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Sushi Roku
Master Critic Review
Sushi Roku
8.4
Contemporary sushi pioneer blending traditional Japanese technique with California innovation and global ingredients. Tucked in a charming Old Town courtyard, the recently renovated space delivers fusion rolls alongside classic preparations in an upscale-casual setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
White Lotus Roll, Katana Roll, Toro with Truffle
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Pioneering fusion approach incorporating Latin and European ingredients into sushi
Who should go: Diners seeking creative contemporary rolls and scene
When to visit: Friday-Saturday lunch for courtyard ambiance without crowds
What to order: White Lotus and Katana rolls, ask Gary for sake pairings
Insider tip: Three-hour validated parking at One Colorado on Fair Oaks
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Three-hour validated parking at One Colorado garage on Fair Oaks (entrance near Nordstrom). Street parking challenging evenings/weekends. Valet not available.
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual - jeans fine if paired with nice top, but locals lean dressy. Date night crowd elevates above athleisure.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch, lively evenings - can hold conversation but expect ambient energy during prime dinner hours
Weekend wait: 45-75 minutes without reservation Friday-Saturday after 7pm. Bar seating sometimes available for parties of 2.
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes, courtyard tables fill quickly 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options - vegetable tempura rolls, multiple avocado-based creations, edamame variations. Ask for chef's vegetarian omakase approach.
Vegan options: Doable but limited - avocado rolls, cucumber-based options, vegetable nigiri. Call ahead for best experience as fusion ingredients often include dairy/mayo.
Gluten-free options: Yes with advance notice - tamari available, many sashimi options naturally qualify. Kitchen accommodates but cross-contamination possible with tempura.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - upscale enough to impress without stuffiness, courtyard creates romantic ambiance, conversation-friendly noise level, and shareable rolls provide natural interaction. Weekend dinner hits the sweet spot between special and comfortable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch yes, weekend dinner risky. Your best bet: arrive right at 5:30pm opening or try bar seating (first-come). Friday-Saturday after 7pm essentially requires reservation or 45+ minute wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved kids 8+ - California rolls and teriyaki available, but atmosphere skews adult with date night energy. Lunch service more family-appropriate than dinner. High chairs available but not common sight.
Good for business lunch? Ideal Tuesday-Thursday 12-2pm - professional ambiance, courtyard offers privacy for conversation, efficient service, and price point signals you're serious without being ostentatious. Gary knows the regular corporate crowd.
What's the happy hour situation? Strong value play - discounted specialty rolls and sake selections weekdays 5-7pm at bar only. Fills quickly with Pasadena professionals, arrive by 5:15pm for seating.
Best For
Better for: Choose Sushi Roku when you want the scene and creative fusion rolls over traditional omakase - better for impressing dates or clients who appreciate innovation over purist approach. The courtyard setting and California-influenced menu create experience beyond just food.
Skip if: You're a sushi purist seeking traditional Edomae technique or ultra-fresh fish sourcing - head to more traditional spots. Also skip if you want quiet intimacy (weekend energy runs high) or if you're on tight budget ($$$ adds up quickly with creative rolls).