Best Japanese Restaurants in Brookline

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.

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

Our server Julie was excellent and the food was fresh and tasty as always…love this place!

Very much enjoyed our experience at Uni. Dishes are “tasting-sized” which makes for a great variety and a different awakening of your taste buds with each dish.

3 people 6 alcoholic drinks 12 items ordered $175 Everything was great, such a fun time. 2 of us had been there before, the third had never visited and by the end loved it. Would recommend groups of 2 or 3 makes it easier to cook and serve.