Best Sushi Restaurants in Santa Monica
18 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Shunji Japanese Cuisine
Michelin-starred omakase from a Matsuhisa original chef with two-decade mastery
Essential Picks
9.3
Chef Shunji Nakao delivers one of LA's most refined omakase experiences at this Michelin-recognized counter, where seasonal fish sourced from Japan meets impeccable technique. The intimate 12-seat space (split between two chefs) showcases aged tuna, barely-seared blackthroat seaperch, and Santa Barbara uni with rice that melts seamlessly with each bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Aged Tuna Nigiri, Blackthroat Seaperch, Toro Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Michelin-starred omakase from a Matsuhisa original chef with two-decade mastery
Notable Picks
#2
Soko Sushi
8.9
Chef Masa Shimakawa's intimate sushi bar inside the Fairmont Miramar delivers refined Edomae-style technique with pristine fish flown in from Japan. The 12-course nigiri omakase showcases seasonal selections with house-aged rice and real wasabi, creating an elevated experience that rivals Tokyo's finest.
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
Chef Mark Okuda's intimate omakase bar delivers exquisite seasonal courses with over 20 years of expertise, featuring dry-aged fish from global sources. The sophisticated space with antique knife collections beneath your feet creates an unforgettable high-end experience perfect for special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Omakase Course, Dry-Aged Bluefin Tuna, Hokkaido Uni Nigiri
What Makes it Special: Dry-aged fish program and chef's meticulous attention to detail
#4
Kappo Miyabi
8.5
Since 2019, this kappo-style restaurant showcases the art of knife and fire cooking with an extensive menu spanning sushi, robata, and hot pots. The lunch omakase special provides exceptional value with its chef's selection of premium cuts and traditional preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Miyabi Omakase Lunch, Wagyu Dumplings, Aburi Shime Saba
What Makes it Special: Traditional kappo cooking style rarely found outside Japan
8.3
Named after Tokyo's legendary fish market, this Main Street spot commits to sustainable seafood and daily hand-selection from four suppliers since 2012. The chutoro, engawa, and simaaji show off pristine quality in an environment that transports regulars to Japan with each beautifully plated course.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chutoro, Engawa Sushi, Planet Earth Roll
What Makes it Special: Maintained an A health rating since 2012 with daily fish selection
#6
KazuNori
8.3
The Original Hand Roll Bar from the Sushi Nozawa Group offers a streamlined counter experience where crispy nori meets warm rice in perfectly timed succession. Each hand roll is crafted and passed directly from chef to guest within seconds for optimal texture contrast.
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
#7
Noma Sushi
8.3
A beloved local institution serving authentic Japanese cuisine in an unpretentious setting since establishment. Known for consistent quality, generous portions, and exceptional value alongside traditional preparation methods that honor Japanese culinary heritage.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Selection, Chirashi Bowl, Yellowtail Sashimi
What Makes it Special: Authentic preparations without pretense or high prices
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Happy Hour Hotspots
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
This neighborhood favorite since 2013 serves generous portions of fresh nigiri and creative specialty rolls in a casual, no-frills setting. The warm greeting from the sushi bar, extensive sake selection, and happy hour pricing (3-5pm with a third off) make it a reliable local haunt where quality consistently delivers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Santa Monica Roll, Hanashi Roll, Salmon Sashimi Salad
What Makes it Special: Huge fish portions on nigiri that locals return to weekly
#9
Takuma
8.1
Traditional izakaya offering authentic Japanese small plates and extensive sake selection in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Chef Takuma brings genuine Tokyo-style dining with shareable dishes perfect for groups and an impressive variety of premium sake.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Karaage, Sukiyaki Hot Pot, Sake-Marinated Black Cod
What Makes it Special: Authentic izakaya experience rare on the Westside
#10
Mikomi Sushi
8.1
This 2025 newcomer brings 18 years of sushi expertise from Monrovia to Santa Monica with an expanded menu featuring exclusive specialty rolls and ramen. The modern space offers both sushi bar and table seating perfect for business groups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mikomi Special Roll, Yellowtail Carpaccio, Tonkotsu Ramen
What Makes it Special: Newest location with Santa Monica-exclusive menu items
#11
SUGARFISH
8
Chef Nozawa's legacy continues with this no-frills approach to traditional sushi where warm rice and pristine fish take center stage. The Trust Me menus eliminate decision fatigue while delivering a curated progression of the day's best selections.
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
8
Woman-owned for over 20 years, this cozy Japanese restaurant balances traditional sushi bar excellence with ramen, katsu, and Korean-fusion offerings. The Chef's Omakase at remarkably accessible pricing draws regulars who appreciate fresh bluefin toro cuts appearing on special days alongside thoughtfully prepared hand rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef's Omakase, Rainbow Roll, Tonkotsu Ramen
What Makes it Special: Diverse Japanese-Korean menu with premium fish at neighborhood prices
Worthy Picks
#13
Robata Bar
7.8
Traditional robatayaki grilling meets modern sushi bar in this atmospheric Japanese pub where skewers sizzle over bincho-tan charcoal. The combination of grilled items with fresh sushi creates a unique izakaya-style experience with Pacific views.
Must-Try Dishes:
Robata Specialty Roll, Grilled Salmon Collar Roll, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Combination of robata grill and sushi in one spot
#14
Sushi King
7.8
Operating for over 30 years in a modest strip mall, this no-frills spot serves incredibly fresh fish at unbeatable prices. Japanese sushi masters who remember regulars by name create an authentic experience that prioritizes quality over ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Special, Fresh Yellowtail Nigiri, Salmon Skin Salad
What Makes it Special: Exceptional value with generous portions of quality fish
#15
Sushi Vegan
7.6
Santa Monica's dedicated all-vegan sushi hub uses plant-based proteins and fresh local ingredients to craft surprisingly satisfying rolls that win over even fish-eaters. The 911, Volcano, and Baked Lobster rolls deliver balanced flavors without relying on artificial substitutes, though the compact dining space fills quickly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Vegan Hot Lovers Roll, Baked Lobster Roll, 911 Roll
What Makes it Special: Fully plant-based sushi menu that doesn't compromise on flavor
7.6
Late-night friendly spot combining fresh sushi rolls with steaming bowls of ramen in a casual setting. Open until midnight daily, it's become the 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
#17
Pacific Catch
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
#18
Shirubē
7.5
Authentic Tokyo-style izakaya from the Uno family brings 50+ years of tradition with specialty rolls alongside yakitori and small plates. While primarily an izakaya, their sushi selection showcases careful preparation and pairs beautifully with their extensive sake menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shirubē Special Roll, Aburi Salmon Roll, Soft Shell Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: First US location of Tokyo izakaya institution since 1968