The food was amazing and our server Chloe was really sweet and helpful!! Would definitely come back again

I FREAKING ADORE THIS PLACE. prices absolutely have surged since the last time I was here, but where hasn't? We absolutely spoiled ourselves and got several dishes, one of the best was the crunchy spicy tuna bites! I've never had that before and they were incredible - so good I would have been satisfied stoping there! The shrimp were massive, 3 bites for one shrimp with many delicious sauces all over. Don't sleep on the shrimp, they are insane. My friend got the fried rice mixed shrimp and steak and chicken and it could have fed four people LOL. Last we got a spicy roll I forget the name, but it was amazing with fresh wasabi on the side. Overall 10/10 still will always come back to this place I'm obsessed. Super cute spot for date night! read more

See all

Was a great visit, no wait on a Monday night at 5pm, Chloe was our server and she was great! She was super pleasant and attentive! Typically I get the yokisoba and it comes out behind other orders so we order it in advance of the other covers. This time though it came out very fast, it was fine though. She took it back and kept it warm while the Sushi was made. Overall a 10 out of 10 visit. PS - Bring back happy hour :P read more

Friday nights are made for dinner dates!! Frst time visiting here. It won't be our last. Everything was so fresh and presentation was on point. Great service and vibes. Everything was very yummy. * Seafood Croquettes * Shrimp & Veggie Tempura * Super Crunchy Roll #DiningWithTheAndersons #TryingNewPlaces #HereFishyFishy #SushiTime read more

See all

We were seated at 7:10 PM and ordered our food shortly after. What should have been a quick order turned into an extremely frustrating experience. It took over an hour to receive our food, and during that time we watched several other tables--who were seated after us--get their meals before we did. At one point I politely asked our server, Marlee A., how much longer our order would take. She looked directly at me and then walked to the other side of the restaurant to help other tables, completely ignoring my question. This felt incredibly disrespectful and unprofessional. When our food finally arrived, it had been about an hour and twenty minutes just to receive two sushi rolls. Instead of apologizing for the long delay, she simply said "thank you for your patience." There was no apology, no explanation, and no effort to make the situation right. The lack of communication and basic customer service was extremely disappointing. Waiting over an hour for two sushi rolls while being ignored by our server is unacceptable. I hope management addresses this, because this level of service reflects very poorly on the restaurant. Honestly I would stick to Sushi Deli. read more

See all

MacKenzie was really great and helped us make our decisions on dinner. Everything recommended was delicious and the atmosphere was great. She gave us more attention than we've had from a server in years anywhere (actual conversation) 10/10 always recommended Banbu especially with Mackenzie read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Aguachile seasonal roll, surf and turf roll, and banbu roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

Everything we ordered was 10/10! Exceeded expectations. Mackenzie H. Was amazing and super attentive. The steak with teriyaki was cooked perfectly. Sushi was so fresh and wings were super crispy. Will be returning read more

See all

Been coming here for years but lunch today was especially worthy of this review. We were blessed to have Trinity as our server on the patio and she made our experience truly 5 stars. Between the ponzu sauce she brought us, the fresh wasabi, and the exceptional service, she had us asking what days she works by the end. All of the rolls we ordered were fantastic and literally overflowing with flavor. If I could give more than 5 stars I would! read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

See all

If you love Japanese food and sushi, Banbu Sushi is absolutely the place to go. My mom and I were looking for a lunch spot that offered not only great food, but also a beautiful and relaxing ambiance, and Banbu Sushi delivered on both. The atmosphere is warm, inviting, and thoughtfully designed. Outside, there are calming water fountains, comfortable seating, a fire pit, and outdoor warming units that make the space feel cozy and upscale without being stuffy. It is the kind of place where you actually want to slow down, enjoy your meal, and take in your surroundings. The service was good, attentive, and friendly. The food was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared, exactly what you would expect from a quality sushi spot. The only downside is that they do not offer lunch specials, and the prices fall in the mid to higher range. That being said, the overall experience from the food to the ambiance to the service makes it well worth it. I would also like to add they have energetic and cheerful pop music playing in the background to add to the experience. If you are looking for a spot that feels a little special and delivers on quality, Banbu Sushi is a wonderful choice. read more

See all

First time here and the server was awesome, and the food was incredible! We will be back! read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

This has got to be my favorite sushi place. From the food to the ambiance and the service. This time I invited friends that had never been here before and we were celebrating a birthday. It was a busy evening and I'm sure glad we made reservations prior. We got sat in the very back patio, we were the last table literally against the wall but it was fine, we were away from the bigger crowd and it was more intimate. Our waitress was very sweet and helpful with all the recommendations with the questions my friends had. We ordered cocktails and appetizers to start and she did mention it would take awhile since they were busy. It did take awhile for our drinks to arrive and 2 were not the correct drinks we ordered, she took them back but took a very long time to receive. Other waitresses brought our appetizers, everyone seemed to be helping each other I imagine because it was a busy night. We finally got our drinks and we waited for our main entrees for a long time but overall it was worth the wait because the food was excellent as per usual. The complimentary dessert for the birthday girl was delicious and they all said they would definitely come back hopefully on a day thanks not too busy like that night. There parking area is usually always busy but there's a parking structure where I always seem to find a spot in. read more

See all

I think the rolls here were excellent and the service was as well. The only thing is I do think this place is on the pricier end - 2 rolls for $60 is a lot. That being said, it's a nice treat and they have lots of awesome rolls to try! read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Cobe style beef roll (left), lemon cilantro roll (right) - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

The sushi rolls are still delicious. Unfortunately most of the rolls now have cream cheese or fake krab. There used to be many more choices without those ingredients. I'm sad I have to find a new place read more

Service!! Mainly Toby one of the hostesses. So we frequently come to Banbu for sushi, actually its the inly place we have gone in the past 2 years! I have never felt so insignificant and treated so rudely by anyone until tonight. We even had a reservation! We checked in and there was hardly anyone on the patio, Toby took us to a table right next to the parking lot, sat for a min and then asked a waiter to have us moved. She came back out didn't say anything to us picked up the menus and proceeded to the only table in full sun. We politely asked for a table in the shade, she huffed, turned around and looked like she didn't know where to sit us. Mind you, we passed 6 tables empty in the shade! She picked a table sat the menus down and walked away, didn't ask if this was better, didn't say have a nice meal nothing! So freaking rude! As I watched her walk by us for the rest of the meal, she never smiled once at anyone. If she is one of the people setting the mood for a meal I would seriously consider removing her from that position. As always the food and other service was amazing, and we will be back. read more

Love this place! Have been coming here for many years, the food and ambience never disappoints. The calamari ceviche is a must-have and tonight we had the Inferno Roll and Baked Langustino Roll, both 10/10 Our server Mackenzie was great, she had a full section but was very personable, had extended knowledge on the menu, had good recommendations and overall the service was great! One of the best interactions I've had in my many years of coming here. Will def return and recommend to anyone to try if you are in the area! read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Inferno Roll and Baked Langustino Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

Our waitress was very friendly and did her best however the food unfortunately was a disappointment as the reviews had previously appeared good. The goyza soup unfortunately had no flavor. Sushi rolls didn't have enough flavor and was also dry. read more

The good was amazing and the server was super nice and have us great recommendations! read more

See all

My friend and I came in for dinner the other night, and it was really busy for a Thursday night! First timers, but we were impressed! They have a lotttttt on the menu, so I would recommend checking out the menu online beforehand so that you have an idea of what you want, because the food did take a little while to get to our table, and we were hungryyyy. We were totally understanding because of how busy they were, but still. (Just something to think about). They have a nice seating area outside by a little fire place, and the lighting indoors makes it seem very intimate, even if your tables are seated a little closely together. Our server was great. Shout out to him-I forgot his name-possibly Matt? Not sure but he had long hair, and slightly resembled Ethan from Lizzie McGuire. If you know, you know! Anywayyyy, the food was good and the vibes were good. Parking directly in front will probably be hard to come by, but there is an abundance down the way. Definitely recommend the salmon skin hand roll. That was my absolute favorite from the night! read more

See all

The ambiance and service were wonderful. The waitress attended to my party well l, provided us with filled water and timely service. However, coming from LA and regularly going to Katsya, the food here was subpar and overpriced. I'm used to the hamachi melting in my mouth and here I had to chew and chew and chew. Even after all the chewing I had to even spit some out. The quality was akin to any hole in the wall that is typically a fourth of the price. Don't get me wrong the chefs presented to food well but you cannot hide the quality of fish. Personally, I wouldn't come here again but the staff is great and the food is somewhat edible. read more

See all

Banbu Sushi has a nice atmosphere and the service was friendly, but overall the value just didn't match the prices. The biggest issue for me was the cost compared to the taste and quality of the food. Paying $13 for a California roll feels pretty steep, especially when there are plenty of spots that serve a $6 California roll that honestly tastes better. We also tried a few other items. The curry was actually very good and probably the highlight of the meal. However, the duck lettuce wraps were $23, and they just didn't live up to that price point. The portion and flavor didn't feel like something that should cost that much. Overall, the food isn't bad, but the price-to-quality ratio feels off. If the prices were a bit more reasonable, the experience would be much easier to recommend. Right now it just feels like you're paying a premium without getting premium flavor. read more

See all

Like the food, service, and ambiance, But I find it overpriced for the experience it offers. read more

My family and I come here a lot. It's a a nice restaurant. They have some pretty good sushi and other plates. The restaurant also has a party room if you wanna host there. The service is good, the staff here is nice. The whole restaurant in itself is clean and towards the back they have something you don't see very often. I don't know if they still have it but it's like a pink room with drinks if I remember correctly. But overall it's a nice restaurant, the food can be better but, yea. Good restaurant. read more

Food was amazing! Service was definitely on top of everything with our questions and concerns about the menu. The fresh fish took a little longer to come out but it was so worth it. Brook was an amazing server. The place seemed a little fancy. read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Poke sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

This is my friends favorite sushi spot in La Mesa, now I know why! This place is so cute we sat ourside and the patio is well decorated, quiet and calm! The inside was nice! We got a bunch of rolls to share for the table and I also got a cup of miso soup! This was by far one of the best miso soups I've ever had! The rolls were really good. The service was great! Some of the best sushi I've had in awhile! read more

See all

This place is amazing. Every time I come here I feel like family. Jade always takes care of my family and I. She is top notch! Food and ambiance is always on point. I love coming here for special events or for a quick bite. Thank you for always being a go to for my sushi adventures. read more

Jaquline was my server and not only was she prompt in greeting she provided insight to the new seasonal menu. However, due to my food allergies Jaquline quickly pivoted to accommodate with the two items I did order, Baja Norte Roll GF and the Yellowtail belly with which she provided a suggestion of a GF ponzu sauce that I dit not know was even an option! Fast, friendly and a very knowledgeable server. I have been away from San Diego for several years, now that I am back Banbu is back to the top of the list of favorite places to dine! Cheers, kz thank you Jackie!! read more

Service and food quality has gone down immensely, while prices just keep getting ridiculously higher.... This was my go-to sushi spot for the last 5 years. I won't be returning. read more

First time here while in town visiting. We had dinner here and my party of 5 all liked their food and drinks. The waitress was great very attentive! The restaurant was decorated nicely, very clean and also clean bathrooms. The food was a little expensive for what you get but it was still tasty. The edamame was very good. The drinks were all great and tasted very good. Our food came out at different times but our waiter told us that ahead of time so we expected which was nice since we knew. Great experience! read more

See all

When you're spending ~$25 for a starter and ~$30 for a roll - you expect the full, quality experience. The duck lettuce wraps looks interesting so thought I'd give them a try. They come in three and look pretty busy. As I bit into the first one, I bit into a sizable bone. Thinking perhaps this was a one time occurrence, I continued with caution. Attempted to eat the second one, and again bit into a bone. I didn't want to attempt to eat the third one and left the plate to the side. The waiter came to take the tray and when I told him about the bones, it was clear he didn't give a sh**. I ordered the halibut seared roll and it took a looong time. It was the night before July 4th and the place wasn't very busy - I started to think that the sushi chef forgot about me. It finally came but seared usually means a light heat - didn't see one and the roll was just Ok in taste. On the way out, thought I would be a good patron and discreetly tell the girl at the front who was cleaning the door about the duck platter having bones in it. She looked at me as though I were some sort of idiot and it was clear from her facial expression that she didn't give a sh** either. And so, for the prices they charge I didn't feel like I received good value for my money, and service clearly has opportunities for improvement. read more

Waaaay too expensive for average food. $9.50 for miso soup alone is robbery. Service is good but many places to go for a better value. Shocked at the good reviews. read more

The food here is amazing. That's why we come here. The service is also really good. The ambience is romantic and fun and it's actually expensive for San Diego. read more

See all

Ate here for lunch today. Excellent food always. Special shout out to our server,Jacqueline L. She was so attentive and personable. Great job girl!!! read more

The food and drinks here were great. Nice ambience and friendly staff. Our waiter, Aiden, was very quick with his service, always checking in, and also offered some great recommendations. Overall, we enjoyed our experience and will be coming back! read more

See all

We had the best experience at Banbu sushi!!! Our server, Mckenzie, was absolutely amazing! I would suggest this place to anyone who genuinely loves very fresh, very flavorful sushi!!!! We will definitely be back!!!! read more

Jacquie was our server the last 2 times we were here and she is amazing. So nice and willing to take the time to answer questions and direct you to items you have not had before. One of our all time favorite servers ever! And as a bonus the food is excellent. The seating is inside and outside and the atmosphere is causal. read more

Visited Banbu Sushi Bar today for a to-go order and left disappointed. I don't mind paying higher prices because the food is usually fresh, but this time only the shrimp fried rice was hot and good. The wontons and Firecracker shrimp were cold. What stood out most was the service -- another customer was offered water while waiting, but I wasn't. Also, the restaurant had just opened, yet the chose to seat three Black women by the bathroom. I sat there patiently waiting for my food and only one person greeted me. Overall, not the experience I expected. read more

For all the times I've been to Banbu, yesterday was by far my favorite experience. Our waitress, Sam, was a breath of fresh air--so attentive, polite, and genuinely passionate about her job. Our table never had an empty glass. I also tried the Inferno roll for the first time, and it's officially my new favorite. If you like spice, this one's a must! read more

Banbu Sushi Bar & Grill - Inferno Roll (the one with fire) was my favorite! - Sushi Bars Near Me - La Mesa, California

See all

Very trendy spot tucked in the back of a busy shopping center. The service was great, food was decent. Sushi rice was a more on the mushier side. My daughter picked the rice off of her rolls and ate it without. Presentation is beautiful.... The pricing was on the higher end for sushi, but not comparable to other higher end sushi restaurants. read more

See all

Food is always good here. Service is mostly good. I would go here more often if they brought back happy hour. read more

Banbu is one of our favorite local restaurants. We are huge sushi snobs and banbu is consistently fresh and yummy. We especially love all the nigiri bites. The flavored sake is also really yummy and we love the fun light up carafe it comes in. The ambiance is really lovely inside and out, love the little garden seating area and the fire pit! It's unfortunate the fire pit is right near the parking lot, but it's not that busy so it's still nice. What always really stands out to us most is the service. Special shout out to Nia who is a manager but has also served us many times and is so kind, speedy, and always has amazing recos. My favorite of all time reco from her is the fresh wasabi. I've never had it anywhere else, and wow it seriously enhances sushi. When we went last night, we had Ally as our server and Valencia as our hostess. Valencia gave me the special kids birthday menu (wink wink) and Ally was so accommodating. We ordered the wrong drink twice (yikes on us) and she handled it with no issues or extra charge. The restaurant was randomly crazy busy for a Wednesday night but she was still so great with our party of 6 including kids, grabbing all the extra requests like lemons for our drinks and fresh wasabi. Our busser, David, was also insanely kind and ran after us to the parking lot when my daughter left her water bottle at the table. Banbu is def a favorite for us in the neighborhood! Such a treat and we'll be back again and again. read more

See all