Not Quite Tokyo: Discovering Sushi Culture in Berlin🍣

Sushi Restaurants in Berlin

When you think of a sushi restaurant in Japan, what probably comes to mind is casual conveyor-belt sushi (Kaiten-Sushi) or the traditional style where a sushi chef carefully prepares each piece right in front of you at the counter.
But here in Berlin, sushi is enjoyed in a slightly different way. One of the most noticeable trends is that Vietnamese restaurants often serve sushi alongside their main dishes. Seeing sushi on the same table as pho or pad thai might seem unusual from a Japanese perspective, but in Berlin, this kind of fusion has become completely normal.

Of course, my whole family, my French husband included, loves sushi! We’ve tried out various restaurants around the city and finally found one that’s become our favorite.😋

Sushi as Art – A Surprising Experience

In Japan, sushi is usually presented in a clean, minimalistic way, an expression of aesthetic simplicity. But in Berlin, that idea is turned on its head – in a good way. Here, you’ll find sushi that’s plated like a work of art.

At our go-to restaurant, we often order the family set when we go together.
The first time we saw it, we were blown away: delicate cherry blossoms and pine leaves (artificial, of course) surround sushi rolls shaped like rose blossoms, all arranged on a boat-shaped platter with a sushi “bridge” arching overhead.

When the server brought it to our table, people at the nearby tables couldn’t help but let out a “Wow!” 😄
And what really caught us off guard? Dry ice fog drifting around the plate like mist! It’s not just for big sets either—they even do it for single servings.

When I visited with a Thai friend, she was just as delighted. It really felt like a sushi performance😉

The presentation is dramatic, but the flavor doesn’t disappoint. The plate comes packed with hand rolls, seared rolls, nigiri, sashimi…everything beautifully arranged. And the taste? It’s just as satisfying as it looks. Especially the salmon! it’s rich, fatty,and absolutely delicious 😍 This kind of sushi experience? It might just be something you can only find in Berlin ❤️

There’s Nigiri, But… Rolls Rule the Scene?

Another thing you’ll notice about sushi in Berlin is how popular sushi rolls are.
While sushi in Japan often means seaweed-wrapped hosomaki or futomaki, Berlin-style rolls come dressed up—with sesame seeds, flying fish roe, deep-fried coatings, and generous sauces. You’ll often find a colorful mix of rolls on one plate, making it fun to sample and compare.

Popular fillings include salmon, avocado, and cream cheese, which aren’t common combinations in Japan but are well loved here. Maybe it’s because the rolls are easier to eat and feel more approachable for those unfamiliar with seaweed? As a Japanese person, I’ll admit—I still think of nigiri sushi as the true form. Ordering one piece at a time at the counter and savoring it slowly… That’s the charm of traditional sushi in Japan.

Nigiri is certainly on the menu in Berlin, but in practice, rolls dominate.
I remember visiting a sushi place with a Russian friend who told me she loves sushi rolls. On the other hand, when I first moved to Berlin, a German acquaintance told me,
“Nigiri is the real thing, right? That’s authentic Japanese sushi.” He was quite the connoisseur and even introduced me to a local sushi place run by Japanese owners. To my surprise, my German teacher also recommended the same place—apparently, it’s well-loved in the neighborhood 😊

Sushi with a Breeze – The Joy of Terrace Dining in Berlin

Another thing I’ve come to love about sushi in Berlin is how often it’s enjoyed outdoors. Here, terrace seating is popular almost year-round—and sushi restaurants are no exception. On a sunny day, there’s something relaxing about sipping wine and picking up sushi with chopsticks while watching the city go by. It’s such a Berlin kind of calm, and I find myself drawn to it again and again 😊

Our Little Sushi Ritual

My husband and I have a small weekend ritual. After a nice walk, we’ll casually stop by our favorite neighbourhood sushi place.We just order one plate to share – salmon nigiri and avocado rolls, and of course, a glass of Riesling to go with it.
Enjoying it slowly on the terrace feels like a tiny luxury, almost like an aperitif before dinner. No big meal, no fuss, just one small dish and a moment of quiet. That’s how sushi fits into our Berlin life.🌿

Why We Keep Coming Back

So what keeps us coming back to this Vietnamese sushi restaurant? Sure, it’s the beautiful plating and the dry ice effects, but more than that, it’s the warm, thoughtful service. Many Vietnamese restaurants in Berlin share this quality: the service is fast, friendly, and always with a smile ❤️

At this place, every staff member is welcoming, but one waiter in particular always remembers me.
Maybe because I’m Asian (Japanese), he recognizes me, and every time we visit, he greets me with a big smile, like he’s saying, “Nice to see you again!” Good food and impressive presentation matter, of course. But in the end, it’s that kind of human warmth that makes a place feel like a favorite.

Sushi in Berlin – A Pleasant Surprise

Before moving to Berlin, I honestly didn’t expect to eat much Japanese food in Germany. But to my surprise, I discovered something totally new: sushi that’s delicious, creative, and very Berlin 😄 If you ever find yourself in the city, give it a try—you might just find a new kind of sushi to love!

Want to Try Making Sushi at Home?

After discovering so many exciting styles of sushi in Berlin, you might be inspired to try your own versions at home! On Umami Sans Frontières, I’ve shared a few of our favorite sushi recipes. If you’re curious, feel free to check them out on my recipe blog! 🌸

👉Sushi Rolls filled with salmon, avocado, or crab stick

👉Inari Sushi made with seasoned tofu pouches

👉Chirashi Sushi, the colorful “scattered sushi” perfect for celebrations.