There’s just something about sushi that satisfies my desire to dine out. And as someone on a gluten-free diet, sushi is usually one of the few safe options when venturing out to eat (though I typically bring my own soy sauce since restaurant soy sauce may contain traces of wheat).

Whether you’re looking for a casual eatery or an upscale establishment, sushi restaurants in Newport Beach come in a variety of shapes and sizes – with plenty of roll combinations and sashimi options to choose from!

Here are some of the go-to stops for sushi in Newport Beach:

San Shi Go
Buzz Around the Beach:
● Known for their seasoned, interactive chefs who whip up culinary masterpieces for guests.
● Fish is melt-in-your mouth fresh and each dish combines simple ingredients to create complex flavors.
Spotlight on Specials:
● San Shi Go does not offer Happy Hour specials, but the regularly changing menu is a special in itself! Chefs incorporate seasonal vegetables and fish to guarantee that guests will always be trying something new.
Tasty Tips:
● For risk-takers and culinary adventurers, try omakase or, “I’ll leave it to you.” One of San Shi Go’s master chefs will make you one of his own unique creations.
Yelp Reviews

The Cannery Seafood of the Pacific
Buzz Around the Beach:
● With seating that offers a view of the harbor, The Cannery is the perfect place to unwind after work with sushi and a sunset.
● They fill up fast during Happy Hour, so get there early to guarantee seating.
Spotlight on Specials:
● Known for their unbeatable Happy Hour: 4 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Get 50% off the lounge menu (there are 15 roll and sashimi options to choose from!), a $2 discount on cocktails, and $3.50 draft beers.
Tasty Tips:
● Try the “911” Roll for a spicy roll combination that really packs a punch!
● Gluten free rolls available upon request (these rolls are served sans sauce).
Yelp Reviews

Zen Sushi
Buzz Around the Beach:
● The bustling atmosphere makes it the perfect place for your next group outing.
● Known for serving some of the freshest fish and having a menu that boasts an array of options ranging from specialty rolls to cooked seafood, chicken, and beef dishes.
Spotlight on Specials:
● Happy Hour: $1 sake and 50% off beer, rolls, and appetizers from select menu.
Tasty Tips:
● Try one of Zen’s flavored sakes — such as lemon, peach, strawberry, or pineapple — or mix a couple of flavors to give your meal a fun and fruity finish.
Yelp Reviews

Buddha’s Favorite
Buzz Around the Beach:
● Known by locals as a hidden gem in Newport Beach with a spectacular harborside view.
● Cozy setting with a patio overlooking the ocean makes Buddha’s Favorite a fit for dates or small groups.
Spotlight on Specials:
● Happy Hour: every day and time of the week you can receive 10% off of your entire bill! All you need to do is ask.
Tasty Tips:
● The Lollipop is a crowd favorite consisting of albacore, tuna, and salmon sashimi wrapped with a cucumber slice and served on a stick with a drizzle of Buddha’s special sauce.
Yelp Reviews

930 Sushi
Buzz Around the Beach:
● Known for their reasonable prices and daily specials.
● The warm, inviting atmosphere makes 930 ideal for dinner dates.
Spotlight on Specials:
● Happy or “Arigato” Hour is from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. daily and includes $3 draft beer and sake as well as $5 wines and well drinks.
● On Mondays enjoy 50% off selected rolls and sushi; Wednesdays and Thursdays get 50% off selected appetizers.
Tasty Tips:
● For a low-carb sushi option, try the 930 Roll: albacore, crab, and shrimp wrapped in cucumber instead of rice
● For a local favorite, try the PCH Roll: a combination of crab and spicy tuna that is topped with seared salmon and lemon
Yelp Reviews