These Local Hotspots Are Serving Up the Freshest Fish in Town

The history of sushi in Southern California was born in the early 1900s when sushi was the “it” dish at luncheons thrown by socialites. The trend dissipated during WWI and WWII, and the first Japanese restaurant to serve sushi didn’t appear until the mid-1960s. That’s when Noritoshi Kanai opened Kawafuku with chef Shigeo Saito in Los Angeles. The concept of the sushi bar took off once again, and today the cuisine is more popular than ever.

With such close proximity to ports and fish markets, it’s no surprise that Orange County has become a hub of delicious sushi restaurants, each with its own unique flair and specialty. Here are 29 spots for the hands-down best sushi in Orange County.

 

California-Style Sushi

A true Seal Beach gem, Mahé took up residency on Pacific Coast Highway in 2000, just in time for the local California-style sushi trend to take off. “When we started talking about Mahé, we knew we wanted to do a menu of fresh fish with some steaks, and at that time, some of our favorite restaurants were the California-style sushi restaurants that were making all the fun rolls,” shares Mahé co-founder Toby Reece. With its fresh fish, complex flavor combinations and creative takes on sushi rolls, the restaurant continues to entice its guests. There’s the classic Mahé Roll, the delicate Queen Roll and the addictive Heat Wave Roll, filled with spicy tuna, crab, jalapeños, cream cheese, avocado and salmon in soy paper with a light tempura crust. If you happen to have a date or someone in the friend group who isn’t a fan of raw seafood, Mahé also has plenty of wood-fired seafood options, like the blackened swordfish, as well as delicious steaks and burgers for the carnivores.

Mahé
1400 Pacific Coast Highway
Seal Beach, CA 90740
562.431.3022
Su-Th, 4-9 p.m.; F-Sa, 4-10 p.m.

 

An Intimate Counter

For a truly bespoke dining experience, visit Hana re in The LAB Anti-Mall, where you can enjoy a 10-course omakase meal crafted by Chef Atsushi Yokoyama. Here, each place at the 10-seat sushi bar is treated like a chef’s table, making for an evening that’s as artful as it is delicious. At $250 per person, this omakase menu is pricey but absolutely worth the array of thoughtful plates, peak-season ingredients and stunning presentations. Needless to say, Hana re offers an elegant, chef-selected experience every time, making it one of the best spots for sushi in Orange County.

Hana re
2930 Bristol St.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
714.545.2800
Tu-Sa, 5:30-10 p.m.; Su-M, Closed

 

Endless Innovation

Get ready for the gastronomic experience that is Yuzu Japanese Sushi Bar. Both the Costa Mesa and Laguna Beach venues are ideal meeting grounds for traditional sushi lovers and adventurous, thrill-seeking foodies alike. The restaurant offers classic rolls, nigiri and sashimi, but the stars of the show are the specialty rolls, new-style nigiri, carpaccio and shareable dishes. There’s also a fantastic cocktail list of delicate and complex drinks, including the tart and refreshing Yuzu Drop, the umami Sweetheart and the elegant Pretty in Pink. So whether you’re craving comfort or chasing bold flavors, Yuzu guarantees every bite feels like a celebration.

Yuzu Japanese Sushi Bar
103 E. 17th St., Ste. 3
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
949.200.9576

231 Ocean Ave.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.715.8167

Costa Mesa: Su-Th, Noon – 9 p.m.; F-Sa, Noon – 10 p.m. Costa Mesa hours vary by day; call ahead to confirm.
Laguna Beach: Su-Th, Noon – 9 p.m.; F-Sa, Noon – 10:30 p.m.

 

Fusion Flavors

In true Nikkei style, the culinary standards of Japanese precision and Peruvian vibrancy come together at Akashiro Nikkei Sushi. It’s the perfect spot to head to if you’re craving the freshness of sushi but want to try something more adventurous. Nikkei food is a century-old marriage of Peruvian ingredients and Japanese techniques, resulting in a dish that’s lighter than ceviche but more seasoned than sashimi. If this is your first time experiencing Nikkei and tiradito, expect fresh fish with punches of flavor that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Akashiro Nikkei Sushi
444 N. Harbor Blvd., Ste. 104
Fullerton, CA 92832
714.519.3597
T-Su, 5-9:30 p.m.; M, Closed

 

A Little Bit of Luxury

A time-honored tradition in Japan, omakase means “chef’s choice,” allowing the chef’s creativity and technique to shine. It’s a one-of-a-kind dining experience, and Omakase by Gino is one of Orange County’s only omakase-exclusive restaurants. Located in downtown Santa Ana, this 10-seat fine dining experience is led by Chef Gino Choi. Each course is an innovative symphony of textures and flavors, carefully crafted for an unforgettable meal.

Omakase by Gino
304 N. Main St.
Santa Ana, CA 92701
657.231.6008
W-Sa, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Su-T, Closed

 

Bringing the Party

Make hosting your next party a breeze with the help of Starfish, a sushi restaurant in Orange County that’s been serving up a fusion of Asian coastal cuisine in Laguna Beach since 2011. With the Newport Beach location opening in 2023, diners have two places to procure Starfish’s sushi party trays, which come in an array of crowd-pleasing nigiri, sashimi and sushi rolls in 24- or 48-piece packages (trust us: you won’t want to pass up the lobster macadamia roll). To enjoy the food at the restaurant, visit the vibey flagship Laguna location or the Newport location, which is just a short walk from the water.

Starfish Laguna Beach
30832 S. Coast Highway
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.715.9200

Starfish Newport Beach
191 Riverside Ave.
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.570.3990

Su-Th, 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; F-Sa, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

 

Scintillating Surf & Turf

Setting the culinary bar high, SET Steak & Sushi blends steakhouse elegance and fresh Orange County sushi. Inside this modern haven, bold cuts of steak mingle with luxe sashimi and inventive hand rolls. Try the bluefin tuna pizza, Wagyu sliders, lamb lollipops, whole lobster tempura, dry-aged steaks or chef-selected sushi sets. The surf-and-turf approach brings the best of both worlds to the table, pairing gourmet cuisine with creative cocktails like the California Love and Yuzutopia, dramatic lighting and a patio setting that guarantee every meal feels like a special occasion.

SET Steak & Sushi
690 Newport Center Drive
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.688.8005
Su, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (brunch), 5-10 p.m. (dinner); M-Th, 5-10 p.m.; F, 5-11 p.m.; Sa, 11 a.m.-2:30 p.m. (brunch), 5-11 p.m. (dinner) 

 

Seeking Sake

Tomikawa impresses with a menu that puts a playful spin on tradition. Sushi chefs wield their torches to elevate classic nigiri and creative rolls named after pop culture references. Lion King, Lakers, Big Bang, Dynamite California and Crouching Tiger & Hidden Dragon are just a few of the playful menu items. Whether you find yourself lingering over seared albacore or sampling bold new mashups on the chef’s sushi plate, a warm sake pairing makes the flavors sing well into the evening.

Tomikawa
14191 Jeffrey Road
Irvine, CA 92620
949.786.9888
Su, Noon – 10 p.m.; M-Sa, 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

 

Neighborhood Gem

For Santa Ana locals, Ponzu Japanese Sushi Bar is where comfort meets creativity, serving everything from salmon truffle, sweet shrimp and yellowtail belly to a luxe sushi boat. Beyond the rainbow rolls and lively sauces lies a devotion to perfectly sliced sashimi and feather-light tempura. With a clientele that craves both familiarity and surprise, Ponzu stands apart as a neighborhood go-to for Orange County sushi.

Ponzu Japanese Sushi Bar
1945 E 17th St., Ste 104
Santa Ana, CA 92705
657.231.6668
Su, Noon – 9 p.m.; M-Th, 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sa, Noon – 10 p.m.

 

Minimalist Tastes

At SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa in Corona del Mar, minimalism reigns supreme. It’s where the “Don’t Think. Just Eat. Trust Me.” omakase menu distills the Orange County sushi experience to its essence. Bite after bite, Sugarfish pays homage to Tokyo’s legendary sushi bars. You won’t be hungry for long here, as the gleaming tuna, seasoned rice and crisp hand rolls arrive with perfect timing. Try the ankimo sashimi, enhanced with yuzu miso, and albacore nigiri with ponzu and chives or embrace your adventurous side with items from the ever-changing Limited Availability section of the menu.

SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa
2600 E. Coast Highway
Corona del Mar, CA 92625
949.652.7405
Su-Sa, 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.

 

Endless Beach Vibes

If Huntington Beach had a sushi soul, it would embody Sushi on Fire. This high-energy hotspot radiates coastal California fun with generous specialty rolls and a sizzling crowd. After a surf session, nothing beats a cold Sapporo with a Girl on the Beach roll, combining shrimp, fresh tuna and chile oil. Diners can also opt for the spicy tuna tempura roll or the Magic Mountain roll, a beloved California roll topped with langostino, veggies and spicy mayo. In a setting that truly feels like the heart of OC sushi culture, you simply can’t go wrong no matter what you choose.

Sushi on Fire
301 Main St., Ste. 103
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
714.374.8885
Su-Th, Noon – 9:30 p.m.; F-Sa, Noon – 10 p.m. 

 

Smooth as Butter

Orange County’s sushi scene sparkles at Seabutter, where simplicity blends with pure sophistication. Delicate truffle-topped nigiri and pressed sushi tell a story of classic technique and imaginative flair. Their Taste of Seabutter omakase course is one of the quickest ways to turn a quiet night out into a taste of Japanese luxury, comprising sashimi, nigiri, pressed sushi and a handroll. Guests can expect a warm, intimate experience where each dish is presented with artistry and precision in a sleek, modern setting that only enhances the meal.

Seabutter
1100 S. Coast Highway, Ste. 303
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.942.6042
Su, 4:30-9 p.m.; M-Th, 5-9 p.m.; F-Sa, 4:30-10 p.m.

 

The Tradition of Omakase

Dinner feels like an artful performance where Japanese tradition meets modern flavor at Momoyama. The sleek sushi bar turns out sashimi and specialty rolls while the kitchen plates up Wagyu steak, smoked toro and other crave-worthy entrees. Guests love the signature omakase experience, which lets the chefs take the lead with seasonal bites you won’t soon forget, including tartare, seared Wagyu, several nigiri courses and more. This Michelin-rated restaurant is, hands down, designed for those who value unwavering traditions and bold flavor.

Momoyama
18906 Brookhurst St.
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
714.714.0514
T-F, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m.; Sa, 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m., 5-10 p.m.; Su-M, Closed 

 

Celebrity Hot Spot

Nothing says star power like a reservation at Nobu Newport Beach. A restaurant helmed by acclaimed chef Nobu Matsuhisa, best known for his fusion cuisine that blends Japanese dishes with Peruvian ingredients, Nobu is right on the water at Lido Marina Village, offering a relaxed patio with a view where diners can indulge. Here, signature black cod miso and garlicky Maine lobster star in the iconic omakase lineup while visitors can also opt to savor unique takes like tuna tacos, lobster ceviche served over lettuce, Wagyu gyoza, baked crab maki or spicy edamame with roasted peanuts. The restaurant’s frequent celebrity sightings give new meaning to luxe Orange County sushi.

Local Insight: Stop by the lounge for Tanoshi Hour, Nobu’s happy hour, available Monday through Thursday from 5-7 p.m. 

Nobu Newport Beach
3450 Via Oporto, Ste. 101
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.429.4440
Su, Noon-3 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; M-Th, 5-9 p.m.; F-Sa, Noon-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m. 

 

Crowd-Pleasing Japanese Dining

Transform family dinners into a special event with Tori Tori Sushi. Friendly service and laughter echo across tables heaped with creative house rolls and traditional nigiri. The VIP roll, made with blue crab, avocado and asparagus topped with panko shrimp and spicy mayo, feels like a splurge while options like the Summer or Winter rolls are perfectly suited for the season. Guests also rave about the signature baked salmon roll and the crisp, fresh sashimi that keeps regulars coming back. With generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere, Tori Tori shines as both a neighborhood favorite and a destination for sushi lovers.

Tori Tori Sushi
1111 Town and Country Road, Ste. 2
Orange, CA 92868
657.218.0068
M-F, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; Sa-Su, Noon – 9 p.m.

 

Sustainable Selections for All

Vegans and omnivores alike will feel seen at Laguna Beach’s Oto Sushi. The kitchen reimagines sushi with creative plant-based rolls, including artichoke and tempura shisito fillings. But no need to fear, omnivores: there’s also smoked octopus crisp, king salmon sushi enhanced by orange and lemon with olive oil and The Kraken Wagyu burger on the menu. Plus, all of the seafood used is completely sustainable and, as a scratch kitchen, sauces and marinades are made in-house without preservatives. Adventurous palates leave here inspired, proving that Orange County sushi is as versatile as it is vibrant.

Oto Sushi
370 Glenneyre St.
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.306.0279
M-W, 4:30-9 p.m.; Th-Su, 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

Hidden Gem

Tucked away in San Clemente, Momoku No Usagi whispers its reputation from below a staircase. The omakase journey brings seasonal snapper, sought-after toro and off-menu delicacies to loyal regulars. But it wouldn’t be fair to let the food get all the hype. The generous sake menu, wine selection and quirky cocktails, such as the Echo Zulu or Forgive & Fernet, are just as tasty. For sushi and sake seekers, Momoku No Usagi remains one of OC’s quietly brilliant finds. First-timers, do yourself a favor and read the house rules. They’re as much a part of the experience as the cocktails.

Momoku No Usagi
425 N. El Camino Real
San Clemente, CA 92672
W-Sa, 5-11 p.m./Midnight-ish; Su, 5-10 p.m.-ish 

 

The Izakaya Experience

Blending night market energy with exquisitely fresh sushi and izakaya-style dishes, Izakaya Osen is an exciting dining destination. Signature plates arrive tableside, servers are attentive and the modern setting makes every meal feel like you’ve been transported to Tokyo’s foodie district. Menu standouts include the plum halibut sashimi with a fruit-forward dressing, toro uni bowls stuffed with tuna belly and caviar and yellowtail jalapeño sashimi, all creating a symphony of bold flavors. This hot spot transforms a sushi night into a multi-course celebration.

Izakaya Osen
2000 Main St., Ste. 100
Irvine, CA 92614
949.308.4290

Coming Soon:
1050 West Valencia Drive
Fullerton, CA 92833

Su-Sa, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-10 p.m. 

 

Adventurous Omakase

Rebel Omakase in Laguna Beach is not for the faint of palate. Here, omakase is an event. Expect luscious uni, rare toro and house-marinated surprises prepared with audacious elegance. Fun fact: all ingredients from the pre-fixed menu come from Japan, including deliciously fresh seafood that is flown in weekly. Sushi lovers craving authentic Japanese cuisine guided by the hand of an expert can agree on Rebel’s status as a top sushi restaurant in Orange County. 

Rebel Omakase
361 Forest Ave., Ste. 103
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
949.664.3186
W-Sa, 12:30-9:30 p.m.; Su, 12:30-3:30 p.m.; M-Tu, Closed. Hours fluctuate based on reservation availability and seating times; call or check OpenTable directly before visiting. 

 

True Sushi Connoisseurs

Mastery unfolds at sushi ii, where market-fresh fish and pure technique straight from Japan set the standard for Orange County sushi. The omakase here draws devotees seeking nuance in every detail, from rice texture to wasabi heat. There’s also a solid selection of à la carte nigiri, rolls and shareable appetizers. It’s the kind of spot that transforms a meal into a memory and a loyal following into legend. The restaurant was recommended by the Michelin Guide for years and, in 2025, welcomed new chefs who work together, with Koji Takahashi crafting the sushi and Norio Izawa balancing the offerings with other traditional Japanese dishes.

sushi ii
100 W. Coast Highway, Ste. 202
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.287.6268
T-Su, 5-9 p.m.; M, Closed

 

A Local Secret

Huntington Beach’s Irassae Sushi is the kind of place food-lovers whisper about to friends. It’s built a reputation for incredible quality for a modest price. Some favorites include the shrimp and vegetable tempura, the Cajun tuna sashimi and the vibrant Caterpillar roll, while hot plates like beef or chicken teriyaki bowls are served with salad, rice and miso soup; the overall experience delivers beyond the sum of its parts. Each visit confirms why Irassae remains a favorite among local sushi fans.

Irassae Sushi
8841 Adams Ave.
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
714.965.1904
M-F, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 5-9 p.m.; Sa, 5-9 p.m.; Su, Closed 

 

Date Night Spot

Romance blooms at Little Ferry Sushi, where the intimate setting and exquisite rolls win hearts every time. The omakase menu sparkles with surprises like the sushi burrito, deep-fried spicy tuna roll and rice-free options, but visitors can also opt for classics like the yellowtail sashimi or California roll. Every dish feels like a chef’s love letter to their craft. For couples chasing one of the best sushi restaurants in Orange County for their next date night, this spot simply dazzles like no other.

Little Ferry Sushi
24301 Muirlands Blvd., Ste. M
Lake Forest, CA 92630
949.328.9500
M-Th, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30-8:45 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m., 4:30-9 p.m.; Sa, 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m., 4:30-9 p.m.; Su, Closed 

 

Edomae Tradition

Don’t let the strip mall setting fool you. Ohshima Japanese Cuisine is one of the most serious sushi destinations in Orange County. Chef Shigenari Kimura, who trained in Tokyo and has been honing his craft for over 30 years, composes his sushi the traditional Edomae way: no specialty rolls, just carefully sourced fish seasoned with house-blended shoyu or yuzu and sea salt. Each piece is individually glazed rather than served with soy sauce on the side. The omakase is one of the best values in OC, making it a favorite for anyone who wants the real thing without the four-figure price tag.

Ohshima Japanese Cuisine
1956 N. Tustin St.
Orange, CA 92865
714.998.0098
T-Th, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 5:30-9:30 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., 5:30-10 p.m.; Sa-Su, 4:30-9 p.m.; M, Closed 

 

Behind the Velvet Curtain

Hidden behind a velvet curtain inside the Japanese-style cocktail bar Highball, a 14-seat sushi counter known as Naisho Omakase allows guests to choose between a 12- or 16-course progression designed around contrast in temperature, texture and flavor. Chef Shimpei Shinohara, who began training at age 13 in his family’s restaurant, uses smoke, temperature, and fat in ways that interrupt predictability and demand full attention. The recommended move: start the evening at Highball with a precision cocktail, then slip through the door into one of OC’s most exciting new dining experiences.

Naisho Omakase
3033 Bristol St., Ste. 117
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
949.390.8377
Su-Sa, 5:30-11 p.m.

 

Under the Radar

Tucked into a Santa Ana plaza, Taberu Sushi punches well above its weight. The interior is striking, with a gorgeous mural wall that sets the scene for a menu built around impeccably fresh fish. Everything is pre-seasoned and plated with care. Try multi-piece sushi or sashimi sets, which come with salad and miso soup and also feature fish already sauced by the chef, making soy sauce an optional addition here. From cherry salmon sashimi to uni on scallop, every plate reflects a kitchen that takes its craft seriously. An omakase option is available for those who want the full ride.

Taberu Sushi
​131 E. Memory Lane
Santa Ana, CA 92705
​714.852.3325
Su-Sa, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 5-9:30 p.m. 

 

A Food Court Gem

Proof that great sushi doesn’t require a fancy address, Sushiya is a locally owned, quality-driven gem tucked inside Tustin’s Mess Hall food court. The menu balances classic dishes with creative, seasonal rolls, and the lunch specials are a steal. Regulars rave about the freshness and fast, friendly service, making it a reliable go-to for a quick sushi fix. Whether you’re grabbing a solo lunch or fueling up before a shopping run, Sushiya earns its loyal following one well-made piece at a time.

Sushiya
1705 Flight Way, Ste. 9
Tustin, CA 92782
949.694.1868
M, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; T-Sa, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Su, Closed

 

From Business to A Night Out

TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar has been part of the OC food world for over 13 years, and its current home at Irvine’s Lakeshore Towers brings the concept into a sprawling space with an outdoor patio, indoor cherry blossom trees, high ceilings and street art throughout. The menu runs from fresh nigiri and sashimi to Asian fusion plates, and the cocktail program holds its own alongside the food. By day, it’s a polished spot for business lunches, but by night, it transforms into a lively, high-energy dining destination. The Forbidden Roll and truffle tuna sashimi are fan favorites, worth ordering every time.

TEN Sushi + Cocktail Bar
18177 Von Karman Ave.
Irvine, CA 92612
949.660.1010
M-Th, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; F, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sa, 4-11 p.m.; Su, 4-9 p.m.

 

See More, Eat More

For sushi as pure entertainment, consider Kura Revolving Sushi Bar. The dual-conveyor system lets diners grab from the revolving belt or select made-to-order items via a touchpad, and the patented Mr. Fresh ventilated sushi lid with plate-tracking technology ensures everything stays fresh. Stack 15 plates and the mascot Mutenmaru rewards you with a prize, a detail kids will absolutely love. The menu spans dozens of sushi items, ramen and desserts, all made without artificial additives under their “muten” philosophy. With multiple OC locations including Irvine and Garden Grove, it’s the perfect entry point for sushi newcomers or a family night out.

Kura Revolving Sushi Bar
2700 Alton Parkway, Ste. 133
Irvine, CA 92606
949.553.0747

13826 Brookhurst St.
Garden Grove, CA 92843
714.583.8068

1500 E. Village Way, Ste. 2203
Orange, CA 92865
714.716.5611

9531 Valley View St.
Cypress, CA 90630
657.337.0784

1065 Brea Mall, Ste. 2050A
Brea, CA 92821
714.582.5898

Irvine: M-Th, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; F, 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.; Sa, 10:30 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.; Su, 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Garden Grove & Orange: M-Th, 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sa, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Su, 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Cypress: M-Th, 11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m.; F, 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Sa, 11 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Su, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Brea: M-Th, 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.; F, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Sa, 10:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Su, 10:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. 

 

Lighting the Way

One of OC’s most anticipated openings of 2026, Kaiya Omakase + Bar is an intimate 12-seat sushi counter and lounge inside Newport Beach’s boutique Lido House hotel. Led by chef-partner Riley Huddleston and Head Sushi Chef Brian Kim, the concept honors the tradition of omakase, letting the seasons and ingredients guide each experience with the philosophy that no two visits are ever exactly alike. Housed in the hotel’s lighthouse turret, the setting alone is worth the reservation. Keep an eye out for the July 2026 opening.

Kaiya Omakase + Bar
3300 Newport Blvd.
Newport Beach, CA 92663
949.662.6146
Aiming for a July 2026 opening