🍣Best Sushi & Japanese Restaurants in Wellington Central 2026

4 of Wellington's best sushi & japanese restaurants, all in Wellington Central — hand-picked and ranked by locals, led by Miyabi Japanese Restaurant. Part of our independent Wellington sushi & japanese restaurants guide.

1. #1
   

   Miyabi Japanese Restaurant

   Serving traditional Japanese cuisine from the same Willis Street Village spot since 1997, Miyabi is the elder statesman of Wellington sushi — sashimi, tempura and grilled classics in a warm, kid-friendly BYO room.

   Willis Street Village, Wellington CBD

   since 1997BYOCBDtraditional
   Maps ReviewsWebsite
2. #2
   

   Kazu Japanese Restaurant

   An izakaya-style room with tatami seating and an open kitchen counter, running since 2002 as a sit-down alternative to Wellington's grab-and-go sushi scene. Classic Japanese pub food done properly.

   Wellington Central

   izakayatatamisince 2002central
   Maps ReviewsWebsite
3. #3
   

   Sushi Bi

   A long-standing self-serve CBD institution — tongs, cardboard box, pick-your-own from the cabinet — and the smartest lunch-money move in town once the half-price after-4pm rule kicks in.

   Bunny Street / Lambton Quay area, Wellington CBD

   self-servebudgetCBDlong-standing
   Maps ReviewsWebsite
4. #4
   

   Hey Ramen

   A tiny Willis Street counter — a handful of stools, two window bars — turning out a standout shio ramen loaded with vibrant veg and tender meat, plus build-your-own donburi. Small footprint, big flavour.

   Willis Street, Wellington CBD

   ramendonburicounter seatingCBD
   Maps ReviewsWebsite