Sushi Craze Sweeps India: From Niche to Mainstream Delight

As of August 2025, Japanese cuisine has firmly established its place in the Indian dining landscape, a far cry from the niche status it held just a decade ago. The rise of sushi, ramen, and matcha desserts in India's metro cities has been a fascinating mix of culture, curiosity, and the search for healthier food options.

Back in the early 2000s, sushi was considered an adventurous, even risky, choice for most Indian diners. However, in the past few years, sushi delivery has become as casual as ordering pizza. The trend has expanded beyond sushi, with the emergence of ramen restaurants, tempura counters, and even Japanese-inspired bakeries, showcasing the cuisine's growing popularity.

Experts attribute this shift to the influence of pop culture, such as anime, cosplay, and social media, which have piqued people's interest in Japanese food. Additionally, the perception of Japanese cuisine as fresh, light, and nourishing has resonated with health-conscious Indian consumers grappling with lifestyle issues like obesity and diabetes.

The adaptability of Japanese food has also played a crucial role, as chefs have incorporated local ingredients and flavors, creating dishes that cater to the Indian palate. From avocado and vegetable sushi rolls to ramen with a South Indian twist, the fusion of Japanese and Indian culinary traditions has resulted in a unique and appealing dining experience.

The rise of Japanese cuisine in India is not just about food; it's about a cultural shift, with people seeking new experiences and a taste of global flavors. As the trend continues to gain momentum, even tier-2 cities are witnessing the opening of Japanese restaurants, and delivery models are accelerating growth, making sushi, ramen, and matcha more accessible than ever before.