Picture this, you just flew into San Diego and you’re hangry. Skip the Yelp reviews and listen up! Here are 5 San Diego sushi restaurant recommendations guaranteed to leave you with the best experience. You will hands-down crave for more.
Because let’s face it, analysis paralysis is real and you’ve got to eat so you can enjoy the finest city in America!
1. Lumi
366 5th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
When you land in San Diego, I highly recommend this upscale rooftop immersive experience. It’s located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter. Chef Akira Back is a Michelin-starred chef so don’t expect anything less. From its artistic craft cocktails to its fresh sushi rolls infused with Peruvian and Korean flavors, it’s truly innovative and one of a kind. Make a reservation in advance or you’ll miss out!
2. Ikiru Japanese
2850 Womble Rd, Ste 105, San Diego, CA 92106
Now for a casual sit down, this hole-in-the-wall is one of my top favorites. It’s located in Point Loma Liberty Station. If you’re craving for fresh Toro, salmon, and yellowtail belly sushi, this is the spot. Oh, how it melts in your mouth! Hands down the best nigiri I’ve had. Surprisingly, their ramen is also delicious. When you’re done, explore the Liberty Public Market and grab some drinks, desserts, or shop some more!
3. Soichi Sushi
2121 Adams Ave., San Diego, CA 92116
Have you ever had an Omakase experience? It literally means “I leave it up to you.” Plan your next special occasion with Chef Soichi. It’s the only 5-star rated sushi restaurant on Yelp. Better yet, they just earned a Michelin star! That means it’s a very good restaurant. It’s located in the beautiful neighborhood of University Heights. With its captivating and intimate ambiance, you’ll find yourself charmed by their Japanese Hospitality. It’s an exquisite experience. I may have never been to Japan, but I appreciate Chef Soichi bringing his culture and traditions to San Diego.
4. Sushi Ota
4529 Mission Bay Dr, San Diego, CA 92109
Here’s another authentic Japanese experience where you’ll find fast service and fresh sushi. Chef Ota’s restaurant is located in an unassuming strip mall in Pacific Beach. If you’re a San Diegan, you’ve probably heard of this spot. Honestly, it’s worth making a reservation for. Whether you’re going for omakase, ordering rows of nigiri, and/or trying Chef Ota’s favorite sea urchin, I recommend coming in hungry!
5. The Yasai by Raki Raki
2254 India St, San Diego, CA 92101
4646 Convoy St, Ste 101-A, San Diego, CA 92111
Vegan sushi, period. Don’t knock it until you try it.
Funny story, I decided to have something healthy for dinner on New Year’s Day. Instead of going for DoorDash, I decided to pick up my food to get some exercise as I was also tired of being cooped up at home. I was so excited to pick up my food, I tripped and injured my already-torn ACL at the front of the restaurant. I limped back to my car with the help of a good samaritan, cried on the way home, suffered with my boyfriend to climb four flights of stairs (as I refused to go to the ER because of COVID), cried some more, then ate my sushi.
Much to my surprise, I enjoyed the flavors and did not regret this once of a lifetime experience. Although I may have some unresolved trauma from the Kearny Mesa location, I’m happy to learn they’ve opened another location in Little Italy! If you’re vegan/vegetarian, The Yasai’s inventive plant-based options will not disappoint.
Craving for more sushi? Check out my Top 3 Must-Try Sushi Restaurants in North County San Diego!
Comment below on some of your favorite sushi spots in San Diego!
