Knoxville might not be the first city that springs to mind when discussing sushi in Tennessee—Nashville often steals that spotlight. But there’s a reason why the phrase ‘hidden gem’ fits this riverfront city: it offers two distinct experiences that rival any in the region. We’re talking intimate omakase counters perfect for a special occasion, and bustling izakaya-style spots ideal for a casual night out. Here’s your guide to navigating them all.
Ichiban Japanese Grill
$ | (865) 947-8888 | WEBSITE
Ichiban Japanese Grill has so many delicious Japanese dishes, we’re convinced that one of Tokyo’s top chefs is secretly running the kitchen. Plates of freshly made sushi line the counter, while their specialties like house-made egg rolls and generous hibachi portions sit front and center. Their sushi is super fresh, with rich, flavorful fish on top that’s the ideal balance of delicate and satisfying.
They also have a garlicky, ginger-packed hibachi and cheesy, saucy, kid-friendly meals that are worth trying if you’re in the mood. Bring as many people as possible to help you sample everything.
Kichi Asian Cuisine & Sushi
$ | (865) 693-3338 | WEBSITE
Kichi Asian Cuisine & Sushi is the standout spot by the team behind some of Knoxville’s favorite mall eateries. What makes this West Town Mall location consistently busy is its unparalleled freshness. You can taste the quality in every bite of their made-to-order sushi, setting the stage for their exceptional options, like generous portions of Bourbon chicken with fried rice and Chow Mein.
Their octopus balls, prepared fresh when you order them, are another standout, as is their twister potato on a stick that’s both fun and tasty. Grab your boba tea to go, and stay nearby—you’ll want to return for more of that really sweet honeydew milk boba with tapioca.
Kabuki Restaurant (Farragut)
$ | (865) 288-4111 | WEBSITE
Kabuki Restaurant (Farragut), which has been serving some of the best Japanese food in Knoxville consistently for years, is your spot for fresh, authentic sushi. Their sushi is fresher than most, with perfectly seasoned rice and delicate, expertly sliced fish that might remind you of a classic coastal sushi bar. And yet, this puts most of what you can find in Knoxville to shame.
The tako-yaki are also good: the crispy exterior gives way to a tender, flavorful octopus filling that’s generously topped with savory sauce and bonito flakes. Even though it’s in a convenient Farragut location with lots of parking, the crowd is more made up of families enjoying the kid-friendly environment and couples on date nights than just passing traffic.
Hibachi Grill & Sushi Bar
$ | (865) 573-7770 | WEBSITE
There was a time when we thought nothing could surpass a simple sushi roll. Then we tried the hibachi show at Hibachi Grill & Sushi Bar. Its lively performance, featuring the onion volcano and rice ball tossing, made us realize we were wrong. Located away from the hustle of Pigeon Forge, this cozy restaurant is famous for its friendly staff and generous portions. Don’t miss their steak/chicken hibachi, with fresh broccoli, carrots, and baby corn, or the veggie plate piled with crisp vegetables.
Their kid-friendly options, like large plates at lower prices, are particularly satisfying, too.
Kabuki Restaurant (Downtown)
$ | (865) 521-3888 | WEBSITE
Everything the chef at Kabuki Restaurant touches turns to gold, including the dragon roll at this downtown spot. It’s fresh, expertly crafted, and slick with just enough eel sauce to coat your chopsticks. You’ll find classics like the straightforward dynamite roll and vegetable tempura, along with some unexpected options like the bento box with slightly overcooked chicken. Enjoy a roll and glass of sake, just steps from other restaurants in this hidden gem.
Dragon Den Chinese Restaurant
$ | (865) 691-4529 | WEBSITE
Head to Dragon Den for generously portioned Chinese classics, and enjoy them inside their clean, welcoming dining room, beneath warm lighting and traditional decor. If you’re a fan of chicken dishes, the chicken and broccoli is what you want. Tender chicken, crisp broccoli florets, and savory brown sauce get piled onto a bed of steaming white rice that’s perfectly cooked every time.
Or, opt for the general tso’s chef special, scattered with crispy chicken pieces, vibrant bell peppers, and a sweet-spicy sauce that clings beautifully. Wash it all down with a pot of their hot jasmine tea, a fragrant brew that complements every bite.
Anaba Japanese Cuisine Northshore
$ | (865) 531-2363 | WEBSITE
Anaba Japanese Cuisine Northshore is where you’ll find the best fresh, flavor-packed sushi in Knoxville. This is the top choice here, and you’ll realize why once generous slices of salmon and tuna layered over perfect rice with delicious toppings create a satisfying bite. Enjoy your sushi in their cozy Japanese space buzzing with energy, and end your meal with their ramen steaming with authentic broth.
Jai Dee Thai Kitchen
$ | (865) 249-7539 | WEBSITE
Jai Dee Thai Kitchen sets the standard for authentic Thai cuisine in Knoxville. It strikes that perfect balance of bold, vibrant flavors with comforting, familiar dishes. Our go-to is the tofu pad Thai with customizable spice levels, loaded with chewy rice noodles, crunchy bean sprouts, fresh lime, and crushed peanuts. Their drunken noodles with crispy, golden chicken, also hits the spot.
Jai Dee also happens to serve some of the best (and most flavorful) yellow curry of any Thai restaurant in town, with its warm, creamy coconut milk base and tender vegetables. They have a relaxing, clean atmosphere with comfortable tables, but we like the new spacious location for its easy parking and accessibility.
Ichiban Asian Cuisine
$ | (865) 690-7999 | WEBSITE
Sometimes, simplicity shines, and Ichiban Asian Cuisine’s roast duck is the prime example. This succulent, crispy-skinned dish is glazed with a sweet soy reduction, then served with steamed rice. They’ve been serving Asian favorites for years, and having it hot and fresh from the kitchen is hard to top. Their other dishes are just fine, but the duck is good enough to anchor the whole menu. Order as much as you can handle, then head over to their ample free parking for an easy departure.
Little Tokyo Cafe
$ | (865) 573-7770 | WEBSITE
We could tell you about the way the chefs at Little Tokyo Cafe perform hibachi with the flair of seasoned entertainers, or mention their cozy booths and warm lighting, but none of that matters when their Tokyo volcano roll is as good as it is. Picture a generous portion of sushi topped with spicy tuna, avocado, and crunchy tempura bits that become perfectly crisp in their skilled hands. And if you dragged along a friend who really wanted hibachi for dinner, they have that too.
But skipping the sushi would be like going to Japan and seeing Mount Fuji without trying the local cuisine.
Makino Japanese Buffet
$ | (865) 560-8878 | WEBSITE
You can’t talk about Knoxville without mentioning its food scene, and you can’t talk about sushi here without bringing up Makino Japanese Buffet. The chefs have been key in shaping the local sushi experience, and have perfected the art of fresh-to-order buffet dining. Visit their casual spot, grab a plate, and when you’re ready, order the buttery salmon sashimi, cut daily, alongside a spicy tuna roll that’s perfectly balanced, not overloaded with rice.
They also serve generous portions of crispy tempura shrimp paired with a light dipping sauce. Pregame your meal with some miso soup, which is made up of a rich, savory broth with delicate tofu and scallions.
Zukku Sushi Knoxville
$$ | (813) 682-1723 | WEBSITE
If you can’t afford to fly to Japan for world-class sushi, just head to Zukku Sushi Knoxville for a taste of the freshest fish in Tennessee. Their standout ahi tuna sushi features incredibly fresh fish, expertly wrapped with fluffy rice and complemented by flavorful spicy mayo. If you’re visiting for lunch, Zukku offers healthy and flavorful options, though the prices run a bit high. And no matter what the time of day, their wider sushi selection is worth exploring.
There’s also a pleasing layout with a recently improved atmosphere, free parking thanks to new management, and a great lawn area for hanging out in the developing food hall.
Chaiyo Thai & Sushi Bar
$ | (865) 249-8081 | WEBSITE
Despite the name, this bustling, compact eatery in Knoxville serves things besides sushi. The most notable being the Drunken Noodle, which is tossed in a chili-and-basil-laden sauce that’s so vibrant, you’ll want to ask for its energy drink formula. If you’re in the mood for something less fiery, get their Pad Thai topped with crushed peanuts and bean sprouts on a bed of rice noodles.
And if you’re still hungry afterwards, load up on red curry (especially with chicken, if they have it) and crispy spring rolls. Take your feast to one of their clean, well-lit tables and dig in.
Fulin’s Asian Cuisine in Knoxville
$ | (865) 769-1515 | WEBSITE
Settle into Fulin’s clean, friendly dining room in the convenient Northshore Town Center, and prepare to navigate their extensive menu of Chinese, Thai, and Japanese favorites. You’ll find classics like the savory Chow Mein, the sweet and tangy General Tso’s Chicken, and the hearty Fulin’s platter. Our top pick? The signature Fulin’s Noodles with perfectly cooked noodles, tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce.
The sweet, salty, and umami notes create a wonderfully satisfying dish. They also offer really good sushi rolls and other popular items that keep customers coming back.
Tomo Poke Bowl
$ | (865) 312-5117 | WEBSITE
Tomo Poke Bowl makes a Philly roll that will turn you into a sushi evangelist and haunt your dreams the second you leave Knoxville. It has perfectly seasoned rice wrapped around fresh salmon and comes topped with creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and spicy mayo that bursts with flavor.
If salmon isn’t your thing, try the classic poke bowl: a generous base of sushi rice layered with tender tuna, crisp seaweed salad, edamame, and pickled ginger—fresh, marinated, and vibrant—and topped with dots of sesame seeds. As the name of the restaurant suggests, consider pairing your bowl with a side of ramen while dining in the welcoming, clean space.
Tokyo Hibachi & Sushi
$ | (865) 357-7281 | WEBSITE
If you’re tired of the same old fast-food Asian takeout, head to this family-owned spot tucked away in Knoxville for a flavorful escape from the ordinary. You can choose between their standout crab Rangoon with its crispy shell and creamy filling, or their hibachi steak and scallops served with fresh vegetables and rice that glisten with savory sauce. Enjoy it while grabbing a quick bite at one of their limited tables, with the attentive staff making you feel right at home.