Bluefin Sushi Burger Bar: Fresh Fish and Casual Dining in South Carolina

What Bluefin Sushi Burger Bar Offers

Bluefin Sushi Burger Bar combines traditional sushi craftsmanship with an approachable, casual dining atmosphere. The restaurant serves nigiri, rolls, and sashimi alongside burger options and other entrées, making it a spot where sushi enthusiasts and those new to raw fish can eat comfortably at the same table. The menu emphasizes fresh fish sourced regularly, and the kitchen handles both sushi and cooked proteins in-house.

The space itself is designed for a relaxed experience—not the formal, minimalist aesthetic of high-end omakase counters, but not a chain either. You'll find a full bar, booth and table seating, and a sushi counter where you can watch the chefs work if you prefer that vantage point. The pace is moderate; this is a place to linger over a meal and drinks, not rush through.

Key Takeaways

• Bluefin serves both sushi and burgers, so diners with different preferences can order from the same menu without compromise.
• The sushi counter offers a view of the chefs preparing rolls and nigiri, and seating there is available on a first-come basis.
• The restaurant maintains a full bar with beer, wine, and cocktails, many of which pair with sushi or heavier entrées.
• Reservations are recommended on weekends and during peak dinner hours, especially for larger groups.

The Sushi Menu and Preparation

The sushi offerings rotate based on what's fresh, but the core menu includes classic rolls like California, spicy tuna, and Philadelphia, as well as specialty rolls that change seasonally. Nigiri selections typically feature tuna, salmon, yellowtail, and seasonal white fish. The kitchen also prepares sashimi platters and chirashi bowls—rice topped with an assortment of raw and cooked toppings—for diners who want variety in one dish.

Bluefin's chefs are trained in traditional sushi technique but aren't rigid about it. If you have preferences—less rice, different fish, no wasabi—the counter staff will accommodate requests. The restaurant also offers cooked sushi options like shrimp tempura rolls and eel (unagi) for those avoiding raw fish entirely.

Burgers, Sides, and Other Entrées

The burger menu is not an afterthought. Bluefin offers several house-made patty options, including beef, turkey, and sometimes seasonal variations. Toppings range from standard (lettuce, tomato, onion, cheese) to more adventurous (kimchi, sriracha mayo, crispy shallots). Fries and onion rings come as sides, and the kitchen prepares them fresh to order.

Beyond sushi and burgers, the menu includes appetizers like edamame, gyoza (pan-fried dumplings), and tempura vegetables. Some locations also serve ramen or noodle bowls during colder months. The kitchen is equipped to handle dietary restrictions—vegetarian rolls, gluten-free soy sauce, and allergy accommodations are standard requests the staff knows how to manage.

Drinks and Pairings

The bar program centers on beer and sake, with a rotating selection of craft beers on tap and bottles in the cooler. Sake offerings typically include dry, medium, and sweet varieties, and staff can suggest pairings with specific rolls or nigiri. Wine is available by the glass and bottle, leaning toward whites and rosés that complement sushi.

Bluefin also makes cocktails—some house specials and some classic drinks. A spicy margarita or yuzu-based cocktail pairs well with rolls that have heat, while a simple sake bomb or beer works for heavier items like burgers. Non-alcoholic options include soft drinks, tea, and sometimes house-made lemonade.

Atmosphere and When to Visit

The restaurant draws a mixed crowd: families with kids, couples on dates, groups of friends, and solo diners at the sushi counter. The noise level is moderate—you can have a conversation without shouting, but it's not silent. Music plays in the background, usually contemporary or light jazz. The lighting is warm but bright enough to see your food clearly.

Weekday lunch tends to be quieter and faster, with many diners ordering takeout or eating quickly before returning to work. Dinner service picks up around 6 p.m., and weekends are busiest from 7 to 9 p.m. If you're visiting during peak hours, arriving early or calling ahead to reserve a table will save you a wait.

Takeout and Delivery Options

Bluefin handles takeout orders over the phone or through online ordering platforms. Sushi travels reasonably well if you're eating within 30 minutes of pickup, though the rice can firm up slightly as it cools. Rolls hold up better than nigiri for takeout. Burgers and cooked items travel without issue.

Delivery is available through third-party apps in most service areas, though ordering directly from the restaurant often results in faster service and lower fees. Call ahead if you're ordering a large party's worth of food; the kitchen appreciates the notice so they can time everything to come out together.

Location and Hours

Bluefin Sushi Burger Bar operates in South Carolina with locations in multiple cities. Hours typically run from 11 a.m. or noon through 10 or 11 p.m., with some variation by location and day of the week. Most locations are closed one day per week, often Monday or Tuesday. Calling ahead or checking the website confirms current hours, especially around holidays when schedules shift.

Parking is usually available on-site or in nearby lots, depending on the location. The restaurant is accessible by car and is often situated in shopping centers or downtown areas with street parking nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know about sushi to order here?

No. The staff will explain what's in each roll and nigiri, and they're accustomed to guiding first-time sushi eaters toward milder flavors or cooked options. If you're unsure, ask for a recommendation or order a burger instead—both are equally welcome.

Can I bring my own sake or wine?

Most restaurants do not allow outside alcohol, and Bluefin is no exception. However, the bar program is designed to offer options at different price points, so there's usually something within budget.

What if I'm allergic to fish?

The kitchen can prepare vegetarian rolls, burgers, and other non-seafood items. Let your server know about the allergy so they can confirm ingredients and avoid cross-contamination at the sushi counter. Vegetable tempura and gyoza are also safe options.

How far in advance should I make a reservation?

For weekday dining, calling the day before or the morning of is usually sufficient. For weekends or groups of six or more, reserving a few days ahead ensures you get your preferred time. Walk-ins are welcome during slower hours, but expect a wait on Friday and Saturday nights.

Do you offer catering or party platters?

Many Bluefin locations offer catering for events and can prepare sushi platters, burger platters, and appetizer selections. Contact the restaurant directly to discuss your party size and preferences, as pricing and options vary by location.