Whether you’ve been craving toro since New Year’s or your friends just told you ‘gas station California rolls’ aren’t acceptable dinner plans, you’ve got to figure out your sushi situation. Here are 11 spots that include omakase masters, late-night hand rolls, a sake pairing experience, and more. Pick a place and go out, or stay home and face the worst horror of all: mediocre fish descending on your taste buds.
Tokyo Bistro
$ | (843) 971-0277 | WEBSITE
There’s sushi, there’s hibachi, and then there’s Tokyo Bistro, the most satisfying of them all. The restaurant’s words, not ours. On weekends, Mount Pleasant’s favorite takeout spot will be offering happy hour specials, featuring delicious rolls and all-you-can-enjoy wine from some of the plaza’s best shopping options nearby. Grab your takeout here.
Kanji Sushi Hibachi – Mount Pleasant
$ | (843) 888-9888 | WEBSITE
Yes, sushi is a Japanese tradition, but Charleston has excellent seafood, so Kanji Sushi Hibachi makes perfect sense. This weekend, the restaurant is serving their made-to-order rolls with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day. Make a reservation as you normally would, and then let them know you’re there for sushi when you get there.
Emoji Poke
$ | (843) 654-9220 | WEBSITE
On any given weekday, Emoji Poke welcomes all who’ve still got textbooks and backpacks in tow from the morning’s classes to keep the energy up with a quick and delicious lunch from 11am-3pm. Build-your-own bowls are the main event, but there will be friendly staff, efficient service, and that famous o.m.g. sauce that pairs perfectly with spicy tuna. No reservation necessary—orders can be placed as usual online or in person.
Locals Sushi & Sports Pub-Mt Pleasant
$$ | (843) 388-5114 | WEBSITE
We love to find a spot that hits all the right notes, and once we do, that reliable go-to with great sushi needs to be shared with friends. Show off your appetite at Locals Sushi & Sports Pub this weekend for their popular rolls and hand-crafted cocktails. All guests on the heated back patio get cozy vibes, and their tables will stay full of amazing appetizers.
The experience doubles as a family-friendly outing, and they’ll be serving up the Ebi Ebi roll and Mt Pleasant roll with attentive staff keeping drinks topped off.
Tasty Thai & Sushi
$ | (843) 388-3912 | WEBSITE
Dress like you’re stepping into a classic cartoon (or even a character from the ’70s pop scene) for Tasty Thai & Sushi’s unique ambiance this weekend. Savor generous portions until you’re fully satisfied, then head to the Sea Dragon Roll for the standout dish that’ll remind you of traditional Thai cooking. Your meal includes plentiful options like Pad See Ew, Tom Kha Soup, and Basil Eggplant with tofu, all at a reasonable price.
The Mill Street Tavern
$$ | (843) 892-1120 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking for a memorable meal with a view, The Mill Street Tavern on the quieter side of Shem Creek is a fantastic choice for both dinner and drinks. You’ll find a cozy atmosphere, spectacular views, and friendly service that makes you feel right at home. The menu offers a unique mix of southern and Asian cuisine, with standout dishes like char-grilled oysters, smoked salt edamame, shrimp and pork belly fried rice, and soy glazed salmon with coconut rice.
While there were minor issues with the Cajun pasta and gluten-free bun, the overall experience is very positive, with attentive servers ensuring everything runs smoothly. The bar features delicious drinks like the lavender sunset, blackberry smash, and Kentucky mule to complement your meal.
Fuji Sushi & Bar & Grill
$$ | (843) 631-1448 | WEBSITE
At Fuji Sushi & Bar & Grill, a fantastic meal is any day you want it to be. But if you’re looking to have an especially memorable dining experience, explore their dine-in options. You’ll enjoy top-notch sushi and get to try the hibachi meals, which are cooked in the kitchen. If you’re dining with family or friends, check out their kids menu with hits like chicken tempura that even picky eaters enjoy. Guests can also savor drinks like plum wine and cold sake.
Highly recommended for a great dining experience, especially for locals.
Sushi Taro Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (843) 388-7995 | WEBSITE
Settle into some cozy sushi satisfaction at Sushi Taro Japanese Restaurant on a Friday evening. There’ll be fresh fish and attentive service, and the dining is in a clean atmosphere so you can look forward to complimentary dessert at the end. Dishes like the Kani salad and salmon nigiri can be enjoyed for reasonable prices that fit various budgets.
Poke Bros.
$ | (843) 800-5600 | WEBSITE
Head over to Poke Bros. this weekend to build a bowl that will not only satisfy your craving for fresh, delicious flavors, but also let you customize every ingredient to your exact preferences. The staff will craft a unique bowl based on your personal selections. Drop by the restaurant from lunch through dinner.
Tsunami Japanese Restaurant
$ | (843) 881-7061 | WEBSITE
At Tsunami Japanese Restaurant, say “spicy tuna” three times and a whole crowd of sushi lovers will appear. You could be one of them. Come by for their highly-recommended fried rice and hibachi this weekend, where the friendly staff creates a warm environment that feels like family. The quality of the fish is excellent, with fresh offerings that keep both newcomers and experienced foodies returning.
The ambiance, reminiscent of dark bars in Korea, adds to the unique dining experience, complemented by a dog-friendly outdoor patio, full bar, and ample free parking. It’s a convenient choice for dining in or takeout, where attentive service and surprise activities, like those enjoyed by birthday groups, make every visit memorable.
Umi Japanese Restaurant
$ | (843) 881-2286 | WEBSITE
This hidden gem of a sushi bar is a Mount Pleasant staple, and it’s also genuinely satisfying. Don’t you dare try to leave without trying their addictive umami-flavored rice bowls. We made that mistake on our first visit. The menu features popular hibachi bowls and sushi rolls at reasonable prices, with generous portions that guarantee leftovers for tomorrow.
While the service can be uneven as the staff learns to work together, the overall experience delivers authentic Japanese cuisine in a straightforward setting. The convenient takeout option with its quick process makes it a reliable choice for both lunch and dinner.