When new sushi bars open in Tustin, we check them out. This means we subject our palates and patience to the sublime, the mediocre, and more often than not, the perfectly adequate. And every once in a while, a new spot makes us feel like a sea otter floating on a bed of nori. When that happens, we add it here, to this list of the 11 best.
Pacific Catch
$$ | (714) 613-0300 | WEBSITE
To our knowledge, Pacific Catch is the premier sushi and seafood destination in Tustin. So the next time you find yourself craving fresh poke or perfectly grilled kanpachi, you’ll only need to head to this inviting spot for your own flavorful feast. The full roster of standout dishes is here—vibrant shrimp ceviche, a generous appetizer platter with sliders and coconut shrimp, guacamole topped with poke—plus well-made, tasty drinks that complement the meal beautifully.
To round out the experience, finish (or start) your visit by appreciating the spotless facilities and the observant, polite service that makes you forget about any loud music inside.
Tommy’s Sushi Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (714) 544-5241 | WEBSITE
Choosing a favorite sushi spot in Tustin is nearly impossible, but when a newcomer asks us where to get the best, 90% of the time we’re sending them to Tommy’s. And now, this beloved local spot just got better. The simple establishment has been a fixture for over 20 years, with the same friendly staff and exceptional fish that keep regulars coming back multiple times per week.
The menu is straightforward—just a focused selection of fresh sashimi, generous poke bowls, and hits like the sushi sashimi bento box or chicken teriyaki for those with seafood allergies. But thanks to the consistently fresh ingredients, generous portions, and—most importantly—that absolutely exceptional quality of tuna, Tommy’s has never been more satisfying.
Honda-Ya
$$ | (714) 832-0081 | WEBSITE
Honda-Ya is Tustin’s answer to an important question: “Where can I go for authentic Japanese food in a lively setting?” This is the izakaya that trendy sushi bars want to be—fun, communal, and full of energy. And while it may not have the same serene elegance as upscale spots like Ootoro or Hana Re, there’s an everyday charm to Honda-Ya that’s even more inviting.
The space is cozy and vibrant, with floor seating where you can sit cross-legged, warm wooden tables, and colorful lanterns that might make you think you’re in a bustling Tokyo alley. While you’re getting comfortable, you can work your way through a wide menu of perfectly grilled yakitori skewers, an ultra-savory ramen, and some of the crispiest takoyaki in town.
Ramen Mura
$ | (714) 617-4891 | WEBSITE
Warm wood paneling, soft lighting, and the gentle hum of conversation make Ramen Mura feel more like a cozy neighborhood spot in Tokyo than a restaurant in a Tustin shopping center. Unlike many ramen joints in the area, this one focuses on quality over quantity—thick, rich tonkotsu broth, perfectly cooked noodles, and just the right amount of heat in their signature habanero ramen.
The soups are so flavorful they could stand alone, and the lunch specials mean you can enjoy a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. Bring your appetite and order a side of the Salmon Lover Roll—it’s worth the extra dollar, and you’ll want to come back to try everything else on the menu.
Sake 2 Me Sushi
$$ | (714) 731-6980 | WEBSITE
Just off the 55 freeway in Tustin sits this vibrant, inviting spot where beautifully presented sushi awaits its grand debut. Try not to stare. Fresh-tasting fish and well-cooked rice take center stage at Sake 2 Me Sushi, but it’s the standout rolls and perfectly cooked small plates that are worth navigating the parking lot for. This is the type of place where you can keep it casual.
Start with the shishito peppers, order the Las Vegas Roll and some salmon sashimi—thickly sliced and very tasty—and maybe get the bento box lunch deal. The attentive, kind staff delivers everything with a few generous flourishes that we won’t spoil for you.
Sushi Damu, PAYCE
$$ | (714) 505-3147 | WEBSITE
The crew at Sushi Damu just launched their PAYCE concept—and if the original is all traditional counter seating and classic sushi bar vibes, this one’s more neon accents, bold pop art, and modern industrial flair. The atmosphere is livelier and brighter, yet every bit as fun. The menu leans Japanese, but with fewer à la carte options and more unlimited omakase, bluefin tuna, and nigiri-topped everything.
Sushi is still the star—freshly prepared and priced by the all-you-can-eat package—but here, you don’t need to wait weeks for a reservation to enjoy it (at least not yet). This is your next big night out with friends, built for casual jeans and good conversation, with Bri’s sweet service keeping everything smooth and the music setting just the right celebratory tone.
Kitajima Sushi & Thai
$$ | (714) 832-8110 | WEBSITE
Seemingly overnight, sushi spots have multiplied across Tustin, but Kitajima Sushi & Thai remains a standout for its unique blend. This neighborhood restaurant offers fresh sushi rolls alongside comforting Thai dishes, creating a versatile menu. The atmosphere is chill and homey, with dim lighting and polite, attentive staff like Isabella making regulars feel welcome.
You’re here for the sushi—stick with the classic Dragon or Kitajima rolls, or try the spicy crunchy rolls for something with a little more kick. The spicy garlic edamame and Pad See Ew round out a satisfying meal that keeps customers coming back.
Orange Roll & Sushi
$ | (714) 734-9300 | WEBSITE
Orange Roll & Sushi’s tables are about to get even busier. The Tustin location of our favorite sushi spot just rolled out an incredible bento box with beef teriyaki, vegetable tempura, and spicy garlic edamame. We love it so much we’re putting Orange Roll back on the Hit List—what was already a place to get stellar rolls like the 9 months later and Tiger Roll is now also a destination for a full satisfying meal.
And here’s a tip: If their menu says the bento is limited, you might still be able to order it at the counter.
Sake2Me sushi on Newport Ave
$$ | (657) 212-5007 | WEBSITE
Sake2Me has been my go-to sushi spot for years, even when other trendier places open nearby. But like any reliable neighborhood gem, it keeps winning me back. Now everything happens inside this unassuming Newport Avenue storefront that feels like stepping into a cozy, welcoming friend’s home. The clean tables gleam under warm lighting, the smell of fresh fish and rice drifts through the casual dining area, and the whole place seems designed to make you and your date feel completely at ease.
The abundant menu offers generous sushi selections, appetizers, and consistently good seafood—all at a value that’s worth double what you’d pay elsewhere. With the 50% off option, you’re looking at about $25 per person for a feast. If your date doesn’t appreciate this spot’s cheerful service and family-like atmosphere as much as you do, it might be time to reconsider.
Okidoki by Meiji
$$ | (714) 730-7051 | WEBSITE
There’s no shortage of classic sushi spots in Tustin, but Okidoki by Meiji gives it a comforting Japanese twist. Think chewy udon noodles, rich broths, and sesame tofu that goes toe to toe with the best traditional dishes in town. We haven’t seen a Japanese newcomer make such a strong impression in a while, but considering the ingredients are freshly prepared and the service is excellent, we can’t say we’re surprised.
Go while you can still enjoy the cozy atmosphere without a wait—it’s only a matter of time before Okidoki joins the ranks of Tustin’s greats. The restaurant is set up in a welcoming space, which means you can pair your nabeyaki udon with a salmon skin salad, and chase it all with a panna cotta with vanilla bean and apricot sauce for dessert.
Sushi Wasabi
$$$ | (714) 505-3496 | WEBSITE
Tustin has no shortage of sushi spots, but we’re always excited to find one that truly stands out—especially one this authentic. Sushi Wasabi is tucked away in a cozy corner, and it’s all about quality over flash. It serves melt-in-your-mouth toro that’s rich and buttery, and highlights like the blue crab hand roll and the tuna course, but the best thing we’ve tried so far is the Omakase with dessert included—expertly curated and prepared with the utmost care.
It’s not all traditional—the warm, inviting ambiance has a modern, intimate feel, with soft lighting and clean, minimalist décor. Put Sushi Wasabi at the top of your special-occasion list. You can order a la carte or opt for their $85 Omakase experience.