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If you are planning a trip to Lake Tahoe, prepare to indulge in breathtaking natural beauty and exciting outdoor adventures. But did you know that Lake Tahoe also boasts a vibrant culinary scene, especially when it comes to sushi? Whether you are a seasoned sushi enthusiast or someone looking to try this delightful Japanese cuisine for the first time, Tahoe has something special to offer. In this article, we will explore 11 Tahoe sushi restaurants that are sure to elevate your dining experience.
Photo: The choices are impressive at Off the Hook Sushi. Photo courtesy of Off the Hook
Off the Hook
South Lake Tahoe
In the heart of South Lake Tahoe, Off the Hook is a high-end sushi restaurant with a fun, casual and high-energy atmosphere. Not just your typical sushi bar, Off the Hook takes pride in offering fresh, quality-inspected fish and a diverse menu featuring more than 40 rolls. Make sure to try their signature roll, The Gambler, and complement your meal with a selection from their extensive sake list. End your culinary journey with the mouthwatering Tempura Ice Cream.
Savoring the fresh flavors and vibrant atmosphere at Off the Hook. Photo courtesy of Off the Hook
Samurai Restaurant
South Lake Tahoe
Serving the local community since 1984, Samurai Restaurant is a must-visit for those seeking authentic Japanese dining. Known for having super-fresh sushi, Samurai offers a warm atmosphere with dramatic lighting and a central fireplace. They have an extensive dinner menu, specialty drinks and even a private Tatami room for an exclusive dining experience for up to 12 people.
Sushi Pier Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe
An outpost of the popular Reno restaurant, Sushi Pier Tahoe in Stateline offers all-you-can-eat sushi seven days a week. Apart from the diverse rolls menu, you can enjoy a variety of lunch and dinner entrees. While it can get busy and loud during peak hours, the delectable sushi creations make it worth the visit.
Yugen Cuisine
South Lake Tahoe
For those looking to add flavorful flair to their dining experience, Yugen Cuisine in South Lake Tahoe is the place to be. With an incredible array of sushi choices, delicious salads and house specialties, even the pickiest eater will find something to relish. From the Spicy Katsu Chicken Sandwich to the Bar-B-Que Albacore, their menu offers delightful surprises.
The Naked Fish
South Lake Tahoe
The Naked Fish on Lake Tahoe Boulevard is known for its fresh creativity and seafood. Embracing a Hawaiian-influenced Japanese menu, this restaurant offers both sushi and cooked dishes. With a selection of hard-to-find sakes and wines, The Naked Fish promises a unique dining experience you won't find anywhere else.
Elevating sushi to an art form! The Naked Fish offers a feast for the eyes and taste buds alike. Photo courtesy of The Naked Fish
Harumi Sushi
Zephyr Cove
A local favorite in Zephyr Cove, Harumi Sushi is known for its extensive and unique menu selection, top-quality fresh fish, and friendly staff. The largest selection of rolls in town, along with a variety of Japanese and Korean dishes, ensures an unforgettable sushi experience.
Poke Rok
South Lake Tahoe
For healthy and flavorful food that leaves you feeling uplifted, visit Poke Rok. Specializing in Hawaiian poke, a sushi-style dish with raw seafood, savory sauces, and rice, Poke Rok offers a delightful menu of raw fish creations and açaí bowls for a burst of antioxidants.
Tahoe City Sushi
Tahoe City
Tahoe City Sushi is the go-to place after a long day on the mountain. With a cozy ambiance and a focus on vegan sushi, the restaurant has a dedicated section for vegetarian/vegan rolls. Their vegetable Inari and miso soup are also highly recommended.
Koi Sushi
Incline Village
Incline Village is home to Koi Sushi, where you can enjoy fresh fish and creative rolls in a lustrous setting. The extensive sushi menu, along with cooked dishes like teriyaki and tempura, caters to various tastes. Don't miss out on their specialty rolls, the Carlos Special and the Spicy Albacore Deluxe.
Drunken Monkey
Truckee
Drunken Monkey stands out with its unique sake bar, offering a range of craft beers, boutique wines, shochu and Japanese beers. A skilled sushi chef presides over the sushi bar, delivering excellent nigiri, sashimi and handrolls. Additionally, their Izakaya-style menu offers a variety of Asian-inspired dishes for a complete dining experience.
Nigiri perfection! Drunken Monkey serves up delicate slices of fresh fish over perfectly seasoned sushi rice, and it's an artful expression of Japanese culinary mastery. Photo courtesy of Drunken Monkey
MakiAli
Truckee
A lively restaurant, MakiAli not only serves fresh, excellent sushi, but also offers a take on the Izakaya concept. MakiAli also presents inventive Asian-flavored plates such as Dragon Balls and pork Banh Maki Sliders. Their sushi happy hour is the perfect time to explore their drink and food specials.
Lake Tahoe is not just a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts but also a haven for sushi lovers. These 11 sushi restaurants offer diverse and delectable options, making your culinary journey in Tahoe unforgettable. Finish the night off right with an amazing community event. Learn more at Nightlife event page.
About the Author Shanie Matthews
A longtime Lake Tahoe local, Shanie is a freelance writer, Vinyasa Flow yoga teacher and positivity warrior. A true lover of the the gorgeous Tahoe region, she connects with the serenity of the mountains via skiing, biking and backpacking. She also believes in the gift of yoga and its way of allowing one to become his or her true best self, a passion she shares with the world with her online yoga studio.
