Fresh, colourful and made for sharing, sushi is a natural choice for anyone eating in Marbella. It feels refined enough for a special evening, but relaxed enough to enjoy over drinks with friends. That versatility is a big part of its appeal. Sushi can be traditional or contemporary, light or indulgent, simple or adventurous. Pair it with a well-made cocktail, and it becomes more than dinner—it becomes part of the evening.
At AIR, the rooftop cocktail bar at BREATHE™, guests can enjoy sushi alongside creative cocktails, fresh oysters and gourmet snacks. With music, open-air views and a lively atmosphere, it stands out among restaurants in Puerto Banús for sunset drinks, date nights and celebrations.
Why Sushi Remains So Popular
Few dishes are as visually striking as sushi. Clean lines, vivid colours and contrasting textures make every platter feel special before the first bite. Its popularity goes far beyond presentation. Guests who enjoy delicate flavours can choose sashimi or nigiri, while those looking for something bolder can explore spicy rolls, tempura and contemporary combinations with richer sauces and toppings. Vegetarian options add even more variety.
Sushi is also naturally social. Several dishes can be placed in the centre of the table, allowing everyone to try different pieces and order more as the evening unfolds- a relaxes style of dining suits Puerto Banús perfectly.
The Art of Pairing Sushi and Cocktails
Good food pairing is all about balance. The cocktail should complement the sushi without overpowering its more delicate flavours.
Sushi can bring together seasoned rice, fresh fish, soy sauce, avocado, chilli, crisp tempura and sweet glazes. Each ingredient opens up different possibilities when choosing a drink. Cocktails with citrus, herbs, tropical fruit, floral notes or gentle spice often work especially well. Citrus adds freshness, bubbles contrast with fried textures, and fruit can soften the heat of spicy rolls.
Award-winning mixologist Lynnette Marrero also recommends using contrast when pairing cocktails with food. She highlights sushi with a French 75 as a particularly effective combination, with citrus and bubbles helping to refresh the palate between bites.
There are no strict rules. The best pairing is simply one where the drink makes the food more enjoyable—and the food leaves you ready for another sip.
The owner of BREATHE™ explains:
“One piece of advice I particularly like comes from drinks expert Eamon Rockey, who compares sipping something sparkling between pieces of sushi to eating pickled ginger—it refreshes the palate so you can appreciate the next bite more fully. That is a useful starting point, but the ingredients still matter. A delicate nigiri needs a different drink from a spicy or tempura roll, so we encourage guests to ask our team for recommendations and create a complete sushi and cocktail pairing experience around the dishes they choose.”
Nigiri
Nigiri combines seasoned sushi rice with a slice of fish or seafood. It may look deceptively simple but the balance between the rice, seasoning and topping requires real precision. Clean, refreshing drinks with citrus or light bubbles are a natural match.
Maki
Maki is the familiar rolled style of sushi, usually prepared with rice and fillings wrapped in seaweed. Lighter rolls suit bright, refreshing cocktails, while spicy or richer versions pair well with stronger fruit flavours or gentle spice.
Contemporary and Tempura Rolls
Modern sushi may include tempura, spicy sauces, creamy ingredients, flambéed fish or sweet glazes. These fuller flavours can handle a more expressive cocktail. Acidity and bubbles work well with tempura, while fruit softens any chilli heat.
The beauty of this menu is that you can choose your favourite or order a mix of different sushi. Ordering a mix is the easiest and most enjoyable way to sample different styles and discover their favourite dishes and pairings.
What to Drink with Light Sushi?
Sashimi, nigiri and simple fish rolls deserve a cocktail that respects the quality of the ingredients. A crisp, citrus-led or botanical drink can add freshness without distracting from the fish. Light herbal aromas also work well with salmon, tuna and white fish. Cocktails that are too sweet or dominated by a strong spirit may mask more subtle flavours. A fresh finish helps cleanse the palate and keeps the meal feeling light and elegant.
What to Drink with Spicy Sushi?
Spicy tuna, chilli sauces and spicy mayonnaise call for a drink with enough character to hold its own while still offering refreshment. Fruity cocktails can work particularly well; pineapple, passion fruit and mango can soften the sensation of heat when balanced with fresh citrus. Ginger and sparkling elements are also natural partners, creating a lively combination that feels right at home on a night out in Puerto Banús.
What to Drink with Tempura and Richer Rolls?
Tempura and creamy sauces have more weight and texture, so they benefit from a drink that provides contrast. Acidity cuts through fried and creamy ingredients, while bubbles help lift the richness. Botanical or gently bitter notes can also stop sweeter rolls from feeling too heavy. Because these dishes carry stronger flavours, the cocktail can afford to be a little more adventurous.
Is Sushi a Healthy Choice?
Many types of sushi can form part of a balanced meal, with fresh fish providing the protein, oily fish like salmon may contain omega 3 fatty acids. While greens like seaweed, cucumber and avocado can also add flavour, texture and nutrients. However, it is important to be aware that soy sauce can have a high salt content, so those who need to keep an eye on their intake, may need to use it sparingly.
Guests looking for something lighter may prefer sashimi, nigiri and simple maki rolls, while tempura, creamy sauces and richer toppings offer a more indulgent experience.
That flexibility is one reason sushi remains one of the most popular options for diners looking for the best dinner in Marbella or a lighter evening meal near Puerto Banús.
Prefer a Cold Beer?
If cocktails aren’t for you, what about trying a crisp, well-chilled lager with a clean finish that will not overpower delicate fish. The bubbles in the bear also refreshes the palate, making it a good match for tempura, spicy tuna and richer rolls. It is an easy-going option that suits the relaxed atmosphere of the BREATHE™ bar in Marbella.
Sushi and Alcohol-Free Cocktails
That said, a memorable pairing does not need to include alcohol. There is always the option of trying alcohol-free cocktails, as they can use many of the same ingredients that work well with sushi, including citrus, tropical fruit, herbs, ginger and sparkling mixers. A thoughtfully made alcohol-free drink still brings acidity, aroma and visual appeal, allowing everyone to enjoy the full pairing experience. With its rooftop setting, music and sharing-style menu, AIR works equally well for a relaxed date night or an evening with friends.
At AIR, the best approach is simply to choose a few dishes for the table, order a cocktail that suits your taste and enjoy the evening as it unfolds. For the latest sushi and cocktail selection, consult AIR’s current menu or reserve a table directly through BREATHE™.
Reserve your table at BREATHE™ and make your next meal in Puerto Banús one of sushi, cocktails and unexpectedly perfect pairings.
FAQs
Is BREATHE™ restaurant close to Puerto Banús?
Yes. BREATHE™ is located between Puerto Banús and Nueva Andalucía, making it convenient for guests looking for restaurants in Puerto Banús without the hustle and bustle of dining directly beside the marina. Just a 10-minute stroll towards the famous bullring, BREATHE™ is considered to be one of the most unique and popular restaurants in Puerto Banús (Marbella).
Can I enjoy sushi and cocktails at BREATHE™?
Yes. AIR, the rooftop bar at BREATHE Restaurant in Puerto Banús, serves a good selection of sushi alongside a choice of delicious cocktails, oysters and gourmet snacks. It is a good option for guests exploring the restaurants in Puerto Banús or looking for one of the more distinctive places to eat in Marbella. Diners can choose from lighter options such as sashimi and nigiri or richer, spicier rolls, then ask the team to recommend a cocktail that complements their order.
Is there entertainment at BREATHE™?
Yes, music and atmosphere are an important part of the experience, particularly at AIR. Diners looking for Marbella or Puerto Banús restaurants with entertainment can check the current programme of music and special events on the website.