How many calories are in 8 pieces of spicy tuna sushi?

November 14, 2025 •

3 min read

An 8-piece spicy tuna sushi roll can contain anywhere from 250 to over 450 calories, with the wide range stemming primarily from the amount of spicy mayonnaise used. Understanding the components of this popular roll is key to pinpointing a more accurate calorie count for your specific meal.

Quick Summary

The calorie count for eight pieces of spicy tuna sushi varies widely, typically falling between 250 and 450+ calories, due to ingredients like spicy mayo and rice volume. Key factors influencing the total are the amount of mayonnaise, tuna, and added fillings like avocado. Restaurant-specific nutrition facts are the most reliable source for an exact figure.

Key Points

Variable Calories: An 8-piece spicy tuna roll typically contains between 250 and 450+ calories, with significant variation depending on the preparation.
Spicy Mayo is the Main Factor: The calorie content is most heavily influenced by the amount of spicy mayonnaise used, as this condiment is high in fat and calories.
Rice Volume Matters: The quantity of sushi rice, a calorie-dense carbohydrate, is another key determinant of the roll's total calorie count.
Additional Ingredients Add Up: Extra fillings like avocado or additional sauce drizzles can push the total calorie count higher.
Restaurant Specifics: Calorie counts vary significantly by restaurant, so checking their nutritional information is the most accurate method.
Healthier Alternative: To reduce calories, consider asking for less spicy mayo or opting for sashimi, which is just the fish without the rice.

The Core Components of a Spicy Tuna Roll

To understand the total calories in an 8-piece spicy tuna sushi roll, it is crucial to analyze its primary components. These rolls are typically comprised of three main elements: sushi rice, raw tuna, and spicy mayonnaise.

Sushi Rice

Sushi rice is a fundamental ingredient and a major contributor to the overall carbohydrate and calorie content. It is prepared with vinegar and sugar, which adds flavor but also increases its caloric value. For a standard 8-piece roll, the sushi rice alone can account for a significant portion of the calories, often contributing between 150 and 200 calories. The exact amount depends on how generously the rice is packed during preparation.

Raw Tuna

Tuna is a lean protein source, making it one of the healthier components of the roll. Raw tuna is relatively low in calories compared to its weight. The amount of tuna used in a roll can vary by restaurant, but it typically contributes around 80 to 100 calories for a standard portion. It provides essential omega-3 fatty acids and protein.

Spicy Mayonnaise

This is the most variable and calorie-dense ingredient in a spicy tuna roll. Spicy mayonnaise, made from a combination of mayonnaise and chili sauce like sriracha, can drastically alter the final calorie count. A single tablespoon of spicy mayo can add up to 90 calories or more. Since restaurants often use a generous amount, the calorie impact is significant. The more mayo that is mixed with the tuna or drizzled on top, the higher the total calorie count will be.

Comparison of Spicy Tuna Rolls by Establishment

Because the ingredients and preparation methods differ so much, the calorie count for an 8-piece spicy tuna roll is not standardized across all restaurants. Below is a comparison table showcasing the caloric range from various sources found in the search results.


Establishment	8-Piece Spicy Tuna Roll Calories	Key Differentiator
Pei Wei Asian Diner	~250 Calories	A leaner option, potentially using less mayo or smaller portions.
Yo! Sushi (To Go)	~260 Calories	Another lower-calorie choice, focusing on balanced macros.
Meals 2GO	~290 Calories	A mid-range option with a controlled portion and ingredient list.
Athlean-X Reference	300-400 Calories	Represents a typical range for many restaurant-style spicy tuna rolls.
Tokyo Joe's	~450 Calories	A higher-calorie version, likely due to a more generous use of spicy mayo or larger portion sizes.
Aoki Sushi Noodle Bar	450-800+ Calories	Illustrates the potential for much higher-end versions, possibly with added avocado or larger roll sizes.

Other Factors Influencing Calorie Count

Beyond the core ingredients, several other factors contribute to the final calorie total of a spicy tuna roll:

Added Fillings: Some versions include extra ingredients like avocado or cucumber. While avocado adds healthy fats and nutrients, it also adds calories. For instance, a California roll with avocado and spicy mayo can have a significantly higher calorie count than a basic spicy tuna roll.
Portion Size: Not all 8-piece rolls are created equal. The size and density of each piece can vary substantially between different restaurants. A larger, more loosely rolled piece will contain more rice and other ingredients.
Preparation Method: Some restaurants might add a finishing drizzle of oil or a sweeter sauce, increasing the calories. The ratio of rice to fish and mayo is also a major variable.

Making Healthier Spicy Tuna Roll Choices

For those watching their calorie intake, it's possible to enjoy spicy tuna sushi by making informed decisions. Opt for a roll with less spicy mayo or request for it to be served on the side. Choosing a roll with more vegetables and less rice can also help reduce the calorie density. Consider ordering sashimi instead, which forgoes the rice entirely.

Conclusion

The number of calories in 8 pieces of spicy tuna sushi is not a fixed number, but rather a variable figure that depends heavily on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used by the restaurant. The calorie count can range from approximately 250 to over 450 calories, with the most significant caloric variable being the amount of spicy mayonnaise. Checking a restaurant's specific nutritional information, if available, is the most reliable way to know for sure, but understanding the contributing components allows you to make more informed choices about your meal.

Authority Link

For a deeper dive into general sushi nutrition, including different types of rolls, a reputable source like the USDA's FoodData Central can offer detailed nutritional information on individual ingredients like tuna and rice. [https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/]

Frequently Asked Questions

The calorie count for the same sushi roll can vary significantly due to differences in portion size, the ratio of ingredients (especially rice to fish), and the amount of caloric condiments like spicy mayonnaise used by different chefs and restaurants.

A spicy tuna roll can be a relatively healthy option due to the lean protein from tuna. However, the addition of calorie-dense spicy mayo can make it less healthy. Opting for less mayo or an alternative like sashimi can make it a healthier choice.

The primary calorie difference comes from the spicy mayonnaise. A regular tuna roll contains only tuna and rice, while the spicy version adds the high-calorie mayo. A regular tuna roll will therefore have a significantly lower calorie count.

Yes, adding avocado will increase the calorie count. Avocado is a source of healthy monounsaturated fats, but it is also calorie-dense. A spicy tuna roll with avocado will have more calories than one without it.

To reduce the calories in your spicy tuna roll, you can ask for the spicy mayo on the side or for the chef to use less of it. Choosing a roll with more fish and vegetables and less rice can also help.

Yes, the white rice is one of the main calorie sources in a sushi roll. The rice used for sushi is often prepared with sugar and vinegar, adding to its caloric content. For a standard 8-piece roll, the rice can contribute a large percentage of the total calories.

A great low-calorie alternative to a spicy tuna roll is tuna sashimi, which is simply a slice of raw tuna without any rice or high-calorie sauces. This provides protein and omega-3s with minimal calories.