It's been quite a few years since I have actually gone out for sushi so I started my search to find a good sushi restaurant in the Charlotte area. I stumbled upon Tora Sushi & Bar, and after looking through their reviews, I was sold. The photos looked amazing and the general consensus seemed to be pretty positive so I figured I'd give it a shot. I was really digging the modern design and the validated parking ramp connected to the building was a huge plus. We were seated promptly and the service was super friendly. Our first round of sushi and drinks were pretty slow in getting to the table but it sped up as the night went on. This may have been due to either a miscommunication or an influx of orders at once because our following orders were pretty quick.
We ordered a variety of different rolls, crab rangoon, an array of nigiri, and dessert. The specialty sushi rolls were super tasty and how could you go wrong with crab rangoon. I always appreciate the creativity that goes into americanized sushi rolls but my go to order is typically going to be nigiri. I ordered yellowtail, toro, uni, salmon, and scallops. Everything was super fresh and the rice was cooked perfectly. I think the nigiri could've done without the wasabi and toppings but this just comes down to personal preference. I'll sometimes order certain nigiri with caviar but ultimately, I just let the chef decide on how they want to present their sushi. I have since learned that this practice of adding wasabi and other accents is normal, but most places I have gone to don't do this. So, it may just take more time go get accustomed to this before making a decision on whether I like it or not.
We ordered the fried ice cream for dessert but it wasn't very good. It didn't taste fried at all and it was sort of soggy. Everything else was good though and since it's primarily a sushi spot, this didn't really effect the review. Otherwise, I found it be a successful and delicious...
Read moreI stumbled into Tora after a long 10-hour work shift—exhausted but craving a good meal. I’d driven past this spot countless times, always curious, especially since the space had housed a few different restaurants over the years. As a sushi lover, I finally decided to stop in—and I’m so glad I did.
Tora is located off Morehead, right off Exit 10. They offer garage parking in the back and even validate it, though I ended up parking on a side street. I entered through the patio, where I ran into Dias, who was on a break. He immediately opened the door for me and kindly asked where I’d like to sit. The hospitality started from the moment I arrived.
The decor instantly impressed me—modern, warm, and stylish. The patio has a charming view overlooking the street, which I loved. Since I was dining solo and planned to take some food to go, I chose to sit at the bar.
Dias handed me a menu and took my drink order. He also crafted one of the best lychee martinis I’ve ever had—fresh, smooth, and just the right amount of sweetness. For appetizers, I ordered the Spam musubi—something I’ve always wanted to try—and it did not disappoint. I’m a big Spam fan, and this was delicious. I also had the miso soup, which was rich and comforting—definitely something I’ll be ordering again.
By that point, I was already feeling full, but I stayed for a couple more drinks. Adi took over at the bar, and he was just as warm and welcoming as Dias. I truly felt so taken care of throughout the night.
For my takeout, I ordered the sweet and sour chicken, upgraded with fried rice—and I’m so glad I did. The food was incredibly fresh and full of flavor.
Tora has officially made it onto my list of go-to spots. Whether it’s a date night or a girls’ night out, the ambiance is immaculate, the service is top-tier, and the food and drinks are unforgettable. I can’t wait to come back and explore more...
Read moreBeing a sushi lover and living near Tora, I was excitedly anticipating their opening. As soon as they did in July, I went and it easily became the best sushi restaurant I’ve EVER been to. The staff is SO nice, and the service is always quick. They are always willing to customize our rolls. For example, their tuna on tuna roll is incredible, but we are salmon lovers. We asked to do salmon on salmon, they were happy to create it for us and now we get it every time! Not to mention, the rolls are ALWAYS fresh. Their food is definitely high quality. I feel amazing after every meal, can’t beat that! They did an incredible job with the vibe and interior design of the restaurant, I love sitting in there. In summer, sitting outside was so nice too. Their bar area is beautiful. This is easily the best sushi spot in Charlotte. Going regularly, dining in and pickup, the food is CONSISTENTLY good/fresh, the staff is CONSISTENTLY friendly and attentive and the restaurant is always beautiful and clean. I don’t normally post reviews this lengthy but, I just love this place so much and want to give them their flowers.
*I have been to sushi places in Hawaii, Seattle, California and many more and this seriously beats...
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