Best Japanese Restaurants in Long Beach
14 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Kihon
Chef-quality fish with Japanese authenticity rare in Long Beach
Notable Picks
#1
Kihon
8.6
Naples Island sushi restaurant focusing on traditional Japanese fundamentals with pristine fish quality. Modern izakaya style with tapas plates makes it suitable for business meetings despite dinner-only hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Albacore, Miso Black Cod, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño
What Makes it Special: Chef-quality fish with Japanese authenticity rare in Long Beach
#2
Kimu Sushi
8.3
Vibrant izakaya experience featuring a sushi bar styled like a Japanese street-side restaurant complete with roof overhang. Creative specialty rolls blend traditional techniques with modern presentations, while the yakitori and small plates program appeals to groups seeking variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Star Roll, Grilled Skewers, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Authentic izakaya atmosphere with theatrical sushi bar design transports diners to Tokyo
8.3
Japanese chain from Tokyo's ramen districts serving 100% plant-based broths in creative flavor profiles like miso, soy, and salt. The unexpected vegan base allows meat lovers and vegans alike to customize their bowls with premium proteins, while late-night hours make it a Belmont Shore staple for post-dinner cravings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Garnet Ramen, Garnet Miso Ramen, Japanese Fried Chicken
What Makes it Special: Plant-based broths accommodate everyone from vegans to carnivores seamlessly
#4
Sushi Mafia
8.2
Trendy corner spot blending Godfather-themed branding with serious sushi execution. Extensive menu features creative baked rolls and specialty items alongside pristine sashimi, while complimentary miso soup and attentive multi-server system create a polished experience in casual surroundings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Amazing Roll, Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna, Blue Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: Massive creative menu with exceptional multi-server system ensuring constant attention
#5
@Sushi
8.1
Contemporary sushi restaurant on Belmont Shore's bustling 2nd Street serves innovative specialty rolls with fresh ingredients and artistic presentation. The modern decor and friendly ambiance create an approachable date-night atmosphere where traditional cut rolls meet fanciful creations like baked salmon rolls. Professional waitstaff maintain efficient service in this neighborhood spot steps from Alamitos Bay.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Salmon Roll, Rainbow Roll, Aloha Roll
What Makes it Special: Contemporary fusion rolls with fresh seafood in a modern, accessible setting on 2nd Street
8.1
A straightforward Japanese sushi bar from an owner with 20+ years in the trade, emphasizing fish freshness over theatrical presentation. The waterfront location inside The Current draws regulars who appreciate the nigiri quality and hand rolls without destination pricing—expect a small room that fills up at peak hours. Works best for sushi-focused meals where the fish does the talking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Hand Roll, Salmon Truffle Hand Roll, Scallop Crudo
What Makes it Special: Chef Kay's traditional Japanese technique with premium fish selection in a waterfront setting at The Current
A polished outpost of the 15-year-old ramen chain known for 20-hour tonkotsu broths with customizable spice, richness, and noodle texture. The moody interior and outdoor fireplaces position it as a date-night option in the 2nd & PCH shopping center, though service pacing can lag during peak hours. Works best for ramen enthusiasts who want bowl control and appreciate the vegan-friendly menu depth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu Black, Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen, Gyoza
What Makes it Special: Proprietary tonkotsu broths simmered 18+ hours with customizable spice, richness, and noodle firmness
8
Contemporary sushi spot on 2nd Street serving innovative fusion rolls with fast midday service. Outdoor seating and no-reservation policy make it accessible for spontaneous business lunches.
Must-Try Dishes:
Refreshing Roll, Magic Mountain, Crunchy B Roll
What Makes it Special: Fast lunch turnover with creative specialty rolls and patio seating
Worthy Picks
7.9
Chef Nicky's 14+ years of experience shines in this neighborhood spot offering both traditional sushi and an extensive vegan menu featuring plant-based fish from roots and vegetables. Thai-fusion options like vegan curry shrimp rolls showcase creative innovation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tangy Salmon Roll, Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna, Vegan Curry Shrimp Roll
What Makes it Special: Separate full vegan menu with house-made plant-based fish elevates dietary inclusivity
#10
Tokyo Wako
7.8
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Date Night Magic
Established teppanyaki theater combined with full sushi bar creates dual dining experiences under one roof. Theatrical chefs perform tableside while sushi artisans craft specialty rolls, making it ideal for celebrations and groups seeking entertainment with quality Japanese cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Edamame, Alaskan Roll, Hibachi Filet Mignon
What Makes it Special: Dual concept offering theatrical teppanyaki and quality sushi bar in single venue
#11
Sushi Ai
7.8
Intimate neighborhood sushi bar with dark atmospheric dining and traditional Japanese preparations. Lunch bento boxes and professional sushi chefs create authentic experience for business dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Monkey Brain Roll, Sashimi Lunch, Lunch Bento Box
What Makes it Special: Traditional Japanese sushi chefs and affordable lunch specials
#12
Donburi Cafè
7.7
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Business Lunch Power Players
Family-run donburi specialist tucked in Pine Square courtyard serves generous rice bowls with quality proteins alongside katsu curry and fusion ramen. Counter-service format and affordable pricing make it a downtown value destination with loyal local following.
Must-Try Dishes:
Katsu Curry Don, Galbi Don, Spicy Pork Don
What Makes it Special: Generous donburi portions with miso soup and fruit sides deliver exceptional value
#13
Sapporo Sushi
7.7
A high-volume sushi operation on PCH that runs BOGO 50% off rolls Monday through Thursday, making it one of the stronger weeknight value plays in Long Beach. The menu leans into crowd-friendly rolls and bento boxes rather than omakase-level precision, and the Bixby Village Plaza location delivers a surprisingly immersive dining room for a strip-mall anchor. Best treated as a reliable rotation spot for casual sushi nights rather than a destination dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Salmon Roll, Bento Box, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna
What Makes it Special: High-volume Japanese spot on PCH with 2,000+ reviews, all-day BOGO 50% off rolls Monday through Thursday, and a dining room that regulars say feels like stepping into Japan.
#14
Poke Pub
7.6
Hawaiian poke specialist owned by June Choe brings 20+ year family marinade recipes to build-your-own bowls featuring sushi-grade fish and Korean BBQ options. Small space near the beach offers quick-casual format with emphasis on fresh customization.
Must-Try Dishes:
Build-Your-Own Poke Bowl, K-BBQ Burrito, Spam Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Family marinade recipes passed down 20+ years distinguish from chain poke competitors