Best Instagram Worthy Sushi Restaurants in Pasadena (91101)
4 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
8.6
Since 2013, Chef Shigefumi Tachibe's family-owned restaurant has earned acclaim for both its premium shabu-shabu featuring Saga wagyu beef and its seasonal omakase. Jonathan Gold praised it as an 'izakaya-plus' with fish selections rivaling Japan's best.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Omakase Sushi, Saga Beef Shabu-Shabu, Shishito Tempura Stuffed Spicy Tuna
What makes it special: Creator of the original tuna tartare, per Chef Tachibe
#2
SUGARFISH
8.5
Chef Nozawa's minimalist Trust Me concept strips sushi to its essence with warm rice, pristine fish, and house-made ponzu. This location in a tucked-away courtyard offers the chain's signature simplicity with consistently excellent execution.
Must-Try Dishes:
Trust Me Set, Daily Tuna Special, Yellowtail with Ponzu
What makes it special: No-nonsense approach focuses purely on fish quality
8.2
This sake-forward establishment sources fish from Tokyo's famed Tsukiji Market while offering both traditional omakase sets and creative fusion rolls. The spacious interior and extensive sake selection make it ideal for pre-theater dining near the Pasadena Playhouse.
Must-Try Dishes:
Scallop Carpaccio, Monkfish Liver, Ikura Uni Salmon Donguri
What makes it special: Direct sourcing from Tsukiji Market in Tokyo
Worthy Picks
7.9
Established in 2016, this high-volume favorite draws crowds with its early bird special for the first 50 guests daily. The combination of quality sushi and authentic ramen at accessible prices creates consistent lines of loyal locals.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Spicy Tuna Roll, Tonkotsu Ramen, Salmon Sashimi Platter
What makes it special: Early bird special offers exceptional value daily