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Sushi Nikkei - Belmont Shore
Master Critic Review
Sushi Nikkei - Belmont Shore
8.9
Chef Eduardo Chang Ogata brings Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion to Belmont Shore, blending traditional sushi technique with vibrant Peruvian flavors. The intimate space buzzes with energy as bright yellow bowls of ceviche and lemon-coated parmesan scallops arrive alongside creative Nikkei-style rolls drizzled with acevichado sauce. Ocean-fresh seafood meets eye-catching presentation in a stylish atmosphere that elevates this beyond typical neighborhood sushi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Parmesan Scallops, Crispy Tuna Tacos, Tiradito Nikkei
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion with innovative flavor combinations and impeccable seafood quality
Who should go: Couples seeking adventurous, upscale sushi with unique Peruvian twists
When to visit: Dinner reservations recommended, expect waits on weekends
What to order: Sushi Nikkei Tasting (sampler), parmesan scallops, any tiradito
Insider tip: The Bixby Knolls location earned Michelin recognition in 2022 and 2023
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 2nd Street and side streets, moderately competitive evenings. Small public lot one block north on Termino. Arrive 10 mins early for dinner.
Dress code: Elevated casual to dressy - date night attire expected. Nice jeans with button-down or dresses work well. Avoid beach casual.
Noise level: Lively but manageable - intimate conversations possible with occasional buzz from neighboring tables during peak hours
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday-Saturday after 7pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only starting 5pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable rolls, plant-based ceviche options, grilled vegetable sides. Staff knowledgeable about modifications.
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 vegetable rolls possible, but Nikkei sauces often contain dairy/fish. Best to call ahead.
Gluten-free options: Yes - sashimi and tiradito naturally GF. Tamari available. Many Peruvian sauces are GF but confirm with server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate but not overly quiet, conversation-worthy food creates natural talking points, and the Instagram-worthy presentation shows effort. Upscale enough to impress without formal stuffiness.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Arrive right at 5pm opening or try bar seating for walk-ins. Weekend evenings (7-9pm) nearly impossible without booking. Weeknight Tue-Thu you have better odds before 6:30pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - sophisticated date night atmosphere, no kids menu, and adventurous flavors. Teens 14+ who appreciate sushi would enjoy it. Better family options exist in Belmont Shore.
How does it compare to the Bixby Knolls location? Same chef and menu quality, but Belmont Shore is more intimate and date-focused while Bixby Knolls has the Michelin recognition history. Food is equally excellent at both.
Is it worth the price for sushi? Yes if you value creativity and Peruvian fusion - you're paying for unique flavor profiles and Michelin-level technique. Skip if you want traditional nigiri or volume over innovation.
Best For
Better for: Adventurous date nights seeking fusion creativity, Instagram-worthy presentation, and Peruvian flavor twists that differentiate from standard sushi spots. The Nikkei approach offers something genuinely different in Long Beach.
Skip if: You want traditional omakase or classic Edomae-style sushi, need budget-friendly rolls, prefer quieter romantic ambiance, or are bringing kids under 12. Also skip if you dislike bold, acidic Peruvian flavors.