Denver’s sushi scene is a study in surprises. You might not expect a landlocked city to roll out top-tier maki, but Denver is thriving with chefs who get it right. After a sushi dinner that began with delicate nigiri and ended with a chef’s-choice platter at a tucked-away spot on South Pearl, I started viewing Mile High sushi with serious respect. It’s one of those cities where traditional omakase and playful fusion live comfortably side by side.
Good sushi has a way of changing your mind about what’s possible. Denver’s best spots offer fresh fish, creative rolls, and plenty of genuinely distinct experiences. Whether you’re a stickler for classic flavors or chasing a new take on your favorites, the city has a table for you. Choosing from the sheer variety can feel overwhelming, but this guide breaks down the standouts—helping you glide from decision to dinner in no time.
Where to find the best sushi in Denver, CO
Here are some of the top spots to find the best sushi in Denver, CO:
- Izakaya Den
- Sushi Den
- Blue Sushi Sake Grill
- Uchi Denver
- Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar
- Sasa Sushi
- Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar
- Matsuhisa Denver
- Bamboo Sushi LoHi
- Okinawa
1. Izakaya Den
Izakaya Den quietly raises the bar for sushi in Denver. Walking in, you’re greeted by a glow of handcrafted interiors and the buzz of happy diners. I once grabbed a seat by the window and watched the chefs slice sashimi with almost meditative care—an early sign you’re in for something solid.
What sets Izakaya Den apart is its attention to detail, from fish flown in directly from Japan to inventive rolls that never try too hard. Their nigiri melts; the Spicy Tuna Roll is all balance and brightness.
For something signature, try the “Ultimate Sushi Combo” or their daily chef’s sushi specials. Each bite hints at the kitchen’s precision and global reach, setting Izakaya Den apart as a reliable favorite among Denver’s sushi spots.
2. Sushi Den
Sushi Den delivers an experience that puts Denver on the sushi map. From the moment you enter, there’s energy—clattering chopsticks, glimpses of glistening salmon, and chefs who move fast but never rush. I remember my first visit, stunned at how a neighborhood favorite could rival sushi joints in Japan.
The secret? Pristine fish flown in daily, then treated with skill and respect. Sushi Den’s menu is wide, but the true brilliance lies in details. Every slice of nigiri seems handpicked for flavor and texture.
Order the omakase or the chef’s selection of sashimi—each offering is direct proof of Sushi Den’s obsession with freshness. Classics like their Salmon Belly and the ever-popular Rainbow Roll show exactly how bold simplicity can be.
3. Blue Sushi Sake Grill
Blue Sushi Sake Grill draws a crowd for its playful vibe and reliable plates. I recall slipping in for happy hour, instantly struck by the buzz—dim lights, laughter, and the distinctive sizzle of fresh sushi rice. This place turns every meal into a social event.
The menu is standout for its sustainable seafood and inventive vegan lineup. Where some sushi spots might play it safe, Blue leans in with bold combinations and distinct twists. Their vegan maki rolls are a conversation starter all on their own.
If you’re unsure where to begin, go with the Mango Tango Roll or the Truffle Salmon Roll. They showcase the kitchen’s confident flavor mashups. For sushi lovers who want something both fresh and lively, Blue delivers every time.
4. Uchi Denver
Uchi Denver makes every meal feel like a discovery. With its sleek design and gentle lighting, this spot sets a tone that’s both relaxed and elevated. My last visit started with a chef’s tasting and ended with new favorites I’d never tried elsewhere.
What stands out most is Uchi’s creativity and precision. The menu blends tradition with surprising pairings—every plate looks like art and tastes even better. Vegan and gluten-free options are handled with care here, never as an afterthought.
Don’t miss the Hama Chili or Chef’s Omakase if you’re ready to venture beyond the familiar. These dishes highlight fresh ingredients and the chef’s imaginative edge, making Uchi a standout among Denver’s sushi destinations.
5. Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar
Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar hits a sweet spot for those who like their sushi with personality. I remember grabbing a table here on a busy night. The room buzzed with locals who clearly treat Hapa as a go-to for something a little different. Every plate encouraged curiosity.
What Hapa does best is fusion without pretense. The kitchen balances Japanese technique with bold twists from across the Pacific. Each roll or small plate is approachable, never fussy, but packed with flavor.
Try the Aspen Roll or the multiple vegan creations—each one says a lot about Hapa’s knack for inventive flavor. The menu opens the door wide for everyone, making it an easy pick for groups or adventurous eaters craving the unexpected.
6. Sasa Sushi
Sasa Sushi brings a calm, collected sense of style to Denver’s lively sushi scene. My last meal there started with a deceptively simple cucumber roll—crisp and perfect—and built up to colorful nigiri arranged like small works of art.
Sasa’s edge comes from a focus on precision and a pared-down menu that speaks volumes. Each option is carefully curated, making it easy to trust the chef’s intent and overlook choice fatigue.
Start with the Chirashi Bowl or sample their chef’s choice nigiri. These options show off the kitchen’s skill at letting ingredients shine. For anyone searching for quiet quality over flash, Sasa Sushi is a steady hand among Denver’s best.
7. Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar
Hapa Sushi Grill and Sake Bar’s Cherry Creek location turns casual sushi into something memorable. I’ve popped in for lunch after a long morning, and the warm welcome snapped me right out of my midday slump. Plates arrive swiftly but never rushed.
This spot stands out for its fearless flavor mashups and relaxed vibe. Expect classic Japanese rolls with a twist or two, making every order a bit unexpected. The chefs clearly have fun without losing their footing in tradition.
Order up the Thai Hippie Roll or Lettuce Wraps if you crave something lively. Even the standard nigiri comes with super fresh fish and spot-on rice. For sushi with both inventiveness and comfort, Hapa fits the bill perfectly here.
8. Matsuhisa Denver
Matsuhisa Denver is where Japanese culinary tradition meets cosmopolitan flair. The serene dining room sets the stage for an upscale experience that doesn’t feel the need to shout about it. I once spent an evening here savoring each course, discovering nuances in every bite that reminded me of Nobu’s global influence.
Matsuhisa stands out for its daring yet restrained approach. Chef Nobu’s menu fuses Japanese classics with Latin American touches, bringing an unexpected brightness to each dish while keeping quality at the center.
The Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño is a local favorite, offering a perfect balance of spice and delicacy. Try the chef’s sushi assortment for a curated taste of what Matsuhisa does so well—subtle, elegant, and unforgettable.
9. Bamboo Sushi LoHi
Bamboo Sushi LoHi brings a fresh perspective to Denver’s sushi landscape. The space is open and light, giving off an easygoing energy that makes both solo bites and big group dinners comfortable. I dropped in during brunch once and was surprised by how bright and lively the whole experience felt.
Sustainability is central here, with every order reflecting a commitment to the planet as much as to flavor. The menu balances traditional know-how with a progressive approach, especially in their vegan options and unique rolls.
Try the Green Machine Roll for a burst of flavor, or go for the chef’s nigiri flights to capture a little bit of everything they do well. Bamboo Sushi LoHi is ideal for anyone seeking taste without compromise—on quality or conscience.
10. Okinawa
Okinawa serves comfort and care in every roll, making it a consistent favorite for those who love cozy neighborhood spots. I remember a rainy afternoon spent here, doorway steamed up, the room warm and inviting—perfect for unwinding over fresh sushi.
The menu is built on straightforward, reliable classics alongside some playful house specials. Presentation is clean, and service moves with just the right amount of attention.
The Avocado Roll and Spicy Salmon Roll both stand out, showing off fresh ingredients and proper technique. For something more substantial, try the chef’s sushi platter. Okinawa proves you don’t need flash to deliver quality, just skill and a little hospitality.
More Things to Try in Denver, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Denver’s sushi scene unique?
Denver’s sushi stands out thanks to chefs who source high-quality fish—often flown in fresh—despite being far from the coast. The city’s spots blend traditional technique with creative twists and plenty of gluten-free and vegan-friendly choices.
Are there sustainable or vegan sushi options in Denver?
Absolutely. Places like Bamboo Sushi LoHi and Blue Sushi Sake Grill offer inventive plant-based rolls and focus on responsibly sourced seafood, giving you plenty of ways to eat thoughtfully.
Is it hard to find sushi without raw fish?
No problem. Most sushi restaurants—including Hapa Sushi and Sushi Den—feature cooked and vegetarian rolls. Look for tempura rolls, egg (tamago) sushi, and chef specials for variety.
When’s the best time to go for sushi in Denver?
Happy hour is a highlight at many of Denver’s top spots, with specials on rolls and appetizers. Weeknights are lively but less crowded than weekends, making for a relaxed experience.
Which sushi places in Denver are good for groups or events?
Hapa Sushi, Blue Sushi Sake Grill, and Izakaya Den are favorites for group outings. They have large menus, fun atmospheres, and plenty of space for catching up over shared plates.