I loved sushi made using purple rice. It adds a beautiful and tasty punch to pristine delicious fish. The server was very happy to explain to me how the shop came to use the purple rice, which is a combination of White and black rices. It is more influenced by Korean cuisine than Japanese, but you just gotta love the inventiveness and style. This place adds to the wonderful sushi options in this neck of the woods worth the drive, worth everything. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

I love sushi and rolls, and this place has such wonderfully creative both. Unfortunately it's not always consistent in terms of presentation.. But when it's on, it's so on it's worth the gamble. There are options for people who don't like raw fish. I just wish I could convince my companion who doesn't like uncooked seafood that the lion roll is cooked. I had some it was delicious. read more

Wow! Both the taste and presentation blew me away. As someone who loves quirky ice cream flavors, I really appreciated the creativity the menu offered. We ordered the natsu yasumi roll, the riceless sakana special, mango tango roll, and the classic lion king roll. The natsu yasumi roll was one of our favorites, even though the shiso leaf flavor was quite forward. The purple rice was absolutely stunning, and each roll was vibrant and meticulously crafted. Everything looked just as impressive as it tasted. Not to mention, the rolls came out quickly despite the level of detail in the presentation. The 4.8 star rating is well deserved! Definitely worth the drive in the hills. read more

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I'm surprised that I haven't written a review for Sakana in Kensington yet. My wife and I have been coming here for a few years now and they have yet to disappoint us. Everything we have had has been fresh, delicious, and well presented. The sashimi, specialty rolls, baked rolls (cooked ingredients besides tobiko), nigiri, and vegan/vegetarian rolls have all been excellent. I like the purple rice they use (sushi rice mixed with black rice) as it helps them stand out in both flavor and healthy offerings. The service is consistently on point too. Our servers have always been very courteous, attentive, and hard working. I appreciate that they can offer this level of food and service in a casual environment. I heard that they opened up a location in Albany within the last year or so that we have yet to visit. They do a great job and we're looking forward to dining with them for years to come. read more

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Overall 4.5/5 stars Pros: The quality of the fish was very fresh. They have unique purple rice in their sushi rolls. The sakana roll was definitely unique in flavor and had chunks of mango in it. Portions are huge. (For 2 ppl I think 3 rolls shared would be enough) Amazing service from staff. Cozy small mom and pa spot. Cons: Parking is small and very limited. Space is small not too much seating. Some rolls were too saucy like the Bay Scallop (Baked) one read more

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This was my first time going here, and I got the sakana poki bowl. I at first thought it was a bit pricy at 26$ but then I got the bowl itself and understood. The bowl was huge. It could easily serve 2-3 people. There was sushi rice, salad, wakame, pickled radish, pickled cucumbers, jalapeños, avocado, imitation crab, and a variety of raw fishes. Beyond the astounding size, I fell in love with all of the flavors- the acid, umami, sweet, and salty. The restaurant is small but has some tables inside and out. The service was amazing. I would definitely come back here for the poki bowl to share. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Sakana Poki - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

When I opened my box of sushi a FLY came whizzing out the box. I was so excited to eat my food and then when opening the box this fat fly sprung out like it had been trapped in the box for a while. It completely turned me off from eating it I had to throw away the whole thing. The fly has been frantically buzzing around the room since I released it from the sushi box. What a shameful waste of food and money that was! read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - The fly that flew out of my box of sushi, he's still frantically buzzing around the room from being stuck in the box of sushi. - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

Cute little place hidden in Kensington. The place is small they are opening another one in Albany they do have outdoor seating as well. We really enjoyed the sushi all the sushi rice is made with blue. Rice service was good. We will definitely return again. read more

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I had no clue where Kensington was until I found this sushi spot. Needed to find a good sushi spot on the way home after 18 holes of golf. Found this hole in the wall spot and ran with it. The restaurant is off the corner of an intersection/round about, small parking lot shared with other businesses, and the interior of the restaurant could fit 20+ people max. The staff were very nice and made sure we got all of our order. Definitely didn't expect the high quality of sushi to come out of this cozy little spot. I'll drive over to Kensington just to experience the food at this restaurant again! read more

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Absolutely amazing vegan and vegetarian rolls! Fresh and healthy. You can taste the quality and sense the pride that goes into each roll. Although I'm not a huge fan of rolls because of rice, I don't hesitate to get rolls here because they use purple rice The interior is quite small so there might be a wait BUT it's worth waiting for. Nice that they have a private parking! Extremely friendly service... you'll be very well taken care of. Recently refreshed menu and photo album menu read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Menu 8/9/2025 - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

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Sushi was delicious! I haven't had good sushi like that in a while. It was my first time coming here and it did not disappoint , they have a lot of parking it's nice and clean. The service was great too! we got our food quick . I will definitely come back to try more. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Lion King (BAKED) and winter break sushi roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

This hidden gem is nestled in the cute, Kensington community in the hills of El Cerrito/Berkeley. Underrated? Definitely not. They are VERY popular in the area. And for good reason. The sushi here is fresh and delicious, and the customer service, excellent! If you are in the area searching for the best sushi in the area, this is a very strong contender and well worth your visit! One key thing to note, they use purple (black) rice for all of their rolls, but it might just be the reason they stand out so well against the competition. Dine here and I promise you will not regret it. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

I came here for lunch with my boss at his recommendation and was pleasantly surprised. They serve purple sushi rice which definitely caught my eye. They also have really fresh fish. The service is attentive but not over bearing. It's a little small inside, so I wouldn't come with a big group. But you definitely should give it a try. I had a rainbow roll as that's my way of trying a little bit of everything when it comes to the sushi fish. I also had the salmon nigiri as salmon is one of my favorites. All of it was very delicious and just right for lunch. They have many other dishes on the menu from chirashi to poke. I would definitely visit again and look forward to trying their new location. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - I cant remember what my boss had besides the veggie roll that looked really good. - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

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Very beautifully unique sushi. They use purple rice and a lot of mango making each roll look so beautiful and tastes great too! They have an extensive vegan menu so great for everyone! It's a bit pricey, but it's very obvious why. Great sushi and very cute location! I have been there a few times and have plans on returning. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

Random sushi recommendation popped up in Yelp so we tried it out for date night. Very small restaurant but doesn't hinder the quality of food and service received. The use of purple rice was a surprise and also a hit, very filling and provided a different texture to enjoy the sushi and rolls. The jalapeño hamachi was good but missing something umami - maybe the use of a flavored balsamic vinegar or rendering it down to thicken the balsamic vinegar. If you love or don't mind spicy heat, the 911 and geisha are great rolls. The cream cheese helps balances the spice. Would try again but as takeout if in the area, unless it's not busy/packed restaurant! read more

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The first time I went to eat sushi at this restaurant, every single dish went far beyond what I had expected. The freshness, the balance, and the harmony of flavors were incredibly delicate and well-crafted. I completely forgot to take any food photos because I was too busy enjoying the amazing flavors right in front of me -- it truly wowed me and made me want to dive right in! On top of that, the service was warmly welcoming and made the experience even more ..... read more

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Was in the Berkeley area for the day and wow, I'm so glad my bf found this place bc it is AMAZING. This is not a traditional authentic sushi spot, but the rolls are perfect if you want some fat sushi with lots of fresh fish and different flavor combos. One thing to note is they only use purple rice. We ordered the summer vacation and winter break and were shocked by the generous heaps of fish (especially coming from sf). I might be getting the two roll names mixed but winter break was such a refreshing flavor. Each piece had a shiso leaf under fish on top, which paired very nicely with the citrus sauce. Summer vacation was more of a hearty roll topped with seared salmon and unagi sauce. Each roll was massive and filled with chopped tuna, shrimp tempura, and imitation crab meat. Both rolls were topped with generous amounts of tobiko and green onion with added a nice texture to each bite. I will definitely be back if I'm ever in the area and the family that ran the restaurant was very kind and attentive. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Fuyu Yasumi (Winter Break) - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

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Let me first start by saying this is a True Hidden Treasure!!! This place is known for specializing in nothing but various nigiri, sushi rolls and bowls. But...the thing that makes this place stand out over any other sushi restaurant I've ever gone to is their "Amazing Purple Rice!" Yes! I said purple rice! I looked it up and though it's very very high in carbs (yes I had a cheat day but so worth it) it also has a lot of nutrients most common rice does not have. I got the Chirashi and my partner got the Inari, California and Tuna roll. Beautiful presentation and the service was impeccable. There's ample parking on the side and you can't miss it as it's next to the Ace Hardware store at the Arlington and Amherst Ave. It's a must try and definitely on the list of repeat yummy places to eat!! read more

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Yep, still the best in the area! Understandably busier than before. Remarkably consistent. Just wanted to provide updated menu pics read more

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ALWAYS a pleasure to come in for the best sushi around. Seriously, this is the spot to come for a great meal. The sushi is better than I've ever had elsewhere. The fuyu yasumi is worth the trek up to Kensington. You won't be disappointed! read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

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I never heard of this town before and questioned if their sushi was legit. While it's not your typical sushi served in Japan, but I thought it was a nice twist. First and foremost, they used purple rice instead of the white rice. Personally, I liked this new twist as purple rice is a healthier option. Their rolls were huge and offered plenty of vegetarian options. Also, sahimi was fresh and good quality. Lastly, their service was super fast. This is a great place for a quick meal but not to hang out with friends/families as they only have a few tables there. read more

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Sakana is a neighborhood gem and our go-to spot whenever sushi cravings hit. The food quality is consistently outstanding, and the service is just as excellent. The tiny space adds to its authentic Japanese feel. They're always busy--and for good reason. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Veggie Poki - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

Our first time here. Dined with family who had already been here and raved about their sushi. We were seated right away as they had just opened and not that many customers yet. The place is small inside - maybe seats 12-15 people. There are a couple of tables for outside dining. Server brought waters. After a few minutes, we ordered: Edamame Super Lion King (Baked) roll Sashimi combo (medium) Black dragon roll Shiitake roll After school roll Spicy rainbow roll Karatamba sake Everything was brought out promptly and so delicious. Great atmosphere, reasonably priced, quick service and attentiveness. Five stars! read more

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I just happen to try this place while I drove by and it was definitely a surprise. It's definitely hole in the wall and indoor dining is not yet open so there's only takeout here. They do offer one table right outside location so you can sit there but the tables pretty small can fit usually about two people. When we decided to order takeout and sit outside the service was great the lady that worked there kept coming out to wipe the table, give us water and all sorts of things like extra napkins etc. prices are definitely higher than other areas. Quality is great plating is amazing you're definitel read more

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My favorite restaurant in the whole world. I had my graduation dinner here. If I'm ever having visitors in Berkeley, I will never fail to show them this hidden sushi gem, only a 10 minute ride from southside Berkeley, and tucked away in the tranquil, foresty town of Kensington. Not only is the service incredible, the people here always kind and passionate about their food. Having tried over 10 rolls, every single one has been uniquely delicious, and a consistent hit. The purple rice is so unique and all the fish is incredibly fresh every time. The creativity of the sauces and toppings make every roll a new experience, and keeps me coming back to try new ones. The tea they serve is also really refreshing. Also loved their generous vegetarian options and rolls! There's a few parking spots reserved outside for the restaurant & a cute tea store/bakery next door. Highly recommend anyone in the East Bay area to give it a try, do a scenic drive around the area, and be taken away to a peaceful escape:) read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

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A hidden gem! Did not expect such greatness to come from a small sushi spot in some town I never heard of lol it's literally situated in the middle of a neighborhood. Small parking lot to match the small establishment. There's a good amount seats situated inside, a bit close together though. We ordered a nigiri platter to go, it was a beautiful setup! Servers were nice and accommodating. Will come back soon. read more

My parents eat a lot of sushi. Sakana was one of the best sushis we've had. Ever. Small family joint with superb quality sushi. The only drawback is that we live in the D.C. area. But we will return whenever we are in the San Francisco area! read more

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Everything was fire! From flavor and presentation. Bathroom is located through the kitchen! Service was slowish but they get a lot of orders Togo and also the place is tiny. Its seems like a popular place In this area. A lot of people coming in to dine in. But over all every dish is good! And also first spot Iv ever been to that uses purple rice for sushi! Pretty cool I also thought 17$ for a roll was pricey until it came to the table and the flavor was on point! read more

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What a wonderful surprise. My daughter and I just happened to stumble upon this fantastic little spot. The food was absolutely amazing. I had two different vegan rolls which surpassed my expectations while my daughter enjoyed a beautiful rainbow roll and baked scallop. The restaurant itself is small but worth getting cozy. The staff was very patient and kind. I would absolutely recommend if you are looking for great quality sushi and especially for Vegans who want to enjoy was well. read more

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First time here because a friend recommended. This spot is a gem. first off, the service is great, very kind and communicative servers! The indoor space is a bit small and there's only about three tables outdoors, so I would say space is a bit limited but we got seated within. 5 ish minutes of checking in. To start we ordered a miso soup and cucumber salad. They were both good, not special just good- no negative notes. We ordered the Lion King which is baked and it was delicious! The second roll we ordered was the Mango Tango and it blew me away, it was definitely the favorite. I will definitely be back! Give this place a visit. It is worth a try. read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Lion King Roll (BAKED) - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

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Whether eating in or taking out their sushi is always excellent, a little on the pricey side for the area but worth the money. Make a note that if you order on a delivery platform, prices are significantly less expensive for pickup than delivery. read more

The tiger roll is great, the beer is solid, and they use purple rice. Not much else to say. 10/10 read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Tiger Roll - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

Awesome sushi!!! Excited to return. We ordered " plain " rolls--a hamachi and a scallop roll, and they were far from plain. The purple rice and herbs and quality of sushi took them to the next level. read more

Fifth or sixth visit, and I'm not slowing down ... approximately a once-a-week thing, and I introduced the rest of the family to Sakana Sushi & Roll a couple of weeks ago. But this is especially my guilty please, visiting this small place with the delightful atmosphere (Jeanie is a pleasure). The chefs are first-rate and the variety and genius behind their food is more than fun. I usually get a few items of Nigiri (Saba, Ikura -- salmon roe, maguro or even toro (when they have it), and one big fancy roll. Never had any regrets -- I leave happy. Convenient location, and the food it always tip-top. read more

Hamachi Kama & order of rice Cooked to perfection and worth the wait. Seasoned just right, not too salty. Firm on the outside, tender on the inside. Portion is large enough to share. Even placement of garnish allows it to soak up the savory juices while you're enjoying the fish. Texture of beet complemented fish well. I enjoyed every bite! They accommodated me as a gluten-free eater. Henxe no dipping sauce. It's a small restaurant but I never felt cramped or uncomfortable. Perfect for small groups 2 to 4 people read more

Sakana Sushi and Roll - Hamachi Kama & order of rice - Sushi Bars Near Me - Kensington, California

Amazing. Great food and service and definitely worth the trip. We had one Celiac and the waitress was very knowledgeable about gluten and helped us make great choices. read more

First, I never knew there was a small town call Kensington up by the Berkeley Hills area. Came in for dinner at about 7pm and got a table fairly fast. They have about 4 to 5 tables inside and 2 outside. It's is a very small place. As we were sitting and looking over the menu, I notice they do a lot of to go orders. They have this purple rice which was so flavorful and really bought out the taste of the fish. I could eat that by itself. Sashimi Appetizer came with 2 Pieces Salmon, Tuna & 1 Piece Hamachi. 5 Stars Real Crab California Roll. 5 Stars Sushi/Sashimi Combo came with your choice of Spicy Tuna Roll or Cali Roll & 6 pieces Nigiri & 6 pieces Sashimi. 5 Stars Unagi Nigiri. The purple rice really bought out the flavor of the unagi and paired absolutely well. The best I ever had!!! 10 Stars Sakana serves one of the freshest sushi/sashimi in the Bay Area. read more

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This place is so excellent- tiny spot in Kensington with some of the freshest rolls around. They don't have a lot of the standard appetizers you moving find at a sushi spot (Karaage, Gyoza, etc) but it does not matter because the sushi will blow your mind. The nigiri is particularly fab. I saw they opened another place in Albany, will have to go there soon. read more

Cozy sushi restaurant. Great menu and service. Waiter explained the menu well and the unique items of the restaurant. Sushi rice is unique and colored almost purple. Nigiri cuts were great and very fresh. Rolls were also great. Great experience, easy parking, great service, great food, drink and sake menu. Definitely will be back. read more

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OK. I love Sakana, but this review is not about the food. For my last takeout order they have switched from compostable paper to non-recyclable plastic (No. 5). We have so much plastic in our lives, and there's so much written about microplastics, I'm having a hard time reconciling this change. My request to them is just charge us 25 cents more and go back to paper. read more