Wasabi

The Logbook — Real Guest Soundings

Depth Sounding: This is a composite account from multiple guest experiences, edited to our venue standards for clarity. Individual sailings vary by ship, itinerary, and crew.

Wasabi Review: Sushi and Sashimi Worth the Surcharge

Introduction. Wasabi is NCL's Japanese sushi and sashimi restaurant, found on Breakaway, Getaway, and other ships. It serves a focused menu of nigiri, sashimi, maki rolls, and a few cooked Japanese dishes with a specialty dining surcharge ($25-39 or a dining credit). It's similar in concept to Nama Sushi but positioned slightly differently on different ship classes. Reservations recommended.

Food & Drinks

The sushi quality is strong. The Salmon and Tuna Nigiri are fresh, well-cut, and served on properly seasoned rice — the fundamentals are right. The Rainbow Roll is the showpiece: colorful, well-constructed, with a variety of fish draped over California roll innards. The Spicy Crunchy Tuna Roll has good heat and textural contrast. The Yellowtail Jalapeno (when available) is a highlight — the jalapeno adds a fresh kick against buttery fish. The Edamame and Miso Soup starters are reliable. Where it falls short: the cooked menu (Teriyaki Chicken, Tempura) is average — it exists for guests who don't eat raw fish but weakens the overall offering. The sashimi portions are modest for the surcharge. Some rolls arrive with too much rice and not enough fish. The green tea ice cream dessert is standard.

Service

Service is precise and attentive. The sushi chefs work methodically and take pride in presentation — each plate looks intentional. Waitstaff can recommend sake pairings and discuss the menu with confidence. Sitting at the sushi counter (when available) is the premium experience — interaction with the chef, watching the knife work, and getting the freshest pieces. Dinner runs 60-80 minutes for a full meal.

Atmosphere

The restaurant is designed with Japanese minimalism — light wood, clean lines, subtle accent lighting. It's intimate (30-50 seats) and one of the quieter dining venues. The sushi bar counter is the best seating for the experience. Music is ambient and nearly silent. The aesthetic is calming and focused — appropriate for a cuisine that values precision and simplicity.

Conclusion

Rating: 3.9/5. Wasabi delivers quality sushi at sea — the Salmon Nigiri, Rainbow Roll, and Yellowtail Jalapeno are highlights worth the surcharge. It loses points for the mediocre cooked dishes, modest sashimi portions, and rice-heavy rolls. Tip: Sit at the sushi bar and let the chef guide your order — they know what's freshest. Skip the Teriyaki and Tempura; focus on the raw fish. Pair with a cold sake.

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