Unearth The Voyage
Maine is famous for lobster rolls and clam chowder, but sushi lovers know the state has quietly become home to some of the freshest, most creative sushi bars on the East Coast. From Portland’s bustling Old Port to the quiet harbors of Midcoast villages, chefs are slicing local bluefin, crafting perfect nigiri, and rolling innovative maki that rival big-city spots. Whether you want a fancy omakase experience or a casual hand-roll to go, Maine has you covered.
1. Miyake — Portland (Old Port)
Chef Masa Miyake has earned a loyal following by treating sushi as an art form. His intimate Fore Street dining room feels like stepping into a Tokyo hideaway, where every piece of fish is handled with precision and respect. Reservations fill up fast, especially for weekend dinners, so plan ahead if you want a seat at the counter.
The omakase menu changes with the seasons, showcasing whatever is freshest that day. If you prefer choosing your own adventure, the tight à la carte selection never disappoints. Lunch service runs mid-week only, making it a rare treat for those who can snag a table. Book through Resy and prepare for an unforgettable meal.
2. Benkay Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar — Portland (India & Middle St.)
Walking into Benkay feels like visiting a neighborhood sushi spot that has been perfecting its craft for years. The menu is refreshingly broad, covering everything from classic nigiri and sashimi to colorful specialty rolls and hearty bento boxes. Sitting at the sushi counter gives you a front-row view of skilled chefs slicing, rolling, and plating with practiced ease.
Regulars love the consistency here. No matter when you visit, the fish is fresh, the rice is perfectly seasoned, and the service is warm. Benkay has stayed true to traditional Japanese flavors while welcoming everyone from first-timers to sushi veterans. It is a Portland classic for good reason.
3. Yosaku — Portland (West End/Waterfront)
Yosaku has built a reputation on two things: premium-quality fish and a nigiri list that seems to go on forever. Located just a block from the waterfront, the spacious dining room offers plenty of seating without feeling cramped or rushed. Families, couples, and solo diners all find their place here, making it one of Portland’s most versatile sushi destinations.
The menu digs deep into traditional Japanese favorites while also offering creative rolls for adventurous eaters. Online reservations make it easy to secure a table, especially during busy tourist months. Whether you are celebrating something special or just craving excellent sushi, Yosaku delivers every time with skill and care.
4. Mr. Tuna — Portland (Old Port hand-roll bar)
What began as a roaming sushi cart has grown into one of Portland’s coolest dining concepts. Mr. Tuna specializes in hand-rolls, those cone-shaped bundles of rice, fish, and crispy nori that you eat with your hands. Each roll is made to order, so the seaweed stays perfectly crunchy and the fish tastes incredibly fresh.
The star of the show is local bluefin tuna, handled with care and sourced responsibly. Sitting at the small counter feels intimate and exciting, like you are part of a delicious secret. Order-ahead options are available if you want to grab and go. Mr. Tuna proves that simple, high-quality ingredients can create something truly memorable.
5. Tokyo Sushi Ramen & Bar — Portland (Downtown/Arts District)
Sometimes your group cannot agree on what to eat, and that is exactly when Tokyo Sushi Ramen & Bar shines. This downtown spot covers all the bases with sushi, ramen, and even hibachi options under one roof. Open daily with generous hours, it welcomes everyone from lunch-break workers to late-night diners looking for something satisfying.
The sushi menu is crowd-pleasing without being boring, offering classic rolls alongside creative house specials. Ramen lovers can slurp rich broths while sushi fans enjoy fresh nigiri at the same table. The Arts District location makes it easy to pair dinner with a show or gallery hop. Tokyo Sushi Ramen & Bar is proof that variety can be done well.
6. Watami — Portland & Brunswick
With two locations along the coast, Watami makes it easy to get your sushi fix whether you are exploring Portland’s Commercial Street or strolling through downtown Brunswick. Both spots serve the same reliable menu of classic nigiri, sashimi sets, and inventive rolls that balance tradition with playful twists. Handy online ordering means you can enjoy Watami at home or on the go.
The fish is always fresh, and the presentation is simple yet beautiful. Watami has mastered the art of being approachable without sacrificing quality, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners and casual celebrations alike. Whether you are a local or just passing through, Watami delivers consistent, delicious sushi every time.
7. Suzuki’s Sushi Bar — Rockland (Midcoast)
Suzuki’s is the kind of place sushi purists dream about. Small, meticulous, and deeply respected, this Rockland gem has earned a devoted following among locals and travelers alike. The focus here is on precision and respect for the fish, with every slice and roll crafted with care. Check the website for pick-up reservation details and current hours, as this is not a walk-in-anytime kind of spot.
Travelers who make the trip often rave about the experience, calling it one of the best sushi stops in Maine. The intimate setting means you can watch the chef work and ask questions about what you are eating. Suzuki’s proves that great sushi does not need a big city backdrop, just skill, passion, and quality ingredients.
8. Rosella KPT — Kennebunk (Lower Village)
Rosella KPT brings a taste of New York City’s sustainability-first sushi philosophy to the quiet streets of Kennebunk. Seasonal, impeccably sourced seafood takes center stage in a buzzy dining room that feels both polished and welcoming. Open year-round, Rosella has quickly become a destination for diners who care about where their fish comes from and how it is prepared.
The Portland Press Herald awarded it four stars, praising the thoughtful menu and commitment to quality. Reservations are available on OpenTable, and they fill up fast, especially during summer and fall. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or just treating yourself, Rosella KPT delivers an elevated sushi experience worth every bite.
9. Siam Orchid Thai Cuisine & Sushi Bar — Bar Harbor
When you are exploring Mount Desert Island and a sushi craving hits, locals will point you straight to Siam Orchid. This chef-owned restaurant pairs authentic Thai cuisine with a full sushi bar, giving you the best of both worlds. Open daily with a popular happy hour, it has become a go-to spot for visitors and year-round residents alike.
The sushi menu covers all the classics, from nigiri and sashimi to creative rolls that pair beautifully with a Thai iced tea. The welcoming atmosphere makes it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a satisfying meal after a day of hiking. Siam Orchid proves that great sushi can thrive anywhere, even in a cozy island town.
10. Yoshi Japanese Restaurant — Brewer (Greater Bangor)
Just over the bridge from Bangor, Yoshi Japanese Restaurant offers something special: tatami seating that invites you to dine Japanese-style, shoes off and legs tucked under low tables. The wide sushi menu covers everything from simple nigiri to elaborate specialty rolls, earning Yoshi a loyal local following. Strong traveler reviews back up the reputation, making it a must-visit in the Greater Bangor area.
The online menu makes it easy to browse before you go, so you can plan your order and try something new. Yoshi balances tradition with approachability, welcoming sushi newbies and seasoned fans alike. Whether you are passing through or live nearby, Yoshi delivers an authentic, satisfying experience every time.
11. Ichiban — Bangor
Ichiban has earned its place as a Bangor favorite by offering an expansive sushi menu that covers all the bases. Nigiri, sashimi, maki, and combo boats give diners endless options, whether you are dining solo or feeding a hungry group. Online ordering and downloadable PDFs make it easy to preview the menu and plan your meal before you even arrive.
The restaurant strikes a balance between casual and polished, making it suitable for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Portions are generous, and the fish is consistently fresh, which keeps locals coming back again and again. Ichiban proves that you do not need to be on the coast to enjoy excellent sushi in Maine.
12. Jin Sushi & Ramen — Saco
Jin Sushi & Ramen has quickly become a Southern Maine favorite by pairing a solid sushi program with comforting ramen bowls. Currently taking OpenTable reservations, the restaurant draws strong feedback from diners who appreciate the variety and quality. Whether you are in the mood for delicate nigiri or a steaming bowl of noodles, Jin has you covered.
The menu is approachable without being boring, offering classic rolls alongside creative house specials. Families love the flexibility, and solo diners enjoy the counter seating where they can watch chefs at work. Jin strikes the perfect balance between casual and crave-worthy, making it an easy choice for any night of the week in Saco.
13. SEA40 Japanese Cuisine — Lewiston
SEA40 Japanese Cuisine brings a touch of drama to Lewiston with its sleek hibachi and sushi steakhouse vibe. Locals use it for date nights and group dinners, drawn by the lively atmosphere and impressive menu. Reservations can be made by phone or online, which is helpful when planning a celebration or gathering with friends and family.
The sushi menu is extensive, offering everything from simple nigiri to elaborate specialty rolls that arrive looking almost too pretty to eat. Hibachi tables add entertainment to the meal, making it a fun choice for kids and adults alike. SEA40 proves that Lewiston has a dining scene worth exploring, especially if you love Japanese cuisine done with flair.
14. Kume — Augusta & Topsham
Kume has become Central Maine’s reliable pick for sushi and hibachi, with locations in Augusta and Topsham that make it handy whether you are near the state house or cruising Route 1. The menu covers all the favorites, from classic rolls to sizzling hibachi plates, making it a solid choice for mixed-taste groups and families. Check hours before you go, as they can vary by location.
The atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, perfect for a casual dinner after work or a weekend celebration. Kume keeps things simple and does them well, earning a steady stream of repeat customers. When you need dependable sushi in Central Maine, Kume delivers without fuss or drama.
15. Aki Sushi • Tapas • Boba — Freeport
Aki Sushi • Tapas • Boba is Freeport’s newest dining surprise, blending sushi with small plates and bubble tea under one roof. Perfect for groups with mixed tastes, it offers something for everyone without feeling scattered or unfocused. Located near the outlets, it is an ideal stop after a day of shopping or exploring the charming downtown area.
The sushi menu covers the classics while the tapas selection adds variety and fun. Boba drinks provide a sweet, refreshing finish to your meal, making Aki a hit with younger diners and adventurous eaters. Aki proves that fusion can be done right, creating a welcoming space where different flavors and styles come together deliciously.
