Living in Tokyo, Japan with my family for 2.5 years shaped the way we experience food—especially sushi. Sushi in Japan isn’t just a meal; it’s an art form and a tradition. Ever since moving back to the U.S., we’ve been on a constant hunt for the best sushi in South Jersey and Philadelphia, and along the way, these restaurants have become part of our family’s story.

Here’s my personal guide to our favorite spots—places that combine incredible food with memories that keep us coming back again and again.

1. Yokohama • Maple Shade, NJ

If I had to pick one sushi restaurant that’s been a constant in my life, it would be Yokohama in Maple Shade. My husband and I started going here on dates back in high school when we were growing up on the border of Moorestown, and it’s been a go-to ever since.

What I love most: it’s a family-run restaurant that always serves the freshest sushi. I still remember when it was just a small dining room before expanding to the hibachi side. My favorite roll is the Godzilla Roll—bold, flavorful, and always perfectly fresh.

📍 Best for: Date nights, longtime regulars, classic sushi rolls

2. Osaka • Collingswood, NJ

When it comes to celebrations, Osaka in Collingswood is our family tradition. Each of our birthdays is spent here on the hibachi side, where the chefs put on the best show in South Jersey. The energy is unmatched, and the kids love it just as much as the adults, plus the food is always fresh.

But Osaka isn’t just hibachi—their sushi menu is fantastic too. We always order the Osaka Roll, even when we’re seated around the hibachi grill.

📍 Best for: Family celebrations, hibachi dinners, sushi lovers

3. Fuji • Haddonfield, NJ

One of the things I love most about Fuji in Haddonfield is how laid-back it feels. We’ve walked in straight from the sports fields, jerseys and all, and never felt out of place. The staff are welcoming, and the sushi is consistently fresh and delicious.

While you can’t go wrong with any roll, my personal pick is the Amanda Roll. It’s flavorful, balanced, and keeps me coming back.

📍 Best for: Casual nights out, fresh sushi close to home

4. Royal Izakaya • Philadelphia, PA

Crossing into Philly, Royal Izakaya is one of the most sought-after sushi experiences in the city. It’s almost impossible to snag an omakase reservation here, but if you do, you’re in for one of the best Japanese dining experiences in Philadelphia.

If I’m not lucky enough to get omakase, I stick to my favorite—the Spicy Crunchy Tuna Roll. It’s simple, but Royal Izakaya elevates it to perfection.

📍 Best for: Date nights in Philly, modern sushi lovers, and omakase seekers

5. Tuna Bar • Philadelphia, PA

Located in Old City, Tuna Bar is sleek, modern, and perfect for a night out in Philly. Fun fact: it’s run by the son of the owners of Yokohama in Maple Shade, which makes it feel like a full-circle connection for us.

The vibe is amazing—lively but upscale—and the sushi is always inventive. My favorite here is the King Ghidora Roll: a creative, flavorful roll that’s as fun as it is delicious.

📍 Best for: Stylish date nights, modern sushi lovers, and a fun vibe

6. Hiroki • Fishtown, Philadelphia, PA

If you’re looking for an unforgettable, authentic experience, Hiroki in Fishtown is the closest you’ll get to dining in Tokyo. This is not your standard sushi spot—it’s a full omakase experience with each course presented like a piece of art.

Yes, it’s pricey, but absolutely worth it for a special night. Hiroki captures the essence of Tokyo dining—attention to detail, seasonal ingredients, and an intimate setting that makes you slow down and savor each bite.

📍 Best for: Special occasions, authentic Japanese omakase, and sushi purists

Our Sushi Story

Sushi has been a thread through our lives—from our years in Tokyo to date nights in Maple Shade and birthday hibachi dinners in Collingswood. Whether it’s the nostalgic comfort of Yokohama, the celebrations at Osaka, or the artistry of Hiroki, each of these restaurants offers something unique and memorable.

If you’re searching for the best sushi in South Jersey or Philadelphia, I can personally recommend these spots—not just for their food, but for the experiences and memories they help create.