Must-Try Sushi Spots in Tampa
Tampa, Florida is a city brimming with a variety of dine-in sushi spots. In no particular here is a list of must-try sushi and sashimi in the Tampa Bay Area. From lunchtime happy hours with cheery, sun-kissed south FL flair, to intimate 4-star rated concepts with speciality a la carte, to late night tapa bars that specialize in hand rolls.
Zukku San
You’ll love ZukkuSan located by the Tampa Premium Outlets for a local date night, or large outing with friends and family because the ambiance is high energy. The decor and overall vibe is modern, with lots of San Francisco influence. Get your chopsticks ready for the Dancing Dragon roll (topped with spicy ahi tuna) and the Shrimp Volcano roll (topped with tempura shrimp, sweet eel sauce and spicy mayo). These are my go-to rolls because they’re both flavor bombs!
Kelp Sushi
Recognized for their sushi picnic boxes and weekday happy hour that includes mocktails, small plates, and raw rolls, Kelp Sushi is the perfect combination of laidback and mod-fusion. The Rose Cave, featured on the happy hour menu is a speciality roll topped with fresh tuna, and drizzled in mix of savory eel sauce and spicy mayo. Another must is their crispy tuna rice plate (under $14) and tuna wonton nachos.
Tori Bar
Located minutes away from The University of Tampa, this Japanese pub is downtown’s hottest new concept that specializes in craft drinks, shareable tapas, sashimi platters and fresh hand rolls. Notable mentions are their daily 4-6pm happy hour and late night happy hour starting at 10pm. A mix of the grilled skewers & an array of assorted cold tastings just may be the remedy for a late-night date night or casual yet fun dinner for two. The yellowtail crudo is a buttery yellowtail bursting in flavor, courtesy of the jalapeño kick & vinaigrette dressing. The Spicy Salmon Hand-roll has just the right amount of spice & packed with a generous amount of salmon. Chef’s treat!
Umu Sushi
Offering Japanese fare and Thai specialities, Umu is a gem in the Wesley Chapel area. Sushi bar starters include a delicious hamachi crudo (with a mouthwatering soy grapefruit vinaigrette) and a Hokkaido Scallop Tiradito. The Texas roll and Distinguished Gentlemen are favorites as they both include Serrano peppers, and lots of tanginess. Stop by Sorbo, their Asian-inspired coffee and tea spot next door for Ube and Matcha-themed dessert.
Ro
Ro in Hyde Park offers sensory, style & presentation. The overall feel is tasteful and ambient. This is a popular destination for date night, anniversaries, and birthday celebrations. I’d recommend ordering hamachi yellowtail to start. Then, try Ro’s signature roll for a fusion of Japanese white fish, hamachi and kimchi vinaigrette.
Sushark
Sushark Tampa is sexy, savory, and a little savage—(as far as their Savage Rice plate). Originally established in Panama, this sushi spot is known for their rich flair and ‘no rules, just rolls’ motto. If you’re visiting the South Tampa area, be sure to stop by to try their creative, tantalizing sushi options. Flavors here are hot, elevated, and saucy. Start your meal with the truffle crispy rice and Sushark bites (Creamy Krab and tempura flakes wrapped in tuna and salmon sashimi, topped with a creamy sweet soy. ) Then, try the Crazy Salmon and Truffle Maguro.
