8 Places For Sushi and Asian Fusion Eats on LBI
The most common question we get here is where to find sushi. We’re a coastal town so it should be easy enough, but we’re also a vacation destination where many restaurants have to adopt a something-for-everyone mentality. While the adaptability makes our dining experiences easy, finding hidden gems that serve fresh sushi… GOOD sushi… is not. But you have us, and we have the answers. ;)
You have to be in the mood for sushi, but once that craving hits there is no return. Visions of spicy tuna dance in your head and you can practically taste the tuna melting in your mouth. Dinner is destined to be sushi night and there are multiple ways to satisfy your craving. Whether it's the poke bowls, specialty rolls, or sashimi for you, LBI is filled with options. if you are looking for Asian fare but would eat a roll with your meal, we have a place for that too. Keep reading for more info on the individual vibes of each establishment.
Here are some obvious and not-so-obvious restaurants to eat sushi on LBI and in Manahawkin.
Little Sumo's Sushi Shack
Tucked into a quiet strip mall, Little Sumo's is a hidden gem. This Surf City establishment offers sushi as well as poke bowls, which are very popular with diners. There is a small area for seating but it only fits about 6 people at capacity. Take out is a great option in order to be able to experience the fresh fish from Little Sumo's.
Asian Gourmet
Asian Gourmet is a casual restaurant in Manahawkin. If you are in the mood for a mixed medley of Asian cuisine, you are in luck. Asian Gourmet serves Chinese, Thai, Japanese, and Sushi. The sushi is always fresh and very reasonably priced. Try things like the Angry Dragon roll (shrimp tempura roll with spicy tuna and spicy snow crab) or stick to classics like a sweet potato roll or shrimp avocado roll. It is rather small so call ahead if you are coming in with a larger group or plan to do take out.
Element
Element is a lively bar and restaurant in Manahawkin. While Element mainly serves New American fare, they also serve sushi… really good sushi. Element has all of the standard fare but also has a list of specialty rolls. The Skyline Roll is a good choice with shrimp tempura, spicy salmon, and tuna topped with a sweet chili sauce. They have great happy hour deals so definitely check out their specials.
Fuji 72
Sushi and hibachi?! A dream combo that you can make a reality at Fuji 72 in Manahawkin. This Japanese steakhouse serves hibachi and sushi. Their sushi menu is absolutely insane; their specialty roll menu alone offers 50 combinations of fresh fish. On top of that, they offer appetizers from the sushi bar, bento box options, and sashimi a la carte.
Gazebo Grill and Sushi Bar
In the heart of Beach Haven, Gazebo Grill and Sushi Bar serves both American eats and sushi in a casual setting. In addition to the traditional maki and specialty roll options, Gazebo offers specialty platters that come with miso soup and salad as well as poke bowls and chirashi. It is open seasonally and has a beautiful waterfront patio where you can enjoy your sushi with a view.
Engleside Sushi Bar
Inside the Engleside Inn, you will find the Engleside Sushi Bar. As an extension of the Leeward Room, the dress code is business casual and only open for dinner so plan accordingly. The sushi bar offers a menu filled with creative combinations like the Green Wave Roll or the more carb friendly Engleside Roll (wrapped in cucumber). If you want to have a more upscale dine-in experience for sushi, we would recommend coming here.
Zen
Zen is a casual Asian fusion eatery in Ship Bottom where the sushi options are endless. Seriously, they might have the largest menu of all of the establishments on this list. The soft shell crab roll and the summer roll are sure to be standouts. If you aren't interested in sushi, you can also eat things like Pork Katsu (deep fried pork cutlet), fried rice, and even get yourself some hibachi. Whether you dine in or order takeout, the whole family will definitely be able to find something they would enjoy.
Daddy O's
Daddy O's is a hip, modern hotel in LBI that turns into a solid sushi spot after 4 PM. While the menu is a little smaller, they still have about 9 roll options as well as a sashimi platter. Dive into classics like spicy crunchy tuna roll or try their signature big daddy roll. It's worth noting that you have access to the sushi menu in the restaurant or on the rooftop.