On track! Sydney’s best sushi trains

Edomae Sushi is all about paying homage to the rich history of Japan’s Edo period – the birthplace of sushi as a street food delicacy.

The restaurant’s warm atmosphere is enhanced by the enchanting glow of traditional-style lanterns and murals inspired by Japan’s rich culture.

Expect an authentic sushi train experience, with a focus on quality seafood, expert preparation from the chefs, and Edo-era recipes.

Walk in and find a benchside seat in the elegant Burwood Grand venue (or there’s another at Regent Place) and marvel in the scenic succession of sushi and sashimi dishes coming your way.

A wide diversity of handcrafted delights are on offer, from fresh scampi and octopus rolls, to salmon and spanner crab sushi. Don’t forget the fluffy tamago (egg) nigiri – here, it’s a sweet and creamy treat.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Salmon belly nigiri (MP)

Translated literally as ‘sincerely’ or ‘from the heart’, Makoto has been one of Sydney’s most frequented sushi trains since 1999.

The kitchen’s rice and sauces are prepared daily by hand instead of machine, while the fish is selected by the master sushi chefs each morning from the market.

If you’re after a sushi train that prioritizes humble service and premium quality, you’ll find much to love about Makoto Sushi Bar and the generous array of options to choose from.

You’ll find sashimi, freshly assembled nigiri, gunkan-style sushi and other special rolls in the sushi train. Be sure to check out the grilled cheese sushi roll for a unique and decadent snack.

Fresh and speedy, it’s best to head to Sushi Makoto for a healthy CBD lunch run or pre-drink eats with friends after work.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Sushi train plates ($3.90 – MP)

After a tasty, boozy and super kawaii (cute) sushi train experience in Sydney? Head straight for Parramatta Road, where Snacky Chans is hosting weekend sushi train extravaganzas from midday until late.

Snacks from the sushi train are priced as low as $3.50 per plate, and Instagrammable cocktails make a juicy and flavourful accompaniment. Expect a generous range of nigiri and hand-roll classics, enlivened with the Snacky Chans modern twist.

If you’d prefer to eat off the menu instead, the kitchen at Snacky Chans doesn’t play small. Indulge in citrusy kingfish tacos, prawn toasts with black garlic mayo and nutty mushroom potstickers for starters. Plates of tender pork belly yakitori spiced with shichimi togarashi are delicious and great for sharing.

Want to ask the whole family along? Kids will be well looked after with the special Karate Kids menu, serving up BBQ pork steam buns, katsu chicken and crisp and tender tempura fish bites.

Just be sure to make a booking – this place gets busy!

Dish Cult’s top pick: Sushi train plates ($3.50 – $7.50)

After multiple visits to Japan, the Kyo team fell in love with the classic architecture of cozy Japanese sushi huts.

Kyo Sushi Bar is an opportunity to experience this environment right here at home in Sydney. An idyllic escape to a Japanese-style sanctuary, make a booking here for a unique family lunch or intimate daytime date.

At this sushi train, it’s the fresh seafood that’s the star of the show. Saucy, spicy and rich from the salmon fat, the Kyo roll is the specialty.

But if you’re after something a bit different, opt for the grilled conger eel or snapper nigiri. Recent favourites also include the Wagyu beef tataki nigiri, octopus salad gunkan, and the tender and tangy scallop nigiri.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Kyo roll ($5)

Perhaps the most popular and widely known sushi train chain in Sydney, Sushi Train has multiple locations dotted around the city.

They’re all loads of fun and excellent bang for your buck, but word on the street is the Sushi Train in Neutral Bay has a particular attention to ambience and quality. The venue is sleek and minimalist, perfect for a glamorous night out without the extreme price tag.

As per the traditional sushi train experience, there’s a diverse range of sushi and sashimi on the conveyor belt, plus plenty of hot Japanese mains to choose from on the a la carte menu.

You’ll find all your nigiri and hand-roll favourites here, but how about trying something a bit different? The tsubugai (baby clam) and ika sagata (baby squid) are interesting options. Keep an eye out for the natto roll for a taste of one of Japan’s favourite fermented foods! The texture is like nothing else.

Dish Cult’s top pick: Natto roll ($3.50)

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• Our ultimate guide to the best Japanese in Sydney