6 Exquisite Sushi Restaurants in Denver, CO

Last updated in September 2024
An image of a sushi restaurant.

Denver's sushi scene is bursting with exciting spots where fresh flavors and creative rolls take center stage. From the casual vibe of Temaki Den, where you can dive into hand rolls while keeping conversation alive at the bar, to the elegant surroundings of Izakaya Den, there’s a delightful ambiance waiting for everyone, whether you're just grabbing a quick bite or celebrating a special occasion. Sushi Den is a staple that patrons flock to for its direct sourcing from Japanese markets, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Every sushi-loving Denverite has their go-to place, each boasting unique dishes and warm service. Whether you’re seeking the omakase experience or craving classic rolls, these dining spots promise to leave your taste buds singing. Let's explore some of the best sushi places in Denver that locals rave about!

1

Cung Sushi and Catering

3550 W 38th Ave

Denver, CO 80211

(720) 416-7470

Pros and Cons

  • Incredibly fresh sushi with delightful flavors.

  • Quick service, with orders ready in under 30 minutes.

  • Warm and friendly atmosphere thanks to the chef's humor and charm.

  • Affordable pricing makes it great for both casual visits and special occasions.

  • An impressive menu with a variety of options, including poke bowls.

  • Inconsistencies in flavor for some rolls, with a few being described as bland.

  • Mixed experiences with delivery quality not matching in-house dining.

  • Can get crowded during peak times, affecting the overall experience.

What Is It?

Cung Sushi and Catering is a vibrant sushi restaurant located at Plaza 38 in Denver, CO, where you can dive into some of the freshest and most delicious sushi in town. This spot not only offers an incredible menu of creative rolls and poke bowls, but also provides catering services with a 20% discount. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or planning a gathering, Cung Sushi has you covered.

The Experience

Step into Cung Sushi and Catering, and you're greeted with warmth and laughter—the atmosphere feels as friendly as your favorite neighborhood hangout. You settle into a cozy booth as the aroma of fresh fish and zesty ingredients wafts through the air. It feels just right for a sushi night! Having heard so many great things, you start with a spicy tuna poke bowl, and as soon as you take a bite, you're hooked. It’s packed with flavor, and the freshness just sings on your palate.

As you scan the menu, you can't help but notice the vibrant sushi rolls bursting with color. Deciding to go for a few classic rolls, you're amazed at how quickly your order arrives—under 30 minutes, and it’s a feast! Each piece is a work of art, beautifully presented and just as scrumptious. The fish is incredibly fresh, a recurring highlight from patrons, and you’re delighted by how well the flavors come together in each bite.

But it’s not just the food that makes this place shine—it's the service too! The chef’s friendly demeanor and sense of humor transform the dining experience into something special. Guests have mentioned that they feel welcome and appreciated, which adds to the overall charm. As you enjoy your sushi, you notice the interactions between the chef and other guests; it’s easy to see why so many return.

After your meal, you can’t resist the urge to grab a few more rolls. How could you not? The prices are affordable, and you know you’ll be dreaming about this sushi until the next time! Leaving with a satisfied belly and a happy smile, you can’t help but look forward to your next visit to Cung Sushi, knowing they’ll always have something fresh and exciting waiting for you.

2

Izakaya Den

1487A S Pearl St

Denver, CO 80210

(303) 777-0691

Pros and Cons

  • Exquisite sushi and sashimi, made from fresh fish flown in daily.

  • Elegant atmosphere with chic decor.

  • Attentive and knowledgeable staff who enhance the dining experience.

  • Special dishes such as miso black cod are not to be missed.

  • Great for special occasions and memorable dinners.

  • Long wait times both for seating and food delivery.

  • No reservations can lead to crowded, chaotic experiences.

  • Pricing may feel high compared to the overall experience at times.

What Is It?

Izakaya Den is Sushi Den's stylish sibling on Old South Pearl Street in Denver, offering a fusion of global cuisine and exceptional Japanese dishes. Renowned for its architecture, it creates a memorable dining environment where guests enjoy expertly crafted sushi made from the freshest ingredients.

The Experience

Walking into Izakaya Den, you're immediately embraced by a modern and elegant ambiance, where the decor subtly nods to its Japanese roots. You find the atmosphere buzzing with a mix of excitement and calm, as patrons comfortably chat away, making it an ideal spot for a memorable evening. You decide to sit at the sushi bar, an option praised by many visitors who love watching the chefs work their magic. Feeling adventurous, you let the chef guide you through a tasting of their fresh offerings, including exquisite cuts of fish flown in daily from Japan, which leave you utterly mesmerized by their quality and taste.

As you dive into the menu, you start with the black miso cod, a standout favorite among regulars. Its delicate flavor and perfect tenderness make it the epitome of deliciousness. The sushi arrives shortly after, and each piece is an artwork on its own, showcasing not only freshness but also a burst of flavor that dances on your palate. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, taking the time to explain each dish's origins and flavors, which adds depth to your dining experience. With each sip of a thoughtfully paired sake, you feel the evening becoming more special.

The lively chatter around you blends perfectly with the delicious aromas wafting from the kitchen, and you can't help but smile as you savor the mouthwatering sashimi selections and colorful rolls. The unique toppings and garnishes enhance the flavors, leaving you to contemplate which dishes you would order on your next visit. Perhaps a colorful rainbow roll or the famed wagyu beef roll will be on your list!

As you sit back and reflect on the evening with a delightful dessert—a rich green tea tiramisu—you realize that Izakaya Den is not just about the food. It's about the experience, the skill of the chefs, and the joy of sharing fantastic food with great company. You can see why this spot is a top choice for special occasions, and you find yourself already planning your next outing, eager to return to this culinary gem.

When to Go

If you're looking to enjoy a more relaxed experience without the crowds, consider visiting Izakaya Den during the late afternoon or early evening before the dinner rush hits. Arriving around 5 PM is often recommended, as it allows you to grab a table more easily and enjoy attentive service as the restaurant begins to fill up.

3

Kin Nori Bar

4404 Yates St

Denver, CO 80212

(720) 781-8888

Pros and Cons

  • Incredibly fresh and high-quality sushi.

  • Beautiful presentation that makes dining visually appealing.

  • Friendly, passionate staff that enhances the experience.

  • Curated menu with unique rotating specials.

  • Great atmosphere—modern and welcoming.

  • Limited options for tuna, including spicy tuna.

  • On the pricier side, which might not suit everyone's budget.

  • Some guests prefer dimmer lighting for a cozier vibe.

What Is It?

Kin Nori Bar is the latest sushi sensation in Denver, located in the vibrant Berkeley Park area. This charming nori bar offers an impressive array of temaki, nigiri, sashimi, and rolls, all while providing a refined dining experience. With a focus on fresh ingredients and beautifully curated dishes, it's quickly become a must-visit destination for sushi lovers.

The Experience

Stepping into Kin Nori Bar, you’re immediately enveloped in a warm and welcoming atmosphere that feels like a perfect blend of casual and classy. The modern décor sets the tone for what promises to be an incredible meal. As you settle in, the friendly staff eagerly present the menu, showcasing a delightful selection that isn’t overly lengthy but is packed with handpicked options. Each dish reflects a careful consideration of flavor and presentation, almost like a small work of art. You can't help but feel excited about what’s to come.

Once the sushi arrives, it's a revelation. Every piece boasts stunning presentation, from the picturesque colors of the fish to the vibrant greens of freshly harvested herbs. You can almost taste the artistry in each bite, and it’s no surprise when you find the flavors to be equally spectacular. The variety of fresh fish is complemented perfectly by thoughtful toppings, while each hand roll and nigiri exudes quality that echoes the chef's dedication. Guests find the combination of flavors to be magical, with every dish telling its own unique story.

As you continue to savor your meal, the sweet, attentive service stands out. The owners, truly passionate about their craft, take the time to engage with guests, sharing their knowledge about the fish and inviting everyone to explore the menu. This personal touch makes it feel more like dining with friends than at a restaurant. Plus, the crowd isn’t overwhelming, allowing for relaxed conversation over your meal. You might even be surprised to discover new favorites, such as the pistachio matcha affogato that many patrons rave about for dessert.

As you wrap up your visit, you can't help but smile, knowing you've found a gem in Denver’s flourishing food scene. Every detail, from the inviting atmosphere to the top-tier food and service, leaves you counting the days until your next visit, eager to dive back into the incredible world of sushi that Kin Nori Bar offers. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes your taste buds and warms your heart.

4

Sushi Den

1487 S Pearl St

Denver, CO 80210

(303) 777-0826

Pros and Cons

  • Fresh fish flown in from Japan, ensuring high quality.

  • Inviting atmosphere with modern decor.

  • Attentive and knowledgeable staff, enhancing the dining experience.

  • Beautiful presentation of dishes, showcasing culinary artistry.

  • Unique offerings, including the Chef's Table and daily specials.

  • Service can be inconsistent during peak hours.

  • Higher price point may not always match the quality experience.

  • Occasionally loud atmosphere, making conversation difficult.

  • Dietary requests not always fully accommodated.

What Is It?

Sushi Den is a renowned sushi restaurant in Denver, well-loved for its fresh fish sourced directly from Japanese markets. Known for its inviting ambiance and impressive culinary offerings, Sushi Den offers a unique dining experience that combines traditional Japanese flavors with a modern twist. Whether you're sitting at the sushi bar or at a cozy table, you're in for an exceptional meal that keeps patrons coming back.

The Experience

Walking into Sushi Den, you can immediately feel the energy of the bustling atmosphere. The warm lighting and modern decor set the perfect stage for a special night out. After being greeted by the friendly host, you weave through the lively crowd to your table, eager to dive into the renowned sushi. You glance at the menu, a treasure trove of options, and quickly settle on a selection that includes the famous spicy crispy tuna and a variety of nigiri.

As your meal begins to arrive, you can't help but admire the stunning presentation of each dish. The culinary artistry is evident, especially in the colorful sashimi and vibrant rolls. Each piece of fish is fresh and flavorful, a testament to the careful sourcing from Japan. You savor the melt-in-your-mouth texture of the hamachi nigiri, followed by the rich taste of the fatty tuna. The spicy garlic shrimp makes a perfect appetizer, adding a nice kick to start the meal.

With each bite, there's a newfound appreciation for how sushi is meant to taste, elevated by the chef’s skilled recommendations. You ask for a suggestion on which drink pairs best, and soon, a delightful cocktail arrives—its refreshing flavors adding to the overall experience. The server checks in often without being intrusive, ensuring your needs are met while the sushi bar hums with activity behind you.

As the dinner progresses, you indulge in the chef’s daily special that has everyone buzzing—delicious, fresh, and offering unique flavors you hadn't expected. You finish with a matcha tiramisu that feels light and perfectly balanced, wrapping up a meal that will certainly be memorable. Walking out, you feel satisfied and satisfied you’ll be back for more culinary adventures.

When to Go

If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting Sushi Den earlier in the week around lunchtime or during late afternoon hours. The restaurant can get particularly busy, especially on weekends and evenings, so aiming for a mid-afternoon visit might yield a more relaxed dining experience.

5

Temaki Den

3350 Brighton Blvd

Denver, CO 80216

(303) 200-0530

Pros and Cons

  • Exceptional quality sushi with fresh ingredients.

  • Friendly and knowledgeable staff enhance dining experience.

  • Interactive omakase is a unique and enjoyable way to explore the menu.

  • Casual yet upscale ambiance provides a welcoming vibe.

  • Great selection of hand rolls, especially the blue crab.

  • Pacing between courses can be slow at busy times.

  • Reservation processes might lead to miscommunication or wait times.

  • Billing issues regarding happy hour prices may occur.

What Is It?

Temaki Den is a sushi hotspot in Denver that offers an exquisite selection of hand rolls and an interactive omakase dining experience. Set in a cool, industrial ambiance, the restaurant focuses on fresh ingredients and craftsmanship, making it a must-visit for sushi enthusiasts.

The Experience

Walking into Temaki Den, you're wrapped in a casual yet upscale vibe that's hard to resist. The brick walls and industrial decor suggest a place where serious food meets laid-back enjoyment. You grab a seat at the bar, eager for a front-row view of the sushi-making ballet. The chefs, skilled and lively, expertly prepare hand rolls and nigiri, each dish a testament to quality and artistry. Your server slides up with a friendly smile, ready with personalized recommendations that make you feel right at home. You decide to dive into the omakase experience, eager to explore the chef's creative twists on sushi classics.

As the first round of sushi arrives, you can’t help but be wowed. The salmon oshizushi seems to glow with freshness, and when you take a bite, it melts on your tongue in a way that has you contemplating a second order before the first is even gone. The crispy nori of your spicy tuna hand roll is a beautiful contrast to the tender fish, and just when you think it can't get any better, the server brings out the blue crab temaki. It’s a flavor explosion, and you’re grateful you opted for the chef's choice tonight. With each piece, they share a story, explaining where each fish was sourced from and how they transformed it into a delightful dish.

You swap thoughts with other patrons at the bar, all equally enthralled by the caliber of food in front of them. The atmosphere buzzes with friendly chatter and laughter; it feels more like a community celebration than just a dining experience. You can't resist the yuzu black pepper sorbet that serves as the perfect palate cleanser, and you find yourself smiling at how every aspect of your meal has been deliberately crafted to enhance your adventure.

After the final bites, which include an unforgettable seared eggplant dish, you sit back in your seat, fully satisfied. Each guest comes together in appreciation not just of the sushi, but the entire ambiance and service. It's clear that Temaki Den is not just about food; it's about creating unforgettable moments. You promise yourself to return, possibly bringing friends to experience the culinary wonders of this hidden gem together.

When to Go

For anyone looking to enjoy a less crowded experience at Temaki Den, consider visiting during the week or right before the happy hour rush. Early afternoons or later in the evening often provide a more relaxed atmosphere where you can savor your meal without the hustle and bustle of peak dining hours.

6

The Blue Fish Denver

1607 Wewatta St

Denver, CO 80202

(303) 953-1975

Pros and Cons

  • Extensive fresh sushi options, including standout items like the Blue Fish Tower and Wagyu Sizzler.

  • Exceptional service from knowledgeable and attentive staff.

  • Lively yet comfortable atmosphere, perfect for various dining occasions.

  • Great happy hour specials that offer fantastic value.

  • Regularly receives praise for quality and unique flavor combinations.

  • Some menu items can be pricier than competitor restaurants.

  • Atmosphere noted as somewhat mismatched, with casual seating in a more upscale space.

  • Service can lag slightly during peak hours.

  • Some items on the menu may not cater to traditional sushi expectations.

What Is It?

The Blue Fish Denver brings a slice of authentic Japanese cuisine to the heart of Denver, serving up exquisite sushi, sashimi, and rolls made with the freshest ingredients. Known for its exceptional service and lively atmosphere, this restaurant also features a delightful selection of Asian-inspired hot dishes, salads, and desserts that complement the vibrant sushi offerings beautifully. Whether you're savoring a crafted cocktail or indulging in fine sake, every dining experience here is set to impress.

The Experience

As you step into The Blue Fish Denver, you're greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance that instantly feels like a treat. You find a cozy booth that provides a perfect vantage point to witness the skilled sushi chefs at work. It's an exhilarating scene, and you can't help but glance over the menu's spectacular options. The Blue Fish Tower catches your eye right away, known for being a crowd favorite, and your enthusiasm grows as you ponder which rolls to pair with it. You take the servers' suggestions to heart, knowing that their recommendations have delighted so many before you.

As you take your first bite of the sushi, you're blown away by the freshness and flavor. The quality here is top-notch, confirming all the glowing sentiments you’ve heard from friends and online chatter. Your taste buds dance with joy as you savor dishes like the Wagyu Sizzler, where the drama of cooking on a hot stone at your table adds a little extra magic to the meal. Time seems to slip away as you relish every bite, the food just keeps coming, and you embrace the all-you-can-eat option that allows you to explore even more tasty offerings.

What truly elevates this dining experience, though, is the undivided attention from your server. They're friendly, knowledgeable, and even share hidden gems from the menu. With every inquiry, you prompt casual conversation about the dishes, and they’re right there to guide you through the diverse options, making the meal even more enjoyable. You notice the subtle background music creates a lively yet comfortable atmosphere, perfect for a date night or catching up with friends.

As you finish your meal, dessert looms ominously on the horizon—how can one resist? The artisan desserts at The Blue Fish are highly recommended, and you decide to go for it, further sealing the positive impression of the night as you treat yourself to something sweet, which perfectly rounds out your culinary adventure.

When to Go

If you’re looking to enjoy a quieter meal at The Blue Fish, aim for earlier times, especially during lunch hours. Arriving around 11 AM or right before the dinner rush from around 4 PM can afford you a more relaxed dining atmosphere. Happy hour, which runs daily from 4 PM to 6 PM, can also get busier, so timing your visit just before these peak periods can enhance your overall experience.

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