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Sashimi and salmon in Santa Monica

A plate of salmon sashimi is the cleanest, most satisfying way to satisfy a hunger for raw fish.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sushi Kanpai Santa Monica image 1
Sushi Kanpai Santa Monica image 2
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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.

Wide variety of exotic Japanese sushi sashimi stands out here. The eel sashimi offers a unique taste, complemented by flavorful sauces.

Salmon appears in several dishes like the teriyaki dinner set and salmon collar with lemon during happy hour. Mini donburi bowls feature Salmon Ikura, offering filling and flavorful options.

People are saying

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

"The salmon sushi here is fresh, well-prepared, and better than I expected."

"I loved the wide variety of exotic sashimi here."

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.

02
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 melt-in-your-mouth texture and beautiful presentation. Other highlights include mackerel, scallop, and toro sashimi, all served fresh with a special seaweed soy sauce.

Very tender salmon melts in the mouth with super fresh quality. Salmon rice offers a flavorful, soft texture that stands out.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"You have to get the corn ribs; they're amazing."

"The salmon here is unlike anything I've tried before."

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.

03
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.

Slices come shockingly fresh and beautifully arranged, especially the sweet shrimp fried to crispy perfection. The 12-piece combo pairs well with a choice of California or spicy tuna roll, offering unbeatable value.

Rich salmon flavors come through in the Truffle Salmon Carpaccio with a black truffle aroma that melts without greasiness. The salmon belly offers a fatty but clean taste, featured in nigiri and rolls like the Mango Crunch and Baked Salmon with fresh mango.

People are saying

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

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

"The Orange Volcano Roll with salmon is served on fire, a real showstopper."

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.

04
Mikomi Sushi Santa Monica image 1
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.

Happy hour offers good-sized sashimi portions at $5 or $7. Lunch specials include a full plate with four pieces of sashimi and nigiri plus a roll for $24.

Baked salmon rolls stand out with their amazing fluffy texture and fresh, rich flavor. Salmon rolls come in generous sizes and pair well with other rolls like Eel & Avocado.

People are saying

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

"You can get a full plate with sashimi for very low prices."

"The baked salmon roll has an amazing fluffy texture and flavor."

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.

05
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.

Freshness stands out with consistently high-quality fish. Amberjack, yellowtail, and tuna sashimi show bold flavors. Scallop adds a delicate touch to the sashimi bowl.

Baked salmon rolls stand out with rich flavor. Black truffle salmon offers a unique twist. Salmon skin salad delivers an unusually delicious crunch.

People are saying

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

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

"The salmon here is so fresh and tasty."

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.

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.

Sashimi comes thick, fresh, and buttery with beautiful presentations. Plates often include edible flowers and various sauces for added flair.

Fresh and buttery salmon sashimi stands out alongside the baked salmon roll and crab hand roll. The salmon salad offers a light and refreshing option with great flavors.

People are saying

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

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

"The salmon here is so fresh and buttery."

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
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.

Sashimi here is exceptionally fresh and served with perfect seasoning. The quality stands out clearly in the lunch specials.

Salmon stands out with unparalleled freshness and is never over seasoned. Dishes like the Truffle Salmon Carpaccio and spiced salmon in soy paper rolls deliver flavorful, precise tastes.

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 Salmon here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

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.

08
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.

Albacore and salmon sashimi stand out for their excellent quality. Hand rolls include varieties like sea bream and toro sashimi, served with prompt and professional service.

Salmon stands out with excellent sashimi and amazing flavor. It pairs well in hand rolls alongside toro, scallop, and yellowtail.

People are saying

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

"The salmon here just melts in your mouth, it's so fresh."

"I found the sashimi here to be the most delicious I ever ate."

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.

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Santa Monica, California

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