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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Pasadena

Japanese sushi spots

Sushi that highlights the freshness of the fish instead of burying it under heavy sauces.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sushi Karen image 1
Sushi Karen image 2
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Restaurant

Small restaurant with intimate booths separated by paper screens creates a quiet, cozy atmosphere ideal for dates. Limited seating and privacy among tables make it feel exclusive. Known for exceptionally fresh sushi with thick cuts and authentic flavors, it requires reservations due to popularity.

Freshness of the fish stands out with every dish. Sushi comes from a master sushi chef who prepares meals with great passion and precision.

Sushi here features fresh fish prepared by a master sushi chef with great care. The chef's choice dinner offers excellent flavor and presentation that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be incredible, some of the best I've ever had."

"The tempura here is lightly battered and crisp."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to limited seating; call ahead to secure a spot.

2

Parking is limited in the lot, but street parking is available on Arroyo.

3

The prices are about $5 per piece of nigiri, with some items being pricier.

02
Haruka Sake and Sushi Pasadena image 1

Newly remodeled space features modern furnishings, clean lines, and cozy lighting that create a super chill, relaxing atmosphere. Fresh, high-quality sushi and sashimi arrive quickly, complementing the peaceful vibe. The setting feels welcoming, like hanging out at a good friend's place.

Sushi here features melt-in-your-mouth seared salmon and fresh eel sashimi with delicate, delicious flavors. Rolls like the California roll come out rich and buttery, paired with authentic bento and top-quality sashimi.

Fresh ingredients create delicate sashimi and authentic sushi rolls. Affordable prices pair with exceptional service for a fantastic dining experience.

People are saying

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

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

"The Japanese food here is fantastic and the fish is super 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.

03
Mills Alley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open kitchen and clean, modern decor create a spacious, inviting atmosphere with well-spaced seating and cushioned chairs. Conversation flows easily thanks to good acoustics despite hard surfaces. Extensive sake selection and fresh, flavorful sushi and skewers complement the artistic Japanese cuisine vibe.

Friendly chefs at the open sushi bar offer suggestions and greet guests warmly. The menu features perfectly light sushi like scallops, bluefin, and uni, plus rich dishes like shoyu ramen with a soft-boiled egg and Mentaiko cream udon.

Freshness stands out with perfect sashimi and light flavors in scallops, bluefin, and uni. Chefs at the open sushi bar are friendly and offer helpful suggestions.

People are saying

"The ramen broth here is rich, balanced, and deeply umami."

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

"The sushi here was on another level, truly the best ever."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase experience are recommended at least one week in advance.

2

Expect a short wait time during weekday dinners.

3

The sushi is priced at $7.00 per piece, which is higher than average.

04
Sushigah image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small corner sushi restaurant offers cozy atmosphere with pleasant music and cute high tops. Limited seating includes bar seats facing a window for people watching. Sushi and rolls taste fresh and delicious, complemented by house-made fruit shochu.

Sushi and sashimi come fresh and cut to perfection with standout options like salmon and squid sushi. Staff accommodate special requests, making the experience welcoming and personalized.

Sushi features fresh, perfectly cut sashimi and rolls like Gangnam and Salmon seasoned just right. The chefs accommodate special requests and create a welcoming vibe at the sushi bar.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food here has really attentive and friendly service."

"The sashimi here is so fresh and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is located in the same building, making it super accessible.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible through the side entrance.

3

Sushigah has limited seating, so expect a wait during peak hours.

05
KAVIAR Restaurants image 1
Japanese restaurant

Interior features life-size Samurai warrior sculptures and fashionable, trendy decor with dim, warm lighting creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Lounge music plays softly, enhancing a unique vibe that sets it apart from typical sushi restaurants. Creative cocktails and beautifully presented dishes add to a special dining experience.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and artful presentation. Each piece blends flavor and finesse with careful preparation that goes beyond just looks.

Sushi here stands out for its freshness and artful craftsmanship. Each piece blends flavor and finesse with a presentation that looks like artwork.

People are saying

"I experienced the best sushi I ever had."

"This is a great date spot for flavorful sushi and amazing atmosphere."

"I experienced the best sushi I ever had here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Brunch service starts at 10am on weekends.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

06
Akinori Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, clean space with minimalist decor and warm wood accents creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Energy stays quiet and relaxed, welcoming for casual dining. Watching chefs work at the bar adds a unique, engaging element.

Fresh fish and real wasabi stand out here. Sushi and sashimi come beautifully prepared with no strong fishy smell, plus appetizers like shishito tempura and karaage add variety.

Sushi here features freshest fish with beautiful presentation and no strong fishy taste. The quality is consistently high and flavorful while prices stay affordable.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be incredibly fresh and delicious."

"It's a cozy, clean, and quiet little spot."

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

Good to know

1

Parking at Akinori Sushi is easy with spaces available right out front.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of sushi served.

3

The lunch special does not include miso soup or salad as stated in the menu.

07
Oseyo Shabu Shabu image 1
Shabu-shabu restaurant

Individual hot pots with induction heating create a clean, cozy setting enhanced by wooden decor and floral arrangements. The atmosphere stays lively around lunchtime with a K-pop soundtrack adding energy. The space suits small groups or solo diners seeking a casual, warm meal experience.

Fresh, high-quality meats and flavorful broths create a full-on shabu shabu experience. Options include Angus Beef and Australian Lamb sets with plenty of meat, vegetables, udon, and rice.

Fresh cut sushi rolls stand out here, including Salmon Roll, Bay Scallop Roll, and Karubi. The sashimi platter and scallop sushi offer solid variety, while takoyaki adds a tasty side option.

People are saying

"The shabu shabu here is delicious and the meat is so tender."

"The Japanese food's beef is so tender and flavorful."

"Their sushi rolls are fresh and I recommend trying any of them."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour deals offer great value from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

The restaurant offers a two-person feast for $80, including drinks and dessert.

3

Parking is easy and free outside the restaurant.

08
Kyushu Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, family-run Japanese restaurant with bright red walls and lantern decorations creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. The space feels clean and inviting, with casual and comfortable seating. Fresh, authentic sushi and unique touches like real wasabi and sparkling sake complement the intimate vibe.

Sushi here is fabulously fresh and beautifully presented with real wasabi. The sashimi and rolls stand out for their incredible freshness and quality, while the Soup Udon offers a rich seafood broth with soft udon noodles.

Sushi here is super fresh and beautifully presented with pieces larger than most places. The toro sashimi stands out as incredibly buttery and a highlight of the meal.

People are saying

"I had some of the best sushi I ever experienced here."

"The lunch specials here are an awesome deal."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Parking is available on the side, but access requires a left turn on a one-way street.

3

Lunch specials offer good value for those looking for a budget-friendly option.

09
Roll Factory by Straycat Kitchen image 1

Secluded setting offers a calm atmosphere with a focus on fresh sushi and poke bowls featuring purple rice as a unique signature. Wide selection of sauces enhances dishes, with options like Truffle Ponzu standing out. Locals frequent the spot for its thoughtful, unfussy approach and satisfying flavors.

Fresh sushi features high-quality salmon and hot tempura. Sushi rolls come with many options and a wide range of sauces, with Truffle Ponzu standing out for its rich and bright flavor.

Fresh sushi features prominently with a variety of sushi rolls and sushi burritos. The salmon roll stands out, matching quality found at well-known sushi spots.

People are saying

"The sushi here is amazing, with really fresh, high-quality fish."

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

"The seafood here is so fresh, I really enjoyed it."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a wide selection of toppings and sauces for sushi.

2

Great alternatives like steamed rice are available if menu items are missing.

3

Expect a variety of sushi rolls and options on the menu.

10
Noda Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy space offers fresh sushi and generous tempura portions with a low-key vibe. The place stays pretty empty and provides good value despite price increases. Lunch features customizable Bento boxes, enhancing the casual dining experience.

Sushi features fresh sashimi and well-prepared rolls like the salmon lover and Cynthia roll. Lunch offers a customizable Bento box option, and tempura servings come out generous.

Freshness stands out with sashimi, salmon lover roll, and Cynthia roll all prepared well. Sushi here stays consistent and offers a low key vibe for a solid experience.

People are saying

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

"I enjoyed the great food here."

"I thought the sushi here was the best."

Good to know

1

Last call is at 8:15 PM during the week.

2

Last call is at 8:45 PM on Saturdays.

3

Lunch option includes a customizable Bento box.

11
Go Go Sushi image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant offers an inviting, warm atmosphere with a Las Vegas lounge vibe and beautifully decorated interior. Music adds to the chill energy while the sushi bar provides a fresh and tasty experience. The place stands out for friendly service and accommodating dietary restrictions.

Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish with big servings and a variety of rolls like the Rainbow Roll and salmon roll. Service stays attentive and friendly, and dishes like chicken katsu and shrimp tempura curry add variety beyond sushi.

Sushi here is consistently fresh and served in big servings. The rolls and sashimi salad stand out, paired with attentive service that enhances the experience.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious Japanese food, especially the fresh sushi rolls."

"The sushi here is always fresh and delicious for a great date spot."

"I was pleasantly surprised by how delicious the sushi was."

Good to know

1

Happy hour pricing is available from 11:30 am until 3 pm.

2

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

3

The menu offers a variety of sushi and hot dishes.

12
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa image 1

Minimalist interior and dim lighting create an intimate atmosphere in a small, cozy space. The vibe is casual but polished, with a welcoming and relaxed energy. Consistent pacing and a quiet courtyard offer a comfortable setting despite the compact size.

Sushi here features fresh fish and warm sushi rice that melts in your mouth. The omakase-style menu offers consistent, high-quality sushi with great value.

Sushi here features fresh fish and warm sushi rice that pairs perfectly with tender slices. The sushi melts in your mouth like butter and consistently delivers well-prepared, high-quality bites.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is so fresh and melts in your mouth."

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

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of over an hour, especially during peak hours.

2

A mandatory 16% service fee is added to all bills.

3

Parking is available for $3 with validation in the garage behind the restaurant.

13
Wagyu Master Shabu House | Pasadena image 1

Shabu-shabu restaurant offers an interactive hotpot experience with A5 Wagyu imported from Japan and a variety of Asian broths. The space feels modern and stylish with a lively, upbeat atmosphere and accommodating layout. Performances like the Sukiyaki ceremony add a unique, engaging touch to the dining.

Freshness and variety stand out with an all-you-can-eat area featuring sauces, meats, vegetables, sushi, and desserts. The wagyu bone marrow and table side sukiyaki get special attention, with the sukiyaki cooked perfectly at the table.

Freshness stands out with a wide variety of sushi and sashimi in the all-you-can-eat section. The menu includes delicious nigiri and a good mix of appetizers, skewers, and desserts.

People are saying

"The Wagyu service from Kit and Eric was attentive and knowledgeable."

"The A4 wagyu here is buttery, flavorful, and melts in your mouth."

"The Sushi here is amazing, thanks to the super friendly and attentive servers."

Good to know

1

Joining the waitlist helps avoid long lines and wait times.

2

Parking costs around $6 to $7 at Paseo for convenience.

3

Arrive early or get on the waitlist to avoid long waits, especially on weekends.

14
Kaiba Japanese Ramen, Sushi & Grill - Pasadena image 1

Japanese restaurant offers upscale interior with covered patio seating and multiple TVs showing sports. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxed, with a warm, inviting vibe suited for quiet meals or late-night dates. Seating is somewhat tight but sufficient for medium crowds.

Rich, flavorful broth defines the tonkotsu ramen here, with a perfect, mild spice level. Sushi rolls stand out as fresh and well-crafted, making this spot a reliable choice for ramen and sushi lovers.

Sushi here is super fresh with big portions and a great selection of rolls. The sashimi platter comes with fresh wasabi and the quality stays solid at a reasonable price.

People are saying

"The ramen here has a rich, flavorful broth."

"You have to try the frozen beer; it's a must-try."

"The sushi here is super fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour deals on beer are available.

2

Lunch deals offer great value for money.

3

Parking is limited to one hour in the back lot.

15
MAMA M SUSHI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small interior with a cozy atmosphere and low lighting creates a relaxed vibe. Live music adds to the intimate setting, while a patio area offers outdoor seating with city views. The place attracts locals and maintains a quiet, welcoming energy.

Sushi rolls come extremely fresh and are crafted by a professional chef with inventive, fresh ingredients. The spicy edamame offers a strong garlic flavor, and the menu includes spicy tuna rolls, sashimi, and soft shell crab that stand out.

Sushi here features fresh ingredients and inventive rolls crafted by a professional chef. The spicy tuna and yellowtail sushi stand out for their excellent flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is always great and fresh."

"It's a quiet, casual, and cozy atmosphere here."

"The sushi here is always great and fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers specials every day of the week.

2

Live music is available on Friday nights outside.

3

Parking options include street parking or a nearby lot costing $7 for 2 hours.

16
San Sai Pasadena Japanese Grill image 1

Casual Japanese grill with spacious seating and a mini Japanese snack shop inside. Atmosphere stays relaxed and clean, suitable for quick meals or group hangouts. Offers affordable, generous portions with a focus on grilled chicken and teriyaki dishes.

Sushi includes creative rolls like the Tiger Roll and a variety of fresh nigiri such as salmon, tuna, and shrimp. Teriyaki dishes feature authentic, tender grilled meats, including beef and chicken, paired with well-balanced flavors and generous portions.

Party platters include rainbow roll, tiger roll, and fresh nigiri like salmon, tuna, hamachi, and shrimp. Sushi offers a solid casual spot experience with options like handrolls and combo menus featuring grill items.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The Japanese Food, especially the Beef Teriyaki, was incredible and tender."

"The Beef Teriyaki was tender steak, beautifully grilled and sliced to perfection."

Good to know

1

There is a Caltech discount available.

2

Free parking is available out back.

3

Prices are generally affordable, with meals around $9.

17
Maki Yaki image 1
Sushi restaurant

Simple, no-frills sushi spot with affordable prices and large bento boxes. Atmosphere feels plain and unremarkable, with some seating space occasionally used for storage. Food focuses on fresh rolls and tasty chicken teriyaki, offering quick service and satisfying portions.

Offers no-nonsense Japanese food with satisfying bento boxes and consistently good chicken teriyaki. Sushi and tempura are solid choices, with maki specials providing good value.

Maki specials offer great value and filling portions. Sushi here reminds of Northern California sushi boat places and comes with consistently great service.

People are saying

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

"The Japanese food here is really good, especially the teriyaki chicken."

"The sushi here is delicious and at great prices."

Good to know

1

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly dining option.

2

Dine-in seating is available, but space may be limited.

3

Takeout is a popular option for those in a hurry.

18
Fishwives image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small, intimate seafood restaurant with nautical decor and a New England fish house feel. Bright interior and courtyard seating offer a mix of indoor and outdoor dining. Atmosphere tends to be loud and lively, with a friendly vibe.

Seafood shines with a diverse menu featuring sushi, sashimi, and a raw bar. The handrolls stand out, especially salmon and Maryland bluecrab, alongside fresh scallops and pickled vegetables.

Sushi includes hand rolls and sashimi with pickled vegetables. Some handrolls come as a temaki set.

People are saying

"The seafood here is top quality, especially the crab cakes and lobster roll."

"The Dungeness crab roll and cioppino were fantastic."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the scallops, is delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for large groups, due to high demand.

2

There is no parking available near the restaurant.

3

The average cost for a meal for four is around $385, excluding tip.

19
Whole Foods Market image 1
Grocery store

Two-story grocery store offers a spacious layout with wide aisles and natural light. Upstairs features a food court with a bar, pizza, coffee, and seating areas including an astroturf patio. The atmosphere feels relaxed and less uptight compared to typical supermarkets.

A wide selection of sushi rolls stands out, with a sushi bar that offers fresh and convenient options. The buffet includes vegan dishes, soup, and hearty comfort food alongside sushi, making it a diverse spot for Japanese food.

Wide selection of sushi rolls sits alongside a buffet with vegan dishes and fresh fruit. The sushi bar offers convenient and varied options, making it easy to grab sushi with other hot foods.

People are saying

"I noticed the organic rotisserie chicken here is only seasoned with salt and pepper."

"I loved the sushi rolls; they had a wide selection."

"I found the sushi rolls to be awesome and a wide selection."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in a garage, but it can get congested at times.

2

Whole Foods Market offers a wide selection of organic groceries.

3

The store has an Amazon return area for easy returns.

20
Panda Inn image 1
Chinese restaurant

Open space with high ceilings and a modern-traditional Chinese decor creates a classy, upscale atmosphere. A full sushi bar and sit-down drink bar add variety to dining options. The vibe balances comfort and elegance, attracting those seeking both flavor and refined ambiance.

Sushi bar offers a solid complement to the Chinese dishes with an omakase experience that stands out for its precision and care from the sushi chef. The quality at this price point makes the omakase especially notable.

Sushi comes with precision and care from the chef. The sushi bar complements the Chinese dishes well. It stands out as a must-try option here.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the orange chicken."

"The Wagyu & Lobster Sushi Roll was pure bliss."

"This sushi is pure bliss and heavenly happiness."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, and there are no guarantees for booth seating.

2

Parking is available in a garage, and the restaurant validates parking.

3

Expect the restaurant to be busy during dinner hours.

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