Thessaloniki may already be well acquainted with sushi and Japanese cuisine, but Tsuru Japanese Pub & Grill, which opened in winter 2026 on Chrysostomou Smyrnis Street, has brought something completely new to the city. Thessaloniki’s first Japanese pub introduces a different side of Japanese culture, combining sharing-style dishes, distinctive spirits, an open kitchen, vinyl records and DJ sets – inviting guests to experience Japanese dining from a whole new perspective.

The crane, or tsuru in Japanese, has long been a symbol of longevity, good fortune and prosperity in Japanese tradition. In Thessaloniki, the name has taken on an additional culinary meaning, becoming synonymous with a new concept that brings Japanese cuisine to the heart of the city through a contemporary, relaxed and unpretentious approach.

Tsuru Japanese Pub & Grill is neither a sushi bar nor a conventional Japanese restaurant. It was born from a desire to introduce something different to Thessaloniki: the philosophy of a Japanese pub, where food, drinks, music and good company all become part of the same experience.

Behind the new venture are chefs Giorgos Gavriilidis and Spyros Ladas. Among his previous experience, Giorgos Gavriilidis has worked in Far Eastern restaurants within the Grecotel group and has extensive knowledge of Japanese cuisine. Vangelis Melissinos is the venue’s General Manager.

The concept grew out of a passion for Japanese culture, as well as travels, images and flavours discovered in small, lively venues abroad. The aim was never to replicate a Japanese model literally – something the Tsuru team believes would be difficult to transfer wholesale to the Greek setting – but rather to capture its spirit and reinterpret it in a contemporary, accessible way that feels natural to local dining habits.

What does “Japanese pub” actually mean?

There is no traditional fine-dining sequence of starters followed by main courses here. Dishes arrive at the table as soon as they are ready and are designed to be shared, creating a more relaxed, spontaneous and sociable dining experience. And sushi is only the beginning. Yakitori, grilled dishes, burgers and sharing plates add plenty of variety to the menu.

The same philosophy extends to the drinks list, featuring sake, Japanese gin and whisky, alongside distinctive spirits and cocktails with a Japanese twist. A great example is the Sake Paloma, an unexpected interpretation that combines the refreshing character of a classic cocktail with the venue’s Asian-inspired flavour profile.

A large glass window behind the bar offers a view into the open kitchen, while the vinyl corner and DJ sets – regularly every Friday and Saturday, with additional sessions during festive periods – complete the distinctive pub atmosphere.

From King Shrimp Tempura to Wagyu Smash

In the kitchen, quality ingredients, culinary expertise and a lively, unpretentious approach take centre stage. Tsuru seeks to introduce Japanese gastronomy to Thessaloniki diners while taking local preferences into account – whether that means cooking preferences or varying levels of familiarity with raw preparations.

Among the bestsellers is the King Shrimp Tempura Roll, featuring tempura king prawn, alongside the generously filled Tsuru Roll, combining salmon, surimi, smoked eel and prawn.

Yakitori deserves a special mention, having already become one of the most popular categories on the premium menu – a section that perhaps expresses the philosophy of the concept more clearly than any other.

One of the dishes that best captures the pub & grill side of Tsuru’s identity is the Wagyu Smash Burger, made with Wagyu beef, pickles and the team’s own Japanese mayo. Another particularly popular choice is the Belly Katsu, served in sando milk bread with miso mayo, sour plum, caramelised onion and napa cabbage pickle.

The premium selection also includes exquisite Maison Gillardeau oysters, served with sweet chilli ponzu, reflecting the team’s strong emphasis on exceptional ingredients.

Desserts follow the same creative direction. The Pistachio & Matcha Namelaka, featuring Aegina pistachio dacquoise, blackberry coulis, white chocolate and matcha namelaka, topped with Aegina pistachio brittle, is a particularly distinctive choice. Another tempting option is the Yuzu Curd, with wasabi crumble, cashew, yuzu cream, cashew brittle and white peach gel.

It is the perfect way to round off an experience that goes well beyond another sushi dinner, offering a different kind of night out, with an exciting variety of flavours and influences.

Why choose Tsuru?

The quality and flavour of the food, the sushi and inventive rolls, the friendly and knowledgeable service, as well as the stylish setting and atmosphere, are among the main reasons to visit.

The interior is modern, bright and welcoming, with an aesthetic inspired by Japan without becoming overly themed. Even the menu, available in six languages – including Japanese – reflects the venue’s desire to engage with a broad international audience.

For anyone looking to explore Japanese cuisine without limiting themselves to the classics of sushi, Tsuru offers something more: a glimpse into the way these flavours are enjoyed in a genuine Japanese pub-style setting.

Tip 1: Tsuru Japanese Pub & Grill is open daily from 13:00 to 24:00, with table reservations available.

Tip 2: DJ sets usually take place on Fridays and Saturdays, while additional events are announced by the venue through its social media channels.

Tip 3: Delivery is available via efood, Wolt and BOX.