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.“

“Great spot with all the feelings Japan. Amazing skewers and phenomenal hand rolls. Couldn’t get enough of the salmon sashimi. Great sake selection (we finished three bottles) and multiple drafts to sip. Engaging staff with a chef who knows what he is doing. We will return! 🍣 🇯🇵 🍱“

“Hi I loves it thanks again so much“

“My dinner at Kanpai Sushi in Santa Monica was nothing short of extraordinary. Chef Yoshi is a true master sushi chef. While he may not be new to the craft, his skill, precision, and deep understanding of traditional sushi brought me back to a time when sushi was simply done right.

In fact, Chef Yoshi could probably serve me a shoelace, and it would be the best thing I’ve ever eaten.

Everything was exceptionally fresh. The wasabi had a vibrant freshness that elevated every bite, and the ginger practically melted in my mouth. I sampled as much toro as I could possibly eat, along with an incredible selection of fish that showcased Chef Yoshi’s mastery and attention to detail.

The Kumamoto oysters were so delicious they made me want to kiss my fingers and thank the heavens. The uni was phenomenal and remains one of my favorite bites of the evening. However, the biggest surprise was the seared salmon belly. It was my first time trying salmon prepared that way, and it absolutely blew my mind.

Instead of ending the meal with dessert, I finished with a hand roll that combined fresh tuna and crispy shrimp tempura, topped with eel sauce. The contrast of cool, fresh tuna and warm, crunchy shrimp tempura created an unforgettable bite and was a complete game changer.

I’ve been eating sushi since I was 18 years old, and now well into my 50s, I can confidently say this is the best sushi restaurant I have ever experienced. Beyond the incredible food, the staff was attentive, professional, and genuinely respectful throughout the entire evening.

I have officially found my favorite sushi spot.

Thank you, Chef Yoshi. I’ll be back very soon.

— Linda“

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

“Mon Roll House delivers fresh, flavorful sushi at great prices in a casual, welcoming setting. The rolls are generously portioned, the fish tastes fresh, and the service is consistently friendly. Whether you're dining in or grabbing takeout, it's a reliable spot for satisfying Japanese cuisine.“

“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.“

“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“

“The quality of the sushi was excellent. Every item me and my sibling ordered was on point, everything. The lobster rolls and volcano rolls were delicious. Additionally ordered cucumber salad which simply was an added benefits to clean the palate after every bite. Overall an excellent late lunch with quality food! My only criticism would be the fruit flies around the table, yet that’s easy to take care of. 😎“

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

“Food & service was over the top amazing !“

“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.“

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

“great food and atmosphere!“

“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!“

“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.“

“Went in on a Friday night for a late dinner. We had 5 people and were able to be sat immediately. Service was quick and the sushi is honestly the best in Venice/Santa Monica area!
The freshness, portion sizes and taste is divine!
The Lincoln and the Jessica were the two best orders me made, in that we then ordered seconds of each of those. With 2 pitchers of Sapporo and edamame, tempura vegetables, gyoza, California rolls, spicy tuna, spicy tuna crunchy rice, and another shrimp roll, it was a great amount of food for $300 for the 5 of us. It was coming to closing time and they wanted us to leave so they could close up so we’re pushing us out, but the food was the best sushi in a long time!“

“Been wanting to try pacific catch for a while and it did not disappoint! I got the salmon with green beans and mashed potatoes which were all excellent. It came with charred lemon and a super tasty green sauce. My partner got the chirashi plate which was beautiful and super good. Very solid fish place, we'll definitely be coming back!“

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

“Nice service and good food 🍱“