Like many suburban enclaves, Moreno Valley excels in two essential pursuits: exploring and eating. Craving something crisp and clean after a long week? There’s a bowl of ramen you should meet. Celebrating a small win? That calls for sushi and a cold sake. Just need a reliable, delicious escape? Good thing some of Southern California’s finest tonkatsu is waiting nearby. You see, Moreno Valley has plenty of authentic and satisfying options when the mood strikes. These are the best ones.
California Sushi & Teriyaki
$$ | (951) 488-1136 | WEBSITE
California Sushi & Teriyaki is one of Moreno Valley’s safest bets, particularly if you’re partial to fresh sushi and efficient, friendly service. Just like its hidden gem status suggests, the all-you-can-eat options at this charming, teriyaki-loving, Japanese restaurant are completely wolfable. Spicy tuna rolls; California rolls with avocado and crab; and classics like salmon nigiri and deep fried ice cream. There’s a whole sushi bar thing going on too.
But we can’t help but feel that with its nice decor looking onto the strip mall in all its glory, it’s best placed for splitting rolls, picking on teriyaki dishes, and enjoying generous portions.
Matsuri Japanese Restaurant
$ | (951) 247-0777 | WEBSITE
Few things have felt as reliably satisfying as Matsuri does in its Moreno Valley location. The compact Japanese spot has become a dependable favorite for locals craving exceptional sushi and delicious udon. There’s the 49er roll and spicy garlic edamame too and, if you’re looking for something special, the golden tiger roll and shrimp killer make for perfect sharing options. The Thai tea is a must-try, and the reasonable prices keep everyone coming back for more.
Sushi Miguel’s Style
$$ | (951) 867-9169 | WEBSITE
The Moreno Valley location of Sushi Miguel’s Style offers a different vibe than typical sushi spots, but the food maintains its own fresh fusion standard. This compact eatery takes over a modest storefront to create an atmosphere that’s more approachable than upscale sushi bars. There are simple booths that remind you of casual diners and the straightforward, no-frills space has the feel of a particularly satisfying neighborhood joint.
Yes, it is a sort of unpretentious sushi counter but, particularly for lunch, it works. Signature fusion dishes like that chili-oil-drizzled flying saucer and crunchy sushi tostadas are still as flavorful as ever.
The Bowl Sushi & Grill
$ | (951) 697-7707 | WEBSITE
Spend a lively evening (any night of the week) at this sushi spot and grill. The Bowl’s modern space is filled with clean tables, sleek serving dishes in minimalist styles, warm lighting, and friendly chatter. Sushi rolls are where this place really shines. Even the basic California roll is fresh and satisfying, but you really want to dive into some of the specialty combos—the Cuasi Crab Roll, the Baja Roll, or the Spicy Chicken bowl.
The food is generous and tasty, the service is quick and attentive, and the atmosphere is clean and welcoming for everyone.
Empire Buffet
$$ | (951) 742-5716 | WEBSITE
For a family feast or a casual group outing, look no further than Empire Buffet. At the Asian spot in Moreno Valley, steam trays gleam under warm lights and plates are whisked away by attentive servers. Platters of crab and sushi are ferried to tables alongside bubbling egg drop soup, and fresh fruit is delivered to families debating the merits of Mongolian BBQ versus garlic bread. Expect your inner foodie to emerge as you guard, sorry share, the abundant selections.
Especially at the dessert station. We would brave a busy weekend for it—and by that we mean, navigate the two-sided rows when it’s bustling.
Lemon Tree sushi & ramen
$ | (951) 563-0099 | WEBSITE
It feels silly to call a food court hidden away, but in comparison to the bustling main drags, it can feel that way. It’s where you’ll find Lemon Tree Sushi & Ramen and their too-good-to-turn-down lunch specials. The spicy miso ramen with tofu is a generous and flavor-packed bowl for one. The same goes for the fresh sushi rolls if you’re looking for something lighter. Or there’s a takoyaki appetizer if you’re craving something handheld, all for in and around ten bucks.
Oishii Sushi & Teriyaki
$$ | (951) 488-1136 | WEBSITE
If you’re looking to get in and out of Moreno Valley with something delicious, all while avoiding the crowds and their endless chatter, then Oishii Sushi & Teriyaki is your best bet. It’s a straightforward-looking spot that hand-rolls sushi behind the counter every day. A plate-sized selection of fresh fish and rice will cost you about $15. Clean, flavorful, tender, and crisp with the vegetables, it really is good enough to make you forget the drive.
369 Ramen & Poke & Sushi
$ | (951) 379-0876 | WEBSITE
369 Ramen & Poke & Sushi occupies a casual strip mall spot, but this place brings big, friendly energy and generous, Japanese-leaning bowls. The space is simple but the music is upbeat, and there’s a laid-back vibe throughout. Staff are excellent hosts, moving around and customizing orders from the extensive topping list. Fun and flavor runs through dishes like the massive poke bowl with fresh ingredients prepared right before you.
But there’s also quality in the rich chashu ramen with proper meat portions and deep flavor. The best place to be is at the counter watching your bowl come together.