Izakaya ARATA - Seriously Good Sushi

Restaurant Type	Sushi Bar
Value for Money
Vibe

Since moving from Joburg, I’d struggled to find sushi in Port Elizabeth that truly impressed me. Many places were passable, some outright disappointing. Recently, on a whim, I let Waze guide me to the nearest sushi spot while in town—and that’s how I discovered Izakaya ARATA.

Located near the Nelson Mandela Art Museum and St George’s Park, the area feels artsy and vibrant, reminiscent of Melville’s creative charm. The restaurant itself is small and unassuming, but don’t let that fool you—the food packs a serious punch.

I started with pork dumplings that were nothing short of exquisite. Then came a California roll topped with seared salmon and tuna, and seared tuna sashimi that was simply perfect—no critiques here! The menu, though not vast, offers a good variety, from traditional options like eel and tofu to innovative sushi mixes that adventurous eaters will love.

The host was welcoming yet unobtrusive, swiftly handling interruptions without disrupting the dining experience. And the best part? The pricing was incredibly fair for the high-quality dishes.

I can’t wait to return and explore more of their offerings, including their ramen, which I’ve heard great things about. If you’re looking for a place that delivers both classic and inventive sushi, Izakaya ARATA is the spot to try.