22 Best Sushi Bars in Santa Monica

“Sunday brunch was amazing. the smoked salmon eggs Benedict were some of the best we have ever had. the location is ideal definitely get an ocean facing room. The staff catered our every need. We haven't even checked out yet and I believe we're about to book our next stay.“

“We’re big fans of Omakase and have also been to the Culver City location, which is just as good. Both spots consistently deliver an incredible experience.
The sushi is amazing- super fresh, beautifully made, and you can tell a lot of care goes into every bite. The Santa Monica location keeps that same high standard we’ve come to expect, with great service and a chill but still elevated vibe.
It’s one of those spots you just know you’re going to leave happy every time. Highly recommend if you love really good sushi and a solid omakase experience.“

“Kappo Miyabi is a hidden gem. I work at a nearby hotel and I'm always happy to recommend this restaurant to our guests for an authentic Japanese meal. The menu has a great selection and the fish is super fresh. If you are looking for a lowkey, neighborhood feel and want to support a mom and pop that really cares, you should definitely check this place out.“

“Hi I loves it thanks again so much“

“I’ve come to Kanpai since they opened and never had a bad meal. It’s our go-to Japanese comfort food place in Santa Monica. Love the selection of freshest sashimi and sushi. Excellent cooked dishes and best yuzu ramen in LA. Servers are really friendly and attentive. Happy Hour menu and 50% hand rolls are a great deal. Also love the plenty parking spaces in the rear.“

“Manager KI Bae is a true Service oriented Manager, his attention to detail, customer service was beyond exceptional. His genuine sincerity is a true testament there is still individuals that care about their performance. The entire staff was great and the main reason why we frequently attend the Santa Monica location“

“Some of the best sushi 🍣 you will get outside of Japan.“

“Highly recommended ! We ordered Angel roll, California Mango, vegetarian, spider fantasy and gyoza and tea and everything was delicious! The waitress was very helpful and nice. The food was quick. Not overpriced :) the inside isn’t very comfy to sit for a long time but still good!“

“Great sushi place. Did one of the several course tasting options.“

“This was my second time at Shunji and since it was so consistent, I thought I should give it a shout out. You may miss it if you aren’t paying attention, nestled behind a non-discrete door on Ocean Park Boulevard in Santa Monica, Shunji Japanese Cuisine is a Michelin-starred gem that redefines the art of sushi dining. Chef Shunji Nakao is a legend and this intimate restaurant offers an omakase experience that is as unforgettable as it is refined.

The heart of Shunji’s allure lies in its sushi, which showcases decades of expertise as one of Los Angeles’ sushi pioneers. Each piece of nigiri is a testament to his meticulous attention to detail, with fish sourced primarily from Japan to ensure unparalleled freshness. Shunji’s (somewhat new Santa Monica location) is a departure from its former chili bowl-shaped home on Pico Boulevard, embraces a minimalist aesthetic that keeps the focus on the food and quaint experience. The space is divided into two small rooms, each with a blonde wood counter that seats just seven, creating an atmosphere of exclusivity and intimacy. Soft jazz hums in the background, and a wall of orchids adds a touch of elegance, celebrating the restaurant’s decade-long legacy. The service is impeccable, with staff (one Shunji’s wife) moving gracefully to anticipate every need, from refilling sake glasses to presenting dishes on stunning ceramic plates.

Shunji is more than a restaurant; it’s a destination The sushi is exceptional, the ambiance serene, and the overall experience a masterclass in hospitality.“

“I had the 911 roll and the Volcano roll. Both were delicious, but I found the volcano roll a bit unwieldy/messy. I would definitely be back to try some other rolls.The 911 roll was fresh and had lots of texture. Updated from previous review on 2026-06-13“

“Best sushi and miso soup we've had so far!“

“Food & service was over the top amazing !“

“⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really good and priceable food!“

“The line moved fairly quickly, and the busy crowd did not take away from the quality of service i received. The place was very clean, and the food was DELICIOUS... We were greeted and helped by Guadalupe, a short little mexican jumping bean with thick black hair and a kind face... she greeted us with a smile and was very informative with the menu. I got the teriyaki chicken plate.“

“Years ago our favorite sushi restaurant from the 80’s closed. Time flies, and as Santa Monica locals we have been looking for a sushi restaurant as a regular. We tried Mikomi and were SO happy. Our server Nathan was a delight, he is professional, friendly, consistent and grounded. Much appreciated his presence. The menu is vast and everything on it that we ordered so far is excellent. Looking forward to returning to try new things and reorder favorites!“

“great food and atmosphere!“

“Beautifully designed space and fresh healthy ingredients! As a vegan I appreciate the yummy, healthy (not fried) tofu and all the veggie options! Easy pickup near my gym so will be back for sure on days when I’m too time crunched to cook! Ordered for pick up, it was ready very fast, but stayed to eat at the lovely tables by the windows. You could also sit outside on the nice street tables.“

“Good food at a good price

I think the rolls were a bit overrated but the sashimi was excellent.

The service was a bit disorganized, and I had to remind them of parts of my order they had forgotten

But they were all very sweet, just a little hectic in there“

“My wife and I stopped in here on a whim for Wednesday lunch, and everything was fantastic! We had the poke trio, lobster tail with Thai brussels sprouts and purple sweet potatoes, pineapple right side up cake, and the spicy margarita and prickly pear cocktail. Everything was delicious and clearly made with super fresh ingredients, and our server Robert made our day with his warm, personable service and superb recommendations. Can’t praise Pacific Catch—and especially Robert—enough!“

“Great fresh food. Large portions and friendly staff.“

“Nice service and good food 🍱“