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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Irvine

Japanese seafood

Made for those who prioritize the freshness of their catch and seek out Japanese preparations that highlight the integrity of the seafood.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House | Irvine image 1
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House | Irvine image 2
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House | Irvine image 3
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Restaurant offers all-you-can-eat A5 wagyu with a sleek, modern atmosphere that balances sophisticated and lively vibes. Self-serve bars include rice dispensers, curry, and milk tea, enhancing the dining experience. Space feels elegant and comfortable but smaller, making reservations advisable.

Wagyu nigiri offers a rich beef flavor balanced with perfectly seasoned rice. The sukiyaki broth is slightly sweet and savory, pairing well with high-quality meat. Fresh seafood and sashimi add to the authentic Japanese food experience.

Seafood here stands out for its exceptional freshness and variety, including abalone, snow crab legs, scallops, oysters, and tiger shrimp. The sashimi, especially yellowtail and sweet shrimp, is consistently fresh, with unlimited hand rolls adding to the selection.

People are saying

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

"The milk tea refills were surprisingly impressive."

"The Japanese food's A5 wagyu 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.

02
Hako image 1
Tonkatsu restaurant

Small restaurant with an industrial look and warm lighting creates a cozy atmosphere that can get loud and crowded during peak times. Seating is comfortable and well arranged, supporting a buzzing energy. The vibe feels casual and self-serve, attracting a steady flow of diners.

Tonkatsu stands out with perfectly crispy and light breading and a tangy, sweet katsu sauce. The Hire-Katsu filet pork is tender and thinner, offering a rare quality pork option. Curry pairs well with the tonkatsu, and sides include rice, pickled veggies, miso soup, and cabbage salad.

Fish katsu stands out with its perfect crispiness and crunchy texture. It pairs well with curry and offers a lighter take on fish and chips.

People are saying

"The curry katsu here is insanely good."

"The Japanese food, especially the katsu, is crispy with a juicy center."

"The fish katsu seafood is crispy, crunchy, and not greasy at all greasy."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a 15 to 40-minute wait during peak hours, particularly on Fridays.

3

Be cautious of peanuts in the sauce; call ahead for allergy accommodations.

03
Marugame Udon image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen and cafeteria-style setting create a casual dining experience with freshly made noodles visible to diners. Atmosphere stays lively and welcoming, with a self-serve tempura bar adding interactive appeal. Quick service and consistent quality make it suitable for family meals and casual visits.

Freshly handmade udon features chewy noodles and a savory broth with options like beef udon and Kitsune Udon with slightly sweet fish cake. Tempura selections include crab sticks, shrimp, sweet potato, and pumpkin, all with a crispy texture and good flavor.

Shrimp tempura stands out with its perfect crispiness and flavor. Other tempura items like sweet potato and pumpkin also deliver delicious taste and texture.

People are saying

"I found the udon noodles to be perfectly chewy and delicious."

"The Japanese food here, especially the udon, is perfectly chewy and comforting."

"I thought the shrimp tempura seafood was perfect."

Good to know

1

Expect a 25-minute wait for takeout orders during peak hours.

2

Parking is usually available behind the bank next to 7-Leaves.

3

A 15% discount is available for UCI students with valid ID.

04
Nice to Meet You Skewer Hot Pot - Now AYCE image 1

Hot pot restaurant offers all-you-can-eat skewers with a self-serve fridge stocked with diverse meats and vegetables. Interior blends modern and traditional Chinese decor creating a warm, cozy atmosphere suitable for groups and casual dining. Sauce station and drink bar add customization and convenience to the lively dining experience.

Three different broths stand out: bone broth, sukiyaki, and spicy miso. All taste delicious, with the sukiyaki broth especially rich and flavorful.

Freshness stands out with jumbo shrimp, abalone, and lobster options. Skewers offer a wide range of seafood and meats, letting you sample many varieties.

People are saying

"The soup bases here are rich, flavorful, and satisfying."

"The seafood here tasted so fresh and satisfying."

"The Japanese hot pot broths are flavorful and customizable with three choices."

Good to know

1

Lunch special is available until 4 p.m. on weekdays.

2

Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

3

Dinner costs $38.99 plus tax and tips, while lunch is $28.99.

05
Sushi Atelier - Asian & Japanese Food Delivery & Takeout Irvine image 1

Order window setup with a small outdoor seating area creates a casual takeout vibe. Packaging and sushi presentation stand out as artistic and beautifully crafted. The place draws those seeking high-quality sushi with bold flavors and Slavic-style rolls.

Sushi here stands out for its incredible freshness and high quality. The sushi is well-presented and offers a flavorful experience that rivals high-end restaurants.

Fish stays incredibly fresh and melts in your mouth. Portions are solid and never skimped, with fresh fish roe adding a nice pop to rolls.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here is incredibly fresh and high quality."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh and melts in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Sushi Atelier is a takeout and delivery-only sushi place.

2

The restaurant is open late and seven days a week.

3

Expect high-quality ingredients that rival top restaurants.

06
Uoko Sushi and Japanese Cuisine image 1

Small space with crammed tables and a busy sushi bar creates a lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere. Authentic Japanese decor and family-oriented vibe make it feel like dining in Japan. Popular spot known for fresh, high-quality sushi at reasonable prices, especially during lunch specials.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and quality, often compared favorably to sushi in Japan. The menu includes well-sized rolls like rainbow and spicy salmon, plus dishes like katsu curry, all served at a reasonable price.

Fish arrives fresh and cut to perfection, often shown whole to prove quality. Sweet Shrimp (amiebi) comes highly recommended without wasabi for the best taste.

People are saying

"You have to try the lunch special; it always fills me up."

"The Japanese food's hand rolls are fresh and consistent."

"The seafood hand rolls are fresh and consistent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The $20 lunch special is a popular choice and offers great value.

3

Expect a wait during dinner hours; arriving early is advised.

07
Waka Sakura Irvine image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Conveyor belt sushi setup with automated delivery and tablet ordering creates a modern dining experience. Comfortable booths and a relaxed atmosphere support easy conversation despite occasional noise. Quality of fish is fresh and carefully prepared, distinguishing it from typical quick-service sushi spots.

Freshness stands out with premium scallop nigiri that includes light sears or sauces enhancing natural sweetness. Sushi features quality fish like salmon and tuna, all priced reasonably, with freshly made tempura complementing the menu.

Fish comes fresh with high-quality cuts and good portion sizes. Dishes consistently show above average freshness and solid flavor.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"Parking was relatively easy and available."

Good to know

1

Expect a 20-25 minute wait on Thursday afternoons.

2

The restaurant has a tight and chaotic parking situation during peak hours.

3

You can order six items at a time using a tablet or your phone.

08
Chubby Cattle BBQ | Irvine image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Modern space combines cozy, friendly vibe with thoughtful family design and beautiful décor. Cramped layout creates a busy, energetic atmosphere with frequent movement. High-quality wagyu and a self-serve sides bar add to the engaging dining experience.

Sushi and sashimi come alongside marbled Wagyu cuts like ribeye and brisket. The menu blends premium Japanese dishes with BBQ, offering seafood, appetizers, vegetables, and sides.

Seafood includes Hokkaido Uni with an amazing sauce and incredible taste. The menu offers impeccable quality seafood options, including those in the Silver plan alongside marbled Wagyu cuts and sushi.

People are saying

"Our server helped us cook the steak and gave great recommendations."

"The Japanese food here is amazing; the staff cooked it perfectly."

"The seafood and raw fish here are so fresh and good."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 1-2 hours during peak dinner hours.

2

Put your name on the waiting list early to avoid long waits.

3

The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat option with high-quality dishes.

09
MooMoo Hot Pot image 1
Hot pot restaurant

Spacious hot pot restaurant with one-person-one-pot design and black-and-gold decor blending modern elegance and traditional Chinese elements. Atmosphere feels cozy and clean, suitable for small gatherings or dates with private rooms available. Self-service bar offers a wide variety of fresh ingredients and sauces, enhancing the all-you-can-eat experience.

Rich, sweet-savory Sukiyaki Broth stands out with authentic Japanese flavor, ideal for cooking meat. Broth options include spicy beef tallow and pork bone, all delivering superior quality compared to typical all-you-can-eat hot pot spots.

All-you-can-eat seafood pairs with a rich but balanced broth that enhances flavor without overpowering. The seafood dishes come beautifully served in a chic space alongside various beef cuts.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's like it came straight from the ocean."

"The Wagyu hotpot was so tender it practically melted."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the A5 Wagyu and seafood platter, is top quality."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available on weekdays from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM for $28.99.

2

The all-you-can-eat hotpot menu offers an impressive variety of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and organization.

10
Dada Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Shabu-shabu restaurant with individual hot pots and a fully stocked self-serve buffet featuring seafood, vegetables, and cooked dishes. Atmosphere feels cozy but cramped, often busy and hectic with tables arranged back-to-back. Popular for authentic Asian flavors and a variety of dipping sauces, though seating can be tight for larger groups.

Exceptional shabu shabu features fresh ingredients, excellent meat quality, and a variety of broths and sauces. A fully stocked food bar offers tofu, seafood, tempura, and a shaved ice station for dessert.

Fresh seafood appears in the all-you-can-eat buffet alongside a variety of vegetables and meats. The food bar offers seasonings for broth, tempura, and a shaved ice station for dessert.

People are saying

"The shaved ice dessert station had so many ingredients and combinations."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh with tons of delicious options."

"The seafood here is so fresh, I definitely recommend trying it."

Good to know

1

The price for a weekday all-you-can-eat lunch is $28.99, including a drink and dessert.

2

Dinner prices are $39.99, which may be considered pricey by some.

3

There is a 90-minute dining limit for all guests.

11
Dupont Centre Cafe image 1

Spacious restaurant with Far East-inspired decor offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays relaxed and welcoming with a friendly vibe throughout. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for a high-quality dining experience near the airport.

Steak udon stands out with solid flavor, while the garlic parmesan fries and Buffalo Chicken salad add variety. Yaki Udon beef dishes appear average, with beef sometimes lacking tenderness.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh flavors. Shrimp dishes include jumbo sized shrimp in salads and a Shrimp Scampi Linguini that packs a punch.

People are saying

"This Lunch Spot's burgers and fries combo is worth the price."

"The Japanese food here has a really diverse menu."

"The seafood here, like the shrimp scampi linguini, is fire."

Good to know

1

Parking is validated for free and is conveniently located next door.

2

Expect 30-cent beers all day on Thirsty Thursday.

3

The cafe offers daily specials and happy hour.

12
Gurume Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Trendy sushi restaurant with modern decor and an exhibition-style kitchen behind glass. Atmosphere stays quiet and intimate with spacious table arrangements that avoid crowding. Sushi and sashimi come fresh and well-regarded, complemented by a fantastic sake selection.

Fresh sushi features artful rolls and fish that melts in your mouth. The menu includes authentic Japanese dishes like miso black cod, uni don, and teriyaki salmon with very good sashimi quality.

Freshness stands out with fish that melts in your mouth and flavors that pop. The omakase features Uni, caviar, truffle, and premium cuts like tuba toro and salmon toro prepared with care and no burnt marks.

People are saying

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

"The seafood omakase here is a once-in-a-year experience."

"This Lunch Spot offers great deals and good value."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is advised due to busy hours, especially by 6:30 pm.

2

Lunch specials are available daily until 4pm, with deals around $25.

3

Omakase 10 pieces are priced at $50, offering a premium experience.

13
H Mart Irvine image 1
Korean grocery store

Small market with oriental style decor and a Korean/Asian food court offers a vibrant atmosphere filled with fresh seafood and a variety of Korean groceries. The space feels cozy and bustling, often crowded with families and lively music. Live fish and free samples add to the unique shopping experience.

Fresh sushi and sashimi come daily with a buy one, get one 50% off deal. The deli offers warm meals like hot pot, ramen, and dumplings, plus a wide range of Japanese staples like golden curry and udon noodles.

Fresh fish and seafood stand out with a wide variety of live fish and unique cuts not found elsewhere. The selection includes high-quality meats and a broad range of fresh produce alongside seafood options.

People are saying

"This grocery store has a huge selection of authentic Korean snacks and ingredients."

"The seafood here is so fresh it might have walked in on its own."

"I found the best sushi and sashimi here."

Good to know

1

They offer a discount on prepared food to go at 1 pm and 7 pm.

2

H Mart Irvine has a hot section with a buy one get one free special towards the end of the day.

3

H Mart Irvine accepts EBT payments.

14
Gelson's Irvine image 1
Grocery store

High-end European market style creates a relaxed and clean atmosphere with a warm, inviting vibe. Multiple bars including a cocktail, wine, and sushi bar offer spots to eat and socialize. Well-organized displays and impeccable cleanliness support a premium shopping experience.

Sushi bar offers a variety of fresh sushi with a welcoming staff including Brandon, Annie, Jill, and Tomo. A small wine bar and restaurant complement the sushi section, alongside salad, hot, and soup bars.

Freshness stands out with consistently fresh and delicious fish. Staff offer expert advice on fish types and cooking methods, making the seafood section reliable and informative.

People are saying

"This grocery store has high-quality produce and an amazing deli."

"I found amazing deals at their wine bar."

"I noticed the seafood here was really fresh."

Good to know

1

$2 off share plates available on select days.

2

$2 off all draft beers on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

3

The store offers a wide selection of high-quality produce.

15
Le Shrimp Noodle Bar image 1

Open kitchen with transparent glass walls showcases chefs at work, creating a bright and modern space inspired by Japanese artwork. Atmosphere stays lively yet comfortable, with great music and a warm, inviting vibe. Tables sit close together, encouraging a bustling, social environment.

Ramen here blends classic Japanese noodle soup with Chinese and Japanese flavors for a unique taste. The broth and noodles closely match the style found in Japan, especially appealing to prawn lovers.

Shrimp dishes feature rich shrimp broth with a deep umami flavor and a hint of sweetness. Medium-sized, plump shrimp come with prawn wonton and ebiko prawn balls, creating a varied seafood texture in every bite.

People are saying

"The seafood here has an intense, rich shrimpy flavor."

"The staff here is so friendly and attentive to families."

"The shrimp ramen broth is rich, aromatic, and deeply flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-5pm, Monday to Thursday.

2

Enjoy a buy one, get one 50% off deal during happy hour.

3

The restaurant offers a kids' meal for free with the purchase of a main entrée.

16
Bay Poke - Irvine image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Small indoor seating contrasts with shared outdoor seating that fills quickly during peak times. Fresh fish and generous portions define the menu, which includes crispy katsu and tasty gyoza. Parking can be scarce, reflecting steady demand for this simple poke spot.

The chicken katsu plate features crispy, tender, and juicy chicken with a perfectly matched katsu sauce. The dish includes savory gyoza and a refreshing salad, complemented by miso soup and jasmine green tea.

Fish stays fresh and comes in generous portions. Packaging keeps the fish separate to maintain quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the katsu, is crispy, tender, and juicy."

"The crispy chicken and savory gyoza made the salad a well-rounded dish."

"The seafood here is so fresh, I always get good portions."

Good to know

1

Parking is usually very scarce during lunch hours.

2

Finding outdoor seating during peak meal times can be difficult.

3

Seating outside is shared among all restaurants in the center.

17
Mitsuwa Marketplace image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese grocery store offers authentic products and a small food court with diverse options like tonkatsu and ramen. Atmosphere feels friendly and vibrant, attracting shoppers seeking unique snacks and fresh sushi. Claw machines add a playful touch to the shopping experience.

Fresh sashimi and sushi-grade seafood stand out in the seafood section. The food court offers flavorful ramen and curry, alongside onigiri and bentos. Mochi donuts and pastries add sweet options.

Fresh sushi and sashimi-grade seafood stand out with a fantastic selection. The organic seafood includes some imports from Japan and is known for high quality but comes at a higher price.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store has amazing mochi donuts and Royce chocolate."

"The food court options here are amazing and plentiful."

"I found the Japanese food here to be amazing and vibrant."

Good to know

1

Mitsuwa Marketplace does not accept EBT.

2

Expect limited seating during peak times.

3

Mitsuwa offers unique items like Joice Chocolate not found elsewhere.

18
Pokeworks image 1
Restaurant

Cozy restaurant offers clean and inviting atmosphere with free Wi-Fi and outside seating. The vibe stays fun and lighthearted even when busy, making it a comfortable spot for a relaxing meal. Large portions and a unique menu set it apart from other poke places.

Build-your-own poke bowl offers lots of customization with a classic sauce that completes the dish. The chicken teriyaki plate from the new menu is flavorful and pairs well with the fresh poke bowls.

Freshness stands out with super fresh fish like tuna, salmon, and shrimp. Plenty of options let you mix fish with high quality vegetables for great taste.

People are saying

"The poke here is fresh, delicious, and amazing."

"I loved the poke burrito, it was jam-packed with delicious ingredients."

"The seafood here is always so fresh."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

2

Expect poke bowls to cost over $16 each.

3

The restaurant maintains a high level of cleanliness.

19
Otoro Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers an upscale atmosphere with an elegant vibe and pleasant music. The space tends to be noisy and often has long lines before opening. Sushi features exceptional freshness and high-quality fish that rivals top spots outside Japan.

Sushi here stands out for its exceptional freshness and thick sashimi cuts that take multiple bites. The omakase and chirashi bowls deliver consistently high-quality fish across all preparations.

Fish comes in thick cuts with a variety of textures and flavors. All seafood is incredibly fresh, sourced from Japan, and carefully packaged with an ice pack to keep it cold.

People are saying

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

"The Chirashi bowl was packed with fresh, thick cuts of fish."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least a day in advance, as they do not accept same-day reservations.

2

Expect over an hour wait for lunch during peak times.

3

Parking is challenging and compact; arrive early to secure a spot.

20
Jinbei image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with about a dozen tables and sushi bar seats creates a cozy, relaxed atmosphere. Calm music plays quietly, supporting a chill vibe. Fresh fish and authentic Japanese flavors stand out, especially in sushi and chirashi dishes.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and excellent fish to rice ratio. The menu offers authentic Japanese dishes like chirashi, karaage, and tonkatsu, all served with generous portions and great flavor.

Fish quality stands out as super fresh and buttery soft. The sushi offers a great fish to rice ratio, and the limited 10 seafood rice bowl is popular and tasty.

People are saying

"The lunch special here is a great deal for fresh, delicious sushi."

"I experienced the best sushi I have ever had in Orange County."

"The seafood here is remarkably fresh and high-quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so expect a wait during busy hours.

2

Arrive early to secure a spot, especially for the lunch special.

3

The lunch special offers three dishes daily, limited to ten orders.

21
All That Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Spacious shabu-shabu restaurant with self-serve ingredient and sauce bars and clean, well-organized cooking stations. Atmosphere balances family-friendly and bustling energy with comfortable noise levels and room to move. Offers varied broth and meat selections alongside sides and desserts, creating a lively yet inviting dining experience.

Shabu shabu features personal pots for cooking with a choice of broths like Sukiyaki and Yukgaejang. Tempura Chinese pumpkin is a frequently refilled side that pairs well with the meal.

A wide variety of fresh sliced seafood like fish balls, crawfish, clams, mussels, scallops, and shrimp is available. The seafood options stand out alongside a good mix of meats and vegetables for the pot.

People are saying

"I loved the shabu shabu buffet with its great variety of meats and ingredients."

"You get all-you-can-eat meat with unlimited toppings and broth."

"I found a good variety of seafood and vegetables for the pot."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat price is $35.99 per person on weekends.

2

Reservations require the entire party to be present.

3

Expect long wait times on weekends; arrive early around 4:30 PM.

22
Mokkoji image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a cozy modern atmosphere with mostly bar seating and limited tables. The vibe is hip and lively, especially during peak hours with a notable wait time. It stands out for high-quality shabu shabu featuring various broth choices and a live drama show element enhancing the dining experience.

Shabu shabu stands out with various broth options like spicy miso, pork bone, and sukiyaki. The menu includes surf and turf with spicy sukiyaki sauce, plus starters like garlic shrimp and desserts such as mochi ice cream.

Freshness stands out with fish and vegetables. The seafood plate features half a lobster, scallops, salmon, and shrimp with a flavorful sauce.

People are saying

"The food here is pretty delicious, especially the broths."

"The Bottomless here is dinner and a live drama show."

"I enjoyed the shabu shabu here; it's a great Japanese food option."

Good to know

1

Sign up for the waitlist on Yelp to avoid a 20+ minute wait, especially on weekends.

2

Mokkoji gets really busy during peak hours, so plan accordingly.

3

Reservations are recommended as tables are held for only 5 minutes.

23
Sushi Rev image 1
Japanese restaurant

Conveyor belts deliver a steady stream of fresh, thick sushi in a bright, modern space with minimalist design. The atmosphere stays relaxed and clean, with small seating and some hardwood chairs. Diners can order from tablets or pick plates directly, creating a casual, efficient experience.

Sushi comes fresh and cut perfectly with large portions and a variety that includes truffle sauce on some pieces. The conveyor belt setup is sleek and adds a fun, energetic vibe to the experience.

Fish comes in big, generous cuts that are consistently fresh and thick. Plates cost around $3.75, offering high quality seafood for a revolving sushi setting.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh, well-made, and beautifully presented."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and beautifully presented."

"The seafood here is surprisingly high quality for conveyor belt style."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours on weekends, especially during peak hours.

2

Most plates cost $3.75, making it reasonably priced for sushi.

3

Reservations are not accepted; join the online waitlist within a 4-mile radius.

24
Dpot image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Shabu-shabu restaurant offers all-you-can-eat menu with fresh ingredients and a DIY sauce bar for personalized flavors. Indoor and outdoor seating create a family-friendly atmosphere with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. Noise levels vary, sometimes making conversation difficult during loud gatherings.

Offers an all-you-can-eat shabu shabu buffet with freshly made noodles, especially ramen. Ends meals with soba and porridge for a complete experience.

An extensive buffet offers fresh crab, shrimp, and mandu alongside a wide range of seafood and vegetables. The bar stays fully stocked with sauces and condiments for customizing dips and flavors.

People are saying

"The meats at this buffet, especially the rib eye, were super fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food here has amazing broths and a great selection of meats."

"The seafood here is served with incredibly attentive and prompt service."

Good to know

1

Dpot offers an all-you-can-eat menu for $35 per person.

2

Lunch prices are around $50 for two people, including tax.

3

The restaurant is closed every Sunday.

25
Poke Dot image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant offers fresh poke bowls with varied sauce options and large sashimi portions at competitive prices. Inside space feels loud and cramped, with limited seating and shared outdoor tables. Lunch rush brings a busy, energetic crowd near the airport area.

Fresh sashimi stands out with a large sashimi bowl that offers great value at $20. The food stays healthy and yummy, especially for sushi lovers.

Fresh fish and seafood dominate the menu with a clean taste and high-quality ingredients. Shrimp bursts with flavor, and the seafood portions offer good value.

People are saying

"I thought the food was so delicious and fresh."

"I considered Poke Dot my go-to spot for a fresh poke bowl."

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

Good to know

1

A small poke bowl costs $15 with 2 scoops, a medium costs $16.50 with 3 scoops, and a large costs $19 with 5 scoops of protein.

2

During lunch rush, it is often tough to get through the front door due to high demand.

3

Seating inside is limited, and outside seating is shared with other restaurants.

26
Niko Niko Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers a modern, clean interior with a small, intimate space that can get busy and a bit loud. The atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively depending on the crowd. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish with large, flavorful rolls and some standout dishes like tuna sashimi and wagyu.

Sushi here features big, fresh rolls and sashimi like bluefin tuna with crispy kale chips. Bento boxes come with super-sized portions and sides like spicy garlic edamame add bold flavor.

Fish shows incredible freshness and high quality across dishes like omakase chirashi and sushi combos. Grilled skewers and seafood yaki udon also highlight the outstanding flavor of the seafood.

People are saying

"The sushi here is spectacular and very tasty."

"The food here is so tasty and beautifully presented."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is fairly small and can fill up during busy times.

2

Niko Niko Sushi was super busy on New Year's Eve with to-go orders.

3

Each Bento Box includes rice, miso soup, salad, pickle, and orange slices.

27
Oishi Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Robot servers deliver meats with a playful touch, adding fun technology to a modern, clean dining space. Each diner has an individual induction cooker, creating a calm, authentic Japanese atmosphere. The open kitchen and upscale decor enhance the experience, making it suitable for casual meals and quiet conversations.

All-you-can-eat hot pot features constant broth switching and high-quality meat. Crispy chicken wings and Takoyaki stand out alongside excellent tonkotsu and miso soups.

Fresh seafood stands out with excellent salmon served in shabu style. A wide selection at the salad bar includes seafood, vegetables, and appetizers, offering plenty of variety.

People are saying

"The bottomless prime meats and vast buffet were amazing."

"The Japanese food here offers an amazing all-you-can-eat hot pot experience."

"The seafood here is high quality, with prime meats and Wagyu options."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat lunch special is $25 on weekdays, including Fridays.

2

Dinner prices are $33.99 on weekends for all-you-can-eat.

3

Parking is available in an underground structure, but can be hard to find after 6pm.

28
Tokyo Central Irvine image 1
Japanese grocery store

Massive Japanese grocery store with bright, clean interior and extensive food sections creates a bustling, festive atmosphere. Crowded aisles and shoulder-to-shoulder pedestrian traffic make navigation challenging. Outdoor seating near the sushi restaurant offers a place to eat, while indoor seating is unavailable.

Sushi rolls come delicious and reasonably priced with a strong focus on sashimi and sushi options. Prepacked bento and hot foods offer quick meals, while the hot bar and sushi section provide a wide selection of Japanese dishes and ingredients.

An incredible assortment of fresh seafood fills the selection, including sushi-grade fish and well-prepared crab and shrimp tempura. Ready-to-eat meals and Asian snacks complement the wide variety of seafood products.

People are saying

"The staff here is super kind and always cracks jokes."

"This grocery store has a great food court with lots of ready-to-eat options."

"The seafood selection here is incredible and beautifully prepared."

Good to know

1

Parking is extremely challenging, with tight spaces and high demand.

2

Expect long lines, especially during peak hours and grand opening days.

3

Hot food selections may be limited, with some items frequently empty.

29
Sagami image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers authentic Nagoya dishes with a sushi bar atmosphere and Japanese-speaking staff. Several tables fill with Japanese families and businesspeople, creating a genuine vibe. Seating is limited, and outdoor waiting space is available but can be uncomfortable.

Sushi here features fresh sashimi and tender bluefin toro with a precise, focused sushi counter experience. The hitsumabushi stands out with eel on rice served with dashi, alongside izakaya dishes like mountain yam omelette and chicken karaage.

Fish comes straight from Japan, making it incredibly fresh and flavorful. Dishes like the deluxe Chirashi bowl feature sweet uni and thick cuts of fish, paired with fragrant vinegared rice in the seafood donburi.

People are saying

"The unagi don here is the best Japanese food I've had."

"I found the Japanese food here to be the most authentic I've had outside of Japan."

"The seafood here is amazingly fresh, much of it from Japan."

Good to know

1

Sagami requires ordering an additional dish per person due to a new rule.

2

There is an outside area at Sagami where dogs are permitted.

3

The unagi bowl costs $30, while the premium chirashi special is $50.

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Taiko Japanese Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Interior shows aged decor with a cozy atmosphere and a Japanese vibe. Dining area fills with a friendly, lively crowd, especially during family dinners. Sushi bar offers limited seating, and the place features large, fresh fish in its dishes.

Sushi here stays perfectly fresh and leans authentic when you know how to order. The Wagyu sushi stands out as a unique and tasty option. The sushi bar seats about six, keeping the vibe intimate.

Fresh fish stands out with large size and quality. The sweet shrimp boat offers a rich mix of crab, shrimp, and fried head. Sushi and chirashi bowls feature notably fresh seafood at affordable prices.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and tasty."

"This lunch spot has great lunch combos and bento boxes."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations can be easily made at Taiko Japanese Restaurant.

2

Expect generous portion sizes for the price at Taiko.

3

Prices for bento and sushi bowls range from $16 to $25.

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Irvine, California

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