This article first appeared on Localeur's website--check them out for travel recommendations! Localeur features in-the-know locals giving food, drink, and recreation recommendations from all over the world!
O-Ku
Interior of O-Ku//photo courtesy of O-Ku's Facebook page
Located in the ever-growing South End neighborhood, O-Ku is a great spot to meet friends for a drink and some fresher-than-fresh sushi. Must tries include the Green Eggs and Hamachi Hako, which is a boxed style sushi, and the Kiwi Kani roll which incorporates lump crab, avocado, and yes, kiwi, which is super fresh, creative, and delicious. Stop in Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-7pm for half off sushi rolls!
O-ku Sushi//photo courtesy of O-Ku's Facebook page
Ru Sans
Exterior of Ru Sans//photo courtesy of Charlotte Agenda
Ru Sans in Dilworth is a Charlotte staple for quality sushi at a great price point. Don’t be deterred if there is a wait--it usually moves faster than what they quote. While you wait, enjoy a sake bomb at the bar and enjoy the cheers in your honor from all of the sushi chefs. My favorite roll is the Green Dragon, which has tempura shrimp and cucumber wrapped in avocado and roe. Yum!
The infamous sushi lunch buffet//photo courtesy of Trip Advisor
Bonsai Fusion
Sushi burrito!//Photo courtesy of Charlotte Agenda
If you find yourself Uptown for lunch, head over to 7th Street Market. Do not get distracted by the myriad options available in this fun eatery hall--you are here for the sushi, remember? The best deal at Bonsai is their signature lunch special--two rolls for $9! Also, check out the sushi burrito ($10) or the poke bowl. Their options are fresh, quick, and tasty!
Terminator roll//photo courtesy of Yelp
Futo Buta
Salmon belly nigiri
Although Futo Buta bills itself as more of a ramen shop than a sushi joint, their sushi is awesome! My favorite is the Salmon Belly Nigiri, which started as a special but is now a menu staple--it’s topped with a fabulous yuzu mayo tobiko roe. Other rolls are offered on special daily, and at this funky South End eatery, sushi can be an accompaniment to another dish like ramen or a rice bowl. Options abound!
Uni nigiri//photo courtesy of Yelp
