the place for you. A great, inexpensive spot for lunch, in the heart of the Leeds Markets, with very few seats. It’s quirky and charming and lunch comes with a free cup of green tea. Who could resist?
Power, Corruption and Lies
Power, Corruption and Lies cannot be left unmentioned. Though it may be a stretch to include this as a sushi restaurant, it is a spectacular addition to the Japanese food and drink scene in Leeds. It opened on the 22nd November 2019 in the space previously occupied by Norman’s Bar. The interior has undergone radical change and can now boast a 40ft bar! It serves a selection of Japanese small dishes, alongside innovative cocktails and a huge range of sake. A great way to finish off your meal, or perhaps to continue your Japanese experience!
Address:36 Call Lane, Leeds, LS1 7BTWeb:powercorruptionandlies.co.uk