Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
San Diego's best

Sake and fish

The clean, delicate taste of fresh fish is elevated by a crisp pour of sake.

Based on 579 Opinions
+576
User
User
User
Updated
01
Ichifuji Sushi image 1
Ichifuji Sushi image 2
Ichifuji Sushi image 3
View all

Small sushi bar offers an intimate omakase experience with personal interaction between diners and chefs. Atmosphere feels authentic and transportational, evoking a sense of being in Japan. Outdoor patio accommodates well-behaved dogs, adding a relaxed and inclusive vibe.

Small batch sake from Japan offers exclusive selections not found elsewhere. Cold sake pairs well with seafood and includes options like cold Asahi on tap.

Fish arrives fresh and bright, often imported directly from Japan or made with local ingredients. A 30-day fermented ponzu sauce adds a balanced richness and acts as a palate cleanser between courses.

People are saying

"The fish here is fantastic, especially the omakase."

"The omakase here was an exceptionally good and memorable experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for dining.

2

Ichifuji Sushi has outdoor seating where pets are allowed.

3

There is a small parking lot on site.

02
Ken Sushi Workshop image 1
Ken Sushi Workshop image 2
Ken Sushi Workshop image 3
View all

Japanese restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with fireplaces and portable tents creating a fun, lively atmosphere. Sushi bar seating allows watching chefs prepare high-quality, creative sushi. Ambiance blends minimalist decor with casual, inviting energy.

A great variety of sakes is available, including a good sake menu with options to try different types. The chef often offers complimentary sake, and sitting at the bar might get you the chef's signature, "Ken Water."

People are saying

"This fish is the best sushi I've ever had."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

2

The restaurant does not accept walk-ins, so plan ahead.

3

Expect to spend around $63 per person, excluding alcohol.

03
Matoi image 1
Matoi image 2
Matoi image 3
View all

Small, intimate omakase bar blends traditional edomae style with 90's rap music for a unique dining vibe. Atmosphere stays laid-back and welcoming, balancing quiet moments with casual energy. Fish flown from Japan ensures exceptionally fresh sushi paired with thoughtful sake and beer selections.

Thoughtful sake pairings enhance each dish with beautiful presentation and flavor harmony. The selection offers interesting and flavorful options that complement the meal well.

Fish arrives wildly fresh with cuts flown in from Japan and Hawaii. The sashimi platter features seasonal selections like bigeye tuna, Spanish toro, and raw sweet shrimp, all prepared with exceptional care by Chef TJ.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, it's unlike anything I've had."

"The omakase here is a transcendent, intentional experience."

Good to know

1

They have only 2 seatings per night at 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM.

2

Reservations are necessary due to limited seating availability.

3

The omakase experience lasts about three hours.

04
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 1
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 2
Harmony Cuisine 2B1 image 3
View all

Small sushi restaurant with an intimate, elevated casual atmosphere and dark, cozy lighting. Central sushi bar surrounded by limited table seating creates a warm, inviting vibe where chefs prepare fresh, high-quality fish. Offers a notable sake selection enhancing the dining experience.

Staff guide through sake tastings with quick insight into personal tastes. The heaven collection sake flight offers a standout variety, and sampling before choosing a bottle is welcomed.

Fish here is fresh and sliced just right, with a buttery texture that melts in your mouth. The selection feels curated and includes well-executed seared options that are not overly done.

People are saying

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

"Chef Ivan's sake magic at the bar is phenomenal."

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.

05
Ju-ichi image 1
Ju-ichi image 2
Ju-ichi image 3
View all

Small, intimate Japanese restaurant with upscale sushi and weekly changing menu based on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Atmosphere is lively yet cozy, suited for romantic evenings or special occasions. Bar seating offers a chef's show and sake pairings enhance the dining experience.

Owner offers sake recommendations and chef suggests excellent pairings for sushi. Complimentary sake shots mark special occasions.

Fresh seasonal fish flown in from Japan forms the core of the menu. Portions are perfectly crafted with an incredible quality that melts in the mouth.

People are saying

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

"The sake here is thoughtfully prepared and sublime."

Good to know

1

Reservations for the omakase should be made two weeks in advance.

2

The tasting menu is available on Sundays with only 11 seats per session.

3

Sessions for the tasting menu start at 5 pm and 7:30 pm.

06
Azuki Sushi Lounge image 1
Azuki Sushi Lounge image 2
Azuki Sushi Lounge image 3
View all

Small, intimate space blends classic Japanese aesthetic with modern touches and rustic wood decor. Atmosphere stays tranquil and authentic, inviting relaxation with minimalistic design. Offers outdoor dining and a sushi bar, with a back seating area suited for special occasions.

Excellent sake list offers a variety of options. The Shichida bottle stands out as a highly recommended choice. Cocktail and sake selections are consistently strong.

Fish comes in a super fresh variety with options like fatty tuna, fatty salmon, and sea urchin. The quality stands out, especially in dishes like the Omakase Chirashi Bowl and specialty rolls.

People are saying

"The fish here is amazingly fresh and delicious."

"The Sake here is authentic and surprisingly high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Curbside pick-up and online ordering are available for convenience.

3

Seating is not wheelchair accessible for parties less than four.

07
Kinme Omakase image 1
Kinme Omakase image 2
Kinme Omakase image 3
View all

Intimate setting with 10 seats and a dramatic marble wall creates a calm, luxe atmosphere. Guests watch chefs prepare world-class kaiseki and omakase dishes featuring fresh, high-quality fish and wagyu. The experience includes thoughtful presentation and a matcha tea ceremony, offering a quiet, elegant dining event.

Staff provide detailed sake education and pour with care. Sake pairings add a fun, informative layer to the meal.

Fish here shows exceptional quality. The freshness and texture stand out clearly.

People are saying

"This sake offers a truly memorable and happy dining experience."

"This fish is the best sushi I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required at least one month in advance due to limited seating.

2

The cost is over $250 per person, including tip.

3

Parking can be difficult in the downtown area.

08
Taka Restaurant image 1
Taka Restaurant image 2
Taka Restaurant image 3
View all

Japanese restaurant offers an authentic atmosphere with cozy, laid-back vibe and polished, low-key luxe decor. The space is small and sleek, with well-lit interiors and occasional outdoor seating to escape noise. It attracts diners seeking fresh, high-quality sushi paired with a notable sake selection.

A nice sake selection includes options like King Sake and Sai Sake. Waiters offer excellent recommendations to pair with dishes like honmaguro nigiri.

Fresh fish arrives consistently, with pieces that almost melt in your mouth. Sashimi comes in generously sized portions showcasing excellent quality.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, it has no fishy smell."

"The sake selection here is pretty solid."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required before dining at Taka Restaurant.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

Fresh wasabi is available as a $9 add-on.

09
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 1
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 2
TAKARAMONO SUSHI image 3
View all

Small sushi restaurant with authentic atmosphere and subtle Japanese decor creates a quiet, intimate vibe. Space feels comfortable and unpretentious, with an open front allowing fresh air inside. Fish quality stands out as exceptionally fresh and high-grade.

A curated selection of sake and Japanese craft beers complements the meal. The sake bottle menu leans pricey, with options like Otokoyama available.

Fish here is exceptionally fresh, almost like it was just caught. Quality is very high, with each piece made with care and intention for a great sushi experience.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"I wish they had more sake rolls to choose from."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, due to limited seating.

2

Omakase is available Monday through Thursday with 24 hours advance reservations.

3

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

10
Hakumaru image 1
Hakumaru image 2
Hakumaru image 3
View all

Small space with intimate dining and booth seating creates a cozy, moody vibe reminiscent of a modern izakaya. Low club music and vintage anime on TVs add an underground speakeasy feel. The atmosphere is lively yet snug, attracting those seeking quality sushi in a hip setting.

Sake comes in a flight offering variety and freshness. The Aburi Sake tastes clean and pairs well with nigiri. Overall, the sake is delicious and well-crafted.

Fish here is insanely fresh and of excellent quality. Unique flavor combinations highlight the top shelf fish used in every dish.

People are saying

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

"I found the sake here delicious."

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.

11
Kiiro Sushi Izakaya image 1
Kiiro Sushi Izakaya image 2
Kiiro Sushi Izakaya image 3
View all

Spacious seating and modern casual design create a clean, classy setting with a homey, family vibe. Music stays chill with 80's pop tunes at a comfortable volume, supporting a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The place feels like stepping back into Asia, offering a relaxed yet lively environment.

A decent selection of sake and soju is available, with options extending beyond the menu. Staff suggest asking about the current sake offerings to explore more choices.

Fish comes in super fresh and top quality. Specialty rolls feature clever ingredients alongside aged and bluefin varieties.

People are saying

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

"I ordered the Aburi Garlic Butter Salmon Belly Nigiri, it melted in my 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.

12
Ginza Sushi image 1
Ginza Sushi image 2
Ginza Sushi image 3
View all

Modern and sleek interior contrasts with some drab and uninviting elements like darkened curtains. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with reasonable prices and solid sushi offerings. Lunch specials attract diners, while the place closes early at 9pm.

Fish cake soup captures authentic flavors and evokes childhood memories of Korean street food. Other dishes like jjambbong and raw fish rice bowls offer fresh, delicious seafood options at reasonable prices.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Happy hour rolls are 50% off, making them a good value.

2

Hand rolls are $4, providing good value for sushi.

3

They offer great lunch special options.

13
Shino Sushi + Kappo image 1
Shino Sushi + Kappo image 2
Shino Sushi + Kappo image 3
View all

Sushi bar with super laid-back vibe and warm, inviting atmosphere offers an active, fun setting often accompanied by sports games on screens. The space blends authentic Japanese experience with lively energy, especially around the sushi bar. Occasional loud moments can disrupt the otherwise peaceful mood.

An extensive sake selection offers options from crisp and light to rich and complex. A sommelier provides expert pairing advice, though service can be inconsistent.

Fish arrives super fresh and in big portions. Nigiri melts in your mouth with perfectly cut slices and a delicious scent. The golden eye fish gets a light torch sear and special salt that boosts its flavor and aroma.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The sushi here is so fresh and meticulously crafted."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

2

The restaurant does not have an online booking system; calling is necessary.

3

A mini omakase of nigiri can be requested on the same day.

Discover more

San Diego, California

Area guide