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@Sushi
Master Critic Review
@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
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Contemporary fusion rolls with fresh seafood in a modern, accessible setting on 2nd Street
Who should go: Couples seeking approachable sushi with creative specialty rolls
When to visit: Lunch for less crowded service, dinner Friday-Saturday
What to order: Garlic edamame, rainbow roll, soft shell crab appetizer
Insider tip: Closed Mondays; weekend dinner gets busy so arrive early
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 2nd Street and side streets - competitive after 5pm but usually findable within 2 blocks. Public lot on Ximeno Avenue ($2/hr)
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and nice top perfect, no need to overdress
Noise level: Conversational - moderate ambient buzz but can easily talk across the table
Weekend wait: 20-30 min Friday/Saturday without reservation, arrives early (5:30-6pm) helps
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, walk-ins welcomed
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie rolls, avocado-cucumber options, inari, vegetable tempura
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 rolls possible (cucumber, avocado, asparagus rolls), request no mayo/cream cheese
Gluten-free options: Challenging - soy sauce contains gluten (can request tamari), tempura battered items not safe
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, ideal for first dates - relaxed vibe takes pressure off, shared plates encourage interaction, and moderate prices ($40-60 per person) keep it comfortable without seeming cheap
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch/early dinner - absolutely. Friday/Saturday after 6:30pm - risky, expect 20-30 min wait. Tuesday-Thursday dinner usually accommodates walk-ins within 10 minutes
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 8+ who eat sushi - welcoming staff, California rolls and teriyaki options. Not ideal for toddlers due to limited non-sushi options and intimate table spacing
How does it compare to other Belmont Shore sushi spots? More modern and approachable than traditional spots, better specialty rolls than basic neighborhood sushi, but less ambitious than high-end omakase experiences
Is the outdoor seating worth requesting? Absolutely during spring/fall evenings - 2nd Street people-watching adds to the date night atmosphere. Summer can be warm, winter limited availability
Best For
Better for: Date nights wanting creative fusion rolls without intimidating formality, accessible sushi for those new to the cuisine, 2nd Street location perfect for post-dinner walking
Skip if: You want traditional omakase or ultra-high-end sushi experience, need extensive cooked non-sushi options, or prefer quiet intimate settings over lively neighborhood energy