Always the adventurous foodie, we went to Sushi Wasabi realizing that our dinner will be kind of spendy. But on advice of fellow Yelpers, we felt confident we would get our money's worth. Initial impression of the place mirrors what some other diners have mentioned. It's an assuming "hole in the wall" at the end of a strip mall. What surprised me was that upon arrival to our reservations on Friday night, it was almost empty. Only 1 table was occupied and the sushi bar was about 60% full. Gotta blame the economy! Everyone was very friendly but I do think that they need at least one more sushi chef. Obviously sushi chefs (good ones) are tough to find and probably won't work for peanuts. But this place took the slow food movement to a whole other level. We were there for about 2 hours and 45 minutes (nothing compared to some French restaurants but still...). My husband, never a patient person when it comes to eating, "got full" after Hour 1 of our meal. His stomach just got tired of waiting and stop demanding food. I must clarify for the readers that although sitting at the sushi bar means "Chef's Choice", you're not bound to a certain dollar amount. You can cut him off at any time and you pay for what you've eaten - Katsu-san does mark down each order he gives you. The pricies were reasonable...for the most part. Paying $12 for Santa Barbara uni was a little hard to swallow, especially after I had two orders but at least it was fresh and sweet. Also, this place only serves traditional sushi (as they are quick to remind you) and a couple types of handrolls so you'll need more than a few orders to fill you up. All in all, we ended up paying about $90 a person out the door, including tax & 18% gratuity. The food was great overall, the seafood fresh and mostly domestic. You won't find anything too exotic in Katsu-san's repertoire of seafood. Don't expect innovation or shaved truffles atop your uni or crab chawan mushi. This is good, clean traditional sushi (with only about 20 grains of rice on each piece of sushi...literally). We were also served a baked bay scallop dish which we thought we could have done without. Tiny scallops, laid on top of shaved white onions, covered in mayo and then baked. Delicious because it was the 2nd course and we were hungry but in retrospect, superfishy and not very good. Also, expect a gratuitous use of ponzu sauce. read more

Best spot for sushi in Tustin the fish was so fresh and the service was a amazing. We will definitely be back

This place offers a great options of fish. If you are not familiar, this place is a Omakase style sushi. They will give you a prefix meal of sushi of chef's choice and you can tell them to stop or keep going. You can also tell them what you can't or don't want to have prepared. After the prefix has been completed, the chef's will ask you if you want something again from the prefix. It is really some high class stuff. The fish is very high quality. This is not a common sushi place with rolls named with obtuse names. This is original japanese style, sushi, nigiri, handrolls, and sashimi. If you are all into fresh fish and original style sushi, this place is for you. Not only this, this place comes with a hefty paying price. You will probably spend in the 3 digits unless you ate 2-3 pieces of nigiri. Just expect a good time here if you are ready for all of that. read more

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If you are looking for rolls, you're at the wrong place. There is even a sign at the bar area that declares "no California rolls"! The sushi here is consistently excellent. You can either order a la carte or if you are new there, try the omakase. You can request in advance to skip certain fish and at the end you can ask for seconds. I always get at least two of the uni because there are so few places that have it this buttery, smooth, and delicious. There was a man last night seated near me who overheard me request two uni. He was doubtful so I told him I'd pay for his beers if it wasn't good. He told me bitterly after that it was better than any he's had, including the fresh uni you can get in San Diego and he couldn't lie though he wanted free beer. :) Also great are the blue fin toro, yellowtail, scallop, blue crab roll, and salmon. read more

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Despite its name and location, I was pleasantly surprised by how freaking good this place is. The fish is unbelievably fresh. All they serve is sushi and handrolls though. There is no tempura, teriyaki, miso soup, or specialty rolls available. In fact, if you request something like a california roll, Katsu will get pissed at you. It sorta reminds me of the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld. If there are any members of your party that doesn't eat sushi, leave them at home (Yes Dave, I'm talking about you!) Its omakase, so all you have to do is sit down and sushi magically appears in front of you to consume. Its a great way for lazy people to enjoy good sushi. Some of the highlights had to be the blue crab hand roll and toro. The sushi chef tends to create a lot of dishes with ponzu sauce, so if that's not your thing, you should let him know. There are a couple downsides to this place though. Each time I've been there, I haven't had any new dishes. Also the price is a wee bit expensive. I've consistently averaged about $80 per person. This is after sitting down for a while and walking out stuffed though. read more

Sushi Wasabi - The sign on the door of Sushi Wasabi - Japanese Near Me - Tustin, California

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I love the unpretentious ambiance and the "hole-in-the-wall" vibe. Who needs fancy decor and music when the fish speaks volumes. Every time I have come, I left very full and happy. My favorite is the salmon and the Santa Barbara Uni. Love that the owner's wife delivers each item and informs you where each fish is from. This is my go-to sushi place! read more

Sushi Wasabi - Santa Barbara uni - Japanese Near Me - Tustin, California

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Omg, sushi here is so delicious! (Sushi Wasabi beats Sasabune by a mile - in price, quality, and service.) The bf and I opted for Omakase. (And really, is there any other way to go? The chef put up a sign on his wall saying "Trust me".) I don't know how Katsu San keeps track of which sushi course we're on. People kept filing in after we had already started eating and somehow he knew exactly what to give everyone on the sushi rotation. It was quite impressive. Of everything we were served (listed below), my favorites were the uni and the raw scallops. I mean don't get me wrong, it was ALL VERY GOOD, but those two were most memorable. The sea urchin was creamy with a subtle sweet flavor; the scallop was refreshingly tasty with a touch of lime juice. Sushi list: -albacore in ponzu sauce -maguro -snapper -chopped toro -baked scallop -raw oysters -yellowtail -blue crab hand roll (I got one more at the end) -salmon -raw scallops -raw sweet shrimp -spicy tuna hand roll -uni I can't wait til I can go back!! read more

Sushi Wasabi - Kumamoto oysters from Seattle - Japanese Near Me - Tustin, California

Every time we have eaten here we leave happy! I love that it's a small restaurant and it's husband and wife owned. If you sit at the sushi bad (make a reservation), it is served Omakase style. The sushi chef hands you each piece and tells you what he is serving you and where it is coming from. Everything tastes amazing and is incredible fresh. Highly recommend! read more

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THE BEST SUSHI I HAVE EVER HAD! I've had the good fortune to try some of the best sushi restaurants in OC, LA, and Las Vegas and Sushi Wasabi blows them away. This little place is a hidden gem. read more

The owners are different. Still one main chef but he was terribly slow for everyone. We saw people cut their meal short because they were irritated they had to wait so long. Our whole dinner took two hours and we waited about 15-20 minutes between plates. Servings were much small than I remember. They do not offer fried heads with their sweet shrimp. Their uni serving is the smallest I've ever seen. Sadly, this no longer is a favorite of mine because I feel like I can get a better experience elsewhere. The saving grace for our meal was everything was at the perfect cold temperature, exactly how I love my sushi. Everything tasted fresh too, but knowing how fast I like to eat, I don't think I can overlook the price, size and wait time. read more

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Traditional sushi/ omakase sushi snobs will respect, appreciate, and will come back for more! Blue crab hand roll is a must. Only one chef so be prepared to wait and drink ... a lot. Parking is bad, but worth the food. read more

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Great Sushi is *expensive* but well worth it. Me and the gf spent about $70 each on our visit but all the sushi we had was very fresh and tasty. This place is small but they take reservations so that is a plus. * blue crab handroll = awesome * oysters = awesome * albacore tuna = awesome * yellowtail = awesome * uni = awesome All sushi was fresh! Gotta save up to come here again! read more

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Solid omakase service at the bar. Very little excess. Tight control on quality. Could add more pieces but 9 pieces were good enough for the price and quality. read more

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The first time I came to this hole in the wall sushi shop I was apprehensive. The omakase description in writing hanging on the wall as you walked into this fairly generic looking sushi bar was a bit intimidating, but my friends said I was in for an experience...and they were correct. I've been coming back ever since, and the change of ownership hasn't changed the quality. I'll describe my favorites: The albacore sashimi in ponzu with garlic powder. The cuts were all succulent and high quality, and the overall experience was wonderful. The salmon sushi was sweet, rich and delicious. Very little rice makes you experience the meat in a different and pleasant way. The baby oysters...I normally hate oysters, but not these. Very little slime, mostly meat, with a bit of ponzu...makes shooting these a pleasure. Tuna handroll is a tuna lovers dream. Lots of tuna meat with a dollop of Toro on top. The spicy tuna handroll is still my favorite here...not overly spicy or creamy...heavy on the tuna. Always a treat. read more

This place requires a reservation. I was there at open on a Friday and they denied me. The restaurant was empty and they told me they were fully booked. Very disappointed. Maybe next time. read more

(+1) Service: They give you a ton of ginger and the sake is filled to the brim. Considering that there was only one chef in the front, the food came out at a good pace; not too long where you're wondering if that was the last course and not too quick where you feel like you're wolfing down your food - good amount of time for holding a conversation and enjoying the trinkets. (+1) Food: (Average) I've had better sushi but the presentation was definitely memorable and I liked how there was only a pea-sized amount of rice. We had the Omakase and they served the following: -Albacore Sashimi: melts in your mouth and is buttery. Ponzu sauce is not overwhelming and there's no need for soy sauce. -Different cuts of blue fin tuna: little piece of sinew in mine but still good! Not as buttery or fresh as I've had before but a good balance after the albacore sashimi -Red Snapper: wasn't as tasty as I had anticipated but I like the combination of flavor with the green -Blue crab handroll: Delicious! I should have ordered one more but I wanted to make sure I wasn't too full for the rest of the plates. Not too heavy and was very easy to eat. -Kumamoto Oysters: Could have been "meatier" but the taste was good. Not too salty and tasted fresh. -Yellowtail from Japan: Good but I've had better. Didn't taste very fresh. -Whole Scallop: Unique presentation but unevenly cooked. Some scallops were more chewy than others and it's on the saltier side. It would be good with some rice! -Scallop: Super rich and tasty! -Scottish Salmon: I'm a salmon lover and definitely glad I tried this. -Uni (extra - wasn't part of the omakase): I love uni so had to order this to try. Sweat and a good size served. I didn't feel like I was left hanging with the portion. :) (+1) Environment: Very cozy and great for a date night. It's not the biggest venue but they do have tables aside from the sushi bar that they could combine for larger parties; but I would imagine it be a long wait. We went for Friday dinner and it wasn't crowded but it may be due to the fact that we had a reservation but there was never a time when the entire bar or restaurant was filled and there was a line waiting. (-1) Price: I don't think it should have been that much for the quality of the food here. I prefer Nana San, Oshima and Shunka (0) Location: I can see this place being hard to get to because of parking. It's in a small lot along with Hole Mole and the lot itself is a little narrow. I believe there's parking in the back but just make sure you plan ahead of time. I'm on the fence about coming here again but might give it another chance because service was nice and there are other items on the menu worth looking at! read more

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sometimes people ask, "if you could choose your last meal on earth, what would it be?" and without hesitation i answer "Sushi Wasabi" this place literally brings me joy whenever i eat here. im currently sitting inside the restaurant and felt obligated to leave this review after devouring my albacore sashimi. the texture of the fish is something i've only experienced here. Kazu, Rie, and Kay are the best and provide excellent service. It is Omakase style so you don't order but trust me when i say you're in good hands. i love this place because the food actually makes my day better! thank you sushi wasabi!! read more

Sushi Wasabi - Japanese Near Me - Tustin, California

Sushi Wasabi isn't for everyone. It's pre-cut portions and liberal use of Ponzu can be upsetting who aren't used to Omakase "traditional style". We believe SW is hands down the best Sushi in OC and we've been to Blue Fin which isn't even in our top 3. Other favorites are Kasan (FV or HB) and Shubicho in CM. read more

A true, authentic sushi restaurant! No regular dishes like teriyaki or tempura..just the freshest, most amazing fish that you can get! Highly recommend the kumamoto oysters, which come in a tasty ponzu sauce, and the blue crab roll! MMMMM read more

I've been going to Sushi Wasabi before there was Yelp. And as much as I was wishing it to be a hole in the wall, I'm kind of glad it has the recognition it deserves. Most people tend to have a reluctant reaction when they see that Sushi Wasabi's immediate neighbors is a doughnut shop and a car hardware store. But this restaurant is a classic hole in the wall, diamond in the rough. I've been eating sushi since I was a kid and have been to most places in Irvine. And though this is by far, without a doubt, the best sushi place I've ever been to so far, it isn't to say it's without a price. But my justification for this is, if I were to go to a regular sushi restaurant hungry with my girlfriend, we would end up be spending roughly 40-50 dollars ordering the traditional 2-piece sushi and a couple of rolls (not to mention anything additional like desert, drinks, or market price fish). The meal could really be more like 60-70 for a good meal, more or less depending where you go. I have gone to other sushi restaurants and have spent more than I would've spent at Sushi Wasabi, where I knew I was getting a better meal. All in all, give it a shot even if just for an occasion because the texture of the sushi won't compare to random sushi restaurants. This restaurant has truly spoiled me in a way in which no other restaurant will be able to match the Sushi Wasabi standard. MAKE A RESERVATION or arrive early, as they do tend to fill up quick now. And always CALL BEFORE YOU GO as the owners have been known to take a 2 week vacations to go back home to Japan with nothing but a answer machine to warn you. My girlfriend did mention of a similar restaurant like this, both in quality and style, but slightly less on the price. So I'll have to check that out. read more

Sushi Wasabi is a strictly traditional sushi joint, not that I know what that means since I've never been to Japan, but one thing is for sure: they do not serve rolls here. Only nigiri, sashimi and hand rolls. Don't ask for Miso Soup either because you'll get an instant no. If you sit at the bar, be polite, accept that it is Omakase only aka "Chef's Choice" and allow him to serve you what he knows are the best offerings of the day. I really enjoy the Blue Crab Hand Roll and Unagi here. read more

This place is fantastic! My first time here. So fresh and so delicious. Amazing service! The hand rolls are so incredible! I can't wait to come back read more

Sushi Wasabi - Salmon and scallops - Japanese Near Me - Tustin, California

Dinner omakase because that's ll they have. ordered miso soup and very generic. they had some sweet sushi and I dont care for those at all. no sweet gish for me. read more

Reasonably priced with high quality seafood. it is truly traditional art of Jap food read more

This place is a hidden gem. Super good Omakase! I always suggest this place for an intimate group lunch or dinner. Everyone always loves this place! And the best part is you don't have to pick what to eat . They stick to the basic but they do it really good.., read more

Omakase is the way to go in this cute little restaurant! This little restaurant makes it really clear that they only serve sushi and handrolls, with quality that you can trust.... and it is 100% true!!! Although the price is a bit steep, but you definitely get what you paid for. They offer quality seafood from all over the world - oysters from Seattle, yellowfin tuna from Japan, big eye tuna from Tahiti and red snapper from New Zealand.... The sushi they served us are definitely very traditional, none of those fusion crap. Simple is the Best! and they have got that right. I had 8 different type of sushi/sashimi (each come with 2 pieces), 1 handroll and a bottle of light, refreshing Asashi beer. It came to approximately $65 per person with gratitude and tax. read more

Sushi Wasabi - Fresh oysters from Seattle, Sushi Wasabi - Japanese Near Me - Tustin, California

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Everything is awesome! Especially uni and blue crab ! The taste and texture are both incredible! read more

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Has to be the best sushi in Orange County eating here is certainly an experience in an enjoyment and true Japanese sushi Literally melted in our mouth read more

This place is LEGIT, authentic, fresh sushi. You have to do omakase. The prices are definitely steep, but it's worth it for the quality fish. For two people we did omakase and had I think 7 items, and the total bill was around $125. The blue crab roll was great, the yellow tail, snapper, and salmon were all very fresh. I love the fresh wasabi as well. Definitely do not come here for ambiance. It is a hole in the wall, yes, but the food is great. We were recommended this place by a friend and told to show up right when they open or to make a reservation. It was funny when we walked in, we were the only white people in the place and the woman says to us, "There are no rolls here, are you ok with that?" LOL. read more

Excellent authentic sushi. Best I've had in Orange County so far. Love the blue crab handroll. Reminds me of Sugarfish! Will be coming back in a couple of weeks for another amazing dinner! read more

Amazing takeout tonight! Ordered the basic omakase box and 2 additional handrolls. It was the perfect amount of food, the fish incredibly fresh and tasty. Support local businesses! read more

I ordered seared toro bowl and premium omakase set. The seared toro melt in my mouth, it is soft, tender and flavorful. The okakase tasted good and fresh. Overall experience is great. read more

Yelp says "not good for kids," but I believe that the definition of "kids" needs to be questioned in this instance- if your kid likes sushi and doesn't cry annoyingly then this place is great! If your kid doesn't like sushi (which I could never understand because WHO DOESNT LOVE SUSHI) and cries disruptively then please do everyone a favor and don't bring your kids. Great quality of fish and kind waitress. Food takes a bit of time, but it's predictably paced which makes for a good time of conversation. I love coming here with my parents, and the uni is fantastic. I don't give many five star ratings but Sushi Wasabi has the no-nonsense atmosphere and simple eats that our family has come to love. read more

I wish I could give this place more stars because this restaurant is far and away the best sushi/hand roll restaurant in Southern CA. Omakase is the only way to go. If you want traditional and authentic with fish that melts in your mouth check this place out and get a reservation. #nosoysauceneeded read more

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The staff was extremely helpful with helping order over the phone for a future meal. Food quality was amazing, neatly packed, and perfectly on time when arriving. Can't wait to come back and revisit. Support small businesses! read more

A classic Japanese single chief sushi bar! Omakase-style at the bar and a "sushi ticket" menu at the tables. By modern standards the menu is very limited, but it is focused on what is prime, seasonal available and fresh. Each order is visually beautiful and the presentation showcases the ingredient(s). It may just be a style thing, but they do like to use the ponzu sauce on the fresh fish. If you sit at a table, I would recommend the 'blue crab hand roll' If you 'fancy' yourself a sushi connoisseur, and you have never dined omakase, it is a great place to do so! Its a small place so seating and parking can be a challenge. I would try to get there when they open to maximize the fish selection (it is commonplace to run out of a fish) and the dining experience. read more

By far the best Sushi restaurant in OC.. It's the quality of the sushi, the freshness of the fish and the balance of the flavors. I read some review that were a 3 and 4 but i just don't get it. Sushi is a in restaurant experience and not a to go food in my opinion. It's not a fancy restaurant by any means but it's really incredible sushi experience . read more

Authentic Japanese style sushi. Don't come here looking for Philadelphia or Hawaiian rolls. Santa Barbara uni and scallop was so fresh and sweet! The sushi chef goes to the fish market himself to pick out fish. This is type of dedication and care you want invested into your food! This place is definitely a gem. Sit at the bar and indulge in omakase. Cheers! read more

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This place is great! I went on a Thursday night. If you sit at the sushi bar it is Omakase style only. My bill total was $90. I think it is worth what you pay though. I received 10 courses. The service was friendly, the fish was super fresh and I will return. Here is what the courses were 5 pieces tuna (I think it was albacore) with a ponzu sauce of some kind. Delicious 2 pieces yellowtail with a little bit of rice and wasabi 2 pieces halibut with ponzu, a little spicy 3 pieces of toro served each a different way. This was cool! (The stomach, the backside and chopped) 1 Blue Crab hand roll 3 Oysters from Seattle 2 pieces golden eye snapper with lemon and sea salt 2 scallops from Japan 1 baked scallop 2 pieces Scottish salmon with toasted sesame seed. This one was so good and savory Thank you for a wonderful sushi experience :) read more

We've been coming here for special sushi dinners for years. GREAT food and service. Only Omakase style so trust the chef. He knows what he's doing. read more