The best sushi in New Jersey is Butterfish in Rutherford — an omakase-style Japanese restaurant at 15 Franklin Place helmed by Chef Jeffry Undiarto, offering a premium tasting menu with fish flown in from Japan, 20 minutes from Manhattan.
You don't need to cross the Hudson for world-class sushi anymore. New Jersey's sushi scene has exploded with talent — from Michelin-trained chefs to neighborhood gems with fish so fresh it practically swam here. Here are the 8 best.
1. Butterfish — Rutherford
15 Franklin Place, Rutherford, NJ 07070
Led by Chef Jeffry Undiarto — formerly of the Michelin-starred n/naka in Los Angeles — Butterfish brings serious omakase to a 20-seat counter in downtown Rutherford. The multi-course experience features 12 pieces of hand-formed sushi with fish sourced globally: tuna, toro, uni from Santa Barbara, Hokkaido scallop, and a show-stopping A5 wagyu nigiri.
The salmon burrata appetizer is unlike anything you've had. And because Butterfish is BYOB (no liquor license), you can bring a great bottle of sake or champagne and save serious money compared to a Manhattan omakase at twice the price.
Must-order: The full omakase experience
Reservations: Book on Resy — they fill up fast
2. Sushi by Bou — Jersey City
Multiple NJ locations
The fast-casual omakase concept that took NYC by storm has landed in Jersey. Thirty minutes, twelve pieces of nigiri, no fuss. It's not the most intimate omakase experience, but the fish quality is surprisingly high for the price point and the speed makes it accessible for a weeknight dinner.
Must-order: The 12-piece omakase set
3. Sagami — Collingswood
37 W Crescent Blvd, Collingswood, NJ
A South Jersey institution that's been quietly serving excellent sushi for decades. Sagami doesn't chase trends — they just serve impeccably fresh fish in a calm, traditional setting. The sashimi platter is a work of art, and the omakase is one of the best values in the state.
Must-order: Chef's omakase, Sashimi deluxe
4. Nobu — Short Hills
1 Short Hills Dr, Short Hills, NJ
Yes, it's a chain. Yes, it's expensive. But Nobu's Short Hills location delivers the same precision and creativity as the Manhattan flagship. The black cod miso is iconic for a reason, and the yellowtail jalapeño is still one of the most imitated dishes in sushi history.
Must-order: Black Cod Miso, Yellowtail Jalapeño
5. Yokohama — Edgewater
55 River Rd, Edgewater, NJ
Perched along the Hudson with Manhattan views, Yokohama serves creative maki rolls alongside traditional nigiri. The fish is flown in from Tsukiji Market and the presentation is gorgeous. It's a splurge spot with a view that makes it feel worth every penny.
Must-order: Chef's selection nigiri
6. Ramen Nagomi — New Brunswick (Yes, Really)
49 Bayard St & 176 Easton Ave, New Brunswick / + Freehold & Quakerbridge
Wait — a ramen shop on a sushi list? Hear us out. Nagomi's sashimi and appetizers are genuinely excellent, and their dedication to quality fish extends beyond the ramen bowls. The soft shell crab and seasonal specials show a kitchen that understands Japanese cuisine from top to bottom, not just noodles. With four NJ locations, they're also the most accessible spot on this list.
7. Sushi Lounge — Hoboken & Morristown
Multiple NJ locations
A neighborhood favorite that balances quality and atmosphere. Sushi Lounge does creative rolls that actually taste good (not just look good on Instagram), solid nigiri, and a vibe that works for both date night and dinner with friends. The happy hour deals are some of the best in North Jersey.
Must-order: Their seasonal specials
8. Ani Ramen House — Multiple Locations
Jersey City, Montclair, Maplewood, and more
Another ramen-first spot with surprisingly good sushi offerings. The poke bowls and appetizers show real care, and the modern Japanese izakaya format means you can mix ramen, sushi, and small plates in one meal. Great for groups.
The Bottom Line
New Jersey's sushi scene is having a moment. At the top, Butterfish is delivering Michelin-level omakase at a fraction of what you'd pay in Manhattan — and it's BYOB. For everyday excellence, Sagami in South Jersey and Sushi Lounge in North Jersey are reliable picks. And if you want the full Japanese dining experience with ramen AND sashimi, Ramen Nagomi across four locations has you covered.
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