Sushi Friend, a neighborhood sushi joint serving fresh sushi, sashimi, rolls and bowls in Phoenix, has made Yelp’s list of the top 10 sushi spots in the U.S. for 2023.
To determine the best sushi spots of the year, Yelp identified establishments under its sushi category that had high reviews, revealing where diners can find delicious, high-quality sushi from some of the most skilled chefs outside of Japan. In Phoenix, Yelp reviews rate Sushi Friend as the “go-to destination for the freshest and most delicious sushi” in the area. While the restaurant doesn’t boast a flashy dining experience, Sushi Friend is a favorite among locals for its friendly, cozy atmosphere and affordable menu that is always prepared with fresh ingredients, care and precision.
Diners can choose from Chef Specials, including the Unagi Don and the X Bowl with Tuna and Salmon Poke, Yuzu Onions, Avocado, Serrano Chili and Crispy Onions, as well as an array of large, mixed, premium and specialty platters, sushi combos and special rolls.
According to Sushi Friend’s Yelp reviews, favorite and popular dishes among diners include the Mixed Roll combo platter, which includes three specialty rolls and four basic rolls for $68, and Seared Salmon Roll ($14.50) made with kanikama, housemade spicy mayo, topped seared salmon, dyno Sauce and unagi sauce.
Chef and owner Kevin Min opened Sushi Friend in 2021 after spending 10 years as head chef at the now-closed Stingray Sushi in Scottsdale. Min runs Sushi Friend as a family business, which allows him to connect with customers and provide an intimate, family-friendly dining experience. The neighborhood sushi joint features a few tables for guests to sit down and relax, as well as a narrow bar where you can watch the intricate preparation process and visit the sushi chefs.
Sushi Friend is located at 8727 N. Central Ave in Phoenix and is open from 11 a.m.–7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and from 12 p.m.–7 p.m. Monday and Saturday. To learn more, visit yoursushifriend.com.
