Great quality sushi prepared masterfully; a varied sake selection with good quality and items you don't find everywhere else.They offer a thin cut roll with uni on top, I have not seen that elsewhere in the Santa Barbara area. Very nice to get uni without a lot of ornament or other things in the way.The specials offered were fantastic, the tsuri aji ( special horse mackerel) was the best I've had outside of Japan. The other items were just as good. The variety of fish they serve from Japan is not something you see very frequently; for instance, when it is in season, summer, they will have hamo.I would have eaten three meals a day here if they were open early.
The BESSSSSSST Sushi... not just in California, but (at the risk of sounding like Elle Woods)... like, EVER!The freshness, the flavors, the sauces-- AMAZING! There's so many options for a variety of preferences... for the pure sushi lover who just wants the simplicity of sashimi, or the "deck the halls" sushi lover who wants everything piled on top of that little roll of love, you can't go wrong.Not to mention, Teru himself is the best. He creates a friendly and comfortable environment to enjoy delicious, fresh and often local options to make up a memorable dining experience. If in Santa Barbara, this is a must go, "treat yo self" spot!
Authentic Japanese Sushi. If you are used to American Sushi the serving sizes are on the small end but lovingly crafted. Rotating list of specials, so some days you may have wagyu and other days you may have uni and other days you have something you never heard of before. Big plus if you are into surprises and trying new things, but a bit of a change from American restaurants that serve the same thing every day. Don't go if you are in a rush. Do go when you have time to savor the food. They do have some gluten free and vegetarian/vegan options if you ask politely. Chief's name is Teru
Amazing spot - truly feels like you’re dining in Japan. Incredibly fresh fish and over all best sushi (if not seafood) in all of Santa Barbara. In addition to the food, service is very thoughtful and attentive!
Hands down the best sushi spot in Santa Barbara!!! Not only is the quality of the sushi the best I've ever had, but the owner, Teru - is SO kind and takes quality care of his restaurant and customers. He always makes sure everyone is happy with their sushi, and even when waiting for my to-go order, he's offered me sushi while I wait! I'm really glad that this small spot survived the pandemic, it definitely is the top quality sushi that Santa Barbara needs! Thank you Teru always for the making the best creative sushi!
I was thoroughly impressed and might have a new favorite sushi restaurant. We had a party of 9 and I was delighted to find the place relatively empty at 5:30 (I don't particularly care for loud establishments being 50%+ deaf/can only hear it if one ear), but the place fills up quickly after about 6/6:30.Our party host spoke with Teru and asked for him to just prepare "chef's choice" plates and to keep them coming. He also took the time to visit several different tables during service, which is always a welcome and added bonus.Teru's fusion of unconventional flavors added to his eloquent and traditional techniques/style was a homerun! So much so, I asked about the possibly of an unpaid (unless he wants to pay me) apprenticeship..... I don't know that there is anything on the menu not worth trying.10 stars if I could!
This is the best a la carte sushi in Santa Barbara. I used to go to Arigato, but Teru is much much better. They also have wonderful local fish on their specials menu. I plan to be a regular here!
Want high quality, delicious sushi? Come here! Excellent, beautiful, yummy. It's all you need and more. The unique, craft Japanese beer selection is a fun, welcome addition to your typical sushi experience. Don't skip the salmon and yellowtail nigiri! This is our favorite date night spot.
Five stars all the way! We ordered off the specials board and enjoyed some fine sake. The food was outstanding, as was the service. Teru San accommodated our wishes to have three pieces of each (since three of us were dining together and wanted to eat the same food). I love that this place has the small vibe of a sushi restaurant in Japan. It's also covid safe with tables set far apart from each other and high ceilings. I'm looking forward to my next visit!
Dissapointed considering this place has a 4.8 star average. Is it under new management? New chefs? Who knows!! This roll was $20 was comically small and it took them almost 30 minutes to make on a non busy weekday.