Craving the best sushi in Long Beach is not just about fresh fish or a well-placed slice of avocado. It’s about tiny bursts of flavor, a chef’s quiet genius, and the feeling when a perfect nigiri melts just right. I still remember the first time I ducked into a tucked-away spot here, the air humming with quiet energy, each bite making me rethink what sushi could be. Whether you’re new to the sushi scene or consider yourself a connoisseur, Long Beach offers a blend of cozy locals, hidden gems, and sleek sushi lofts that make every outing an adventure.
Finding sushi here is less a hunt and more of a rewarding stroll. You don’t have to sift through endless menus or worry about quality. Every place on this list earns its spot for freshness, skill, and that extra magic behind the counter. Ready for a roll that leaves you planning your next visit before you’ve even left the table? Let’s take a look at where to start.
Where to find the best sushi in Long Beach, CA
Here are some of the top spots to find the best sushi in Long Beach, CA:
- Parkers’ Lighthouse
- Sushi on Fire
- Awesome Sushi
- 39 Degrees
- Biplau Thai & Sushi Bar
- Tokyo Wako
- White Wasabi Sushi + Beer
- Kihon
- Sushi Mafia
- Sapporo Sushi
1. Parkers’ Lighthouse
Parkers’ Lighthouse draws sushi lovers with its panoramic marina views and a calm, coastal vibe. You can’t beat their sushi menu for freshness and creativity in Long Beach. My own visit started on the patio, chopsticks in hand, with the sun dipping over the harbor.
The sushi bar is the star here. Their tuna tartare and signature rolls strike a balance between classic Japanese restraint and California innovation. I still dream about their salmon sashimi—thin, silky, and so fresh it tastes like the ocean air outside.
For a standout experience, order the spicy yellowtail roll, which highlights the kitchen’s ability to deliver contrasting flavors without losing focus on quality. Parkers’ Lighthouse is the place to savor sushi while soaking in a world-class view.
2. Sushi on Fire
Sushi on Fire’s lively atmosphere caught my attention before I even sat down. This spot mixes tradition and a playful spirit, making it perfect for both sushi newcomers and seasoned fans. The staff knows their menu and doesn’t hesitate to steer you toward the most popular choices if you ask.
The crunchy rolls here are a local conversation starter, and my favorite—the Firecracker Roll—packs the right amount of spice without overpowering the delicate flavor of the fish. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, their cucumber-wrapped rolls are both fresh and satisfying.
Portions are generous, prices are fair, and you’ll notice the crowd is mostly locals who seem to be regulars. Sushi on Fire is a go-to for dynamic flavors and reliable quality in Long Beach.
3. Awesome Sushi
Awesome Sushi lives up to its name without fanfare. This is a laid-back spot where regulars greet the sushi chef by name and the atmosphere is as inviting as your favorite hoodie.
I drifted in for a quick lunch, expecting the usual suspects, but walked away pleasantly surprised. Their yellowtail nigiri stood out—each piece expertly sliced and melt-in-your-mouth tender. For a bit more flair, go for the Awesome Roll; it’s a colorful, creative plate that delivers on taste as well as presentation.
The menu highlights freshness at every turn, and the staff always offers a suggestion if you need it. With friendly faces and honest sushi, Awesome Sushi is where comfort and quality meet in Long Beach.
4. 39 Degrees
39 Degrees hits the sweet spot for sushi enthusiasts seeking big-city quality without the fuss. The energy here is relaxed yet focused, blending neighborhood warmth with serious attention to detail. When I stopped in for dinner, the chef’s omakase was a revelation—thoughtful, precise, and perfectly paced.
If you’re after something special, the Toro sashimi is a showstopper. Each slice is buttery, almost sweet, and served with just the right touch of wasabi. The menu highlights local favorites, but you’ll also find inventive vegetarian options that don’t feel like an afterthought.
What keeps 39 Degrees on my radar? Consistency. It’s a spot where basics shine and creativity is rewarded. For sushi purists and explorers alike, this is a must-visit in Long Beach.
5. Biplau Thai & Sushi Bar
Biplau Thai & Sushi Bar brings the best of both worlds to Long Beach—a clever marriage of Thai comfort classics and well-crafted sushi. The decor is relaxed, and service always feels like you’re dining with friends. My visit turned from a quick bite into a full evening, thanks to a menu that kept surprising me.
Their avocado and veggie rolls are far from afterthoughts, with crisp ingredients and balanced flavors. The Chef’s Special Roll, bursting with fresh fish and just the right amount of heat, speaks to Biplau’s knack for flavor and presentation.
Vegetarian and vegan choices make everyone feel at home, and the kitchen pays the same attention to every dish. For a place where variety and flavor meet, Biplau consistently earns its loyal local crowd.
6. Tokyo Wako
Tokyo Wako might be well-known for its lively teppanyaki, but its sushi menu is full of surprises for those willing to explore. The setting is energetic, with a gentle sizzle from the grill drifting through the space, yet the sushi bar stays calm and inviting.
I found myself drawn to their Rainbow Roll—a classic executed with undeniable freshness and a generous touch of creativity. The vegetable tempura roll is a sleeper hit, light, crisp, and made with attention you’d expect at a much smaller spot.
What makes Tokyo Wako memorable is the team’s consistent service and their pride in every plate. It’s the sort of spot where you remember both the food and the mood long after your last piece of nigiri.
7. White Wasabi Sushi + Beer
White Wasabi Sushi + Beer lives up to its name, pairing crisp, cold brews with top-tier sushi in an unfussy setting. The roomy, relaxed vibe invites you to stay a while—perfect for meeting friends or unwinding after work. I’ve lost track of how many casual evenings here turned into celebrations over well-rolled maki and inventive appetizers.
Their veggie rolls are a highlight, packed with vibrant flavors and plated with real care. The Wasabi Roll brings just enough heat and crunch, showing the kitchen’s playful side, while the cucumber avocado roll is a go-to for simple, clean flavors.
Service is efficient and friendly, and the rotating beer selection makes for fun pairings with different rolls. White Wasabi is a bright spot for great sushi without pretense.
8. Kihon
Kihon sits quietly on 2nd Street, but step inside and you’re greeted with a balance of craft and calm that’s hard to find elsewhere. This is sushi with precision—each piece is treated like a small work of art. My favorite part is sitting at the counter, watching the chef at work, where even the simplest dishes get careful attention.
The nigiri here deserves a slow, appreciative bite; layers of fish are expertly sliced, rice is light, and flavors never compete. Don’t skip their vegetable rolls, either—they’re unexpectedly complex, with a focus on seasonal freshness.
For those who care about technique and quality, Kihon is an essential Long Beach stop. It’s a quiet celebration of skill, best enjoyed at your own pace.
9. Sushi Mafia
Sushi Mafia is both playful and polished, blending eye-catching decor with a menu that balances classic and contemporary. The vibe is friendly but lively, making it a spot that quickly puts you at ease. On my last visit, I found myself hooked by their fresh approach to familiar rolls.
The Mafia Roll is a must-try—impeccably fresh with just the right spice, it’s a snapshot of what makes this spot unique. If you’re into cleaner flavors, their avocado cucumber roll always delivers, light and refreshing.
What really sets Sushi Mafia apart is the feeling of being in on a local secret. The staff knows their sushi and makes sure every plate leaves an impression. This is where cravings for creative, quality sushi get satisfied in Long Beach.
10. Sapporo Sushi
Sapporo Sushi keeps things classic, drawing loyal locals with its no-frills approach and welcoming staff. Every visit feels like dropping in on a favorite neighborhood kitchen, where chefs remember your order and greet you with a nod.
The menu’s standouts are the delicate salmon and tuna nigiri, each piece expertly shaped and fresh. If you like a little heat with your meal, the spicy tuna roll at Sapporo Sushi strikes a perfect balance—bold yet never overwhelming.
There’s an unpretentious quality here that keeps me coming back. Quality stays high, portions stay generous, and both solo diners and groups find plenty to love. Sapporo Sushi sticks to what it does best—good fish and simplicity done right.
More Things to Try in Long Beach, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places for sushi in Long Beach?
You’ll find top choices like Parkers’ Lighthouse for great views and inventive rolls, Sushi on Fire for bold flavors, and Kihon for precise, artful nigiri. The list has something for every palate and price point.
Are there vegetarian or vegan sushi options in Long Beach?
Absolutely. Spots like Biplau Thai & Sushi Bar, White Wasabi Sushi + Beer, and Awesome Sushi offer fresh vegetarian rolls and vegan-friendly menu sections so everyone can enjoy.
Can I find affordable sushi in Long Beach?
Definitely. Great sushi isn’t always expensive here. Places like Sushi Mafia and Sapporo Sushi offer generous, quality rolls without breaking the bank.
Which sushi spots have outdoor seating?
Many in Long Beach provide patio options—Parkers’ Lighthouse offers waterfront views, while others like White Wasabi have laid-back outdoor setups perfect for breezy days.
Do sushi restaurants in Long Beach provide takeout or delivery?
Yes, most of them do. Sushi on Fire, Biplau Thai & Sushi Bar, and Sapporo Sushi are just a few that keep the fresh rolls coming, whether you’re dining in or eating at home.