Japan Rankings
If you’ve ever wondered what sushi staff themselves love to eat, this article is for you.
While many visitors look up Sushiro’s best-selling sushi (based on national sales), there's another, more personal ranking: one based on insider opinions from hundreds of employees. Featured on Japanese TV and in surveys, this list offers a fresh take on what’s truly delicious — not just popular.
These selections highlight creative, fun, and often unconventional sushi items that might not top the sales charts, but hold a special place in the hearts of those who serve them.
So if you're looking to explore beyond tuna and salmon, here's your perfect entry point.
This East-meets-West fusion combines boiled shrimp, avocado slices, and creamy mayonnaise. It’s mild, satisfying, and visually appealing. Staff love it for its perfect balance of flavors and broad appeal, especially among younger customers and tourists.
🧠 Why it's not top in sales: Many traditional sushi lovers tend to stick to raw fish, but this is a creative gem worth trying.
A crispy, golden shrimp tempura served atop seasoned rice — this item is comforting, crunchy, and hot off the fryer. Staff recommend it as the ultimate gateway sushi for those hesitant about raw seafood.
🌟 Bonus: Also ranked #7 in national sales, proving it’s both staff- and crowd-approved.
Yes, this is a mini hamburger patty on sushi rice. Popular with kids, but even adult staff admire it for its juicy flavor and satisfying bite. It’s served warm and often seasoned with a sweet soy glaze.
🍔 Perfect for: Families, picky eaters, or anyone craving comfort food with a twist.
A category of sushi topped with mayonnaise-based seafood salads — such as crab, tuna, or shrimp. These are creamy, flavorful, and easy to eat. Staff recommend them for their value, as they’re often priced lower than raw fish items.
🥗 Tip: Add a dab of wasabi to enhance the flavor contrast.
Another creative fusion item, this roll features fried shrimp, avocado, lettuce, and sweet sauce — often wrapped in soy paper instead of seaweed. It’s rich, crunchy, and a bit indulgent.
🌯 Why staff love it: It feels like fast food meets sushi — but well executed and fresh.
This squid is firm but tender, offering a clean ocean taste. It’s not flashy, but sushi chefs and staff respect it for its texture and purity.
🦑 Underrated classic: Less popular among tourists but a must-try if you're exploring traditional flavors.
This is a rotating dish featuring assorted marinated seafood, such as tuna, salmon, and squid, soaked in a savory soy-based sauce. Staff enjoy its depth of flavor and the ever-changing lineup.
🍶 Pairs well with: Green tea or sake.
Yes — it’s sweet corn and mayo on rice, wrapped in seaweed. It sounds odd to many foreigners, but this one’s beloved in Japan, especially by kids. Staff say it's nostalgic and comforting.
🌽 Fun fact: Many Japanese adults grew up eating this as their first sushi.
A premium white fish prepared by a traditional method that enhances its flavor and texture. Staff love it for its subtle sweetness and clean finish.
🐟 Why it’s rare: Often served only when freshly available — making it a special insider pick.
A bold, modern creation: grilled salmon topped with basil sauce and melted Camembert cheese. It’s like sushi meets European bistro. Staff praise its richness and creativity.
🧀 Perfect for: Those seeking something entirely different.
| Aspect | Staff Picks | Sales Rankings |
|---|---|---|
| Based on | Employee opinions | National customer purchase data |
| Style | Creative, personal favorites | Classic, safe choices |
| Popular with | Staff and foodies | Families, casual diners |
| Examples | Ebi Avocado, Squid, Cheese-topped Salmon | Salmon, Tuna, Tamago |
Summary:
Trying both lists gives you the full Sushiro experience.
Tourists often stick to familiar sushi like tuna or salmon — and there’s nothing wrong with that. But if you want to eat like the people who work there, try something unexpected. From corn sushi to grilled Camembert salmon, these staff picks reflect Sushiro’s creative spirit and Japan’s open-minded food culture.
So next time you visit Sushiro, step out of your comfort zone and try at least one item from this insider-approved list. You just might find your new favorite.
🎌 Hungry for more? Check out our article on the top-selling sushi at Sushiro for a full taste of what Japan loves!
⇒ Top 10 Must-try Sushi at Sushiro
