Well, two years ago I ended my first review by saying, "You haven't seen the last of us Kazama Sushi! We will be coming back a lot!" Safe to say, we meant it. Two years later, Kazama has become our go to sushi spot. My wife and I have been back more times than I can count and it's one of those places where we already know we're going to leave happy. The sushi is consistently fresh and delicious, the sauces are amazing, and the spicy garlic edamame is STILL one of my favorites. We've tried plenty of different rolls since that first visit and have found quite a few favorites along the way. The service has also continued to be friendly and welcoming every time we come in. We love the hole in the wall vibes this spot gives. I always think the best compliment you can give a restaurant is becoming a regular. We said we found our new favorite spot two years ago and Kazama has definitely earned that title. Still an easy 5 stars from us! read more

Kazama Sushi - Tropical Salmon Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

See all

Bummer to have to lower my rating but the inconsistency has become frustrating. I imagine there may be several chefs and I'm not opposed to personal style but when the inconsistencies include sub par plates it's not ok. For example, we love the vege roll and it usually has seaweed salad and lots of good stuff on it yet last month our arrived with mostly lettuce and nothing interesting. We thought it was an anomaly until yesterday when we had one of our favorites, the salmon skin hand roll and it came with salmon skin that was undercooked, not crispy. We enjoy the restaurant and love the hamachi collar so we're not giving up yet, just keeping our fingers crossed. read more

Kazama has consistently been one of the best sushi restaurants in the area. Great customer service, quick and friendly. Love all the food here read more

See all

Came here for a group dinner with friends. Was a little worried about the size of the restaurant because we were a group of 9 but they were able to seat us outside. Didn't mind seating outside since the weather was nice. The rolls were bigger than what I'm used to. So you're definitely paying for good quality food. Also drank the Yuzu Highball but it was watered down so won't be ordering that again and will try for another drink. I forgot our server's name but he was great. Kept checking up on us and made the overall dinner experience very pleasant. read more

Kazama Sushi - Tiger roll, Spicy Baked Salmon roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

Outside dining in the patio on a cool summer evening. Enjoyed the Philadelphia roll & garlic edamame. Didn't care for the crunchy scallop, for the scallop itself was hard & too crunchy, it tasted like fish sticks to me. The hand roll sans the scallop was fine. The peach green tea was refreshing. Friendly staff. Came to check on us every now & then. read more

See all

Food: Food was a 5/5! Fresh with large portions. I order the sashimi salad, spicy edamame, and large miso soup. Hubby order spicy tuna rolls and vegetable tempura. The edamame was real spicy and heavy with garlic, just like I like it! Service: 4/5. Started off a little slow. About a 10 minute delay before they took our order. The sushi chef had to flag down the hostess for us. Ambience: pretty small and tight, but clean and cozy. We sat at the bar. Overall, I can see why this restaurant is highly rated. We will be back and give another chance on the service. read more

See all

It was a smaller site with wall to wall people- so we had to sit at the bar. Initially we had to wait 10 minutes and we weren't helped and the sushi chef asked us Were we ready- he then summoned the waitress. This part wasn't too cool, but idk ‍ Watching the sushi chefs cook was a treat and they were polite and friendly. We had some good items and the food here is great ! We had an Asahi beer, the spicy garlic Edemame, veggie tempura, spicy tuna rolls, a soup and a Sashimi salad- very tasty food!! read more

See all

I have driven past Kazama Sushi at Village Plaza in Claremont on many occasions. I would say to myself, I'm going to eat there one fine day. Well, that fine day has arrived. I was on a solo date with moi. Love to dine with self always! Staff was very welcoming upon entry. Service was top-notch throughout the evening. I went all out on my dining experience. I couldn't resist, but to order the best sushi rolls, sushi + ramen bowls, and iced green tea. Let's just say I was hungry LOL. Everything was amazing! Seaweed salad was the best I've ever had. Between the two sushi rolls, I enjoyed the Carribean Roll more. I think it was the sweet onion that put it over the top. TASTY! Chirashi Bowl had fresh fishes in good cuts. YUM! Ramen Bowl had savory broth and tender chashu pork with all my favorite toppings. DELISH! Refreshing Iced Green Tea was in a large glass. YAY! I dined liked a queen. I would do it again. Of course, I had to pack the leftovers to-go plus order some to-go for my daughters. Overall dining experience was wonderful. Definitely would come back again. If you haven't tried Kazama Sushi, add it to your list to try. Dine-In: *Seaweed Salad - marinated seaweed with sesame oil & seed *Carribean Roll - In: spicy crab meat, avocado, cucumber/ Out: salmon, lemon, sweet onion, cilantro with sweet sauce and cilantro sauce *Old Town Roll - In: crab stick, shrimp tempura, avocado/ Out: seared salmon belly, sprouts, garlic ponzu, tobiko *Chirashi Bowl - Chef's select fishes over sushi rice *Miso Ramen Bowl - Japanese ramen noodle soup with chashu pork, egg, corn, ginger, green onion & seaweed *Iced Green Tea To-Go: *Chirashi Bowl *Miso Ramen Bowl Btw, free parking can be found at the nearby parking garage or on the streets. You may enter this restaurant from the front entrance or the back doors. Besides inside seating, limited outside seating is available near the back entrance. read more

See all

The waiter was really nice and very professional. I ate out on the patio area. It was a perfect day. Very wheelchair accessible setting, as long as you don't need the restroom. Food choices: Eel hand roll and grilled salmon salad. The grilled salmon on the salad was cooked to perfection. The salad was baby mixed greens with a ginger dressing. I recommend asking them to serve salmon on a separate plate. Very tasty dish. The eel roll was not my favorite. The eel was mushy and flavorless, it was overcooked. The sweet ponzu helped a bit but not enough. The rice was over cooked as well, it was gummy and soft. I only ate three pieces of my roll. The iced tea come in giant mason jars and it was refreshing. Overall I will eat here again for the quality grilled salmon and maybe a bento dinner. read more

See all

Three friends decides to grab lunch after pickleball. So they pick Kazama Sushi, which has been around for a long time according to my friends. Service is quick and pretty good since it's mostly running by 2 people. I ordered lunch special set of tonkatsu and mixed tempura. Tonkatsu is slightly too dry, and mixed tempura too. Portions are really generous. Taste is good. I also try a piece of my friend's soft shell sushi - it's good size and tastes yummy. The vibe is very traditional Japanese restaurant. It's right at Claremont village area so parking could be a bit difficult. read more

See all

Got the surf n turf and the poke crunch roll! So much bang for your buck! Really enjoyed the service and food here! Restaurant is a little small so may want come here at a less busy time if you have a bigger party. read more

Good quality sushi at a nice neighborhood spot in Claremont. They have both inside and outside seating. We sat outside as the weather was a perfect. Service was fast and the staff was very accommodating. We had some appetizers (garlic edamame and salmon collar), a couple of rolls (dragon and spider) and then some sushi (fatty tuna, salmon belly, and uni). All great quality. Overall 5 stars. read more

See all

Service took awhile and they forgot one of our order. We're already done eating and my daughter already losing her appetite only then her food came. Spicy tuna jalapeño was good though. read more

Kazama Sushi - Tonkotsu plate - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

The fish was nice and smooth, came in decently large sizes and the oysters tasted amazing! Great service as well with a cozy atmosphere! Overall will come back again for more! read more

Kazama Sushi - Oysters, Chirashi bowl, House special roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

So late on this review but I went here a month ago, the sushi was so fresh! Our waitress suggested to my friend and I the seared salmon nigiri with chili oil on it since she saw that we liked salmon. We ordered it and oh my god she was soo right. SEARED SALMON NIGIRI WITH CHILI OIL--ended up being our favorite and it was so delishhh. read more

Kazama Sushi - Salmon nigiri, seared salmon nigiri with chili oil - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

See all

Always such a fabulous experience. We usually sit outside since we bring our fur baby and each time the service is great. Sushi is always fresh and delicious! read more

Kazama Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

I came here to try to break free from one spot and rumble fish and was pleasantly surprised. This might actually be the best in the area if I may so myself ima give it 5 stars because every single thing I ordered was solid. owner Specialty rolls are all great, salmon carpaccio great. salad great miso great. Oysters were great. staff was cool. read more

Super yummy spot!! We got the sashimi salad and dinner combo platter. the salad was very filling for me and the platter was perfect for my boyfriend. the fish is so fresh! The service here is fantastic!! Super nice and they make you feel well taken care of. The restaurant is on the louder side and packed inside. The outside seating has heaters for the colder nights. Will definitely come back to this spot. read more

Kazama Sushi - sashimi salad - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

See all

We've been loyal customers at Kazama Sushi in Claremont for years, which is exactly why today was such a letdown. The restaurant wasn't even busy, yet we were treated like we were invisible. It took about 20 minutes just to have our order taken while our server (wearing glasses) repeatedly sat down and socialized with a couple near the wall--full conversations, multiple times--without so much as a simple "I'll be right with you." I ordered hamachi collar and clam sushi, and my partner ordered the sashimi plate. The collar was dropped off by back staff (not our server), my partner's sashimi came out much later, and 45 minutes in I still hadn't received the clam sushi. So we're eating at different times, watching our server give all her attention elsewhere. Slow happens. Being ignored is different. Today felt disrespectful, and it completely ruined what's usually one of our favorite spots. If we come back at all, we'll be sitting at the counter--because apparently a table gets you forgotten. read more

Kazama Sushi - 20 minute collar - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

A fan favorite in college town and after this visit I can see why. The portions are big and even though the sushi was mediocre I get it. Budgeting these days is a must and if you're going to try get more bang for your buck then why the heck not. The place is usually crowded so you're forced to stand in the doorway all in other people way. That's annoying. The menu is really big, like Cheesecake Factory big. If you are a foodie you kinda know what that means. The service was ok and the place looks really worn down. The sushi bar was sticky and it took awhile to get my order. I ordered their Salmon Collar which was decent along with their Monkfish Liver and Sashimi bowl. Those two items were also decent. I tried to like this place but it just wasn't cutting it. Yes I feel bad with the rating but that's what my tastebuds say. And that's my take on this, Peace, I'm out. read more

See all

Food 5/5 Every sushi roll I've tried here has been incredibly flavorful and satisfying! This place is definitely one of my top sushi spots. I especially loved the House Special Roll, a must-try if you're a fan of albacore. On this visit, I ordered the Fantasy Roll, and it did not disappoint. It was delicious, packed with flavor, and absolutely worth the price. The miso soup was also rich and flavorful, a perfect start to the meal. For dessert, I had the green tea ice cream, which was super tasty and a great way to end the experience. Highly recommend! Customer Service 5/5 The staff were friendly and attentive. I usually ask for extra sides, and the waiter brought them out without any hesitation. It didn't feel like a bother at all, which I really appreciated. Ambience 5/5 I've only ever sat outside at the back of the place, and I really enjoy the ambiance. It's a great spot to relax and have a meal. Cleanliness 4/5 Only judging from the outside, the staff makes an effort to wipe down the tables regularly. Wait Time 5/5 I've consistently experienced quick and efficient service. Cost 4/5 In my opinion, the cost is reasonable given the quality and flavor. Rolls are priced at $17 and up, but they're quite large; one roll is usually enough to fill you up. Just a heads-up: they do charge for sides. For example, a side of jalapeños was $1.00. Something to keep in mind! read more

See all

Had lunch with my parents at Kazama Sushi in Downtown Claremont and simply put, this place is amazing! Very small space with seating for about 20 people inside (including space at the sushi bar), we were welcome with a very friendly greeting and allowed to choose a table to our liking. The weekend afternoon was about half full of hungry patrons. We ordered a large selection of specialty rolls, including The Dynamite (Baked scallop, shrimp, crab, mushroom with masago & sweet sauce), Popcorn Lobster Roll (In: crab meat, avocado out: tempura langostino, masago, green onion, sweet sauce), Las Vegas Roll (In: mixed fish (tuna, salmon, ono, spicy tuna, albacore), cream cheese, eel, avocado out: masago, green onion, sweet sauce), and Monkey Brain (Deep fried japanese mushroom, spicy tuna, real crab & sweet sauce. The service was efficient and the servers were on top of the tables, ensuring great service. The rolls were quite delicious, large and very well-priced. Great flavors, very fresh seafood and some interesting combinations I hadn't experience before. There are two restrooms, and plenty of street or free structure parking within a short walking distance. If you are in the Claremont area and craving great quality sushi at an affordable price, check out Kazama. read more

You can't go wrong choosing anything from the vast Kazama sushi menu! The portions are quite generous, the fish very fresh and presented well. Shout out to Marley our server!!! So friendly, chatting with us, and basically reading our minds more than once, anticipating what we'd ask for! Thanks, so much, Marley! read more

It's been 9 long years since I've been here! Just had dinner with my daughter and Kazama Sushi is still the best sushi in the IE. They have premium ingredients such as fresh wasabi, sweet shrimp and monkfish liver. Then, those ingredients are prepared the right way. The owner, Chris Choe, still provides excellent friendly service! I need to come back soon! read more

See all

Claremont Hidden Gem! I've seen this place numerous time driving by but my husband and I were looking for a non-AYCE place near us and came across this spot. Cute place with both inside and outside seating. Considering it being a Monday night the place was packed when we walked in at 6:10 PM. We sat at the bar and ordered our beers first and then we opted in for their deluxe sushi dinner. Food was superb and their deluxe sushi is worth your money. You get assorted 11 premium sushi which you can't get for $39.99. Other places will charge you at least $80 to $100 per person for something like this. Sushi chefs and servers were so welcoming there especially us being korean. They were extra nice to us. Definitely will be visiting them again for their sushi. Quality was amazing and service was over the top too. Any locals who crave good sushi at a reasonable price this is the spot. Parking can get tricky but you have street parking or structure. Great date night spot and must try. read more

See all

This is without a doubt my favorite sushi spot in all of the IE, potentially even Southern California. It's locally run with a wonderful staff who welcome you the moment you walk through the door. The sushi is delicious and fresh, and portions are large for the price. I've enjoyed everything I've ever ordered from their extensive menu. They have a cute outdoor patio and casual atmosphere that's welcome to families or a date night. read more

Kazama Sushi - Sushi boat - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

My first time here and it won't be my last... Well deserved 5/5 Stars!! I wish I had taken pics of the sushi rolls when our server brought to our table but I dived right into tasting and being in the moment :0 Let me start with the cold Peach Tea served in a big jar- it was perfect! Not too sweet nor heavy on the Peach flavor. This tea was well balanced and refreshing. They offer a variety of other cold flavor teas as well. The In n Out Roll was my first order, if Salmon is your favorite fish, this roll is for you. It has fresh salmon outside and inside. I also ordered a Shashimi plate. It included fresh cut thin slices of Tuna, Salmon, Yellow Tail, Albacore, and Blue Fin Tuna. This plate can serve 2 people. Smaller plated portions are offered as well. Both orders were delicious, fresh, and plated beautifully! This sushi restaurant is located in the heart of Old Town Claremont. It's welcoming, great atmosphere, sushi chefs and servers are friendly and helpful. They offer indoor and outdoor seating. I walked in on a Tuesday close to 7pm and luckily I was seated right away. The restaurant had a good amount of customers, it was busy. I can only assume the weekends are way busier along with a wait time. Definitely returning! read more

All my husband could say the whole meal was "this place is legit" lol, and it is! Very delicious food. Super flavorful, and the sushi is so fresh. Ambiance was chill and quiet. Like a little hidden gem. And service was good too, no complaints. We're big sushi lovers so we're happy to find another place that tastes so fresh and flavorful. We'll be back! read more

Kazama Sushi - Takoyaki - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

See all

Fast service, wasn't busy an hour before closing. Lots of staff available to support a rush. I ordered the Tropical Salmon Roll & Eel roll. Went in with an empty stomach, ordered a water which i only took a sip of. Pros: -Sushi size is bigger than most places -They were very generous w/ the ginger & wasabi -They provided a lolipop w/ your check Cons: -I wish the Eel was crisper I feel like a 7/10 full. I paid $32.36 (before tip) Pretty satisfied with my meal. Still exploring sushi spots to see if rolls are worth the price so no opinion as of right now, However I have been to cheaper spots (just as good) in the SD area. read more

Had a great first time for dinner! The cozy restaurant was bustling yet we were seated and served right away. The miso soup came out piping hot. The salad from my bento box was fresh and had a tangy flavorful dressing. The salmon teriyaki was one of the best I've had! The quality and portion size were surprising in comparison to other restaurants I've been to recently. My husband's chirashi bowl met his approval and he was extremely impressed with the yellowtail collar. It was a nice size and the meat was perfectly cooked! The service was attentive and friendly. We will be back I'm sure! read more

A bit of a belated review but necessary so that I won't have to ask myself "What was that good nigiri place in Claremont called again?" Such delicious nigiris...possibly the best in the IE by far for nigiris alone. Rice was not mushy or dry, the fish was fresh (no stomachache or food poisoning is always be try much appreciated). The fish to rice ratio was perfect, not too much rice and not skimpy on the fish. Rolls and bento boxes are enjoyable enough. Good portion and service. Looking forward to going back again! read more

We were visiting from out of town and stumbled upon this restaurant! The quality of the fish was really nice. All of the rolls tasted really good. My only feedback is that it was a little bit too much rice for us so we ended up removing a lot of it and push it to the side honestly though one roll each would've been perfect. We got three. We're definitely come back. read more

Kazama Sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - Claremont, California

See all

Were sushi lovers so we tried a new spot in Claremont. We were a group of 8 so we sat in their outside back patio. Plenty of shade and seating. The host was a little dry at first but once we sat down things went smooth. Quick to get our order and bring us water. Everything was fresh and flavors were nice. The portions were a larger than we're used too so we could have ordered less and been ok. For sashimi orders, the size is definitely worth the price. For the sushi, big portions are filling. But over all we had a great experience and the food was delxiojs read more

See all

Date night with the hubby... this place is usually packed but we came closer to closing and got lucky- seated asap. Food: our go to: miso soup, in n out roll, fire roll, house special roll, and a small sashimi. Price- $85 Service: was pleasant and quick Ambiance: cool chill spot read more

See all

I love this place. They are the only sushi place that I will go to for their bentos. I absolutely love their salmon teriyaki with their spicy tuna roll for their bento box combo. It is such an amazing deal with all of the fresh food that you get with it! I have to say, I have been getting the teriyaki salmon here for years and the salmon is always perfectly cooked and never dry! read more

We came Friday afternoon around 1:45 not busy so we got seated immediately which was nice, since I had my nephew and niece with me! The food was really good. It's a cute little spot with nice decorations around. Staff was very friendly and patient with our orders and questions. read more

See all

Thanks Marlee for your help.. the place is very relaxing, nice music not loud . Sushi rolls : Albacore fatty , Rainbow roll , and Lion roll were delicious! read more

Sushi is my thaaaaang... I'm very very picky w all my food, but when it comes to sushi l'm very critical... i only like to order nigiri or sashimi when I dine at sushi spots. I hardly ever order rolls & don't even like getting chirashi's bc I don't like my fishies mixing w one another.. if I do order one of these it's bc my expectations are low. food gets 3.5 stars, just a bit above average.. it's not bad at all. The service and friendliness push it to 4 stars overall. read more

The staff was very friendly and just amazing! And to top it off. The sushi was amazing! Some of the best that i have had. Definately going to make it my to go spot. Highly recomend. read more

Great food and great service. My family will be returning for another meal! I highly recommend this restaurant