Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to California

Nigiri spots

Nigiri that honors the cut of the fish instead of hiding it under a mountain of rice.

Based on 788 Opinions
+785
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
MENSHO TOKYO image 1
MENSHO TOKYO image 2
MENSHO TOKYO image 3
View all
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy spot with minimalist Japanese design offers a relaxed vibe and quiet storm jazz music. Wagyu nigiri melts in your mouth with buttery texture, while uni, hotate, and kani bring rich, delicate flavors. Perfect for solo dinners or casual gatherings.

Wagyu nigiri stands out with its buttery texture and melts in your mouth. Options include uni, hotate, and kani, each offering rich, delicate flavors that pair well with other dishes.

People are saying

"I considered this the best ramen I ever had."

"The ramen's rich, thick broth and mochi noodles are truly unique."

"The Wagyu nigiri here is fantastic and buttery."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $7 for the first hour and $1 for every 30 minutes afterward.

2

Expect long wait times during dinner hours, especially on weekends.

3

The restaurant offers a limited but affordable lunch menu.

02
UMIAI Hand Roll & Sake Bar image 1

Counter seating wraps an open kitchen in a modern Japanese style space with warm lighting and curated Hip Hop and R&B playlists. Nigiri shines with A5 wagyu that is perfectly torched and buttery, offering a delicate balance of sauce and fresh fish. The vibe feels intimate yet approachable for casual meals or light lunches.

Nigiri features a delicate balance of sauce and fresh fish. The A5 wagyu nigiri comes perfectly torched and buttery. Each piece tastes simply delicious with no clear favorite.

People are saying

"The seafood here is always so fresh and flavorful."

"The service at these date spots is truly exceptional and attentive."

"This Nigiri is so fresh and flavorful, I'm still dreaming about it."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the NoHo West parking structure, with the first hour free.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

Expect quick seat turnover and efficient food service.

03
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers an intimate vibe with dark cozy lighting and a central sushi bar. Nigiri shines with super fresh quality and unique choices like orange toro. Sake selection is notable, boosting the overall experience.

Super fresh nigiri stands out here with high quality and specialty options like orange toro and truffle hamachi. The nigiri feels authentic and high end, making it a solid choice for sushi lovers.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

"The Panna Cotta here is so fresh and wonderful."

"The nigiri here is seasoned to perfection and melt-in-your-mouth delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to the busy location with a parking lot that fills up quickly.

2

The restaurant has limited table seating but plenty of counter seating available.

3

Parking can be challenging due to multiple restaurants in the plaza.

04
Kiiro Sushi Izakaya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Spacious seating and modern casual design create a clean, classy setting with a homey, family vibe. Aburi Garlic Butter Salmon Belly Nigiri offers perfect searing and melts in your mouth. Chill 80's pop tunes keep the atmosphere friendly and welcoming.

Aburi Garlic Butter Salmon Belly Nigiri melts in your mouth with perfect searing. The Chef's choice nigiri plate offers a fresh, flavorful variety including block cod and other selections.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The aburi garlic butter salmon belly nigiri melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible for those with mobility needs.

2

There is a large free parking lot available nearby.

3

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours.

05
DASHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant shines with fresh ingredients and creative specialty rolls in a warm atmosphere. Tokusen Nigiri offers a fun journey of flavors with fresh, well-crafted pieces. Intimate layout and beautiful murals add to the unique dining experience.

Tokusen Nigiri offers a fun journey of flavors with a variety of fresh, well-crafted pieces. Nigiri samplers come highly recommended alongside wagyu skewers for a diverse tasting experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh."

"You have to try the matcha flan; it's the best dessert I've ever had."

"The nigiri here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Parking is limited; allow extra time to find street parking.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is preferred.

06
Sushi MARU image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small omakase sushi bar offers intimate counter seating with a close view of chefs at work. Atmosphere feels authentic and tranquil, blending minimalist Japanese design with a zen garden-like vibe. Energy stays calm and refined, attracting those seeking a high-end, thoughtfully curated sushi experience.

People are saying

"This Omakase is a masterclass in sensory precision."

"The seafood here is a masterclass in sensory precision."

"The snow crab nigiri here is phenomenal, meticulously prepared."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand and limited seating.

2

The meal costs approximately $270 per person, including tax and tips.

3

Sushi MARU does not offer an all-you-can-eat option; dishes are high quality and priced accordingly.

07
Yuzu Laguna Beach image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot offers a chill atmosphere with an ocean view and lively music. Bluefin Toro Nigiri shines with rich flavor at $11 each. Indoor and outdoor seating suits a younger crowd seeking easy conversation and great vibes.

Bluefin Toro Nigiri stands out with its rich flavor and texture. The nigiri costs $11 per piece and delivers a perfect 10 out of 10 experience.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The triple belly sashimi is a luxurious treat bursting with umami."

"The nigiri here is so fresh it practically melts."

Good to know

1

Free street parking is available after 7pm.

2

Paid metered parking is required before 7pm.

3

Expect long wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

08
Genki Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Elegant dining room offers a relaxed vibe perfect for romantic outings or client dinners. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish that melts in the mouth. Nigiri shines with fresh wasabi and thick, juicy cuts of tuna, albacore, salmon, and octopus.

Fresh wasabi tops every piece of nigiri, paired with thick, juicy cuts of high-quality fish. Options include tuna, albacore, salmon, and octopus served in generous portions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I thought the Japanese food here was simply the best."

"The nigiri here has unbelievably fresh, high-quality fish."

Good to know

1

Each roll costs between $25 and $30.

2

There is often a line, especially on weekends, with some arriving an hour early.

3

The restaurant maintains a very clean environment, including the bathrooms.

09
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House | Irvine image 1

Enjoy all-you-can-eat A5 wagyu in a sleek, modern space with a lively yet sophisticated vibe. Self-serve bars offer rice dispensers and milk tea to complement your meal. Wagyu nigiri shines with rich beef and perfect rice balance, making each bite unforgettable.

Wagyu nigiri offers a perfect balance of flavors with rich beef atop perfectly seasoned rice. The texture feels almost unreal, making it a standout among the appetizers.

People are saying

"The seafood here is ridiculously outstanding and incredibly fresh."

"The milk tea refills were surprisingly impressive."

"The A5 wagyu nigiri just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, to secure a table.

2

Children under 100cm eat free, while those 101-130cm pay half price.

3

The restaurant enforces a strict 90-minute dining time limit.

10
Eizen Sushi & Sake Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot shines with premium-grade fish and expertly crafted nigiri. Cozy, sophisticated vibe suits relaxed dinners or date nights. Toro nigiri impresses with freshness and quality.

Pieces show beautiful cuts and great texture. The Toro nigiri stands out for freshness and quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the nigiri, is incredibly fresh."

"The seafood here is exceptionally fresh, some of the best I've had."

"The nigiri here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially as more people learn about this place.

2

The restaurant is super kid friendly.

3

The chef dry-ages his fish, enhancing texture and taste.

11
Amami Sushi Bistro Geary image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with ample lighting and a laid-back vibe offers fresh fish and generous portions at great prices. Omakase nigiri shines with buttery fish and bold flavors, making it a casual spot for quality sushi.

Omakase nigiri features huge portions of fresh, buttery fish with interesting flavors. Prices stay great while delivering top notch quality.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the omakase to be super delicious and fresh."

"The nigiri here has huge portions of fresh, buttery fish."

Good to know

1

Parking can be slightly challenging in the area.

2

The restaurant offers generous portion sizes at reasonable prices.

3

The price for the chefโ€™s best is $42, which is considered a great value.

12
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Japanese atmosphere offers fresh, high-quality sushi including rich toro and salmon nigiri. Skilled chefs craft custom nigiri while soft music keeps the vibe calm and welcoming.

Freshness stands out with incredibly fresh fish that melts in your mouth. The toro and salmon nigiri offer rich, flavorful bites, and the chef crafts custom options on request.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and truly authentic."

"I thought the sushi here was the best quality I've had."

"The nigiri here is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and operated, enhancing its authentic atmosphere.

2

Lunch specials offer great value and are a must-try.

3

Weekly specials feature traditional Japanese dishes.

13
Yumiyaki Sukiyaki House image 1

Small space offers an upscale yet cozy vibe with K-pop music setting a warm tone. Enjoy A5 Wagyu nigiri paired with foie gras for rich flavor. Self-serve bar adds variety with sides, drinks, and ice cream, perfect for intimate meals with friends.

A5 Wagyu nigiri stands out with its rich flavor, especially when paired with foie gras. Classic options like salmon and bluefin tuna nigiri are fresh and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The A5 Wagyu here is rich, fatty, and absolutely delicious."

"The sashimi here is fresh, plump, and melts in your mouth."

"The wagyu and foie gras nigiri was a standout."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

The all-you-can-eat sukiyaki option costs $88 per person.

14
The Red Fish image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi spot shines with kampachi nigiri and elegant gold leaf accents. Bright, cozy space filled with natural light and smooth jazz sets a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for groups and events, blending chic design with a relaxed vibe.

Kampachi nigiri stands out as a highlight. Salmon and yellowtail nigiri come with delicate textures. Some nigiri pieces feature gold leaf for a unique touch.

People are saying

"The sushi and sashimi here are outstanding and taste like Japan."

"The dinner spots here are delicious, with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors."

"The Nigiri here is amazing, formal, and very attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounts on appetizers, making it a great time to visit.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

3

The restaurant features a fusion menu combining Japanese, steakhouse, and Mexican cuisines.

15
Haruka Sake and Sushi Pasadena image 1

Fresh, buttery fish makes nigiri shine, especially with the crispy fried sweet shrimp head adding crunch. Modern furnishings and cozy lighting create a relaxing atmosphere that feels like hanging out with friends. Quick service ensures sushi arrives fresh, matching the peaceful vibe perfectly.

Buttery, fresh fish makes the nigiri stand out without any fishy taste. The sweet shrimp nigiri includes a crispy fried head that adds texture and flavor to every bite.

People are saying

"The sushi here is top quality and tastes fantastic."

"I found the food surprisingly affordable for the quality."

"The nigiri here is so buttery and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and free, with plenty of space in the plaza lot.

2

Tesla Supercharger stations are available in the parking lot.

3

The restaurant offers quick service with virtually no wait time.

16
Cui-Daorรฉ image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot in an industry park offers a casual yet refined vibe perfect for dates or outings. Sushi shines with fresh salmon belly nigiri that melts in your mouth. Unique rolls come in good portions at reasonable prices, making it a great choice for sushi lovers.

Salmon belly nigiri melts like butter and stands out for its rich texture. Nigiri overall is fantastic, with fresh salmon pieces that complement the rice perfectly.

People are saying

"The specialty rolls here are unique and crafted with care."

"It felt so warm, inviting, and cozy inside."

"The nigiri here is fantastic and fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy and available nearby.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours.

3

Special rolls cost around $20, while other rolls are more affordable.

17
Taira Sushi&Sake image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy sushi spot offers thoughtful omakase with fresh fish and exceptional rice in nigiri. Intimate setting feels warm and authentic, perfect for savoring amazing sake selection. Small space means reservations are a must.

Handwritten menus highlight the care in each piece of nigiri. The exceptional rice enhances the quality, and some pieces, like the one with truffle, stand out without needing soy sauce.

People are saying

"The Omakase here is delicious, with incredibly fresh fish."

"It's cozy and intimate, perfect for a date night."

"The nigiri here is amazing, with incredibly fresh fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least two weeks in advance to dine there.

2

The restaurant is reservation only and does not accept walk-ins.

3

Seating is limited due to the small size of the restaurant.

18
Sushi Masuyoshi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Tiny sushi bar with intimate seating offers a cozy, exclusive omakase experience. Chef Masuyoshi crafts over 20 nigiri, including standout hirame and masunosuke bites. Simple design highlights the quality and uniqueness of each dish, creating a relaxed, home-like vibe.

Chef Masuyoshi serves over 20 nigiri items with creative takes like halibut topped with liver and nuanced smoked nigiri that elevates seafood. Signature bites include hirame and masunosuke nigiri, though some combinations like scallop, uni, and truffle clash rather than complement.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was one of the best sushi experiences."

"The intimate setting felt like being invited into someone's home."

"The nigiri here is prepared with such humble, attentive detail."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating of only 4-5 seats per seating.

2

The restaurant operates on a BYOB basis with no corkage fee.

3

Expect a unique omakase experience crafted by a single chef.

19
SUSHI:K image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy spot with a minimalist Japanese vibe offers a calm, refined atmosphere. Sushi shines with exceptional freshness and artful presentation, especially the Unagi Nigiri known for its rich flavor. Energy stays chill and welcoming, perfect for casual or special nights.

Unagi Nigiri stands out with its exceptional flavor. The nigiri selection includes crispy rice with tuna and scallop, paired with eel and avocado hand rolls, all served fresh and flavorful.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

"The omakase here is an incredible deal for Japanese food."

"I found the Unagi Nigiri to be the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

The omakase deal costs $78 for 14 courses, offering great value.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

3

Expect a casual atmosphere, perfect for a date or a nice night out.

20
Bengee Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy wooden decor and warm lighting create an inviting atmosphere perfect for relaxed dining. Nigiri features super fresh fish that melts in your mouth, while the A5 Wagyu Nigiri stands out with its fragrant marinated oil and rich texture. Clean, quiet space suits date nights well.

Fish tastes like it just came from the ocean, with super fresh and melt-in-your-mouth nigiri. The A5 Wagyu Nigiri offers a fragrant marinated oil aroma and rich texture.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the omakase, offers generous portions and great value."

"The sashimi here is super fresh and thick-cut."

"The nigiri here just melts in your mouth, so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for omakase to ensure availability.

2

Happy hour runs on Sundays around 5pm with special pricing.

3

Lunch specials offer good-sized portions at great prices.

21
Sushi Island image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a warm, family-owned vibe with fresh seafood and generous portions. Toro nigiri stands out for its amazing taste and size. Plates come with beautiful flower ornaments, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.

Toro nigiri comes in very generous sizes and tastes amazing. All nigiri features fresh seafood and stands out for its quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The special sushi rolls at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

"I loved the nigiri; the seafood was so fresh."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from Monday to Friday.

2

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table during busy hours.

3

The menu includes a variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and vegetarian options.

22
Sachi Sushi | Late - Night Izakaya image 1

Small sushi spot shines with fresh toro nigiri and rare fish. Cozy patio with heaters and a romantic Miyazaki soundtrack create a private vibe. Perfect for those craving an elevated Japanese dining experience in an intimate setting.

Toro nigiri stands out with its rich flavor. Barracuda, scallop, and Hamachi nigiris offer a fresh variety. Nigiri combos and tasting sets provide a well-prepared selection.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is lovely, with delicious food."

"The fish here is incredibly fresh and high quality."

"The toro nigiri here is amazing and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Some menu items, like the baby yellowtail, sell out quickly, so arrive early.

3

The restaurant has a nice patio seating area for outdoor dining.

23
Yanagi Kitchen Long Beach image 1

Sushi spot offers fresh nigiri that melts in your mouth, with neat, careful packaging for easy takeout. Ordering is quick via app or phone, making it a convenient choice. Prices stay reasonable, giving great value for sushi lovers.

Pieces of nigiri come very fresh and melt like butter in the mouth. The assorted chef's sushi box includes seared salmon nigiri alongside sashimi, with some pieces kept for later.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is amazingly fresh and delicately presented."

"The nigiri melts like butter in my mouth."

Good to know

1

Yanagi Kitchen Long Beach is take-out only and has no tables.

2

The cost is reasonable for sushi compared to dine-in restaurants.

3

They offer good and reasonably priced combo options.

24
The Roll image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers a modern cozy vibe with a quiet atmosphere perfect for casual dining. Nigiri shines with freshness and tender Chu-Toro and ikura pieces that burst with flavor.

Three piece nigiri come luscious and incredibly fresh. Chu-Toro and ikura nigiri stand out for their tenderness and flavor.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is delicious, especially the sushi and miso soup."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The nigiri here is so fresh and tender."

Good to know

1

The hand rolls start at $6, offering great quality for the price.

2

The restaurant opened in December 2024, making it a newer establishment.

3

The rolls used to come with 10 pieces, but now they come with 6.

25
Toki Sushi image 1
Restaurant

Enjoy authentic Japanese decor with a cozy, romantic vibe and clean seating. Savor fresh, thick slices of nigiri sushi that offer great value and Japan-like freshness. Large portions and reasonable prices make dining here a satisfying experience.

Fresh fish stands out with big, thick slices on both nigiri and sashimi. Nigiri sushi comes at an affordable price and tastes great, capturing a Japan-like freshness.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is a great deal with large portions."

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like tasting Japan."

"The nigiri here is so fresh, it reminds me of Japan."

Good to know

1

The lunch bento costs $13 and is enough for two meals.

2

A 10% discount is available on takeout orders.

3

The restaurant is located in a plaza with ample parking.

26
Musashi's image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small dining area offers a casual vibe with complimentary hot green tea. Fatty salmon nigiri is sizable and fresh, melting in your mouth. Lunch specials combine seared salmon with rolls for a solid nigiri experience at a hidden gem price.

Sizable slices of fatty salmon nigiri melt in your mouth. Lunch specials highlight seared salmon paired with rolls for a solid nigiri experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is super fresh and yummy."

"The spicy seared salmon melts in your mouth."

"The salmon nigiri here is so fresh, it just melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is CARD ONLY.

2

The pricing is very fair with many rolls under $6.

3

Portions are generous compared to other casual sushi places.

27
CASA LEO image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant blends a cozy ambiance with a seasonal menu featuring simple, honest dishes. Tomato and watermelon nigiri offers an artistic presentation and crunchy bite, making it a standout. Excellent Spanish wine pairings complete the inviting experience.

Tomato and watermelon nigiri stands out with its artistic presentation and a crunchy bite wrapped in shiso. The nigiri ranks among the most memorable bites, especially alongside the scallop crudo.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have incredible food, especially the creative tapas."

"You absolutely must try the cheesecake; it's unforgettable."

"The tomato and watermelon nigiri looked like an art piece."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for weekend brunch.

2

The menu features a variety of seasonal tapas with a veggie-forward focus.

3

Prices are moderate, with many dishes allowing for sampling.

28
Hakumaru image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with intimate dining and booth seating creates a cozy vibe. Fresh nigiri like sea bream and uni tastes clean and indulgent. Low club music and vintage anime on TVs add an underground speakeasy feel.

Freshness stands out with nigiri options like sea bream and uni that taste clean and indulgent. Many nigiri choices pair well with specialty rolls, offering a tasty and satisfying sushi experience.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, it practically melts in your mouth."

"The Earl Grey Crรจme Brรปlรฉe was smooth, creamy, and well balanced."

"This nigiri is the best I've had outside of Japan."

Good to know

1

They offer a wonderful later happy hour from 7:30 to 9 pm, Monday to Thursday.

2

Reservations are recommended for weekend dinner to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant enforces a strict 2-hour table limit due to its small size.

29
Makai Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers cozy seating and a laid-back Hawaiian vibe. Chef Matt's torched nigiri shines, especially the tuna with special sauce and popular salmon. Fresh sushi and casual, neat space make it inviting.

Nigiri here features precise preparation and a specialty torched style by Chef Matt. Tuna nigiri comes with an exceptional sauce, while salmon nigiri stands out as a favorite.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be the freshest I've ever tasted."

"The owner Matthew makes you feel right at home during lunch."

"The nigiri here is the freshest I've ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

The menu features a variety of poke bowls and sushi options.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

30
Sushi Fish Attack image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers an intimate vibe with dim, cozy lighting perfect for dates. Nigiri shines with fresh fish and generous cuts, especially the bluefin tuna rivaling otoro. Indoor seating feels quaint, while outdoor faces a parking lot.

Fish stays very fresh with generous cuts on the nigiri. Bluefin tuna nigiri rivals otoro, and salmon nigiri has a fatty, thick portion making up about 70% of the piece.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be top-quality and amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh and high quality."

"The nigiri fish is so fresh and the cuts are generous."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested because the restaurant gets busy quickly and has limited tables.

2

Expect a wait during peak hours; consider visiting during off hours for less crowd.

3

Parking is limited in front; street parking is available but can be challenging.

Discover more

California

Area guide
Loading Map...