If you want to eat the best sushi in America, you might have to venture a bit off the mainland to get to this infamous food truck, but it’s well worth the trip.
Kaua’i Sushi Station, located on the Hawaiian island of Kaua’i, has been named the best sushi restaurant in the country for the second year in a row, according to Yelp.
Yelp recently renamed Kaua’i Sushi Station as number one in their Top 100 Sushi Spots of 2024, and despite being some 2,500 miles from the continental United States, it might be worth the trip.
The food truck, which opened four years ago in Līhu‘e on the Garden Isle’s east side, also took home the top spot for best sushi in Yelp’s 2023 list.
“We were so excited. We are proud because we work so hard,” owner and chef James Jithitikunchai told Kauai Now News.
Kaua’i Sushi Station, located on the Hawaiian island of Kaua’i, has been named the best sushi in the country for the second year in a row, according to Yelp
The food truck, which opened four years ago in Līhuʻe on the Garden Isle’s east side, also took home the top spot for best sushi in Yelp’s 2023 list
“We make with our heart… We care about our food,” he continued.
He describes making sushi as an “art,” which contributes to the popularity of their food truck.
“I like to make something beautiful,” James describes the way he makes sushi.
“Sushi is an art form, you know?” he added.
Haru and James claim that their sushi is so popular because they only use fresh and authentic ingredients.
They use fresh yellowfin tuna from local fishermen and many of their other ingredients are imported from Japan.
The couple also regularly visit Nāwiliwili Harbour to catch sea urchins, octopus and otoro (the belly part of the bluefin tuna).
According to Yelp, Kaua’i Sushi Station’s most popular dishes are the Ginger Crazy Roll and the Godzilla Roll.
They buy freshly caught yellowfin tuna from local fishermen and many of their other ingredients are imported from Japan
Yelp reviews can’t get enough of the unique food truck, leaving rave reviews on the website
According to reviews on the website, Kaua’i Sushi Station stands out because the sushi is presented on plates and decorated with organic edible flowers.
James previously worked as a sushi chef at Japanese Grandma’s, a Japanese café in Hanapēpē, but decided to open his own business with his wife Haru Assawaprayukul.
James and Haru are both from Bangkok, but met in the US while making sushi in restaurants in Chicago.
According to Yelp, the food truck has a 4.8 out of 5 star rating from customers, with many rave reviews.
“Amazing food with fantastic tasting food. This is a hidden gem with the really friendly staff. Overall one of the best dining experiences we have ever had on Kauai!” wrote one customer.
“I know what you’re thinking because I thought the same thing at first, sushi from a food truck? Sounds like sushi from a gas station but trust me when I say this is the best of the best!” cheered another.
“A well-deserved five-star rating!” agreed another satisfied customer, who called it a “work of art.”
“Overall the sandwiches were well balanced, the fish was fresh, the price was right. The service was great. There was parking, there was plenty of seating outside.”