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Monterey has an envious location perched on the Pacific Ocean on California's Central Coast, which means glorious views, natural wonders, and plenty of activities to enjoy. Most visitors learn fun facts about Monterey, like the water off the coast is home to Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, which features Submarine Canyon that is twice as deep as the Grand Canyon.
However, Monterey's location also means seafood restaurants can offer the freshest menu ingredients to their customers. So if you want to know the best sushi restaurants in Monterey, CA, here are the restaurants to check out!
Crystal Fish
Crystal Fish is possibly the best sushi on the Monterey Peninsula and has served customers since 2005. With proficient sushi chefs and fresh ingredients direct from the ocean and local farms, you can feel confident that a visit will leave you satisfied with the service and food. The traditional Japanese sushi training, mixed with modern and innovative culinary skills, make the Omakase Nigiri Dinner, hand-selected by the chef, a top menu item. But vegetarians also have a great sushi selection and rave about the Tropical Mango Roll and the Shroomalicious Roll.
Toro Sushi
Between the highest-quality ingredients and a creative sushi menu, Toro delivers exceptional service in a cozy atmosphere (indoor and outdoor seating), perfect for a romantic night out. Customers can't get enough of the nigiri and sashimi but crave Toro's signature Tamaki rolls, such as the Shortt's Crunch, which features salmon, avocado, cucumber, hamachi, green onion salad, crispy salmon skin, and a delectable unagi sauce. In addition, Toro offers classic and seared rolls and an entire stock of wine, sake, and beer to accompany your meal.
Sushi Time
Sushi Time is a clean and straightforward Japanese restaurant serving tasty sashimi and Maki or Tamaki sushi rolls made with creative flair. The flavor profiles set this restaurant at the top of any sushi-enthusiast list of favorites, along with a neat plating that is very appetizing. Customers mention the Tiger Roll and Tuna Roll as being delicious, but you should also try the new Hakuna Matata Roll, which includes smoked salmon and a jalapeno kick.
Ocean Sushi Deli
Ocean Sushi Deli has been running its family operation for over 25 years and is a local favorite for takeout sushi boxes and dine-in custom sushi platters. The chefs make all the sauces in-house, with the teriyaki sauce possibly the best you'll ever taste. The Miki Roll and Rainbow Roll always get great reviews, but all the sushi options have a perfect balance of ingredients and sauces that highlight the freshness and flavors. Another plus is the atmosphere is casual, the service is attentive, and the menu items are affordable.
Sapporo Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse
Sapporo Japanese Sushi & Steakhouse is one of the best sushi restaurants in Monterey, CA, because they focus on maintaining traditional Japanese techniques and flavors while incorporating some local fusion. The owners fly in the most select fish daily from the Sea of Japan and the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans to ensure customers enjoy the freshest flavors and textures with each bite. The views overlooking the harbor of Fishermans Wharf are a wonderful addition to your meal. Try the Sapporo Love Boat Deluxe to get an excellent overview of their sushi options.
