image of Sakae Sushi
Sakae Sushi

Osaka, Japan

Sakae Sushi in Osaka: Fresh Flavors from Dusk Till Dawn

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Osaka’s Chuo Ward, Sakae Sushi offers a captivating late-night dining experience for sushi lovers and night owls alike. This casual yet authentic sushi spot captivates visitors with its fresh fish, speedy service, and a unique ordering style that keeps guests engaged and coming back for more.

An authentic Japanese sushi journey

At Sakae Sushi, the experience is as fresh as the fish served. Diners sit at the sushi counter and write their orders on a notepad, selecting items by letter and number, which are then skillfully prepared right in front of them by friendly sushi chefs. The menu showcases high-end sushi options like yellowtail, salmon, unagi, and the surprising favorite, gizzard shad. Seasonal fusion dishes add a modern twist to traditional favorites, making each visit a delightful culinary adventure.
Freshness is a hallmark here, with guests often praising the quality and variety of seafood that make every bite memorable.

Why Sakae Sushi is a must-visit in Osaka

Aside from its exceptional sushi, Sakae Sushi is beloved for its welcoming atmosphere, where even a bustling crowd doesn’t dilute the efficient and amicable service. It’s a popular spot for locals and travelers who appreciate authentic Japanese cuisine served at affordable prices. Plus, the restaurant’s convenient location in Souemonchō means it’s perfect for a late-night bite after exploring Osaka’s lively entertainment district.
  • Operating hours: Open daily from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM, perfect for night owls.
  • Ordering style: Write your order on a notepad and hand it to the chef to watch your sushi artfully prepared.
  • Payment: Accepts credit cards including JCB, AMEX, and Diners Club.
  • Smoking policy: Smoking is allowed inside, so non-smokers may want to consider this.

Frequently asked questions about Sakae Sushi

  • What are the operating hours of Sakae Sushi? Sakae Sushi operates from 6:00 PM to 5:00 AM, Monday through Sunday.
  • Is there a wait time to be seated at Sakae Sushi? Yes, especially during peak hours, there may be a wait time of 20-30 minutes.
  • Does Sakae Sushi accept credit cards? Yes, Sakae Sushi accepts credit cards including JCB, AMEX, and Diners Club.
  • Is smoking allowed inside Sakae Sushi? Yes, smoking is permitted inside the restaurant.
  • Does Sakae Sushi offer an English menu? Yes, there is an English menu available for non-Japanese speakers.

Community sentiment

The local and visiting community consistently share glowing reviews about Sakae Sushi. Praised for its fresh ingredients, friendly staff, and authentic atmosphere, it has become a beloved destination for sushi aficionados in Osaka. While some mention the popularity leading to wait times and the indoor smoking policy as considerations, the overall sentiment remains highly positive, emphasizing the value and quality of the dining experience.

The story of Sakae Sushi

Sakae Sushi, a beloved sushi restaurant located in Osaka's vibrant Souemonchō district, has been captivating diners since its inception. Founded in 1988 by Douglas Foo in Singapore, the vision was to make sushi accessible to everyone. The restaurant's commitment to fresh, high-quality sushi has made it a staple for both locals and tourists, especially as it operates from dusk until dawn, catering to late-night cravings.
The restaurant's unique ordering system allows diners to write their sushi orders on a notepad, enhancing the interactive dining experience. This casual yet efficient approach has garnered rave reviews, with patrons praising the quick service and the freshness of the fish.
Sakae Sushi's ambiance reflects a blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern dining convenience, making it a welcoming spot for sushi lovers.
The restaurant's commitment to quality and accessibility has made it a cherished part of Osaka's culinary landscape.
Milestones and growth
Sakae Sushi has achieved significant milestones since its founding. Here are some key events in its journey:
• 1988: Douglas Foo founded Sakae Sushi in Singapore, aiming to make sushi accessible to the general public.
• 2001: Sakae Sushi opened its first overseas outlet in Jakarta, Indonesia.
• 2006: The chain expanded to 31 outlets in Singapore and 12 in Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Thailand, and the Philippines.
• 2008: Sakae Sushi opened an outlet in the Chrysler Building, New York City, which closed in 2009 due to the financial crisis.
• 2017: Sakae Sushi closed 10 of its 46 restaurants due to economic challenges.
Cultural and local influence
Sakae Sushi has been shaped by the rich culinary culture of Osaka. The city's love for fresh seafood and vibrant dining experiences has influenced the restaurant's menu and service style. As a result, Sakae Sushi not only serves sushi but also embodies the spirit of Osaka's food culture.
People behind the legacy
The legacy of Sakae Sushi is upheld by its dedicated staff, from chefs to service personnel, who ensure that every dining experience is memorable. The founder, Douglas Foo, has been instrumental in shaping the restaurant's vision and maintaining its commitment to quality.
Evolution and modern era
Over the years, Sakae Sushi has adapted to changing culinary trends while staying true to its roots. The introduction of seasonal specials and innovative sushi creations reflects the restaurant's commitment to evolving with its clientele's tastes.
Continuing the tradition
As Sakae Sushi continues to thrive in Osaka, it remains dedicated to its founding vision of providing high-quality sushi at accessible prices. This commitment ensures that the restaurant will remain a cherished part of the local dining scene for years to come.

Sakae Sushi at a glance

Located in the vibrant Souemonchō district of Osaka, Sakae Sushi is a casual sushi eatery that has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Open from dusk until dawn, this establishment serves fresh, high-quality sushi in a lively atmosphere. Diners often line up for counter seating, where they can watch skilled chefs prepare their meals right before their eyes. With a unique ordering system that allows patrons to write down their selections, Sakae Sushi offers a hands-on dining experience that is both interactive and enjoyable.
The restaurant is well-reviewed for its quick service and friendly staff, making it an ideal spot for sushi lovers looking for a satisfying meal at any hour.

Pros

• Fresh and high-quality sushi offerings
• Friendly and efficient service
• Vibrant atmosphere
• Interactive ordering system
• Late-night operating hours

Cons

• Occasional wait times during peak hours
• Limited seating capacity

Ideal for

Sakae Sushi is perfect for sushi enthusiasts, late-night diners, and anyone looking for a casual yet engaging dining experience.

Things to know before visiting

Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during dinner hours. Sakae Sushi does not take reservations, so arriving early is advisable. Additionally, the menu prices are per piece, and a 10% tax is added to the final bill.

Overall impression

Sakae Sushi stands out as a go-to destination for sushi lovers in Osaka. With its fresh ingredients, interactive dining experience, and welcoming staff, it offers a delightful culinary adventure. While the wait times can be a drawback, the quality of the sushi and the lively atmosphere make it well worth the visit.

4.4

Japanese

$$

Closed - Opens 6:00 PM

Monday

18:00–05:00

Tuesday

Closed

Wednesday

18:00–05:00

Thursday

18:00–05:00

Friday

18:00–05:00

Saturday

18:00–05:00

Sunday

18:00–05:00

Gallery

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Comments

Long line but worth it. Specially the salmon with melted cheese.

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