Sushi Nirvana at Nagoya

Some restaurants feel like home from the very first visit. Nagoya Sushi in Dr. Phillips is one of them.

When my husband Steve and I moved to this part of Orlando a year and half ago, the bar for a go-to neighborhood Japanese place was set pretty high. First, at Ko Sushi during my NYC days, then here at Wa in Casselberry. Nagoya easily took its place alongside these greats. No surprise. A wall next to the restaurant’s sushi bar is lined with framed awards and accolades — going all the way back to 2005.

Inside the arcade of The Marketplace at Dr. Phillips, a few feet away from a day spa, tailor and construction company, is where you’ll find Nagoya. The feeling of home starts as soon as you walk in, with friendly, attentive staff like our frequent server Rex. He’s the best.

Nagoya’s menu features a mix of innovative sushi, seasonal specialties and Japanese kitchen favorites. For appetizers, Steve and I love the steamed Shimai dumplings and buttery garlic edamame. The sliced, short ribs are melt in your mouth perfection. Also not to be missed, this heavenly Takoyaki – octopus and scallion balls topped with Takoyaki sauce and dried bonito.

Nagoya also knocks it out of the park with their signature special rolls, creatively named and crafted for maximum delight. The, ahem, Orgasm Roll is an explosion of flavor. Shrimp tempura, krabmeat, avocado, salmon baked with spicy mayo, eel sauce and seasoning. Our other favorite is the New York Roll: yellowtail, tuna, salmon, avocado and asparagus with cream cheese topped with caviar.

Additional standouts include the Godfather and Samba rolls.

Craving something sweet? Try the decadent Banana Tempura. True confession. We’ve only had room for dessert once, because the rolls here are as filling as they are delicious. 

If you’re looking for amazing sushi served with a smile in a cozy, warm setting, give Nagoya a try.