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    Butterfish Sushi

    4.7 (175 reviews)
    Ultra High-EndSushi Bars, Japanese, Seafood
    Closed 5:00 pm - 11:00 PM

    Order Butterfish Sushi Takeout or Delivery

    Butterfish Sushi Photos

    BUTTERFISH SUSHI ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Trendy
    Intimate
    Romantic

    Recommended Reviews - Butterfish Sushi

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    Reviews With Photos

    Tiffany Y.

    Is it possible to give this 10 stars? Because that was my experience on MOTHER'S DAY. First time coming here and it's been on my Yelp list for so long that I'm so happy I made myself the time to come here with a cousin! I made reservations about 2 weeks in advanced for 12pm and we lucked out with NJ weather and sat outside on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Because it was Mother's Day, they had 2 set omakase experiences to choose from. We decided to splurge and did the chef tasting. I couldn't even tell you everything I put in my mouth, but just know everything was SO fresh that the fish melted in your mouth. The owner Jo Jo came out to greet us, explained the menu to us, and even acknowledged the fact that the music outdoors was way too loud and he turned it down. He was extremely friendly and personable along with the rest of the waitstaff. The service could not have been any better. The sushi was SO fresh I literally could've eaten 50 more pieces if I didn't do dinner that night. I'm so happy that I was able to experience the tasting menu and told my husband we have to come back. The setting was intimate and small and it just had such a good vibe. Being outdoors on a beautiful day was a nice surprise. I can't say enough nice things about this place and the staff and the FOOD. I highly recommend Butterfish. Just make the reservation. You won't regret it.

    Bruna S.

    Beautiful place, as soon as I got there I was impressed with the decor and how the ambiance made us feel welcoming!!! Service was on point, they did explain everything when serving the food. Sushi was impeccable!!!! Everything fresh, tasty and memorable, can't wait to come back!!! We did the premium menu if I am not mistaken, and is totally worth it!!! For desert they did a complimentary gelato chef selection that was the cherry on top on our experience, thank you for everything!

    Chris A.

    Very popular and on many "Best of" sushi lists so you MUST make reservations weeks in advance. We saw a "walk-in" turned away on a busy Friday night. It's on a hard to park side street but a public garage is only 1 block away. BYOB. As tiny as this restaurant it is huge on staff\service and has a great vibe. Staff is very friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable. Their specialty is Omakase ( chef's choice) sushi dinners. We all had the premium which had a three Apps, two handrolls, and 12 pieces of sushi. Very filling. I highly recommend the miso glazed black cod which is amazing. Cooked to perfection. Delicate yet full of flavor. Between the food, presentation, and stellar service... If you're a real "sushi-head" or want a place to start out with truly fresh, authentic sushi, then this is the place.

    Erica J.

    I parked at a garage nearby. I got the $99 "The Premium" omakase and it was very good for Jersey. It is BYOB. The space is kind of small inside so I can see why it gets packed.

    Thiago D.

    The omakase experience is a must here. Forget ordering separate rolls, this is what they are known for. BYO so don't forget to bring a bottle of your favorite wine. The menu has been curated by Michelin star chefs, and the food reflected that. Expertly crafted rolls and flawless execution, you won't be disappointed. Service was spectacular. They asked at first if there were any allergies and from the on plate after plate of deliciousness. Their servers explained every roll and its ingredients. My favorite was a foie gras roll. I know... sounds weird right but this was an absolute banger. Dessert? Went for a black seasame Gelato and boy it was an absolute closer to a phenomenal meal. Trendy and hip, this place is perfect for a date night.

    Stephanie L.

    Came on NYE and had their omakase experience menu. This really made the ordering process easy and allowed us to try a variety of menu items. Food was absolutely amazing, every dish paired nicely. They also allow BYOB. The only downsides I found was: Extremely small restaurant with tables very close to each other. Payment and tip on handheld device, selected 20% tip but device charged 22% anyways.. not sure if this is a scam but there was no way to change or revert the charge and it did not show the total you were paying until after the charge went through on the card. (Also no receipt)

    Adam S.

    Ok may have to review again to give it another 5 stars 5 does not seem enough From the minute you walk in this small but stunning place you are treated like family The owner knew it was my birthday and greeted me right away I guess my family told him The staff came over and explained everything I don't know what to say about the food words don't do it justice It is a must go for any foodie don't go for the sushi go for the ambience and experience I only wish I could go every week

    Brenda C.

    Found a hidden gem. We made reservations in this cozy restaurant where the menu is curated by Michelin Starred chefs. The minute we stepped through their doors, we were warmly greeted by the entire staff. Upon being seated right away, we noticed the intimate atmosphere. They maximize every square space of it. Upon perusal we all decided on "The One" omakase. This omakase consisted of 2 appetizers, an eight (8) piece tray of incredible sushi, and two hand rolls. Everything was made to perfection. One of the highlights was the appetizer, Butterfish Spoon, which has three different fishes paired with a ponzu drizzle on a delicate wafer bowl. Outrageously delicious. This appetizer was not part of their "The One." Their menu and service were top notch. They constantly came over to ensure you had everything and ensured your cups were always filled. I highly recommend.

    Reyna N.

    Butterfish delivers luxury in the most effortless way. From the moment you arrive, the energy is refined, intimate, and perfectly curated. The service is polished yet warm, making you feel both indulged and at ease. The food is unforgettable, beautifully executed, bold in flavor, and meant to be savored. Every dish feels intentional, elevated, and indulgent without trying too hard. A special thank you to Danny, whose impeccable service, attentiveness, and grace elevated the entire evening, and to Jojo, the General Manager, for running such a seamless, world-class operation. It shows in every detail. Butterfish isn't just a place to dine, it's a destination. If you appreciate exceptional cuisine, elevated ambiance, and true hospitality, this is where you belong.

    Rory H.

    I treated myself to Butterfish Sushi in Rutherford, New Jersey, and let me tell you... this place is a dream. From the moment I walked in, the energy was perfect. The food? Impeccable. The mocktails? Chef's kiss. The vibe? So warm and welcoming. Shoutout to JoJo -- my new best friend (he just doesn't know it yet) -- and Danielle, who was incredibly sweet and made me feel so at home. The entire staff was amazing. This experience was amazing amazing amazing amazing (yes, four times!) -- and I will absolutely be back. If you're ever in the area (or even if you're not), do yourself a favor and GO. Thank me later.

    Tasting Menu
    Thomas D.

    My wife and I had made reservations at Butterfish after hearing all of the uproar. When we walked in, the host generously offered to take our wine and keep it cold while we waited for our table to be setup. After seeing the menu in person, we wish we brought airplane bottles to try their cocktails. They look delicious. We reviewed our options and went for the tasting menu to let the chef do his thing. It also comes with soda, bottled and sparkling water . We ordered 2 additional starters, edamame and Salmon Burrata. Those arrived with our first course of the tasting menu. Overall, The staff provided great service, but the tasting menu didn't do anything for us. We felt the main courses were average. I'd maybe try again, but I would bring airplane bottles and not get the tasting menu.

    Hand roll
    Ina F.

    We heard about this new spot on social media and since my boyfriend and I love an omakase, we had to check it out. It's BYOB, but we ordered the non alcoholic beverages and just bought some nips of tequila and vodka to mix in. Worked great and they were very generous pours of the various non alcoholic cocktails. The omakase was ok. I much prefer a piece by piece approach as opposed to getting 4-5 pieces in one go. It also felt repetitive with not much difference between the various pieces we had. Still a good spot to go to if you have a hankering for omakase.

    Marvin S.

    Ambiance Butterfish 's ambience is very nice. It's a small roughly seats 20 people inside along with a few tables outside as well . The interior is decorated with murals the most notable one being the geisha head on the wall and a ninja towards the bathroom along with other smaller ones scattered throughout the restaurant. This place is definitely a great intimate date night place for sure . The music is great ( mix of hip hop/ rnb) along with mood lightning as well. Service The service was excellent I'd have to say from the moment we checked in to the start of dinner service. Everything was well prepared and explained to all of us as it was brought to the table. Food As for the food, I ordered a mocktail ( Japanese Cherry Blossom) loved it the lychee flavor super refreshing . For the table we ordered ( Tuna Avocado Tartare) loved the freshness of both ingredients, and the ( White Truffle Scallop Carpaccio ) also fresh with a little bit of zest/kick at the end. We also tried the (Maine oysters on the half shell) the sauce it was prepared in was a nice accompaniment. Then the host also gave us seared salmon belly hand rolls topped with caviar on the house for my birthday dinner ( it was the most delicious bite of the night I'd have to say. For the main course I did ( The Premium) omakase experience. Priced at $99.00 it did not disappoint. It was 12 nigiri , 2 hand rolls and 3 appetizers. Everything was very fresh and well prepared . Safe to say I walked away full for sure . Cons As someone who takes their sushi seriously having been to every single omakase centered restaurant in New Jersey and a seasoned veteran in NYC omakases there were a few things that I wasn't a fan of . - The Shari aka sushi rice tasted like the chef just used plain white rice. No hint of preparation. Usually with shari preparation, you can taste a hint of vinegar but here at butterfish no taste at all. - I'm not a fan of omakases that do double of the same ingredients. ( i.e. 2 salmon 2 tuna etcc) there's so many different kinds of fish that the chef can use like Mackerel, Ikura, Suzuki, Kinmedai etcc. Especially if the price is $99.00. You should be able to offer other cuts instead of doubling up if that makes sense. - Salmon and Burrata don't belong on a sushi restaurant menu personally. Do they taste good together? sure it taste good I'm not disagreeing but this is a sushi restaurant not a fusion place like pasta ramen . In conclusion, Butterfish is the Sugarfish of New Jersey . It's a low cost, low pressure environment for people who want to try omakase but don't want to spend hundreds of dollars for a true NYC omakase or intimidated by one but are looking for a step up from the usual California/ Spicy Tuna/ Yummy Yummy rolls. Lastly, I just want to say that the host of the restaurant really made my experience a standout for sure . I truly have to commend him on his dedication and customer service. Thank you for making my birthday dinner great!

    Omakase Experience: The Signature - Appetizer (Course 1)

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    Ask the Community - Butterfish Sushi

    Is the omakase intended for one person or to be shared?

    You can share it but you're going to be disappointed if you have to give half of it away- lol

    Is reservation required ? We went at 5;30 pm and were told we don't take walk ins.

    Yes, you need a reservation! Unfortunately, they can be a bit hard to get but totally worth it!

    Is it expensive?

    This is high quality sushi. It's not what I call "Frankenstein" sushi with sauces and topping after topping and fish on top of fish or all you can eat. This is real, quality grade fish and presented well. You don't have to order Omakase. You can… Read more

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Yellowtail Japanese Bistro

    Yellowtail Japanese Bistro

    4.2
    (219 reviews)
    0.1 mi
    $$

    Wonderful restaurant. Went after my friend's graduation (yay) the food was amazing. Mushroom miso…read morewas amazing and fresh as well as the Salmon Jalapeño app. The fish was fresh and super good. Many varieties of rolls and they all sounded so good. Fall in love roll was my favorite for the evening! The waitresses were so nice and helpful, one of them was new and she was doing amazing. The place itself is really cute and perfect for date night.

    A gal needs her sushi! I was craving raw fish and decided to try out Yellowtail, a BYOB Japanese…read morerestaurant located in the heart of Rutherford. They have an extensive menu with sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, noodles, soup, salads, fusion appetizers, etc. They even have some Korean items like bulgogi, sundubu, and bibimbap. Prices are reasonable. I called and placed a take-out order near closing time. The employee was accommodating, pleasant, and told me my order would be ready in 15 minutes. I drove over and was able to find street parking easily. The interior is casual and spacious, but a little dreary and outdated. They have exposed brick walls, wood tables, and hanging light fixtures. My food was prepared on time. I ordered: *Salmon Lover - 4 pieces of sushi, 4 pieces of sashimi, 6 piece roll ($20.50) *Tuna Lover - 4 pieces of sushi, 4 pieces of sashimi, 6 piece roll ($20.50) The salmon and tuna were fresh in taste, texture, and smell. Vibrant colors, firm and smooth textures, and delicate flavors! The sushi rolls had the right fish to rice ratio. The rice could've been more seasoned. The miso soup was warm, savory, and comforting. Not the best sushi I've ever had, but it did the job of satisfying my cravings. I would return to try their special rolls!

    Photos
    Interior
    Interior
    Yellowtail Japanese Bistro
    Yellowtail Japanese Bistro

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    Butterfish Sushi - sushi - Updated July 2026

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