Discovering the best sushi in St. Petersburg, FL, is like unwrapping a carefully crafted gift—each visit revealing new flavors and artistry in every roll. Over the years, I’ve explored countless restaurants, and few match the consistency and creativity found in this city’s sushi scene. From pristine nigiri to innovative maki, the options deliver not just freshness but an experience that delights the senses and invites curiosity. Whether you’re a seasoned sushi lover or trying it for the first time, there’s something here that will elevate your expectations.
My journey through St. Petersburg’s sushi offerings has taught me that quality and authenticity remain at the heart of every great restaurant. As you browse this list, know that each spot has been chosen for its commitment to excellence, fresh ingredients, and genuine flavor profiles. Rest assured, behind every invitation to try these spots lies a promise of satisfying, memorable culinary moments. Prepare to uncover some hidden gems that will keep your sushi cravings satisfied for years to come.
Where to find the best sushi in St. Petersburg, FL
Here are some of the top spots to find the best sushi in St. Petersburg, FL:
- The Lure
- Sushi Inc
- 9 Bangkok Restaurant
- Pacific Counter
- Rain Japanese Restaurant & Sushi
- Hook’s Sushi Bar & Thai Food
- Umami Sushi Hibachi
- Rollbotto Sushi
- The Lemon Grass
- Sushi-Sho Rexley
1. The Lure
Nestled in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, The Lure offers more than just a sushi experience—it’s a culinary escape. I’ve always appreciated how this spot blends modern flair with a welcoming atmosphere, making every visit feel special. The staff’s attentive service adds to the inviting vibe, whether you’re dining in or grabbing a takeout order.
What truly sets The Lure apart is its commitment to inclusivity. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, everyone can enjoy fresh, thoughtfully prepared dishes. I recommend trying the Rainbow Roll for its colorful presentation and balanced flavors, or the Veggie Tempura Roll for a satisfying vegetarian choice. Each dish reflects their dedication to quality and creativity—ultimate proof that sushi here isn’t just fresh but crafted with care.
2. Sushi Inc
Sushi Inc is one of those places that surprises you—in the best way. Tucked along 1st Ave N, it’s a casual yet stylish spot where sushi feels both accessible and elevated. I first wandered in on a quiet afternoon and left wondering why I hadn’t discovered it sooner. The vibe is relaxed, but the attention to detail in every roll is anything but casual.
What makes Sushi Inc stand out is its balance of creativity and consistency. The menu caters to a wide range of preferences, with vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options that don’t feel like afterthoughts. I always go for the St. Pete Roll—a local favorite that blends freshness with a touch of flair. The Avocado Cucumber Roll is another solid pick, especially for those seeking a clean, plant-based option.
Each visit feels like a reminder that good sushi doesn’t need to be flashy—it just needs to be done right. And here, it is.
3. 9 Bangkok Restaurant
9 Bangkok Restaurant blends the warmth of a family-run eatery with a commitment to authentic flavors that make each visit feel personal. Located on Central Ave, it’s one of the few places where sushi and Thai cuisine live in harmony. I stumbled upon it after a long day, craving something comforting—and I’ve been returning ever since.
This spot doesn’t try to impress with flash. Instead, it leans on flavor, simplicity, and genuine hospitality. I suggest starting with the Vegetable Roll, which offers crisp texture and a clean taste. The Avocado Roll is another excellent option, smooth and satisfying without overwhelming your palate.
9 Bangkok Restaurant stands out by proving that sushi can be both unpretentious and memorable, a refreshing break from the overproduced norm.
4. Pacific Counter
Pacific Counter redefines fast-casual sushi with a build-your-own twist that’s both practical and refreshingly creative. I stumbled in during a lunch rush and found the vibe energetic but never chaotic. There’s a fluid rhythm to how everything operates—from the line to the food prep—which makes crafting your own bowl or burrito surprisingly fun.
What makes this spot stand out is its versatility. With vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options clearly marked and plentiful, you feel empowered to eat how you want. I’m partial to the Sushi Burrito with Avocado, Cucumber, Pickled Veggies, and Tofu. It’s light yet full of flavor, and the textures keep each bite interesting.
At Pacific Counter, sushi is less about rules and more about possibilities—perfect for those craving something fresh and flexible without sacrificing quality.
5. Rain Japanese Restaurant & Sushi
Tucked away on Park Street, Rain Japanese Restaurant & Sushi offers a calm, unpretentious setting that feels like a well-kept local secret. The space is cozy, with attentive service that never feels rushed. It’s the kind of place where regulars are greeted by name and newcomers are made to feel like they’ve been coming for years.
What sets Rain apart is its balance of quality and simplicity. The sushi is fresh, cleanly prepared, and thoughtfully plated. I tried the Vegetable Roll and Avocado Cucumber Roll—both were crisp, light, and satisfying without being overdone.
If you’re looking for a quiet dinner spot with reliable sushi and vegetarian-friendly options, Rain delivers. It’s not flashy, but it doesn’t need to be.
6. Hook’s Sushi Bar & Thai Food
Located on 9th Street N., Hook’s Sushi Bar & Thai Food seamlessly blends two flavorful worlds. I recently visited for lunch and was impressed by how smoothly the restaurant integrates Thai spices with expertly crafted sushi. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to relax and enjoy the experience.
What makes Hook’s stand out is its versatility and focus on fresh ingredients. The menu offers vegetarian, gluten-free, and traditional sushi options that appeal to a wide range of preferences. I recommend trying the Spicy Tuna Roll for a punch of flavor or the Vegetable Tempura Roll for a crunchy, satisfying vegetarian choice.
For anyone seeking a fusion of quality sushi and Thai cuisine in a friendly setting, Hook’s is a dependable choice that never disappoints.
7. Umami Sushi Hibachi
Tucked just off Tyrone Blvd, Umami Sushi Hibachi brings a fresh and playful energy to St. Petersburg’s sushi scene. The space is modern but comfortable, perfect for casual lunches or easy-going dinners. What caught my eye during my visit was the balance between quality and value—the All-You-Can-Eat Sushi is both generous and well-prepared, which isn’t something you can say about every place offering that deal.
The rolls here lean toward bold combinations, with highlights like the Umami Roll, packed with flavor and a hint of heat, and the Avocado Cucumber Roll, which offers a clean vegetarian option. Service is friendly without being overbearing, and the menu caters to a broad crowd.
If you’re sushi-hopping around St. Pete, this spot is worth a stop.
8. Rollbotto Sushi
Located on 1st Street NE, Rollbotto Sushi offers a modern take on classic favorites with a focus on fresh ingredients and innovative rolls. I visited during lunch and was struck by how quickly the team prepared each dish, maintaining quality without sacrificing efficiency. The minimalistic but inviting decor makes it a perfect spot for a casual bite.
The standout here is their creative use of flavors—try the Spicy Mango Roll for a sweet and spicy punch, or the Vegetable Roll for a filling vegetarian option. Both showcase the restaurant’s dedication to bold, fresh tastes and artistic presentation.
If you’re looking for a sushi experience that’s both inventive and reliable, Rollbotto Sushi is certainly worth a visit.
9. The Lemon Grass
Tucked into the heart of downtown, The Lemon Grass blends Thai flair with Japanese precision in a space that feels both relaxed and refined. It’s not your typical sushi stop—this is where bold Southeast Asian flavors meet clean, minimalist rolls.
What sets it apart? Consistency and balance. The sushi here doesn’t try to dazzle with gimmicks. Instead, it leans into fresh ingredients and thoughtful combinations. The Tuna Tataki Roll is a standout—lightly seared, delicately seasoned, and plated with care. For something more adventurous, the Lemongrass Special Roll offers a fusion of Thai herbs and classic sushi textures.
Service is attentive without hovering, and the menu caters well to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners. Whether you’re dining in or grabbing takeout, The Lemon Grass delivers sushi that’s clean, flavorful, and quietly confident.
10. Sushi-Sho Rexley
Introduction
St. Petersburg, FL, tucked against the sparkling Gulf Coast, isn’t just a beach town—it’s quietly become one of Florida’s go-to spots for sushi lovers. From upscale omakase counters to street-casual hand roll joints, the city offers a broad and surprisingly refined selection of sushi establishments. Whether you’re craving pristine sashimi, playful fusion rolls, or plant-based alternatives, there’s a roll for every palate—without compromising on quality or authenticity.
1. The Lure
Slick, minimalist, and sharply curated—The Lure balances cool ambiance with inventive roll artistry. The menu leans on bold flavors, and while not strictly traditional, the results are consistently interesting. Try the tuna tataki or spicy salmon roll for solid starters.
2. Sushi Inc
Right downtown and visually punchy, Sushi Inc combines flavor-forward rolls with approachable pricing. Favorites like the Volcano roll and tempura shrimp creations are crowd-pleasers. Bonus: it’s open late, making it ideal for post-gallery hopping bites.
3. 9 Bangkok Restaurant
A cozy fusion spot with Thai roots, 9 Bangkok impresses with consistency. Sushi is fresh, reasonably priced, and served alongside a solid lineup of Thai curries. The mango avocado roll is worth ordering twice.
4. Pacific Counter
Sushi meets DIY bowl artistry at Pacific Counter. Perfect for those who like custom combinations, with options from protein to toppings. The ahi tuna on bamboo rice with a citrus ponzu speaks to their lean but flavorful ethos.
5. Rain Japanese Restaurant & Sushi
Upscale without being uptight, Rain delivers a polished sushi experience. Signature rolls are beautifully plated, with a deft touch on spice and texture balance. The Rain Roll—featuring fresh fish, avocado, and a drizzle of house sauce—is a standout.
6. Hook’s Sushi Bar & Thai Food
Hook’s doubles down on Thai classics and robust sushi offerings. You’ll find the spicy tuna roll, shrimp tempura, and seaweed salad done well. It’s unpretentious, yet surprisingly nuanced.
7. Umami Sushi Hibachi
This spot brings hibachi flair without overshadowing its solid sushi game. Rolls are clean, fresh, and generously portioned. The white tuna sashimi deserves its own mention.
8. Rollbotto Sushi
Quick, cool, and build-your-own, Rollbotto feels like the Chipotle of sushi—but with far more finesse. You choose your roll’s contents and they deliver the goods without overcomplication. Ideal for weekday lunch.
9. The Lemon Grass
Blending Southeast Asian flavors with Japanese technique, The Lemon Grass surprises with curry-inspired rolls and deft use of herbs. Their veggie rolls are particularly thoughtful.
10. Sushi-Sho Rexley
A tightly run sushi bar with attention to precision and plating, Sushi-Sho Rexley serves up a high-end experience. While the atmosphere is intimate, the craftsmanship echoes Tokyo-level standards.
11. MingMIngTea Cafe
Tea-focused but sushi-enabled, MingMIngTea has a quirky menu where hand rolls meet bubble tea. A left-field pick, but fun and functional—especially their salmon avocado combinations.
12. Pin Wok & Bowl
Sushi plays a supporting role here but deserves its spotlight. Their spicy crab roll and clean cucumber maki reflect their less-is-more attitude. Great for quick bites.
13. Tsunami Japanese Steakhouse
Lively, bustling, and family-friendly, Tsunami’s sushi menu doesn’t skimp on flavor. Expect accessible rolls like California and eel avocado, paired with hibachi options.
14. O.E.C Japanese Express
Fast, unfussy, and ideal for grab-and-go. The rolls here—particularly the spicy tuna and veggie maki—are fresh, well-packed, and pleasantly simple.
15. Sushi Rock Grill
A staple with flair, Sushi Rock leans slightly theatrical with its sushi presentation. The Dragon Roll and Rainbow Roll appeal visually and gastronomically.
16. Lanna Thai Restaurant
While Thai food leads, the sushi at Lanna is remarkably good. Expect fresh ingredients, balanced sauces, and unpretentious plating.
17. Courtside Grille
Not a sushi specialist, but offers decent options for diners who want variety. Rolls are straightforward and portioned for sharing—nothing extravagant, but reliable.
18. Mori Sushi
Quietly tucked away, Mori delivers clean, traditional sushi. Tuna, salmon, and whitefish options shine with minimal dressing, letting the quality speak.
19. Big Apple Buffet
A buffet with rotating sushi selections—what it lacks in finesse, it makes up for in availability. Great for those who want sushi variety without ceremony.
20. Mangosteen
Mangosteen takes a fresh, fruity approach. Rolls with mango, papaya, or cilantro give a tropical vibe. The vibe is light, the sushi is inventive.
21. Bento Asian Kitchen and Sushi
Chain vibes but smart presentation. Bento brings consistency and quick service with decent sushi. Good for lunch breaks or solo stops.
22. Ikigai Sushi
Small, quiet, and sharply curated—Ikigai focuses on omakase-style experiences. Their fish sourcing is serious, and plating reflects it.
23. Green Pagoda
Asian fusion restaurant with subtle sushi charm. It won’t top purist lists, but it’s inventive and suited for broader palates.
24. Kobe Japanese Steakhouse
Part show, part sushi spot—Kobe entertains with hibachi fire and hearty rolls. Expect crowd favorites and generous portions.
25. Big Apple Buffet 2
Second branch, same ethos. Quick access to a range of sushi options in a casual setting. The quality mirrors the original.
26. House of Vegano
All plant-based and proudly inventive. House of Vegano makes sushi that’s free from animal products without sacrificing creativity. Think carrot lox, tofu-based eel, and avocado cucumber rolls done right.
27. Aroy Thai & Sushi
Thai and sushi are equal stars here. The sushi menu includes smart rolls and clean cuts of fish. Worth considering for dual cravings.
28. Eastern Kitchen FL
Primarily pan-Asian, with a sushi menu that’s well-curated. Not overloaded, but the offerings are fresh and satisfying.
29. 8350 E 96th St Fishers, IN 46037
This address seems geographically out of place in this list. If it’s meant to be a placeholder or satellite location, it’s best double-checked for relevancy.
30. Ahi Sushi
Last on the list but far from forgettable. Ahi Sushi specializes in clean, ingredient-forward sushi. The yellowtail and miso-glazed options are quiet winners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find sushi that avoids haram ingredients?
House of Vegano is entirely plant-based and haram-conscious. Many traditional sushi spots also avoid prohibited items, especially those with vegetarian or seafood-only rolls.
What’s the best sushi for takeout in St. Petersburg?
O.E.C Japanese Express and Rollbotto Sushi are built for speed without sacrificing freshness.
Are there any good spots for omakase-style dining?
Sushi-Sho Rexley and Ikigai Sushi offer more refined, chef-curated menus perfect for omakase lovers.
Is there a sushi place for vegans or vegetarians?
House of Vegano and The Lemon Grass offer thoughtful plant-based options that go beyond cucumber rolls.
More Things to Try in St. Petersburg, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best sushi restaurants in St. Petersburg, FL?
Top-rated spots include Sushi Inc, The Lure, Pacific Counter, and Sushi-Sho Rexley. Each offers something unique, from inventive rolls to minimalist authenticity.
Are there any halal or haram-free sushi options in St. Petersburg, FL?
Yes. Most sushi places offer vegetarian rolls and seafood-based sushi, avoiding haram ingredients like alcohol or raw meat mixed with non-halal sauces. Always check with the restaurant to confirm preparation methods.
Do sushi restaurants in St. Petersburg offer vegan or vegetarian sushi?
Absolutely. Places like House of Vegano specialize in entirely plant-based sushi. Others offer options like avocado rolls, cucumber rolls, and tofu-based alternatives.
Is sushi in St. Petersburg affordable?
Prices vary. You’ll find casual, budget-friendly spots like Rollbotto Sushi and Pin Wok & Bowl, while upscale options like Sushi-Sho Rexley offer premium experiences at a higher cost.
Can I get takeout or delivery from sushi restaurants in St. Petersburg?
Most restaurants offer both. Apps like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub support local sushi joints, and many venues provide direct takeout options.
Which sushi spots in St. Petersburg are best for a date night?
Rain Japanese Restaurant and Umami Sushi Hibachi combine ambiance with quality, making them great for an evening out. The Lure also offers a lively vibe with a stylish interior.
Do any sushi places in St. Petersburg serve hibachi or Thai dishes as well?
Yes. Fusion menus are common. Try Hook’s Sushi Bar & Thai Food, Lanna Thai Restaurant, or Aroy Thai & Sushi if you’re after variety beyond rolls.
Are there sushi buffets in St. Petersburg?
Yes, for the insatiable appetites, Big Apple Buffet and Big Apple Buffet 2 offer sushi among other dishes. Quality may vary, so come for quantity more than finesse.
What’s the most unique sushi spot in St. Petersburg?
Rollbotto Sushi lets you build your own roll, which is ideal if you’re picky or just want to play sushi chef for the day. Ikigai Sushi also earns points for its creative plating and modern approach.
Is it easy to find gluten-free sushi in St. Petersburg?
Most places can accommodate gluten-free needs—just ask for gluten-free soy sauce and avoid tempura or imitation crab, which may contain wheat.