Main types of sushi and rolls: a selection of the most popular

Japanese cuisine impresses with its variety and unique flavours. Our introduction to it usually begins with sushi and rolls — exotic dishes that have long become favourites around the world. Today, the Pronto team explains the different types of sushi and rolls, and which ones are definitely worth trying.

Are sushi and rolls the same thing?

Not quite, even though the words “sushi” and “rolls” are often used as synonyms.

Sushi is a broader term that covers various dishes made with rice, seafood, vegetables and other ingredients. Sushi can be prepared as small rice portions, balls or rolled formats.

Rolls, on the other hand, are a type of sushi where ingredients are wrapped in nori (dried seaweed), rolled into a cylinder and sliced into bite-sized pieces.

So, all rolls are sushi — but not all sushi are rolls.

The most popular types of rolls

Futomaki

Large rolls (4–6 cm in diameter) filled generously with ingredients. Futomaki typically include rice, fish or seafood, vegetables and other components wrapped in nori. Each piece combines multiple textures and flavours — sweet, salty and spicy.

Uramaki

These rolls have nori on the inside and rice on the outside. Uramaki are often coated with sesame seeds or tobiko. Inside, they may contain salmon, vegetables, avocado, seafood or cream cheese.

Spring rolls

Rolls wrapped in thin rice paper, usually without heat treatment. Originally from Vietnam, they became popular in Japanese cuisine as well. Fillings vary: vegetables, seafood, salmon, tuna or chicken. The key rule — no nori. They are served with soy sauce or peanut sauce.

Tempura rolls

In these rolls, the main ingredients (shrimp, fish or vegetables) are lightly battered and fried, creating a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Once fried, they are wrapped with rice and nori. Tempura rolls are served warm, which enhances their aroma and flavour.

Main types of sushi worth trying

Preparing sushi is a true culinary art. While there are dozens of sushi varieties, these are the classics:

Nigiri

An oval mound of rice topped with a thin slice of raw fish or seafood — often tuna, salmon or eel. Sometimes a touch of wasabi is placed under the fish for extra heat.

Sashimi

Not sushi in the strict sense, as it contains no rice, but one of the most iconic Japanese dishes. Sashimi consists of thin slices of raw fish or seafood served with soy sauce and wasabi. A dish for true connoisseurs of freshness and quality.

Gunkan

Gunkan (“battleship sushi”) features a base of rice wrapped with a tall strip of nori and filled with toppings such as roe, seafood or vegetables.

Temaki

Cone-shaped sushi with nori wrapped into a cone and filled with rice, fish or vegetables. Temaki are eaten with hands and are considered a more casual style of sushi.

The most popular sushi and rolls in the world

California Roll

One of the most famous rolls globally. Created in the USA, it belongs to the uramaki type. The filling usually includes crab meat or surimi, avocado and cucumber, with tobiko or sesame on the outside. A gentle flavour and colourful appearance have made it a global favourite.

Philadelphia Roll

Another iconic uramaki roll, distinguished by its cream cheese. It is typically made with salmon, cream cheese, avocado or cucumber. The soft cheese paired with fresh salmon gives this roll its signature delicate taste.

Green Dragon

A visually striking roll topped with thin slices of avocado that resemble dragon scales. The filling usually includes eel, cucumber and rice. The combination delivers a sweet, tender flavour with a light crunch.

Red Dragon

This roll is topped with slices of salmon. Inside, it typically contains tempura shrimp, cucumber and cream cheese. The vibrant look and rich taste make it popular among fans of tender fish paired with crispy elements.

If you want delicious rolls right now, Pronto chefs will prepare your favourite sushi with fast delivery and signature flavour — just place your order!