The 5 Best Sushi Spots in Newport Beach Right Now
Newport Beach has always understood good taste. From oceanfront mornings to dinner plans that turn into late nights, the local dining scene reflects a lifestyle that’s relaxed, refined, and quietly confident. Sushi here isn’t just about freshness—it’s about setting, service, and knowing where to go.
If you’re searching for the best sushi in Newport Beach, these five restaurants stand out for their quality, consistency, and atmosphere. Consider this your current guide.
1. SET Steak & Sushi – Where Sushi Meets the Scene
SET Steak & Sushi has built a reputation as a go-to Newport Beach steakhouse, but its sushi program deserves equal attention. The menu balances expertly crafted rolls and sashimi with prime, flame-grilled steaks—making it one of the few places in town where you never have to choose between land and sea.
The fish is sustainably sourced and thoughtfully prepared, with clean flavors that pair seamlessly with the broader menu. Add in the garden-inspired patio, glowing under soft lights, and SET feels like exactly where the Newport crowd naturally gravitates.
Standout menu highlights:
Hamachi Crudo
Bluefin Tuna Pizza
Sushi & Sashimi Platters designed for sharing
Why it works:
One of the most well-rounded options for steak and sushi in Newport Beach
Ideal for date nights, celebrations, and group dining in Newport Beach
A setting that feels social without ever feeling loud
View the menu | Make a reservation
2. Nobu Newport Beach – A Global Classic on the Coast
Nobu Newport Beach delivers exactly what you expect: precision, polish, and ocean views that never get old. Its waterfront location makes it especially popular at sunset, and the menu remains a reliable mix of signature dishes and beautifully prepared sushi.
It’s a spot best suited for evenings when the occasion calls for something elevated and familiar, executed at a high level.
Order favorites:
Yellowtail jalapeño
Toro tartare
Omakase selections
Atmosphere:
Refined, scenic, and unmistakably Newport.
3. Sota Sushi – A Local Favorite with Staying Power
Quietly tucked away in Corona del Mar, Sota Sushi has long been appreciated by locals who value quality over spectacle. The space is intimate, the service personal, and the focus is squarely on the fish.
This is sushi stripped back to what matters most—freshness, balance, and consistency—making it a trusted favorite for those who know where to look.
What to try:
Omakase
Salmon belly nigiri
Hand rolls prepared to order
Atmosphere:
Understated, calm, and thoughtfully executed.
4. Starfish Newport – Creative Rolls with Coastal Energy
Starfish brings a more contemporary, fusion-forward approach to Newport Beach sushi, blending bold flavors with a relaxed, stylish setting just off Coast Highway. It’s a popular choice for casual evenings, happy hours, and first dates that call for something a little playful but still polished.
The menu leans creative without losing balance, making it approachable for a wide range of tastes.
Recommended picks:
Red Dragon Roll
Coconut Shrimp Roll
Sake flights
Atmosphere:
Easygoing, modern, and social.
5. Buddha’s Favorite – A Beloved Hidden Gem
Located near the Balboa Bridge, Buddha’s Favorite is one of those places locals tend to keep to themselves. The space is small and welcoming, with a menu that stays classic and dependable.
It’s the kind of restaurant you return to for unfussy sushi, consistent quality, and a relaxed harbor-adjacent setting that feels distinctly Newport.
Go-to orders:
Spicy tuna roll
House specialty rolls
Warm or chilled sake
Atmosphere:
Comfortable, intimate, and quietly charming.
Sushi in Newport Beach: A Coastal Standard
From hidden neighborhood favorites to destination dining rooms, Newport Beach sushi reflects the lifestyle of the city itself—fresh, considered, and effortlessly stylish. Whether you’re planning a low-key night out or a full dinner experience that blends sushi with steak, the options are strong.
Still, for those who want it all—sushi, steak, cocktails, and an atmosphere that feels right any night of the week—SET remains the standout.
FAQ: Sushi in Newport Beach
Where can I get steak and sushi in Newport Beach?
SET Steak & Sushi is one of the few restaurants offering both at a high level, making it ideal for mixed tastes and shared dining.
What’s the best sushi restaurant for group dining in Newport Beach?
SET is especially well-suited for group dining, with shareable sushi platters, a full steak menu, and a spacious patio setting.
Is sushi available during brunch at SET?
Yes. Sushi selections are often available during weekend brunch in Newport Beach at SET. Check the current brunch menu for offerings.
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