0 Followers
Sushi Beluga -Long Beach
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Beluga -Long Beach
8.4
Chef-driven sushi destination where Chef K's 20+ years of training under Japanese masters shows in pristine fish quality and precise technique. Small, intimate space near the waterfront draws sushi purists for omakase-style experiences and perfectly balanced signature rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lemon Salmon Roll, Crunchy Dragon Roll, Chef's Omakase Selection
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Chef with decades of traditional Japanese training delivers fish quality that rivals Las Vegas landmarks
Who should go: Sushi purists seeking authentic, chef-driven omakase experiences
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for optimal freshness
What to order: Lemon Salmon Roll, Crunchy Dragon, any daily sashimi special
Insider tip: Chef K personally selects fish and often works the sushi bar
Sushi Beluga -Long Beach
8.8
Chef K's oceanfront location brings over 20 years of traditional Japanese training to this intimate sushi counter. The menu emphasizes pristine fish quality with signature items like aburi miso salmon and yuzu roll, while the small dining room and outdoor patio create a relaxed neighborhood feel.
Must-Try Dishes:
Aburi Miso Salmon, Yuzu Roll, Yellowtail Crudo
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Chef K trained under Japanese masters since age 17, delivering exceptional fish quality
Who should go: Sushi aficionados prioritizing authenticity and pristine ingredients
When to visit: Wednesday-Sunday for dinner, outdoor patio in good weather
What to order: Aburi miso salmon, crunchy dragon roll, chef's choice sashimi
Insider tip: Regulars drive 30+ miles for Chef K's precise knife work and fish selection
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Pine Ave and nearby blocks, metered until 8pm weekdays. Public lot on 1st Street ($8 flat evening rate). Valet not available.
Dress code: Smart casual works perfectly - nice jeans and collared shirt, or casual dress. The intimate counter setting feels special but not stuffy.
Noise level: Intimate and quiet - perfect for conversation. The small dining room (seats ~20) keeps volume low, ideal for date nights.
Weekend wait: 45-75 min without reservation Friday-Saturday after 6pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch - dinner service only Wednesday-Sunday starting at 5pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - vegetable tempura, avocado roll, cucumber roll, edamame. This is a fish-forward sushi experience.
Vegan options: Very limited - cucumber roll and edamame are your main options. Not the ideal choice for vegan diners.
Gluten-free options: Yes - tamari available upon request, sashimi is naturally gluten-free. Chef K accommodates with advance notice.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent first date spot. The intimate counter seating creates natural conversation, Chef K's presence adds entertainment value, and the oceanfront patio offers romantic backup if weather permits. Price point ($$$) shows effort without breaking the bank.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible on Wednesday-Thursday if you arrive right at 5pm opening, but risky on weekends. The 20-seat capacity fills quickly. Walk-ins may wait 45+ minutes or get turned away Friday-Saturday. Book ahead or try the bar counter.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) who appreciate sushi. The intimate, quiet atmosphere and counter seating don't suit young children. No kids menu, but Chef K will prepare simpler rolls for adventurous eaters.
How does it compare to nearby Water Grill? Sushi Beluga wins for traditional Japanese technique and fish quality. Water Grill offers broader seafood variety and more polished service. Choose Beluga for authentic sushi experience, Water Grill for full seafood dinner with non-sushi eaters.
Is the outdoor patio worth requesting? Absolutely in good weather - oceanfront views at sunset are stunning. Request it when booking. Indoor counter has Chef K interaction advantage, so both options deliver different experiences.
Best For
Better for: Traditional Japanese technique and pristine fish quality beat flashier competitors. Chef K's 20+ years training shows in knife work and sourcing. Better than chain sushi spots for authenticity, better than downtown LA options for value-to-quality ratio. The intimate setting trumps larger sushi restaurants for personal attention.
Skip if: You want inventive fusion rolls or trendy presentations - this is traditional Japanese execution. Skip if you need extensive vegetarian options, prefer lively/loud atmosphere, or want full-service dinner beyond sushi. Also skip if you can't get reservations and won't wait - the small capacity means limited walk-in space.