The only thing better than a perfect piece of nigiri is finding seven perfect pieces in one town. As much as we love rolls, sashimi, and other Japanese delights, there’s nothing quite as close to pure bliss as a counter seat at a sushi bar where every bite is a revelation. Here’s where to go when you’re craving toro, uni, hamachi, and more—for an Instagram-worthy omakase experience, hold the hesitation.
Hanami Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (845) 342-3208 | WEBSITE
Hanami Japanese Restaurant exists somewhere between a hidden neighborhood gem and a reliable spot for consistently fresh sushi. Yes, it’s unassuming from the outside, but the clean, quiet atmosphere makes it pleasant in a low-key way, and all the friendly staff inside are pretty welcoming. Skip the hibachi section, where you might find lobster and filet mignon prepared not quite as expected.
In the main dining area, there are nicely presented plates of reasonably priced sushi, delicious sauces, and of course, more fresh lunch specials. Spend most of your time here—the sushi rolls are around $12–$16 each, which sounds fair until you realize you’re actually getting quality fish even if the rice portions can be a bit skimpy.
3 Ninja Express
$ | (845) 394-0234 | WEBSITE
You don’t come to 3 Ninja Express for the most refined (or freshest-tasting) sushi in the five boroughs, but to delight either your actual appetite or your inner one. This colorful Middletown spot (smaller than the original, now closed location) feels like a miniature hibachi-themed amusement park, a rainbow swirl of enormous fiberglass sushi rolls, tempura fried cheesecake, and sparkly California rolls.
They stock an impressive range of treats, including the superb Middletown roll, delicious hibachi combos, and even lunch specials. Make sure the crunchy tempura fried cheesecake coated in sprinkles finds its way into your delivery bag.
Fuji Japanese Steak House
$$ | (845) 692-8881 | WEBSITE
It’s hibachi heaven every day inside this Middletown mall restaurant with flavorful, expertly prepared Japanese dishes. No seat feels overlooked, and a sizzle of chicken, shrimp, steak, and scallops spans the grill, corner to corner. The chefs craft meals in an open workspace at each table—like the customer-favorite shrimp pate and noodles, a hearty version of classic hibachi, seasoned with savory sauces.
All the hibachi entrees here are $25 per plate, and you should pay special attention to the miso soup and salad, which are the ones consistently praised by guests. We especially love the textural contrast of the shrimp tempura appetizer, made with panko rather than traditional batter.
You You Asian Cuisine
$ | (845) 342-2000 | WEBSITE
You You Asian Cuisine has a leg up on the competition, because this Chinese restaurant serves authentic flavors that rival what you’d find in NYC’s Chinatown. That means you never have to make the long trip to the city for amazing Mapo tofu or hot & sour soup. Fill up on traditional dishes with real brown rice and bean sprouts, and then sample the specialty drinks that make this place the hottest neighborhood eatery in Middletown.
If you’re in the market for a celebration, the lively atmosphere and friendly staff will fold the excellent service into your dining experience, a la perfect neighborhood spot.
Zen Sushi
$$ | (845) 692-8808 | WEBSITE
It’s easy to understand why this excellent sushi spot, nestled in the Hudson Valley, has a devoted following. Not only do they offer an exceptional all-you-can-eat deal that provides remarkable value, but everything about Zen Sushi is thoughtfully executed, down to the freshly prepared dishes made to order. The sushi (rolls, sashimi, and various appetizers) costs $28.95 per person.
We haven’t tried anything here we wouldn’t gladly devour, but some highlights include the delicate Salmon Flower, the creamy avocado rolls, and the savory Crab Rangoon, paired with the smooth Hana-Kohaku sake. The service is fast and attentive, the food is consistently good, and with plenty of parking available, the overall experience is outstanding.
Asian 211 Bistro
$ | (845) 343-1339 | WEBSITE
There’s no question which spot tops our sushi cravings—this family-run gem should probably be declared Middletown’s official sushi destination. As the area’s best sushi bar according to locals, Asian 211 Bistro has been satisfying appetites with fresh rolls and platters for years. It’s not so much a restaurant as it is a neighborhood staple, with an impressive selection of Asian dishes from sushi and sashimi to Thai curries and tempura.
They don’t have dine-in service anymore, but they do have generous portions (platters run around $25-35), and more roll varieties than you can imagine (try the standout Sake Bomb Roll with its perfect spice balance). Come with the family, or before your next gathering, and discover why this small operation remains Middletown’s most reliable takeout treasure.
Mr Sushi & Grill
$$ | (845) 344-6268 | WEBSITE
This is your neighborhood sushi spot, and we mean that as a compliment. This Middletown mainstay, popular for years, boasts a fittingly broad, family-friendly lineup of fresh Japanese fare, like assorted sashimi, specialty rolls, and grilled teriyaki. Hibachi is also a must, given that they cook it right in front of you.
The standout dishes at Mr Sushi & Grill include eel avocado rolls, spicy tuna, and shrimp tempura, all of which are guaranteed to pair well with both lively atmosphere and flavorful pad thai—you might want to come here after craving high-quality Japanese food in the area.