Many eaters keep their distance from sushi because they do not want to consume raw fish, but sushi is much more than that. It evolved from a fish preservation technique that started in 4th century southeast Asia. That same technique is used today, wherein fresh fish or other various ingredients are combined with fermented rice. The menu today has expanded to include cut rolls wrapped in seaweed and stuffed with seafood, vegetables, and other ingredients. It doesn’t matter if you are a sushi connoisseur or a first timer, Knoxville has several excellent sushi options to offer.
Nama
Conveniently located in the heart of Downtown Knoxville, Nama Sushi Bar is the perfect place to start your night on the town. The menu has a cornucopia of options to choose from whether you’re looking for hot and delicious Asian entrees, cooked sushi rolls, or delectable sashimi. Start your palette journey off with some Warm, Sea-Salted Edamame. Continue to the next course with the Ex-Girlfriend Roll: seaweed and rice wrapped around snow crab, panko shrimp, cream cheese, cucumber topped with eel, avocado, spicy scallops and fantasy sauce. But if you’re on your first date it might be better to order the Maui Wowie: seaweed and rice wrapped around crunchy shrimp, avocado, spicy aioli topped with yellowtail, avocado and pineapple salsa. Finally, satisfy your sweet tooth by delving into Nama Truffles- chocolate truffles with raspberry sauce, golden pineapple, kiwi, mango, fried gyoza and pocky sticks.
5130 Kingston Pike; 865-588-9811
Lunch: Mon-Sat 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Dinner: Mon- Thurs 3 p.m.- 10 p.m.
Fri- Sat 3 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Sunday: Noon- 9 p.m.
506 S Gay Street; 865-633-8539
Lunch: Mon-Sat 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Dinner: Tues – Wed 3 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Mon and Thurs 3 p.m. – 12 a.m.
Fri- Sat 3 p.m. – 1 a.m.
Sunday: Noon- 10 p.m.
namasushibar.com
Anaba
Authentic Japanese cuisine right here in Knoxville! Whatever your seafood preference may be, Anaba has a menu item to please everyone. Begin your night with Seafood Ceviche: chopped mixed seasfood marinated with chopped tomato, scallion, cucumber, avocado, and marinated with ceviche sauce. And then delve into Takoyaki-fried dumplings made with diced octopus, tempura flakes, and vegetables. Finish off your taste journey with Chicken Teriyaki Roll: grilled chicken, scallions, and green peppers with teriyaki sauce and mayo, just to remind you that sushi doesn’t necessarily mean fish.
9405 S Northshore Drive; 865-531-2363
Lunch: Mon- Fri 11 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Dinner: Mon- Thurs 5 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri 5 p.m.- 10:30 p.m.
Sat 12 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Sun 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.
anabajapanese.com
Kabuki Fusion
If you’re already a sushi expert and you’re looking for a little bit of creativity in your rolls, Kabuki is your next stop. Spice up your life with the JP Roll: crispy jalapeno, spicy tuna, cheese, and cucumber topped with shredded crab and crunchy. Or go for looks with the Caterpillar Roll: BBQ style eel, crab meat and cucumber topped with sliced avocado and caviar. No matter if you’re wanting aesthetics, creativity, or classics, you can find the perfect roll for you.
10901 Parkside Drive; 865-288-4111
Sun – Thurs 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Fri – Sat 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
restaurantkabuiki.com