A Cozy Sushi & Tempura Izakaya in Nagoya: My Evening at Sushipa

24/09/2025

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A Cozy Sushi & Tempura Izakaya in Nagoya: My Evening at Sushipa

While exploring Nagoya’s Higashi Ward, I recently visited Sushipa, a small izakaya specializing in sushi and tempura. Located just a 5-minute walk from Hisaya Odori Station, it’s a hidden gem for those looking to enjoy Japanese food and drinks in a relaxed setting.

Discovering the Place

One evening, after an early dinner with my sister, we felt like finding a place to enjoy a light drink together. A quick search on Google brought up Sushipa, which had excellent reviews. The izakaya is small, seating around 20 people, making it feel intimate and welcoming.

We arrived around 8:00 pm on a weekday. Besides us, there were about six other customers, creating a calm and cozy atmosphere.

What We Ordered

The evening began with an otoshi—a small starter dish that comes with the table charge. In our case, it was a plate of fresh salmon sashimi, a pleasant surprise to start the meal.

We then ordered tempura: lotus root, asparagus, and eggplant. Each piece was freshly fried, crisp on the outside, and flavorful inside. After that, we tried the five-piece sushi set, carefully prepared by the chef right in front of us. He even explained each piece as he served it. The sea bream (tai) and flounder (hirame) stood out for their freshness and firm texture—absolutely delicious.

I had just one drink, and after about an hour of enjoying the food and atmosphere, we called it a night.

Final Impressions

Sushipa felt like the perfect place for a light evening meal. The clean interior and peaceful ambiance made it especially comfortable. On weekdays, it seems relatively quiet, which adds to its charm.

If you’re in Nagoya and looking for a spot to enjoy a little sushi, some freshly fried tempura, and a drink in a relaxed setting, I highly recommend Sushipa. It’s best suited for small groups or pairs who want an authentic yet casual Japanese dining experience.

Our map

I’ve compiled a list of Nagoya’s places that I’ve personally visited. Is Nagoya boring? Not at all! While it has developed as an industrial city, it also hides interesting places full of history and culture. Use this guide to explore Nagoya and discover its hidden gems.