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Start a Top 5 for JapaneseEditor’s picks
Press picks, until locals rank their own Top 5s. Sourced from the local food press. As seen in The News & Observer, Durham Magazine, INDY Week, and Raleigh Magazine. Updated September 2026.
M Sushi · Downtown Durham
M Sushi centers its compact Durham dining room on pristine fish, restrained seasoning, and close attention to rice. Nigiri and sashimi can be ordered individually, while composed menus let the kitchen guide the progression. The tucked away Holland Street space keeps distractions low, making texture, temperature, and the balance of each piece the focus of dinner.
Dashi Ramen and Izakaya Cocktail Bar · Downtown Durham
Dashi serves ramen downstairs and an izakaya menu upstairs in downtown Durham. Its two-story setup offers different ways into Japanese cooking.
Akai Hana Japanese Restaurant · Carrboro
Akai Hana has long served Carrboro with sushi, sashimi, noodles, and tempura. The Main Street dining room accommodates diners who want both raw fish and cooked Japanese dishes.
Waraji Japanese Restaurant · North Raleigh
Waraji combines an expansive sushi program with the range of a full Japanese restaurant. The counter handles nigiri, sashimi, and rolls, while the kitchen prepares noodles, tempura, grilled fish, and other cooked dishes. Its North Raleigh dining room has the calm confidence of a longstanding operation, supported by attentive service and a serious sake selection.
Ajisai · Village District
Ajisai Japanese Fusion serves sushi and cooked Japanese dishes at Village District in Raleigh. Its roll selection and sashimi give diners several ways to build a meal.