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Salmon spots in Costa Mesa

Made for those who prioritize high-quality protein and seek out specific preparations of salmon as their primary meal choice.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Pokeworks image 1
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Poke bar

Poke bar features an open layout with a peaceful atmosphere and fresh ingredients. Flame-cooked salmon shines with a charred exterior and rich teriyaki glaze, offering a fresh, natural taste with balanced depth.

Flame-cooked salmon comes with a charred exterior and a rich teriyaki glaze. The fish tastes fresh and natural, with charring that adds depth without overpowering.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"I thought the poke here was the best I ever had."

"The charred salmon teriyaki was a standout dish, flame-cooked and perfectly glazed."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at the door.

2

The store is always very clean.

3

Expect a variety of options for customizing your poke bowl.

02
Eat's Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot buzzes with couples and groups enjoying fresh sushi and cozy warm lighting. Salmon shines in thick sashimi and deep-fried rolls with tender fish and a bright sauce. Outdoor seating with heaters and nearby ice cream add to the relaxed vibe.

Salmon appears in several forms, including thick-cut sashimi and sushi with perfectly balanced rice vinegar. Rolls feature deep-fried salmon and avocado, topped with a refreshing sauce that complements the tender, plump fish.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is thick, super fresh, tender, and delicious."

"I found the sushi here to be high quality and affordable."

"The salmon sashimi had an amazing truffle flavor."

Good to know

1

The wait can be up to 2 hours long for 2 people, so I recommend RSVPing or arriving early.

2

There was a large parking lot available for guests.

3

Expect an hour wait on the weekend.

03
YUBUYA image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy sushi spot offers handcrafted yubu with fresh, fatty salmon varieties like soy marinated and spicy. Intimate space fits 8 to 10, perfect for quiet dining or takeout. Calm, homey vibe enhances the experience.

Salmon dishes show freshness with visible fat streaks indicating quality. Options include soy marinated, spicy salmon, and seared varieties, each offering distinct flavors and textures.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the yubus, is so flavorful and filling."

"The seafood here is so flavorful and fresh, I can't wait to try it all."

"The seared salmon and soy marinated salmon are favorites."

Good to know

1

The lunch combo includes a free cup of miso with orders of three yubus or more.

2

YUBUYA offers a variety of yubu fillings, including vegan options.

3

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

04
VOX Kitchen & Bar - South Coast Plaza image 1

Salmon shines in the Sweet & Sour Salmon with a perfect balance of flavors and in the fresh Peruvian chopped salad. Indoor dining buzzes with lively energy, while bar and outdoor seating offer a calm, relaxed vibe with natural light and wooden furniture. Modern style meets laid-back comfort here.

Sweet & Sour Salmon stands out with a 4.5 rating and a balanced flavor. Salmon also appears in the Peruvian chopped salad, adding a fresh touch.

People are saying

"I thought the lemonade was pretty good."

"The food here is so delicious and comforting."

"The salmon here is extremely good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available from 2-5 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant can get very busy, especially during dinner service.

05
Takumi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy Japanese spot shines with fresh salmon nigiri and a quiet atmosphere perfect for small groups. Open kitchen adds charm while outdoor patio offers a sunny, heated dining option. Salmon tempura and collar stand out for flavor and texture.

Salmon dishes feature fresh nigiri, thick-cut tempura, and a tender collar with balanced fattiness. Rolls combine salmon with other seafood like tuna and shrimp, maintaining solid quality and flavor.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the buttery tuna nigiri."

"The tempura here is perfectly crispy and warm."

"The teriyaki salmon plate is a better idea."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 8-9:30 pm with $3 large sake.

2

Reservations are accepted, but it's best to arrive early to avoid the dinner rush.

3

The restaurant is small and fills up quickly during busy hours.

06
Boil & Bake image 1
Bagel shop

Open kitchen and outdoor patio create a lively, airy vibe despite loud music and airport noise. Fresh salmon is house-cured with dill and capers, served on an open bagel with heirloom tomato and cream cheese. Great for dog lovers and fans of bold flavors.

Salmon comes fresh cured in house with a herbaceous blend of dill, capers, and thinly shaved red onion. It pairs well with juicy heirloom tomato and smooth cream cheese on an open face bagel.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were amazing, truly excellent."

"You have to try their bagel sandwiches; the bagels are perfectly boiled and baked."

"The salmon bagel was delicious, with fresh salmon and dill."

Good to know

1

Seasonal specials are available only for a day or two, so visit quickly.

2

Expect to wait at least half an hour during peak hours due to popularity.

3

Bagels sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

07
Koyi Sushi AYCE - Premium All You Can Eat Sushi image 1

Small, cozy sushi spot offers affordable all-you-can-eat deals with fresh fish. Salmon dishes like Lemon Pepper Salmon and Mango Salmon rolls stand out for their balanced flavors and minimal rice. Relaxed vibe with no loud music makes dining comfortable and intimate.

Salmon shines in rolls like the Mango Salmon special with a balanced sweet sauce and the baked salmon roll that avoids overpowering sweetness. Dishes use very little rice, making them close to sashimi, and the Lemon Pepper Salmon stands out as a popular choice.

People are saying

"The Bottomless sushi options had a wide variety of fresh fish."

"The dinner spots here have great sushi rolls, but limited nigiri options."

"The Mango Salmon roll is a top favorite here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday through Thursday from 12 PM to 4 PM at $24.95 per person.

2

The happy hour special includes all-you-can-eat rolls only, not the entire menu.

3

This month, buy 1 get 1 free sake or beer is available during happy hour.

08
Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic Japanese vibe offers fresh, high-quality sushi. Salmon dishes shine with crispy salmon skin rolls and fresh nigiri. Quiet music and skilled chefs create a relaxed atmosphere perfect for enjoying well-balanced flavors.

Salmon dishes include a crispy, smoky salmon skin hand roll packed with umami and fresh salmon nigiri. Rolls like the salmon roll and negi toro offer delicious, well-balanced flavors.

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 salmon nigiri here is so fresh, it brought me back to Japan."

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.

09
Wafu of Japan image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy space with soft lighting offers a relaxing vibe despite busy times. Salmon dishes shine with perfect cooking and buttery texture, including a standout Salmon quintet. Decor reflects thoughtful Japanese style, focusing on quality over luxury.

Salmon dishes feature great quality and perfect cooking that melts like butter. Options include a Salmon quintet, charred salmon, seared salmon sushi, carpaccio, and king salmon sushi.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and perfectly prepared."

"I experienced authentic sushi with fresh, delicious ingredients."

"The salmon here melts in your mouth like butter."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited in this area, so carpooling is best.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

3

The omakase price is $39, which is lower than typical prices.

10
chobop - Premium All You Can Eat Sushi image 1

Sushi spot shines with all-you-can-eat menu featuring fresh salmon belly that melts in your mouth. Chill vibe and hidden kitchen keep focus on unique sushi art. Torched aburi salmon adds a smoky twist to the fresh bowls.

Salmon Belly stands out with its rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The aburi salmon belly appetizer offers a torched flavor that pairs well with the fresh salmon bowls available here.

People are saying

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

"This lunch spot's bento boxes offer great value and variety."

"The salmon belly appetizer melted in my mouth."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges $35 for regular dinner all-you-can-eat and $55 for sashimi all-you-can-eat.

2

A free parking lot is available for customers.

3

An 18% gratuity is automatically added for parties of five or more.

11
MoonGoat Coffee image 1

Greenhouse-style design fills the space with natural light and offers diverse seating options. Salmon bagel with smoked and raw salmon is very filling and pairs well with breakfast items. Loud pop and eclectic music create a club-like energy while the atmosphere stays trendy and chill.

The salmon bagel features smoked and raw salmon options and comes very filling. It pairs well with breakfast items like the buttermilk biscuit sandwich and has a solid, enjoyable flavor profile.

People are saying

"This coffee spot has great vibes and plenty of seating."

"It's nice to have shaded outdoor seating available."

"The salmon bagel was excellent and very filling."

Good to know

1

Live music and open mic nights occur on Fridays and weekends.

2

Parking is extremely limited, making it hard to find a spot.

3

Valet parking is available but may not be convenient.

12
Shunka Sushi & Japanese Cuisine image 1

Sushi spot shines with authentic omakase and a traditional Japanese interior. Salmon lovers enjoy salmon belly sashimi and delicate teriyaki portions. Small plates and fair prices make it welcoming for all.

Salmon appears in several forms here, including salmon belly sashimi and salmon teriyaki. The teriyaki portion is quite small, around 2 ounces, while the sashimi options include both salmon and tuna.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is exceptional, practically melting in your mouth."

"I found the sushi here to be super authentic, prepared by real Japanese chefs."

"The salmon sashimi here is beyond good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky, so plan to arrive early.

2

Omakase is available and offers a great value for the quality.

3

Expect to pay around $40 for a combo meal with green tea.

13
Verde Restaurant image 1
American restaurant

Space blends modern elegance with nostalgic charm, offering flaky salmon with a spicy kick. Guests enjoy creative cocktails in a lively yet refined setting with golf course views.

Salmon comes out flaky and flavorful with a spicy sauce that adds a nice kick.

People are saying

"I found the desserts here to be scrumptious and a home run."

"The cocktails are creative, crafted with care and perfectly balanced."

"The salmon here is cooked to perfection, flaky and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They offer a multi-course Valentine's menu on Valentine's Day.

2

Verde Restaurant has a focus on fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian and pescatarian options, along with meat dishes.

14
California Fish Grill image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood spot shines with grilled salmon served with garlic herb butter and sides like kale salad. Casual vibe and quick service make it great for families. Affordable prices and fresh seafood keep locals coming back.

Grilled salmon comes with Cajun and garlic herb butter and is cooked to perfection. Meals include generous portions served with rice and kale salad.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The seafood here is delicious and cooked to perfection."

"The grilled salmon here is cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

California Fish Grill does not accept cash payments; only cards and mobile payments.

3

There are plenty of free parking spaces available nearby.

15
Sushi K's Bistro Costa Mesa image 1

Small sushi bar offers an authentic Japanese vibe with calm atmosphere and peaceful jazz. Salmon shines in dishes like the creamy salmon roll and grilled collar. Fresh sushi pairs with a diverse sake selection for a standout omakase experience.

Unbelievably fresh salmon appears in several dishes like the creamy salmon roll and grilled salmon collar. The salmon roll stands out alongside other items like steamed clams and exotic sides.

People are saying

"I had some of the best Japanese food I've ever tasted."

"This is the perfect late night spot for sushi."

"The salmon roll and the salmon itself were amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers rotating specials and a selection of sake.

2

Expect a unique menu crafted with authentic Japanese ingredients.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

16
IKEA Restaurant image 1
Swedish restaurant

Cafeteria-style dining offers a lively, nostalgic canteen vibe with large portions and affordable prices. Smoked salmon stands out with mustardy-dill dressing and sweet honey mustard sauce. Bright upstairs space with a wall of windows creates a relaxed atmosphere.

Smoked salmon shines with a strong mustardy-dill dressing and generous portions in the Stockholm salad. Sweet honey mustard sauce adds a distinct flavor to the perfectly cooked and seasoned salmon.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the perfectly cooked and seasoned salmon."

"You can get an affordable pasta with meatballs for just $1.99."

"The soft serve ice cream desserts are smooth, creamy, and just the right sweetness."

Good to know

1

Tuesday offers 50% off all adult entrees.

2

The restaurant is a cafeteria-style dining experience.

3

Sides are affordable at $2 or $3 each, perfect for kids.

17
Ruscello at Nordstrom image 1

Offers gluten-free pasta and flavorful dishes like chicken parmesan and lobster bisque. Salmon comes with spicy cauliflower and cornbread, though it can be dry. Seating includes indoor and outdoor with a terrace view in a loud but comfortable space.

Salmon dishes come with spicy cauliflower and sometimes a cornbread bed. The salmon can be dry but pairs well with the sides.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

"The mushroom ravioli with tomatoes and basil was the tastiest pasta I ever had."

"The salmon and cauliflower dish was good."

Good to know

1

Seating is available both inside and outside.

2

Prices are reasonable for the current market.

3

The restaurant is kid and baby friendly.

18
Catalina Fish Kitchen & Seafood Deli image 1

Casual spot with a Hawaiian surfer theme offers fresh fish dishes and a salsa bar for added flavor. Salmon plates bring a unique fermented flavor that locals love. Quiet, chill vibe with old surf movies on big screens completes the experience.

Salmon plates feature a fermented flavor that stands out. They appear regularly on the menu outside of happy hour.

People are saying

"I loved the fish tacos, especially the Mahi Mahi."

"I thought the fish tacos were great and tasty."

"I considered the salmon plate a must-have."

Good to know

1

The seafood selection is good with reasonable prices for quality.

2

Happy hour offers great deals on food and drinks.

3

Parking is available nearby, especially during off-peak hours.

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Costa Mesa, California

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