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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Santa Monica

Sushi and fish

Sushi and fish that are handled with the precision the ingredients deserve rather than being treated like standard grocery store fare.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
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Updated April 2026
01
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 2
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 3
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Japanese restaurant

Spacious interior features modern design and beautiful chandeliers with a calm, clean atmosphere ideal for relaxed dining. A robot waitress named Bella delivers food, adding a unique touch to the experience. The place attracts those seeking high-quality sushi in a cozy, inviting setting.

Quality sushi comes with fresh nigiri and a nice variety of rolls and sashimi. Prices stay fair, especially during happy hour with good-sized portions.

Fish here is consistently incredibly fresh with high-quality cuts. Rolls like the spicy tuna are packed with fish, and dishes like yellowtail kama highlight the freshness well.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazing, especially the fresh, well-prepared sushi."

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

"The fish here is so fresh and good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features items priced around $5 to $7, with good-sized portions.

2

The lunch special costs $24 for a full plate, including a nice roll and sashimi.

3

The restaurant and bathrooms are clean and well-maintained.

02
Miyako Restaurant image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, traditional Japanese restaurant with cozy atmosphere featuring cherry blossoms, neon signs, and retro art. Quiet and intimate setting suits dates or casual dinners. Known for fresh, affordable sushi and reasonably priced bento boxes.

Sushi here is super fresh and beautifully presented. The scallop nigiri, sweet shrimp, and rolls with avocado and spicy mayo stand out for their high quality and distinctive flavors.

Fresh fish stands out in every bite, with a tender texture that complements dishes well. The Miyako Roll combines creamy avocado, fresh fish, and perfect sauces for a flavorful experience.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is super fresh and beautifully presented."

"The fish here is so fresh and tender."

Good to know

1

Miyako Restaurant closes at 9 PM.

2

Parking may be hard to find due to limited street parking.

3

Expect to pay around $20 per person for lunch.

03
Shunji Japanese Cuisine image 1
Japanese restaurant

Minimalist space with blonde wood counters and intimate seating creates an exclusive, traditional sushi setting. Soft jazz and a wall of orchids set a peaceful, elegant atmosphere where chefs engage closely with diners. Sushi features authentic Japanese ingredients and meticulous craftsmanship, offering a refined omakase experience.

Sushi here reflects traditional Japanese style with about 90% of ingredients sourced from Japan. Chef Shunji Nakao's meticulous attention to detail shows in every piece, including unique items like shirako sushi.

Fish tastes incredibly fresh and comes primarily from Japan. The sourcing ensures consistent freshness and quality.

People are saying

"The sake here is a testament to meticulous attention to detail."

"The omakase tasting experience here is unforgettable and refined."

"The sushi here is traditional Japanese style, showcasing decades of expertise."

Good to know

1

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

2

Expect a 30-minute wait if you arrive without a reservation.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted, but cash is recommended for tips.

04
MARU SUSHI AND RAMEN image 1

Space combines Japanese decor with floral ceilings and a cherry blossom tree at the entrance, creating a cozy, charming atmosphere. Lighting enhances the setting, making it feel warm and romantic, especially on the outdoor terrace. The bar area offers an authentic izakaya vibe with a laid-back, friendly crowd.

Sashimi stands out with super fresh slices and a beautiful presentation that looks great in photos. The 12-piece sashimi combo and California roll offer unbeatable value with high-quality fish and crispy sweet shrimp.

Fish comes fresh and high quality here, especially in the sashimi combo and sushi sets. The Yellow Volcano Roll features crispy yellowtail fish flame-grilled outside with spicy tuna inside, topped with sweet teriyaki sauce.

People are saying

"The Japanese Food, especially the bento boxes, had a great variety and large portions."

"The sushi here is super fresh and a great value."

"The fish here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

The bar is open until midnight for late-night drinks.

2

There is a public parking lot nearby with 90 minutes of free parking.

3

The restaurant is open until 12 midnight, making it ideal for late-night snacks.

05
Sushi Kanpai Santa Monica image 1

Sushi restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with spacious seating and a clean, pristine interior. The vibe is relaxed and personal, often quiet with few diners, creating an intimate setting. Staff and chefs contribute to a welcoming feel, complementing the high-quality sushi experience.

Fresh, flavorful sushi features a wide variety of exotic Japanese sashimi and seasonal shellfish like Hokkaido scallops. The omakase offers beautifully presented dishes with authentic, high-quality ingredients.

Outstanding quality and very fresh fish define the menu, with generous portions and a variety of options not commonly found at other sushi spots.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is always so fresh and good!"

"The fish here is outstanding and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 50% off on all hand rolls until 6 PM.

2

Reservations are required to meet a $50 per person minimum on weekends.

3

Parking is available in a small lot behind the restaurant.

06
Tsukiji Sushi Sen image 1
Authentic Japanese restaurant

Small, intimate restaurant with cozy authentic interior and a beautiful terrace creates a warm inviting atmosphere. Locals frequent the lively space, enjoying fresh sushi and smooth sake, while staff add personal touches like singing for celebrations. The vibe suits both date nights and family gatherings.

Sushi here is incredibly fresh and beautifully prepared with thoughtful presentation. The sashimi is thick and melts in your mouth, while hand rolls are perfectly seasoned and tempura stays crispy.

Fish here is consistently fresh and of high quality. The selection reflects a deep knowledge of sourcing, ensuring every piece is top-notch.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is the freshest I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2 to 5pm with great prices on appetizers and drinks.

2

The restaurant offers a lunch special bento box during happy hour.

3

Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, accommodating larger parties.

07
KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar image 1

Small sushi bar with U-shaped counter seating creates a casual, lively atmosphere where diners sit side by side facing chefs. The space feels intimate but tight, with limited room and fixed stools. Energy stays upbeat with dim lighting and background music enhancing the informal vibe.

Hand rolls stand out with big, fresh portions like sea bream and toro sashimi. Prices stay affordable while maintaining high quality and consistent deliciousness.

Fish arrives extremely fresh and cold, paired with warm rice and super crispy nori. Options include straightforward, clean preparations and some interesting, unfamiliar varieties like toro.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so fresh, you can really taste the quality."

"The sushi here is so fresh, it makes a huge difference."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges a flat 16% fee and does not accept tips.

2

Expect a wait time of around 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

The seating area is small, which can be uncomfortable during busy hours.

08
Shirubฤ“ image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Long, narrow space with open kitchen and intimate bar seating offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Lighting creates a romantic atmosphere that highlights the antique sake cups and skilled chefs at work. The setting feels distinct from typical izakayas, blending minimal decor with thoughtful design.

Bluefin Tuna sashimi stands out with its freshness and melting texture. Nigiri and sashimi come beautifully presented and offer exceptional quality at reasonable prices.

Fish here is incredibly fresh and tender, especially in the sashimi and nigiri. Unique items like the Aburi Shime Saba offer a cured flavor that pairs well with the raw fish.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh."

"The sushi nigiri and sashimi here have the freshest fish."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs all day on Sunday with food and drink specials.

2

Most happy hour menu items are about $5 cheaper than regular prices.

3

They offer both early and late-night happy hour specials.

09
Sushi King image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi bar offers authentic Japanese ambience with an intimate feel and local vibe. Atmosphere stays relaxed and friendly despite often being crowded. Sushi features fresh, high-quality fish served in generous portions with traditional preparation.

Fresh fish arrives in generous portions, prepared quickly without losing quality. Attentive Japanese chefs serve sushi in a laid-back vibe with outstanding, professional staff.

Fish comes in large portions with exceptional freshness and a clean, high quality taste. Sauces are minimal, letting the fish's natural flavor stand out.

People are saying

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

"The sushi here is so authentic, it feels like you're in Japan."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are strongly advised due to high demand.

2

Sushi King tends to be quite crowded, especially on weekends.

3

Expect long wait times if you arrive without a reservation.

10
Kappo Miyabi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Minimalist design blends traditional Japanese elements with modern charm in a serene, elegant space. Open kitchen adds interactive dining energy while booths provide privacy. Atmosphere suits both casual and intimate meals with a calm, authentic vibe.

Fresh fish and balanced sushi rice stand out here. The menu offers a mix of classic and adventurous sushi with exceptional sashimi quality. Seating at the sushi bar adds to the experience.

Fresh fish stands out with very good quality and taste. Portions come generous and the menu offers a great variety including raw fish and sushi bowls.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The food here is a work of art, truly a feast for the senses."

"The fish here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

The Omakase experience offers a curated selection of sushi and sashimi.

2

A 22% service charge is automatically added to the bill.

3

Expect to pay around $35-$50 for udon dishes.

11
Noma Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Spacious sushi restaurant with Japanese-style decor and a retro Showa-era atmosphere. The vibe is cozy and relaxing, featuring modern jazz and instrumental music that complements the classic wood finishes. Guests watch chefs at the sushi bar while enjoying a calm, inviting environment suited for casual or special dinners.

Sushi here is fresh and authentic, focusing on simple, high-quality nigiris and sashimi. The omakase offers a set with appetizers, miso mushroom soup, a 10-piece sushi set, hand roll, and tamagoyaki for $65.

Fish served here is consistently fresh with a rich, tender texture. Sashimi portions include about 15 pieces, all of high quality and tasty.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the omakase, is so fresh and beautifully presented."

"The sushi here is outstandingly fresh."

"The fish here is so fresh, especially in the omakase."

Good to know

1

Noma Sushi does not accept reservations and is walk-in only.

2

The restaurant has a system for managing the waiting list.

3

Parking is limited, but there is a large parking area behind the restaurant.

12
Sushi Hanashi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi restaurant offers a cozy, casual atmosphere with a calming vibe and friendly staff. Fresh fish pairs well with ice-cold Sapporo, and menu includes classic and unique rolls alongside top-tier nigiri and sashimi. The space feels authentic and personal, creating a sense of being in Japan.

Fresh sushi with generous portions and creative combinations stands out here. Nigiri and sashimi plates offer top tier quality and authentic flavors.

Fish comes very fresh with a great selection. It pairs well with ice-cold Sapporo for a clean taste.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is super fresh and tasty."

"The sushi here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The fish here is always so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 30% off on most items, except Sundays.

2

Street parking is easily available near the restaurant.

3

The portion sizes are large, often enough for one person.

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