A taste of Japan in Orlando: Where to find Disney World's best sushi

There's no doubt that the number of sushi lovers is growing all the time, and the trend is as true in Orlando as it is anywhere else. So if you're headed to Disney World for vacation and can't live without your raw fish fix, here's a guide to hooking Disney's best sushi.


1) Japan Pavilion in Epcot Center


Not too surprisingly, the best place for sushi in all of Disney World is the Japan Pavilion at Epcot Center, where all of the eateries serve at least some sushi. The contemporary Japanese menu at Tokyo Dining includes sushi, sashimi, and maki rolls, which is made by chefs stationed at a bar in the dining room. Teppan Edo, known for stir-frying meals on tabletop grills right in front of guests, also serves sushi, as does Yakatori House, a casual eatery overlooking the Japanese gardens.


2) Kona Island Sushi Bar in Disney's Polynesian Resort


A new joint for for scoring some of Disney World's best sushi is the Kona Island Sushi Bar in Disney's Polynesian Resort, located on the second floor of the Great Ceremonial House. Diners can walk right up to the bar without reservations, and can either sit at the bar to watch the chef prepare sushi right in front of them, or can grab one of the tables around the bar. Guests at Kona Island Sushi Bar can also order off the Kona Cafe menu, and vice versa.


3) Kimonos in the Swan Resort


The best place for Disney World's best sushi outside of the theme parks is at Kimonos restaurant in the Swan Resort, which is part of the boardwalk area that's close to The Boardwalk Villas Resort. There is limited seating here, but making a reservation is worth the effort. While you watch the chefs prepare your fresh sushi at the bar, you can nibble on other Asian dishes like gyoza (dumplings) and duck satay. Some of the more exotic sushi combinations in Disney can be found here, like the coconut shrimp roll and the jalapeno roll.


Be sure to check out at least one of these next time you're at Disney World, as sushi can provide a much-needed break from the daily hamburger-and-hot-dog grind you may otherwise fall into!


- Carl Trent of Dad’s Guide to WDW and the Dad’s Guide to WDW blog


[Photo credit: IceNineJon/Flickr]