Hilton Head Island, August 21, 2025
News Summary
Sushi has seen a booming presence in U.S. dining since the 1960s, with approximately 17,000 sushi restaurants operating today. Hilton Head Island offers top-rated sushi spots like those on New Orleans Road and Matthews Drive. Visitors can also engage in sushi-making classes at Kung Fu Cantina. This culinary trend showcases American appreciation for the diverse flavors of sushi and promotes dining experiences that blend cultural significance with enjoyment.
Hilton Head Island, SC – Sushi has experienced a significant surge in popularity across the United States since the 1960s, characterized by an increase in the number of sushi restaurants and widespread appreciation for this traditional Japanese cuisine. Approximately 17,000 sushi restaurants operate in the United States as of 2024, signifying how deeply this culinary art has embedded itself into American dining culture.
The evolution of sushi in the U.S. began with the establishment of Kawafuku in Los Angeles’ Little Tokyo neighborhood, one of the early pioneers of sushi dining in the country. This restaurant attracted Japanese businessmen, who introduced their American colleagues to sushi, thus laying the groundwork for its future success. In 1970, Osho, another sushi establishment, launched next to the 20th Century Fox studio in Hollywood, further appealing to the glamour of the film industry.
By the late 1980s, sushi’s appeal had spread to major urban centers, including New York and Chicago, solidifying its status as a staple in American cuisine. With its growing popularity, sushi imbued a cultural significance that extended beyond mere flavors, making it a trendy dining choice for many.
As sushi continues to gain traction, residents and visitors of Hilton Head Island can explore some of the best sushi spots in the area. Based on data compiled by Stacker, the following restaurants have received the highest ratings, taking into account both the number of reviews and their respective scores. The list only includes locations with a minimum of 20 reviews, ensuring a reliable selection of eateries.
Top Rated Sushi Restaurants in Hilton Head Island
- Restaurant at 1017 Fording Island Road Ste 105, Bluffton, SC
- Rating: 3.0/5 (81 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars
- Restaurant at 51 New Orleans Road Ste 3, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Rating: 3.8/5 (236 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Categories: Asian Fusion, Salad, Sushi Bars
- Restaurant at 37 New Orleans Road Ste East, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Rating: 3.9/5 (206 reviews)
- Price level: $$
- Categories: Japanese, Sushi Bars
- Restaurant at 95 Matthews Drive Ste C, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Rating: 4.0/5 (544 reviews)
- Price level: $$$
- Categories: Asian Fusion, Sushi Bars
- Restaurant at 83 Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island, SC
- Rating: 4.3/5 (112 reviews)
- Categories: Sushi Bars, Burgers, Sandwiches
In addition to dining, sushi enthusiasts in Hilton Head Island can also participate in sushi-making classes offered by Kung Fu Cantina, a Latin and Asian fusion restaurant that opened in the fall of 2024. These classes take place on the first Saturday of each month and cost $75 per person. Participants engage in a two-hour session, learning to create three sushi rolls while enjoying select cocktails. Each class accommodates ten participants to ensure personal attention, and attendees can take home sushi-making tools for practice at home.
The rise of sushi in American culture reflects evolving tastes and open-minded dining preferences. Hilton Head Island’s expanding sushi scene offers residents and visitors ample opportunities to enjoy this diverse and flavorful cuisine.
FAQs
What is the history of sushi in the United States?
Sushi became popular in the U.S. in the 1960s, beginning with restaurants like Kawafuku in Los Angeles, which introduced this cuisine to American diners.
How many sushi restaurants are in the United States?
As of 2024, there are approximately 17,000 sushi restaurants operating across the United States.
What are the top-rated sushi restaurants in Hilton Head Island?
Top-rated sushi spots based on Yelp reviews include those located on New Orleans Road and Matthews Drive, with ratings ranging from 3.0 to 4.3 out of 5.
Are there any sushi-making classes in Hilton Head Island?
Yes, Kung Fu Cantina offers sushi-making classes on the first Saturday of each month for those interested in learning how to make sushi.
Key Features of Sushi in Hilton Head Island
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Popularity Growth | Increased sushi restaurants from the 1960s to present day. |
| Restaurant Counts | Approximately 17,000 sushi establishments across the U.S. |
| Top Rated Restaurants | Key sushi spots in Hilton Head Island based on Yelp ratings. |
| Sushi Classes | Monthly sushi-making classes available at Kung Fu Cantina. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hilton Head Island Emerges as Culinary Destination with Diverse Dining Experiences
Charleston Businesses Embrace Nostalgia with Free Souvenirs
South Carolina Aquarium Hosts Monthly Networking Event
Beaufort County Food Businesses Face Health Inspection Challenges
Exploring Hilton Head Island’s Iconic Casual Eats
Top Kid-Friendly Restaurants on Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Welcomes Family-Friendly Dining Options in 2025
Top Waterfront Dining Spots in Hilton Head Island
Hilton Head Island Welcomes Dog-Friendly Dining
New Taphouse Crafthouse North to Open in Mount Pleasant
Additional Resources
- Stacker: Highest Rated Sushi Restaurants in Hilton Head Island
- Wikipedia: Sushi
- Island Packet: Local News on Hilton Head Island
- Google Search: Sushi Hilton Head Island
- Eater: Best Restaurants in Hilton Head Bluffton
- Google Scholar: Sushi Restaurants in America
- Island Packet: Real Estate News in Hilton Head
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sushi
- Eat It and Like It: Kung Fu Cantina Opening
- Google News: Sushi Hilton Head
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
