Best Sushi Restaurants in São Paulo

São Paulo is home to the world’s largest Japanese diaspora, with most nikkei descended from immigrants who arrived in the city at the beginning of the 20th century. Japanese immigration had a significant influence on Brazilian cuisine, and nowhere more so than in the country’s metropolis, which boasts a dazzling array of top quality sushi restaurants. Read on for a guide to the best places to eat sushi in São Paulo.

Tanuki Sushi

Located in the hip neighborhood of Vila Madalena, Tanuki is a simply incredible sushi spot. The fish and the ambience are top quality. Try to grab a seat at the bar if possible for dinner and a show, as the itamae prepare the sushi right in front of you—if you’re lucky, they’ll offer you a sample of some sashimi.

Restaurante Sapporo

Tucked away in the upscale neighborhood of Moema, Sapporo is a very popular sushi restaurant that offers an excellent rodízio experience—all-you-can-eat for a fixed price. The ordering is done on a tablet, which easily transcends language barriers and allows you to see exactly what you are choosing; the sushi comes out promptly and is tremendous.

Djapa

Also in Moema, Djapa is another upscale option for all-you-can-eat or a la carte. The service is very friendly, and the waiters bring around large plates of sushi and other small Japanese dishes for you to choose what you want—as soon they see your empty plate, they’ll come by with another round.

Takô

This restaurant is in Liberdade, the city’s ‘Japantown,’ which remains the focal point of São Paulo’s Japanese community. Takô pays homage to the mother country not only with their high-quality sushi but also with their Japanese-inspired interior, which includes several tables with traditional tatami seating on the floor.

Kome

Not far from Avenida Paulista, Kome is the perfect spot for a sushi lunch, and you’ll see lots of people from nearby offices doing the same. Try to grab a seat at one of the sunken tables for a unique seating experience—similar to (albeit more comfortable than) the tatami style.

Matsuya

This local chain with several locations around the city offers a more budget-friendly but still high-quality rodízio. Ordering is also done by tablet, so you can see exactly what you’re getting, even without a strong command of Portuguese.

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