From Maki to Nigri: The Top 10 Spots in Johor Bahru That Deliver Sushi Bliss!
On a lazy Sunday afternoon, I craved for a simple sushi, and only a few rolls would scratch the itch. But what began as a small bite turned into a full-blown sushi hunt across Johor Bahru, and honestly, I’ve never looked back.
As I dipped one piece of salmon nigiri after another into soy sauce, I realised something magical was unfolding. Each restaurant had its own flair—from smoky torched maki that melted in my mouth to delicate sashimi that tasted like the ocean whispered its secrets.
Choosing favourites was no easy feat, but after plenty of wasabi highs and sushi-induced daydreams, I’ve rounded up the top sushi spots in Johor Bahru. Read on to know which spots serve up blissful bites that’ll keep you coming back for more!
Kyu Izakaya
– Media credit: kyuizakaya.jb
Address: 46, Jln Sri Pelangi 4, Taman Pelangi
Contact details: +60125477886
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 12 to 2:30 PM | 5:30 to 10:30 PM
- Saturday to Sunday – 12 to 10:30 PM
Cost: $$
Kyu Izakaya is a little hidden, but once you’re seated, it gives off serious local favourite vibes. The place is small and simple, which somehow makes the sushi feel even more personal and well-crafted.
You’ll want to try the salmon maki—it’s one of those rolls that makes you pause after the first bite. The korokke (Japanese croquettes) are golden, crispy, and surprisingly filling, especially paired with their refreshing yam tempura.
The sashimi is fresh and thoughtfully sliced, and while the bara chirashi might lean on the smaller side, it’s layered with favour. Service is polite and easygoing, so you can enjoy your meal without being rushed.
| Pro tip: Ask for their wasabi on the side—even if you’re not usually a fan, this one’s got a cleaner, smoother heat that’s miles better than the average stuff. |
Awagyu Restaurant
– Media credit: awagyuyakiniku.jb
Address: 25c, Jalan Dato Abdullah Tahir, Taman Abad
Contact details: +601157764363
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 to 3 PM | 5:30 to 10 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 to 10 PM
Cost: $$$
Awagyu might be known for yakiniku, but don’t sleep on the sushi here—it’s crafted with just as much care. The space feels polished and intimate, which makes it ideal if you’re planning something a little more special than your usual sushi run.
The sashimi is the real standout—super fresh, buttery in texture, and sliced in a way that lets each bite melt in your mouth. Their Testing Course is a fun pick if you want to sample a range of flavours, and the wagyu sushi is as luxe as it sounds.
Staff are attentive and warm, and the chefs are more than happy to chat if you’re curious about what’s on your plate. It’s not the cheapest sushi spot around, but if you’re after quality, you’ll feel like you got your money’s worth.
| Pro tip: If you’re going for dinner, call ahead to reserve a seat at the counter. Watching the chefs prepare your sushi right in front of you adds a whole other layer to the experience. |
Sushi House Bukit Indah
– Media credit: sushihouse.official
Address: 22, Jalan Indah 25/16, Taman Bukit Indah 2
Contact details: +6072396217
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 – 2:30 PM | 5 to 8:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 to 9:30 PM
Cost: $
Sushi House Bukit Indah is a place that has a neighbourhood feel to it, the kind of spot you end up returning to without thinking twice. It’s spacious, decorated with a nice touch of warmth, and perfect if you’re bringing along family or just need a casual dinner fix.
While there’s a long list of options, their teriyaki chicken bowl is the local favourite—flavourful, juicy, and totally satisfying. Kids seem to love it here too, especially the tamago maki and California rolls that disappear in minutes.
The service is friendly, and even if it gets crowded, the staff are quick to sort out seating with a smile. Bonus points for the little perks like free Ribena drinks and nyonya cakes—they really make it feel like a place that cares about the little details.
| Pro tip: If you’re up for a treat, go for their omakase. You’ll get fresh pieces handpicked by the chef, and it’s a fun way to explore sushi you might not usually order. |
Shoku-Ya Japanese Restaurant
– Media credit: angelchai1313
Address: 18, Jalan Jaya Putra 7/2, Taman JP Perdana
Contact details: +6073641488
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12 to 10:30 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12 to 11 PM
Cost: $$
Shoku-Ya gives off that welcoming, easygoing feel—perfect when you’re not chasing fine dining but still want quality sushi. It’s spacious, cosy, and great if you’re coming with your crew or even just your hungry kids.
Their sushi lineup is solid. The tuna and salmon pieces are fresh and satisfying, and the mentaiko sushi melts the moment it hits your tongue—definitely something you’ll want more of.
What really stands out is how crisp the seaweed wraps are—tiny detail, but it makes every bite pop. Service is warm and attentive, and they’ve got that kind of unspoken we-got-you energy that makes dining here feel relaxed.
| Pro tip: Try their handrolls if you’re a seaweed fan—the nori stays super crispy even after sitting for a bit, which doesn’t happen often. It’s a small flex that makes a big difference. |
Warakuya Japanese Restaurant
– Media credit: feliciaayumm
Address: 43, Jalan Kuning 2, Taman Pelangi
Contact details: +6073320789
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Cost: $$
Warakuya has that buzzing, well-loved energy from the moment you walk-in—and honestly, it lives up to the hype. If you’re serious about sushi, this place is a must-stop, especially for thick-cut salmon and over-the-top maki rolls.
Warakuya’s sushi menu is stacked, and the toppings aren’t shy—think ikura and tobiko generously layered on top, or king prawn paired with mango for a sweet-savoury combo that actually works.
The otoro sashimi is melt-in-your-mouth magic, and their salmon sushi is cut thick enough to feel indulgent. Even when it’s packed, the service holds up, and the staff go the extra mile (umbrella during rain, yes, really.)
| Pro tip: Go for lunch if you want the first pick of the freshest sashimi—things like otoro and ebi tend to sell out fast, and the earlier crowd definitely has the advantage. |
Hanazen Japanese Restaurant
– Media credit: lim.richard.108
Address: 28, Jln Austin Heights 8/2, Taman Mount Austin
Contact details: +60379548000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM | 6 to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Tucked a little away from the main stretch, Hanazen isn’t trying to be trendy—it’s just quietly good at what it does. The vibe is cosy, the service is on point, and your sushi arrives fresh, fast, and plated with care.
Their crispy salmon maki is a crowd-pleaser—crunchy, rich, and balanced just right. And if you’re into unique pairings, don’t skip the avocado, oyster, and fried cheese maki—it sounds wild but totally works.
You’ll find something here whether you’re in for a full dinner set or just craving a roll or two. Prices land somewhere in the middle, which feels fair for the quality you’re getting.
| Pro tip: If you love a fresh, citrusy kick, try the prawn salad with yuzu dressing as a sushi side—it lightens things up and pairs perfectly with heavier rolls. |
Kintaro Japanese Izakaya & Sake Bar
– Media credit: kintaro_izakaya
Address: 87, Jalan Sutera 1, Taman Sentosa
Contact details: +60139327726
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 12 PM to 1 AM
Cost: $$
Kintaro gives you that classic izakaya charm—warm lighting, good drinks, and sushi that’s way better than you’d expect from such a casual spot. It’s great for group dinners or even solo sushi-and-sake kind of nights.
The sushi here is fresh, generously cut, and backed by a surprisingly wide variety. If you’re into rolls, try anything with unagi or salmon—and if you’re lucky, don’t miss their juicy baked oysters, which come loaded with garlicky, creamy flavour.
The place runs on an old-school order system, but everything comes out right on time. It’s not very fancy, but the food, prices, and genuine service make it easy to come back again and again.
| Pro tip: Bring your appetite and go for the all-you-can-eat option. It’s one of the few places in JB where you can really indulge in unlimited salmon sushi without sacrificing quality. |
Sushi Shin JB
– Media credit: sushishinjb
Address: 55, Jalan Keris 1, Taman Sri Tebrau
Contact details: +601126756181
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12 to 3 PM | 6 to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Dining at Sushi Shin feels like stepping into a quiet performance, with chefs slicing and plating each piece of sushi like it’s a treasure. The attention to detail is unreal, and if you’re lucky enough to sit at the counter, it’s almost hypnotic to watch.
Their omakase lunch is the go-to if you’re looking to treat yourself—it’s a curated journey through fresh sashimi, uni, and some rare flavours like perilla flower soy sauce. Presentation is sleek, and each dish has its own little surprise.
The service is what really sets this place apart. From pulling out chairs to remembering your dietary preference, they go out of their way to make you feel taken care of.
| Pro tip: Let the chef know your food preferences upfront—especially if you’re not into more adventurous items like snails. They’ll happily adjust the experience to match your vibe. |
Sushi Plus
– Media credit: sushiplus2020
Address: 1, Jalan Dedap 4, Taman Johor Jaya
Contact details: +60106685528
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Sushi Plus is one of those places you stumble into and end up bookmarking for your next visit. The space is cool and dim, and there’s just enough buzz to keep it lively without being loud.
Their sushi is big on portion and pretty generous with the fillings—definitely not your dainty one-bite style. The seared inari sushi is low-key the MVP, and their mini bento bowls with multiple flavour options are great if you’re feeling indecisive or just want a light meal.
It’s also nice seeing your food prepped right in front of you behind the clear counter—feels clean, honest, and fresh. Staff are super friendly, and lunch promos here are surprisingly wallet-friendly for the quality.
| Pro tip: Try their sushi takeaway boxes—they’re neatly packed, perfect for snacking later, and honestly make a great sushi picnic if you’re headed to a park or beach nearby. |
Sushi Yoru
– Media credit: daniel_dmin
Address: NO 2-02 & 2, 03, Jln Sri Pelangi 4, Taman Pelangi
Contact details: +601111803482
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12 to 2 PM | 6 to 10:30 PM
Cost: $$
Sushi Yoru gives off a refined, quiet energy—the kind of place you go when you want to indulge without distractions. The omakase menu is the highlight here, and every dish feels like it was plated with purpose.
Their nigiri is clean, precise, and showcases some of the freshest sashimi you’ll find in JB. The Uni Temaki is a clear standout—creamy, rich, and served just right at the end of the course to leave a lasting impression.
Service here feels intentional, with staff who are both professional and thoughtful. Just keep in mind it’s a group-paced experience, so once the chef starts, the flow is timed for everyone.
| Pro tip: If you’re planning to take photos, do it quickly and early in the course—the chef waits for the entire group to finish each round before serving the next. So, you’ll want to keep the pace respectful for everyone. |