Best Sushi Restaurants in Santa Monica (90401)
8 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Essential Picks
#1
Soko Sushi
9.1
Master sushi chef Masa Shimakawa delivers an extraordinary omakase experience from an intimate storeroom setting at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel. The restaurant honors the 2,000-year tradition of narezushi with impeccable technique and the finest fish from Hokkaido and beyond.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bluefin Tuna Trio Roll, Hokkaido Scallop Nigiri, Shimakawa Special Maki
What makes it special: Hotel hideaway with master chef from Hokkaido using traditional aging techniques
Notable Picks
#2
KazuNori
8.8
The original hand roll bar delivers pristine temaki at lightning speed with their signature warm rice and crisp nori. This Michelin-recognized concept from the Sugarfish team perfected the art of minimalist hand rolls with a focused menu and counter-only seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Hand Roll, Blue Crab Hand Roll, The Sexy Set
What makes it special: First hand roll-only concept in the US with signature warm rice
#3
SUGARFISH
8.6
Chef Nozawa's legacy lives on through Trust Me-style sets featuring warm rice, perfectly seasoned fish, and their famous ponzu sauce. Since opening, this location has maintained the no-frills excellence that made Sugarfish an LA institution with reliable quality at approachable prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Trust Me Lunch Set, Toro Hand Roll, Daily Special Nigiri
What makes it special: Nozawa-style warm rice and no-modifications philosophy
#4
Kappo Miyabi
8.3
Authentic Japanese speciality cuisine where presentation becomes art, offering both traditional kaiseki elements and creative modern interpretations. The intimate space showcases seasonal ingredients through the kappo counter dining tradition.
Must-Try Dishes:
Miyabi Omakase Lunch, Wagyu Dumplings, Aburi Shime Saba
What makes it special: Traditional kappo cooking style rarely found outside Japan
#5
Shirube
8.2
Tokyo's legendary 1978 izakaya brings authentic Japanese pub culture to Santa Monica through brothers Yudai and Kodai Uno. Small plates, yakitori, and extensive sake selection create the genuine Tokyo experience that earned founder Takashi Uno the title 'Godfather of modern Izakaya.'
Must-Try Dishes:
Flame-Seared Mackerel, Mentaiko Udon, Corn Ribs with Shoyu Butter
What makes it special: Tokyo's famous izakaya's first US location
#6
Mikomi Sushi
8.0
Family-owned since 2007, this new Santa Monica outpost brings 17 years of experience with an exclusive menu featuring specialty ramen alongside traditional sushi. The warm service and diverse offerings from teriyaki to sukiyaki make it a neighborhood favorite for all ages.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mikomi Special Roll, Yellowtail Carpaccio, Tonkotsu Ramen
What makes it special: Newest location with Santa Monica-exclusive menu items
Worthy Picks
7.8
Late-night Japanese comfort spot masterfully balances fresh sushi with soul-warming ramen bowls until midnight daily. The casual atmosphere and diverse menu make it downtown's go-to for satisfying both sushi and noodle cravings without breaking the bank.
Must-Try Dishes:
Volcano Roll, Salmon Lover's Roll, Spicy Tuna Tempura Roll
What makes it special: One of few spots serving sushi past 11pm daily
7.6
Sustainable seafood specialist blends Pacific Rim flavors with California sensibility, offering poke bowls, sushi tacos, and fresh catch plates on a sunny patio. The extensive menu satisfies diverse tastes from traditional sashimi to innovative fusion creations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Poke Duo Bowl, Wasabi Crusted Ahi, Coconut Shrimp Roll
What makes it special: Sustainable sourcing with Surfrider Foundation partnership