Best Japanese Restaurants in South End

Blue Ribbon Sushi in Boston is a must-visit for sushi lovers—our meal was absolutely delicious, and we’re already planning to return. The Sakuna rolls were a standout, featuring yellowtail, salmon, tuna, and scallions. The fish was incredibly fresh, and the subtle sweetness and crunch of the scallions perfectly elevated the flavors. The rice was expertly prepared, with just the right consistency to complement the roll’s texture. Another unique highlight was the crispy rice roll. I loved the slight caramelization on the bottom of the rice, which added a satisfying crunch and depth of flavor. It was a creative and enjoyable dish. The Wagyu gyoza, however, fell a little flat for me. While the idea of using Wagyu was intriguing, the marbling seemed to create a wet-like texture that didn’t pair well with the soft wrapper. I feel a leaner filling, like ground chuck, combined with a longer sear or even a flash-fry, might have worked better to create a more balanced dish. On the drinks side, I may have indulged in more lychee martinis than I care to admit, but they were worth every sip. The combination of Japanese vodka, a touch of Chambord for a slight pink hue, and the lychee garnish was perfection. They were refreshing, slightly sweet, and complemented the meal beautifully. The ambiance was another highlight. With mellow lo-fi beats in the background and a calm, relaxed vibe during lunch, it was the perfect setting for an intimate and unhurried dining experience. The menu also features unique fish selections you don’t often see elsewhere, making it a treat for sashimi enthusiasts. The shrimp tempura was good, though not a favorite. The shrimp itself was slightly overseasoned, and I think adding flavor to the batter instead of the shrimp directly might have created a better balance. Overall, Blue Ribbon Sushi impressed us with its authentic, fresh sashimi and creative rolls. We’ll definitely be returning.

Excellent tiki bar, with appropriate drink menu, great food, and fun atmosphere. Service was great and business was clean, friendly, and well organized. I would go back.

They are always amazing - love the food, service and experience.

Service was beyond 5 start. Our server made the experience more enjoyable with his specific knowledge of the food.

Zuma in Boston is as usual a great restaurant but do not eat the big fruit platter when the good fruit is out of season so, don’t order it in this season !