Sushi-Wa — Restaurant in Charleston

I’d been patiently waiting for a Resy notification for Sushi-Wa, and when it finally came through (at 5am, no less), I jumped on it — and it was absolutely worth the wait.

This isn’t just dinner; it’s a true dining experience. The setting is intimate, with only a handful of seats at the sushi bar, creating a cozy, relaxed atmosphere that feels both special and personal. The staff is warm and attentive without being overbearing, and everything runs seamlessly — often, I found what I needed had already appeared before I even asked.

Chris, our sushi chef, was outstanding. He’s clearly passionate about his craft, and it shows in every detail. The fish was pristine — incredibly fresh, beautifully presented, and often so tender it melted in your mouth. Each piece of nigiri was served individually, allowing you to really savor each bite and appreciate the progression of flavors.

This is not the place for oversized rolls or heavy sauces — it’s about quality over quantity, and a deep respect for the ingredients. If you love nigiri or want to experience high-level sushi in Charleston, this is an exceptional spot. It rivals sushi I’ve had in much larger cities, and honestly, I’m already looking forward to going back.

Highly recommend for anyone who truly appreciates well-crafted sushi in an intimate,...

I wish I could give more than 5 stars because this place deserve it. My fiancé and I love to explore dining options in Charleston, but nothing excites us more than a Sushi-Wa reservation. To start off, it is hands down the best sushi in town. Nothing comes close. In fact, it might be the best omakase in terms of quality we have had in the entire Southeast. The food is fresh and they do not short you on the portions. It almost ruins nights when we have to get sushi elsewhere. Not only is the food great but the staff is incredibly friendly and the atmosphere makes you feel like a VIP for the night. I love (and hate because it is hard to get in) just how small a seating it is. I think keeping the groups smaller makes it more enjoyable. Lastly, I cannot say enough about their willingness to accommodate. We had friends come to town and had to make a last minute change and they went above and...

One of my favorite restaurants I've ever eaten at. The fish is 100% top notch, prepared consistently perfectly. Every bite is both fantastic in itself, and the progression is outstanding, with the perfect amount of the perfect garnish with the fishes where it is appropriate.

They seem to have gone all in on sake recently, which is great. Probably my biggest barrier to being able to appreciate sake is lack of exposure, and their sake flights go towards addressing that. (Hoping for more flight options in the future!) I'm not sure I am "there" for sake yet, but I'm getting there thanks to them. I have huge respect for anyone that can help me broaden my palate like that.

Sushi-Wa is literally one of the reasons we moved to Charleston. It is easily the best sushi I've ever had.

It's nothing but fish, fish, fish. And the bathroom is...