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Top picks in Kearny Mesa

Sushi and Seafood

Made for those who demand a high level of precision and freshness from their seafood and will only settle for dedicated sushi preparation.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
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Sushi restaurant

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.

Sushi here features fresh, high-quality fish that melts in your mouth. Specialty nigiri like orange toro and truffle hamachi stand out with well-executed flavors and modest prices comparable to high-end spots.

Fish arrives fresh and buttery, melting in your mouth with every bite. The selection feels curated and unique, with sushi and seared fish both executed with care and balance.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the sushi here was the best in San Diego."

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.

02
Matoi image 1
Sushi restaurant

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.

Authentic sushi shines with thoughtful presentation and a relaxed yet refined ambiance. The chef shares deep knowledge about sushi fish, enhancing the experience without any ego or high cost.

Fish arrives wildly fresh with ingredients flown in from Japan. Sashimi platters feature seasonal fresh slices like scallops, bigeye tuna, Spanish toro, and raw sweet shrimp. Chef TJ shows exceptional care and deep knowledge about sushi fish.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's ruined shrimp everywhere else for me."

"Chef TJ made the sushi experience fun and interactive."

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.

03
Ju-ichi image 1
Japanese restaurant

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.

Sushi here stands out for its incredibly fresh quality and unique selection not found easily elsewhere. The nigiri sampler and A5 beef nigiri offer a variety that includes options for those avoiding raw fish.

Fish arrives fresh and seasonal, often flown in from Japan. Dishes feature special fish selections not commonly found elsewhere, with perfectly crafted portions that melt in your mouth.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is outstanding, especially the fresh sushi and creative rolls."

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

"I highly recommend this amazing little sushi spot."

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.

04
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House image 1
Self service restaurant

Self-service restaurant offers all-you-can-eat wagyu hot pot with three pricing tiers and membership perks. Interior feels modern and Instagrammable with a calm, welcoming atmosphere despite a tight space. Quality of wagyu and fresh seafood stands out, with efficient ordering and refill system reducing wait times.

Offers all-you-can-eat sushi with fresh fish and premium options like wagyu nigiri and bluefin hand roll with uni. Nigiri stands out among the sushi choices.

Seafood here stands out for its freshness across a wide range of options. The seafood platter comes with plentiful sides, including some upscale choices like clams and octopus.

People are saying

"The Wagyu here melts like butter, it's the best."

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and a great value."

"The sushi here had good, fresh fish."

Good to know

1

The place is open until 10 pm.

2

You can order three items at a time with refills every eight minutes.

3

They offer all-you-can-eat wagyu hot pot with three tiers of pricing.

05
Nijiya Market San Diego Store image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese supermarket layout offers neatly organized aisles with beautifully displayed fresh produce, sushi, and sashimi. Atmosphere feels authentic with a wide selection of Japanese snacks, frozen foods, and bakery items. Parking can be scarce during busy hours, but quality and variety stand out.

Freshly made sushi comes in pre-packaged selections including rolls, nigiri, and sashimi. The fish is sushi grade and the sushi is prepared daily with affordable prices.

Fresh fish comes in small portions ideal for sampling without buying large amounts. Sushi grade fish and sashimi options stay extremely fresh, rivaling specialty markets. The selection includes packaged sushi, sashimi, and bentos alongside fresh seafood and produce.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store is the finest I've visited."

"I found the seafood selection here to be really fresh."

"I found the pre-packaged sushi here to be excellent and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

Parking can be scarce during busy hours.

2

Get there before 11:30 for the best selection of products.

3

Expect limited sushi and bento options after 6pm.

06
Domo Kitchen image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small interior with dim lighting creates a warm and welcoming but sometimes crowded atmosphere during lunch. Easy-going vibe suits families despite cluttered seating and limited space. Ordering food first and then finding a seat is typical due to high demand.

Sushi here features fresh quality and super-sized rolls. The portions are large and the taste is consistently good.

Shrimp dishes feature perfectly cooked shrimp with options like shrimp lo mein and shrimp with peapods and veggies. The shrimp lo mein dinner offers good value, costing only a few dollars more than the lunch portion.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh, delicious, and super-sized."

"The sushi here is fresh and delicious."

"Nancy's outstanding service made this seafood spot my new go-to."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult at lunch.

2

Customers must order their food first and then find a seat.

3

Dinner portions are standard 16oz takeout cartons with rice.

07
KOTOBUKI image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with limited seating creates a calm and relaxed atmosphere. Popular with locals, it offers quick service and a clean environment. Attention to detail shows in the authentic sushi and traditional Japanese flavors.

Sushi here features fresh sashimi and rolls like the yellowtail jalapeño with a spicy kick. Portions vary, with some pieces like scallop sushi being quite small.

Fresh fish and rice stand out with bright flavors and quality. The yellowtail jalapeno sashimi offers a spicy kick with very fresh fish. The rainbow roll uses crab instead of shrimp, accommodating allergies.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh, the fish and rice taste amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available in the lot.

2

The restaurant offers quick service for a fast meal.

3

The menu is small, making it easier to choose.

08
Robataya Oton image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate space with traditional Japanese decor and private horigotatsu rooms creates a cozy, authentic izakaya atmosphere. Lighting is soft and soothing, enhancing a relaxing vibe that transports diners to Japan. Reservation is common to secure private seating, distinguishing it from typical sushi spots.

Each piece of sushi features subtle finishes like light charring, simple marinade, and lemon that create interesting nuances. The chef's choice nigiri omakase offers a curated, intimate experience with excellent quality and unique flavors.

Fresh fish stands out with unbelievably fresh nigiri and rich monkfish liver during its season. Tempura seafood and grilled fish also deliver solid flavors.

People are saying

"The nabiyaki udon was amazing."

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and outstanding."

"The chef's choice sushi pieces each stood alone in taste and experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are almost a must due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect a 90-minute dining limit, which may feel rushed.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

09
H Mart Balboa image 1
Korean grocery store

Huge Korean grocery store with spacious food court featuring about eight vendors and a small French bakery. Crowded aisles make maneuvering carts difficult, but the place offers an outstanding selection of authentic Asian foods and fresh seafood. Walls display maker-inspired graphics, adding a unique visual touch.

Fresh sushi stands out with a variety of rolls and live seafood options. The selection includes pre-marinated foods, kimbab, and banchan alongside sushi in the food court.

Fresh seafood includes a wide variety of fish and shellfish, both fresh and frozen. The selection pairs well with premium Japanese beef and other meats, offering options for Korean BBQ and hot pot.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very fresh and plentiful."

"You'll find a wide selection of fresh seafood here."

"I liked buying their fresh sushi and side dishes."

Good to know

1

H Mart Balboa offers a large selection of Korean food and snacks.

2

Parking can be challenging at times.

3

The store is clean and well-organized.

10
Itacho Sushi - All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious sushi restaurant with well spaced tables and large TV screens showing cultural and sports content. Atmosphere stays pleasant and chill with moderate music volume, supporting easy conversation. The vibe blends a modern, clean style with a fun anime theme, welcoming groups of all sizes.

Unlimited sashimi and a solid nigiri selection stand out here. Sushi is fresh, tasty, and offers plenty of variety in an all-you-can-eat style.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh and cut to perfection. Appetizers and handrolls feature generous cuts with clear freshness and careful preparation.

People are saying

"The bottomless sushi here is delicious and satisfying."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh, especially the sashimi and nigiri."

"I found the all-you-can-eat sushi here to be worth it."

Good to know

1

The all-you-can-eat option costs $30, offering a wide variety of sushi.

2

Lunch service does not include a menu on weekends or holidays.

3

Sushi orders come in full rolls of 8 pieces, providing good value.

11
Chopstix image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy Japanese noodle house with simple wooden decor and a relaxed, unpretentious vibe. Atmosphere feels like eating at someone's home in Japan, with soulful aromas of broth and katsu filling the air. Regulars gather in a quiet space that stays lively late into the night.

Giant sushi rolls stand out for their freshness and generous portions. The menu pairs these with authentic Japanese dishes like ramen and udon, all served quickly even when busy.

Shrimp tempura appears in both bento plates and sushi, served with white rice, salad, and miso soup. Sushi features fresh fish consistently.

People are saying

"I thought the ramen here was the best Japanese food in San Diego."

"I found the seafood here to be authentic and generously portioned."

"The sushi rolls here are giant and delicious."

Good to know

1

Chopstix offers a happy hour from 9 PM to 12 AM with great deals.

2

The happy hour menu includes a California roll for around $6.

3

Chopstix is open until 1 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

12
Tokyo Central San Diego image 1
Japanese grocery store

Two standalone buildings create a Japanese market atmosphere with fresh produce, fish, and shelf-stable products. Bright decorations and a build-your-own poke station add to the vibrant, inviting vibe. Terrace seating and a small food court offer places to relax and enjoy fresh sushi and bento.

Fresh sushi comes with diverse meats and reasonable prices. Grab-and-go options include sushi, bento, and poke bowls that stay tasty and affordable.

Fresh fish and sashimi stand out with an extensive selection of seafood. Prices stay affordable while offering a variety of fresh and frozen options alongside produce and meats.

People are saying

"I found tons of authentic Japanese food and snacks here."

"The sushi here is always fresh and reasonably priced."

"I found lots of fresh seafood and produce here."

Good to know

1

Tokyo Central San Diego accepts EBT payments.

2

Parking can be challenging during busy hours.

3

A 20% discount on ready-to-eat food is available after 6pm.

13
Zion Market image 1
Korean grocery store

Large, modern Korean grocery store with spacious aisles and bright lighting creates a pleasant shopping environment. Frequent bursts of K-pop music add lively energy, while food court and bakery options offer diverse Korean cuisine experiences.

Fresh sashimi and sushi come with many options like rolls and salads. Prices stay decent but quality is mostly mediocre and just okay.

Fresh fish and seafood stand out with a marvelous selection including both fresh and frozen options. The seafood department offers affordable prices and encourages trying new varieties.

People are saying

"This market has a great variety of fresh produce and Asian snacks."

"The seafood here is always incredibly fresh."

"I loved the fresh sushi and sashimi options here."

Good to know

1

There are special offers every week.

2

Zion Market has a great selection of seafood, both fresh and frozen.

3

Expect to find the best deals on produce in California.

14
ZZan Sushi & Soju image 1
Sushi restaurant

Modern Korean-style sushi restaurant pulses with K-pop music and videos, creating an energetic, lively atmosphere. Bright, loud space combines karaoke rooms and a bar, attracting groups looking for fun nights out. Tables feature call buttons for quick service, enhancing convenience amid vibrant energy.

Fresh sushi features prominently with cooked options bursting with flavor and freshness. The combination of sushi and Korean dishes creates a unique menu that pairs well with soju.

Seafood dishes include seafood noodle soup S6, Pink Panda roll with fried shrimp tempura and fresh fish, and a seafood pancake. Spicy seafood ramen and kimchi seafood pot also feature on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and super fresh."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The seafood here is delicious and authentic Korean."

Good to know

1

The karaoke room costs $40 with a minimum of one hour, and charges start after every 10 minutes.

2

Parking is challenging, but there is a dedicated parking lot right out front.

3

Happy hour runs from 5pm to 8pm Sunday through Thursday.

15
Izakaya Sakura image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Cozy Japanese restaurant with wood and traditional decorations creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like a family-run spot in Japan. Comfortable seating and a popular sushi bar encourage casual interaction. Known for authentic Japanese comfort food and fresh, high-quality sushi.

Freshness stands out with beautifully presented sushi and great quality fish. Nigiri, rolls, and snow crab sushi all taste delicious and fresh.

Fresh fish stands out with premium sashimi featuring unique cuts not common elsewhere. Quality shows in both the fish and curry, and the sushi bar is run by the owner, ensuring amazing fish for sushi.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi and curry, is really good."

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

"The seafood here is always so fresh, especially the sashimi."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be challenging to find during busy times.

2

Reservations are not accepted, so expect to wait during peak hours.

3

The restaurant only accepts up to two cards for splitting the bill.

16
Katsu Cafe image 1
Japanese restaurant

Casual Japanese restaurant with retro 60s-70s decor and a laid-back atmosphere featuring loud eclectic music including 90s, 2000s, and island styles. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs and offers sunlit dining. Portions are generous and affordable, creating a relaxed, unpretentious vibe.

Sushi here includes a unique fried option breaded like a corn dog, crispy outside and soft inside. The menu offers a great variety of sushi rolls and bowls, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Spicy seafood dishes like Jjam Bbong and a spicy shrimp bowl stand out here. The Friday Special includes Shrimp Tempura Rolls and California Rolls, adding variety to the seafood options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food portions here are huge; you'll have leftovers!"

"I enjoyed the fresh, flavorful sushi creations."

"The seafood here is delicious and the portions are huge."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day from 3 to 6 pm with great drink prices.

2

The dinner for two costs less than $20, making it very affordable.

3

Expect large portion sizes, perfect for sharing.

17
Hinotez image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese restaurant with traditional tatami seating and Japanese-themed decor creates a cozy, authentic izakaya vibe. Lounge area gets overcrowded and hot, while dining side offers a quieter experience. Late nights bring a lively atmosphere with locals enjoying unique ramen and yakitori dishes.

Sushi includes Nigiri, sashimi, and various rolls like Iron Man and Hawaii. Rolls come with wasabi and ginger, and the menu offers a wide range of sushi alongside rice bowls and noodle dishes.

Fried oysters and shrimp tempura stand out with crispy textures and rich flavors. Sushi options include a Pepper Tuna Roll featuring shrimp tempura, avocado, crab, seared tuna, and sweet chili sauce.

People are saying

"The tonkotsu ramen here is extremely flavorful and delicious."

"I found the sushi here to be authentic and comforting."

"The seafood here is authentic Japanese, just like in Japan."

Good to know

1

Hinotez offers happy hour deals on drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Parking is available in the rear, off Balboa, with plenty of spaces.

3

Expect a wait time during peak hours on weekends, especially after 7pm.

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Kearny Mesa, San Diego

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