🍣 Best Sushi in Santa Cruz
Fresh fish and authentic Japanese cuisine
Santa Cruz Sushi Scene
Santa Cruz's coastal location means access to incredibly fresh seafood, making it an excellent destination for sushi lovers. From traditional Japanese restaurants to modern fusion spots, the city offers diverse options for every taste and budget.
Whether you're looking for an upscale omakase experience, creative specialty rolls, or a casual neighborhood sushi spot, Santa Cruz has it all. The proximity to Monterey Bay ensures that local fish like salmon, tuna, and yellowtail are delivered fresh daily.
Top Sushi Restaurants
1. Akira
Upscale sushi restaurant with an extensive menu of traditional and creative rolls. Known for fresh fish and excellent presentation.
2. Mobo Sushi
Modern sushi spot with creative rolls and a fun atmosphere. Great happy hour specials and innovative combinations.
3. Shogun Sushi
Family-owned restaurant serving traditional Japanese cuisine. Generous portions and consistently fresh fish.
4. Sushi Totoro
Neighborhood sushi spot with a loyal following. Known for fresh fish, friendly service, and reasonable prices.
5. Hula's Island Grill
Hawaiian-fusion restaurant with excellent sushi and poke bowls. Great for a casual meal with ocean-inspired flavors.
6. Sushi Garden
Hidden gem in Aptos with fresh sushi and a peaceful atmosphere. Great for a quiet dinner.
🍣 Pro Tips
- 🐟Ask About Daily Specials: The freshest fish often appears as daily specials. Don't hesitate to ask your server what just came in.
- ⏰Happy Hour: Many sushi restaurants offer happy hour specials with discounted rolls and appetizers, usually 3-6pm.
- 🍶Try the Sake: Most restaurants have excellent sake selections that pair perfectly with sushi.
- 👨🍳Sit at the Bar: For the best experience, sit at the sushi bar and chat with the chef about recommendations.
- 📅Make Reservations: Popular spots fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Call ahead for dinner reservations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the freshest sushi in Santa Cruz?
Akira is known for the freshest fish and highest quality sushi. Sushi Totoro and Shogun Sushi also have excellent reputations for fresh, daily deliveries.
What's the best sushi restaurant for a date night?
Akira offers an upscale atmosphere perfect for special occasions. For a more casual but still romantic option, Sushi Garden in Aptos has a peaceful, intimate setting.
Are there good sushi happy hour deals in Santa Cruz?
Yes! Mobo Sushi has excellent happy hour specials on rolls and appetizers. Many sushi restaurants offer discounts during off-peak hours.
Can I get omakase (chef's choice) in Santa Cruz?
Akira offers an excellent omakase experience where the chef selects the freshest fish of the day. Call ahead to reserve as it's a popular option.
What should I expect to pay for sushi in Santa Cruz?
Rolls typically range from $8-18, with specialty rolls on the higher end. Expect to pay $15-25 for a sushi dinner, or $50+ for omakase at upscale restaurants.