Sushi term
Uni 雲丹
Uni is the edible roe (technically the gonads) of the sea urchin — custardy, sweet-briny and utterly distinctive, often described as "the ocean in one bite." It divides people instantly, and converts them just as fast.
A texture like nothing else
Good uni is creamy and holds its shape; poor uni is watery or bitter. Freshness and species matter enormously — Japanese bafun and murasaki uni and Santa Barbara uni are prized.
How it's served
Usually as gunkan (a nori "battleship" wrap that cradles the soft roe over rice), as sashimi, or spooned over rice or pasta in richer dishes.
Insider tip. If you think you dislike uni, try it once from a serious sushi bar — cheap, old uni is a different food from fresh, and it's often what turns people off.
Where to try Uni near you
Top-rated sushi spots on Yes Ichiban with real, orderable online menus:
Bayridge Sushi
Kissimmee, FL · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.8
VOLCANO STEAK AND SUSHIDULUTH, GA · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Royal SushiChicago, IL · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Bayridge SushiLongwood, FL · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Volcano Steak & SushiWEST BERLIN, NJ · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.7
Mikata Japanese Grill & SushiKnoxville, TN · ★★★★★★★★★★ 4.6