Did you know Jacksonville, NC, is home not only to Camp Lejeune, great fishing, and waterfront fun; but also to some unexpectedly fabulous food? I’m thrilled to share that my fourth hidden gem in this ongoing culinary adventure when you visit Jacksonville NC, is celebrating a major milestone this month. Wasabi Japanese Sushi & Cuisine, a small family-owned Japanese restaurant and sushi bar, turns 12 years old this April 2025! That’s no small feat in the restaurant world, especially for a cozy little spot like this one, run with heart and hustle by siblings Lee Li and Jessie Zheng.
As someone who’s proud to have worked with Visit Jacksonville NC to help highlight local flavors on the city’s International Food Trail (check it out here), I love shining the spotlight, on this long-standing local favorite. It is certainly a must-stop for me every time I am in town.
Sushi in Jacksonville NC: A Masterpiece on a Plate
New York sushi style lands in Jacksonville NC at Wasabi, where the flavor and flair are always on point. Whether you’re a lifelong sushi lover or just testing the waters, this little restaurant delivers big. Sushi and sashimi are the stars here; but don’t sleep on the stir fried offerings, each one crafted with precision and served with pride.
Pro tip: Order the Sushi Cake. Not a cake at all, this exquisite sushi platter centers around a martini glass of house-made dipping sauce, is a showstopper. Stacked in “cakes” around the sauce: four layered blocks of sushi, with colorful rice papers to wrap and eat each bite. The unique appetizer is a showstopper, big enough for 2 to share, but so delicious that you’ll want to keep it all to yourself.
Seasonal specials rotate regularly, offering creative spins and masterful technique that rival much bigger city restaurants. For sushi in Jacksonville NC, Wasabi sets the gold standard.
Stir-Fried Surprises You Shouldn’t Miss
While sushi is the name of the game, the secret sauce at Wasabi just might be the stir-fried entrées. I joined the team for a mid-afternoon tasting and sampled several standout dishes that were packed with flavor and personality. These dishes are your go-to if sushi isn’t your style, or if you’re like me and just want to taste a little bit of everything.
From teriyaki to tempura, noodles to Japanese curry, Wasabi’s kitchen doesn’t miss a beat. And the vibe? The dining room is small, cozy, and filled with the kind of warmth that only a family-run place can provide.
If you’re lucky enough to snag a seat at the tiny sushi bar, do it—watching the chefs work is half the fun.
Sip and Savor: Drinks That Delight
There’s something for every kind of thirst here. The sake menu is stellar, but if you’re skipping alcohol, the house-made iced drinks are where it’s at. That honey iced green tea? Refreshing, not too sweet, and very satisfying. The Asian iced coffee? Smooth, rich, and just the right amount of indulgent. And, its also good for a little afternoon pick-me-up if you happened to be in the neighborhood.
So whether you’re in town to cast a line, cruise the Intracoastal, or take in some of the proud history of Camp Lejeune, home to the United States Marine Corps. Be sure to carve out time for a stop at Wasabi Japanese Sushi & Cuisine.
This family-owned favorite has been quietly making waves for over a decade, serving up sushi with style, stir-fried comfort, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel like part of the family. Twelve years and counting, and trust me, it’s still one of the best bites in Jacksonville.
Read More About Jacksonville NC Restaurants Here:
For more of my food-centric travel in Jacksonville NC, read about Paleteria Deya a wonderful ice cream and popcycle shop offering sweet and savory treats, here.
Then, check out all of the local seafood offerings at Southern Breeze Seafood and Southern Breeze Food Truck, here.
And finally, satisfy your sweet tooth for the very best baked goods and spectacular cakes and American Dream Cakes, here.
Go Visit Soon and be sure to #TellThemHeidiSentYou