M Sushi is just one of Chef Michael Lee’s winners throughout the Triangle. The restaurateur now boasts two M Sushi locations in downtown Durham and Cary’s Fenton, in addition to four acclaimed restaurants in the Triangle. For those lucky to snag a table (reservations on OpenTable), start with dumplings—filled with decadent scallop mousse and lobster. Looking for a sushi sampling? Lee’s omakase is a great option, starting at $59 per person.

An old-reliable for Raleigh folks, Waraji has served sushi since 1997. Masatoshi Tsujimura “Chef Masa” not only opened Waraji, but the beloved Japanese steakhouse Kanki. Located in West Raleigh, Waraji’s extensive menu surpasses just basic sushi. Try a Japanese rice bowl donburi or one of the many unique roll combos that range from $11 to $21 — the Guacamole or Spiral Ecstasy rolls are filling, flavorful options

New to the scene, Sushi Mon is quickly becoming a landmark tucked into an office building off Glenwood Avenue. Chef Chris Lee cuts no corners when it comes to his fare. His version of savory miso soup includes mushrooms, fish, and cabbage. The truffle tuna roll is a menu highlight, especially paired with the freshly chopped wasabi on the side. Insider tip: Sushi Mon experiences long wait times, so put yourself on the waitlist before arriving.

The O-Ku experience showcases chef Cuong Le’s eclectic menu. Part of Indigo Road Hospitality, O-Ku has acclaimed locations across the Southeast including Charleston and Nashville. The restaurant’s modern, high-end atmosphere in Raleigh’s Warehouse District pairs with Le’s newly launched omakase menu—a splurge at $170 per person. The menu matches with a refreshing cocktail like the Shogun with gin and basil or a shot of a bottle of sake from the comprehensive list.

Situated on the cobblestone streets of Raleigh’s City Market, the sushi joint of the same name gives off a sultry, downtown vibe — not to mention a menu that packs a punch. The maguro tataki or crispy pork belly are a great place to start. Continue through the menu with a specialty roll like the Ultimate Rainbow, or go all out with a ten-piece nigiri plate for $56. When dining on a weekend, be sure to make a reservation on City Market’s website to avoid a possible two-hour wait.