As much of an art form as it is a food, sushi follows strict rules. The rice and vinegar used, the wrapping, the rolling or stacking technique, the type of fish, and the method of cutting all contribute to the myriad of subtle differences between each individual piece. So it makes sense that becoming a master sushi chef can take a lifetime.
You have probably heard of a sushi train restaurant before if you are familiar with sushi or Japanese cuisine in general. Sushi trains, also known as conveyor belt sushi, are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that are a cultural must for any visitor to Japan.
No need to book a flight to Japan, though; we've compiled a list of the top sushi train establishments in Melbourne.
However, here is some information to get you started at a sushi train restaurant if you have never been to one before:
17 Restaurants for the Best Sushi in Melbourne
One of Melbourne's best sushi restaurants is a class of its own. There is no doubt in our minds that Melbourne is the best city outside Japan, but we may be a little biassed.
In the West, many people consider sushi to be a blessing because of its simplicity, satisfaction, and healthful nature.
Many sushi restaurants have adapted their menus to accommodate vegans and vegetarians, so there's no excuse to anybody to miss out on this delectable treat.
The following is a list of the best sushi restaurants in Melbourne.
Minamishima
Exactly what it claims to be, Minamishima is a real place with a real history. Stepping inside Melbourne's premier sushi bar will be a memorable experience. Why? With omakase sushi, leave it to the chef.
Minamishima's menu includes a variety of appetisers and desserts in addition to the restaurant's well-known fifteen varieties of sushi. There are a wide variety of authentic Japanese sushi dishes that you can sample.
WaKenbo
Tokyo-style Japanese restaurant Wakenbo is a cosy little Tokyo eatery. This Japanese restaurant serves more than just sushi, thanks to the use of ingredients from the restaurant's own Japanese garden.
Braised rabbit with marrow ravioli in miso and coconut milk, seared scallops with preserved lemon, smoked duck breast in chorizo with duck neck, fried duck cartilage, and more are all available for purchase. The kaiseki sushi platter, on the other hand, is truly exceptional.
Suzuran
No doubt, Suzuran is a blessing. At this restaurant, you'll find the best sushi and sashimi in Melbourne, as well as Japanese household goods. There are a wide range of Japanese condiments that can be used for both elaborate Japanese feasts and everyday cooking.
Suzuran's sushi bar uses only the finest fish and ingredients. It is a great honour for skilled sushi and sashimi chefs to please hungry diners with their delectable creations. There is no charge for the vegetarian platters and other meals provided.
MR Ryu
At MR. RYU on Carlisle Street, you'll be in the heart of one of the city's most celebrated culinary districts, Balaclava. It's important to the restaurant's mission to offer a diverse menu that reflects the diversity of the people who dine there.
If you're not a fan of the milder tan-tan ramen, try the spicier version with sesame chilli and a creamy and nutty broth. There is no better accompaniment to the coconut kingfish than the Nam Jim peppers, jalapenos, lime leaves, and coriander.
Hinoki Japanese Pantry
Hinoki, a Japanese supermarket and sushi bar in Fitzroy, Melbourne, is a hidden gem. Various traditional Japanese foods, beverages, and other necessities can be found here.
When it comes to cooking, gourmet chefs and cooks are always looking out for new and unique ingredients. There are a wide variety of sashimi platters available at one of Melbourne's best sashimi and sushi restaurants, including nigra packs, hosomaki packs, nose maki packs, and a variety of other options.
Tokui Sushi
One of Melbourne's best-kept secrets is Tokui Sushi, a hidden gem in the city's financial district. For those who are on the go and need a bite to eat, as well as those who prefer to take their time, they have a variety of options for both.
If you want to try the sushi rolls, you'll have to fork over a bit of money. They're huge and delicious, but they only cost a little more than $2 for the lot of 'em. It's hard to pick a favourite from their unagi, unagi special and Tamago, cucumber, spicy tuna, avocado, and avocado special rolls.
Kenzan Japanese Restaurant
There's only one chef's hat for Kenzan, but that's because it has a sushi bar, a tatami room, and a tatami room. Sashimi, sushi, and sukiyaki are just some of the delicacies on offer at this restaurant, all served in an authentic Japanese-inspired setting.
The restaurant is divided into two sections: the main dining room, which seats 12, and a private dining room, which seats four. Chirashi, sukiyaki, unagi, tempura, and sushi are all on the menu at this establishment.
Bincho Boss
We like to think outside the box. Using the kimono grill, this hip restaurant transforms traditional Japanese fare into something new and exciting.
A wide range of hot and cold beverages, as well as sushi, yakitori, and tempura, as well as drunken tofu noodles, are all available for your consumption during your stay here. Seeing the innovative fusion of Eastern and Western flavours, prompt and friendly service, and comfortable atmosphere will leave you speechless.
Kisumé
The sushi table, the Chablis bar, as well as the Chef's Table are all options at Kisumé. An Australian twist is added to the traditional Japanese cuisine at this restaurant.
Enjoy a wide variety of dishes, both recognisable and new, prepared with local sea and land produce. As you dine in the newly remodelled dining area, you can sample dishes such as kingfish sashimi, spicy tuna, beef tartare, and nigiri.
Tsukiji Restaurant
Attracting foodies from all corners of the globe, Tsukiji has remained one of Melbourne's most sought-after restaurants. Tsukiji offers a wide variety of salmon dishes, including sashimi, fried salmon, and scallops. One of the best restaurants in the area thanks to its top-notch chefs and friendly staff.
When placing an order, consider sashimi, teriyaki chicken, teriyaki beef, and bento boxes of sushi. Desserts like mochi, are a great way to wind down. A journey to remember.
Komeyui Japanese Restaurant
You're looking for a hip spot where you can get a taste of high-end traditional Japanese cuisine? You should then make your way to Komeyui. Restaurant tables fill up quickly for the seven different course sushi omakase at this eatery.
All of the restaurant's offerings, including sushi, sashimi, and heartier dishes like hitsumabushi, can be ordered a la carte. Steamed rice and grilled eel are served in a green-tea soup. Bento Box, which includes sashimi, spicy tempura tuna, nori crunch, miso-marinated black cod, rice, and miso soup, is the icing on the cake of the entire meal plan.
Shira Nui
Famous for its noodle and sushi dishes, Shira Nui is a traditional Japanese eatery in Tokyo. Whether it's a quick bite or a special occasion dinner, sushi has a distinct flavour all its own.
Snag a seat at the sushi bar and keep an eye on the cooks as they whip up your personal favourites like seared Kingfish, tuna, or salmon sashimi. These are the best-tasting options available.
Wabi Sabi Salon
Traditional wooden furniture and a lush outdoor patio provide the perfect setting for sashimi and bento boxes. The Wabi-Sabi Salon specialises in vegetarian and seafood dishes.
Vegetarian and 20-herb-and-spice-infused prawn head ramen are two of my favourite options at this restaurant. Definitely appetising, to be sure. A warm sake from the expanded drinks menu would go nicely with your teishoku plate. Teishoku is a traditional Japanese set menu.
Saké Restaurant and Bar
Saké serves authentic Japanese cuisine with a modern twist, so you can enjoy the best of both worlds. This multi-award-winning restaurant is known for its delicious, original takes on traditional and specialised fare, all prepared with the highest quality ingredients.
Sashimi, sushi, appetisers, and main dishes are all prepared by sushi chefs using the freshest seafood available. The bottom line is that whenever you order seafood, you can feel confident ordering Saké as your wine of choice.
Nobu
One of the many award-winning Japanese restaurant chains in the world, Nobu, has a Melbourne outpost in the form of a sushi restaurant. People all over the world frequent this location. You can expect a unique blend of Japanese and Peruvian flavours.
Why did this happen? Authentic cuisine with a modern twist. It's Peruvian dish called tiradito, which is a thinly sliced marinated fish. You can't go wrong ordering one of their famous sushi cups, which are crammed full of exotic ingredients like sugary prawn and wasabi-marinated caviar or uni (a type of sea urchin).
Gaijin Japanese Fusion
Gaijin Japanese Fusion's modern take on traditional Japanese sushi is a welcome change from the norm. There are a variety of sushi and sashimi options, as well as miso, soup, and spicy salmon rolls, such as the Tasmanian, Spider vs. Dragon, and Baked Dynamite, at Gaijin.
Salmon tartare, fried soft shell crab, and the Gaijin special salmon salad are all lighter options. This restaurant's desserts are out of this world, and they serve as a wonderful example of fusion cuisine.
Sakura Kaiten Sushi
There is nothing but the best sushi and sashimi here, such as the salmon, tuna, kingfish mixed sushi and sashimi platters served at the restaurant. 15 different sushi packs are available, including all of your favourite seafood.
They also have excellent sashimi on their menu. In contrast, nigiri sushi is an entirely different animal. Grilled yellowtail and fluke fin in wasabi sauce are included in the dish.
A sequel to Sakura Kaiten Sushi's massive success, Sakura Kaiten Sushi II has carved out its own niche in the sushi world by incorporating unique Dragon Ball Z references as well as the legendary sushi train.
There is a distinct personality and charm to Sakura Kaiten Sushi II's large display of Dragon Ball Z memorabilia, which fills the entire back wall of the restaurant. There are grilled seafood options like salmon, tuna, yellowtail, snapper, and scallops, as well as innovative takes on traditional preparations like yellowtail sashimi topped with jalapeos.
Some of their best-selling items include dashi tofu, takoyaki, and the grilled eel nigiri. Among the many unique dishes on offer are jellyfish salad, fried oysters, crab croquettes, scampi sashimi, and grilled snapper with basil sauce.
FAQs About Melbourne Restaurants
A sushi train restaurant consists of a conveyor belt that stretches throughout the restaurant and passes each table. Plates full of various kinds of delicious sushi and other Japanese delicacies circle the restaurant, with customers simply reaching over and grabbing the plate they desire when it comes around to them.
Unless you are in a traditional sushi restaurant in Japan, no one will judge you according to how you eat your sushi. However, if you want to eat sushi with the correct etiquette, here’s what you need to know:
- Eating sushi with your hands is fine – but only eat sashimi with chopsticks.
- Pick up the rice part with your fingers and only dip the top part into your soy sauce. If the rice soaks up too much soy sauce, then it will overpower the overall taste.
- Never mix wasabi directly into your soy sauce dish. It must be kept separate.
- Sushi must always be eaten in one bite.
- Ginger is not to be eaten with sushi. It is meant to be eaten afterwards and used as a palate cleanser.
- Do not pass a piece of food to someone using chopsticks. Always pass them the plate instead.
Each plate has a set colour, shape and pattern, corresponding to how much it will cost. The restaurant will have a list nearby that will explain how much each plate will be. At the end of your meal, the staff will count how many plates you have stacked and will calculate the bill for you.
Minamishima is the best place for sushi in Melbourne’s CBD. Other top sushi spots include WaKenbo and Mr Ryu.
Sakura Kaiten Sushi is the best sushi train restaurant in Melbourne’s CBD.
Discover Melbourne’s Best Sushi Train Restaurants
You can stuff your face with sashimi, maki, and other Japanese dishes in record time at one of the many sushi trains across the country. Get comfortable, because you're about to play a game in which you have to aim for the perfect plate as it travels down the track and towards your seat.
Sushi Jiro, Melbourne CBD
The most well-known sushi train restaurant in Melbourne, with nine locations, is Sushi Jiro. It doesn't matter which restaurant you go to, you can expect a warm welcome from the staff and an exhilarating atmosphere.
Other sushi restaurants don't offer vegan, gourmet, healthy, premium, or chef's special options; at Sushi Jiro, this is standard. There is a wide variety of traditional sushi dishes on the menu such as gunkan, uramaki nigiri maki temaki and sashimi prepared by master Japanese chefs.
The nori taco is one of Sushi Jiro's most popular and well-known dishes. You can stuff it with salmon sashimi and sashimi-grade sushi rice, roe, avocado, lettuce, and thinly sliced avocado.
You have the option of dining in or taking sushi to go from the sushi train section. It's possible to place special orders using the free iPad if you can't find what you want among the stocked inventory options.
Tetsujin, Melbourne CBD
One of Melbourne's best sushi trains can be found on the fourth floor of the Emporium's Tetsujin bar. The bright colored rings hanging from the ceiling rails and the white tiles that cover the walls evoke Japanese train stations.
To ensure that the sushi on each customer's plate hasn't been passed around the conveyor too many times, Tetsujin's talented menu includes a wide range of delectable sushi in the restaurant's heart. It's possible to order anything from sashimi and sushi to meat and seafood dishes.
Also available are Japanese BBQ selections, including Wagyu scotch steak slices and succulent pork belly, as well as Angus rump and seafood salads as well as many other options. Tasting drinks like the Final Fantasy, Sakura, and Kanagawa Tsunami at Tetsujin is an unforgettable experience.
Ganbare Kaz Kaiten Sushi, Windsor
In addition to being featured on MasterChef Australia, Ganbare Kaz Kaiten Sushi, a highly regarded sushi restaurant in Chapel St., has won numerous awards. Staff members are highly trained professionals who go out of their way to ensure that every customer leaves the restaurant feeling satisfied and happy with their meal.
There is a lot of Japanese art and kitchenware on display in Ganbare Kaz Kaiten Sushi's rustic and brick interior. Diners can sit anywhere along the sushi train in the main section of the restaurant while they await their favourite dish to be served.
It's possible to get a nigiri or aburi sushi roll stuffed with crab or prawn or even chicken or salmon; there are also many other options to choose from. There are also noodles and salads on the menu, so make sure you're hungry before you go.
Sushi Hotaru, Melbourne CBD
Many consider Sushi Hotaru, a sushi train located in Melbourne's MidCity Arcade, the best sushi restaurant in the city. The reason they made our list is clear once you've entered the restaurant, sat down, and sampled some of the delectable cuisine.
Diners at Sushi Hotaru will appreciate the ambience created by the dim lighting above the sushi train and the dark hardwood furniture that surrounds it. Sushi rolls made with eel, prawn garage, scallops, wagyu beef, kingfish, salmon, squid, tuna, octopus, soft shell crab, and more are available.
As a result, there is something really for everyone on the menu: from sushi and noodles to desserts and sake. Despite its smaller size compared to the other sushi railways on our list, we still recommend Sushi Hotaru to anyone in the CBD.
Conclusion
A trip to Japan isn't complete without a visit to a sushi train, also known as a conveyor belt sushi restaurant. Vegans and vegetarians can now enjoy sushi at restaurants that cater to their dietary preferences. Omakase sushi and real history can both be found in Minamishima. Only the finest fish and ingredients are used in Suzuran's sushi bar. Melbourne's Fitzroy neighbourhood has a Japanese supermarket and sushi bar called Hinoki.
Many traditional Japanese foods, drinks, and necessities can be found in this convenient location. The vegetarian platters and other meals provided are free of charge. The kimono grill is used by Bincho Boss to reinvent traditional Japanese dishes. For decades, Tsukiji has been one of the most sought-after restaurants in Melbourne. Komeyui is a trendy Japanese restaurant where you can sample high-quality traditional cuisine.
Japanese cuisine includes sashimi, sushi, appetisers, and entrees prepared by sushi chefs using the freshest seafood available. The cuisine at Wabi Sabi Salon is traditional Japanese fare with a contemporary twist. The modern take on traditional Japanese sushi at Gaijin Japanese Fusion is a welcome departure from the norm. The entire back wall of Sakura Kaiten Sushi II is devoted to a tribute to Dragon Ball Z memorabilia. A variety of grilled seafood options are available, including salmon, tuna, yellowtail, snapper, and scallops.
Sushi Jiro is the most popular sushi train restaurant in Melbourne. The Emporium's Tetsujin bar is home to one of Melbourne's best sushi trains. Award-winning Chapel Street sushi restaurant Ganbare Kaz Kaiten Sushi has received numerous accolades. Sushi Hotaru also serves noodle dishes and salads.
Content Summary
- You have probably heard of a sushi train restaurant before if you are familiar with sushi or Japanese cuisine in general.
- Sushi trains, also known as conveyor belt sushi, are a once-in-a-lifetime experience that are a cultural must for any visitor to Japan.
- No need to book a flight to Japan, though; we've compiled a list of the top sushi train establishments in Melbourne.
- One of Melbourne's best-kept secrets is Tokui Sushi, a hidden gem in the city's financial district.
- You're looking for a hip spot where you can get a taste of high-end traditional Japanese cuisine?
- The Wabi-Sabi Salon specialises in vegetarian and seafood dishes.
- One of the many award-winning Japanese restaurant chains in the world, Nobu, has a Melbourne outpost in the form of a sushi restaurant.
- A sequel to Sakura Kaiten Sushi's massive success, Sakura Kaiten Sushi II has carved out its own niche in the sushi world by incorporating unique Dragon Ball Z references as well as the legendary sushi train.
- There is a distinct personality and charm to Sakura Kaiten Sushi II's large display of Dragon Ball Z memorabilia, which fills the entire back wall of the restaurant.
- he most well-known sushi train restaurant in Melbourne, with nine locations, is Sushi Jiro.
- One of Melbourne's best sushi trains can be found on the fourth floor of the Emporium's Tetsujin bar.
- It's possible to order anything from sashimi and sushi to meat and seafood dishes.
- In addition to being featured on MasterChef Australia, Ganbare Kaz Kaiten Sushi, a highly regarded sushi restaurant in Chapel St., has won numerous awards.
- Many consider Sushi Hotaru, a sushi train located in Melbourne's MidCity Arcade, the best sushi restaurant in the city.