Really good sushi . The wasabi is spicy . Good service . Good water. Fish taste fresh. read more

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It take lots for me to write a bad review! I have been a regular take out order here as well as sending dozens of my clients here. While we had a mask mandate the Sushi Chef mask was half on every time I went. I did say something. Given so many restaurant staff in our area getting sick I found this disrespectful to their customers and employees. But everyone can run their business how they want of course. Today I tried to order by phone 5 min before opening only to be told to call back. I asked her if someone would answer when I would call back and she said yes. I walked over there to order as no one answered.. I also ask if i could speak with the person I spoke with over the phone that was helpful with me. When I went they told she said she was busy. I was busy also and that's why I call my orders in on al phone. I will not be back. read more

Absolutely amazing and fresh beautiful food! The staff are great and inviting as well. We got the 8 pc yellowtail sashimi & it was absolutely delicious and fresh tasting and some great slices! Also got the salmon roll and the Special eel roll. Even the miso soup was rich and soulful with chucks of tofu. My Partner decided to be bold and try out the Habushu (poisonous snake wine) and turns out to be really sweet and something completely new and adventurous to try. If you're down I'd try it! read more

Try the Omakaze! Being a sushi amateur, I didn't know what Omakaze was until I was introduced to it at Taka (good thing the people I came with knows their stuff!) Omakaze is the "chef's special" or more like, chef's choice of sushi/sashimi. I think the special came with about 10 or so items. We ordered a few items on top of the Omakase Nigiri, so I can't tell exactly say which items came with the special. Everything I had was super delicious, except for the "potato mountain" one- there was a sour taste somewhere there and it was just off. Other than that, every single piece of sushi/nigiri was great! A few items I do remember having included smoked salmon, salmon roe, hamachi (yellowtail), and ungai (eel). It comes with raw shrimp- actually they cut the head and it's still moving! It's for presentation purposes, and they will bring it to the back after you're done with the plate to fry (and for you to consume). The chef made me something else since I can't have shellfish. This place is not cheap, but then again you're definitely paying for quality fish. The bill for the three of us (each having the Omakaze, a few rolls, one bottle of sake, and 2 beers) was almost $300. We sat at the sushi bar, but there are a few sit-down tables also. Overall, pretty small and intimate establishment. Location-wise, this place is in San Diego's Gaslamp district and walking distance to many bars and other restaurants. We walked here, so I'm not sure if there's parking lot or not (doesn't seem like it though). And yes, all the sushi chefs here are Japanese if you're wondering! And that makes it a legit sushi joint! ;D read more

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How there are anything but 5 star reviews for this place is slightly astounding. I guess off-nights are possible, but every time I have eaten there it's been top notch. This is not a sushi restaurant with lots of baked rolls and rich sauces. The freshness and taste of the fish is what they specialize in. 5 stars. read more

So fresh! I was surprised that a sushi restaurant in the most touristy neighborhood of San Diego served such delicious sushi. The scallop was my favorite and the salmon and hamachi were quite good as well. They also serve king crab sushi which I don't see too often around here. read more

My absolute favorite sushi place in Southern California. Reason being is that in my military career, i've spent four years living in Japan, where I'd learned Japanese and experienced lots of true Japanese culture and community. Taka 555 is the closet match to the real thing with REAL JAPANESE SPEAKING STAFF AND OWNER! Maru-San, the owner really captures the true essence of Japanese-American Sushi Rolls without all the extra fluff that most other "Japanese" restaurants offer. It's the fresh pure culture and authenticity for me. Thank you so much Maru. You're awesome and i'm grateful to have walked into your restaurant and met your amazing staff. DeQuan Clark Gainzhr read more

This isn't a very big place and it's modest inside with a small patio outside. Nothing flashy or fancy but nice. The owner was great and the service was exceptional. We had a number of rolls but also had a fish of the day - toro. I can't remember everything we had but it was outstanding. I had pretty high expectations coming in and they just raised the bar even higher. I also couldn't help notice all the Japanese people coming in while we were eating to confirm, in my mind anyway, that this place was the real deal. One additional note, we went to another high rated sushi place a couple nights later and, for the most part, it didn't compare to the sushi we had here. read more

I wish I could give zero stars! The service was not good at all very rude. We started by ordering drinks after that all down hill. When ordering sushi we asked if they could add an additional fish (of course we knew this would be an additional cost that wasn't an issue) at other locations they charge anywhere from $3-$4 for spicy tuna being added. First the waitress said no then said let me check, after she went to go check she came back and said it would be $14 to add JUST spicy tuna!!!!! We were like wow okay no thank you and she agreed that it's too much. Once the miso soups arrived we ordered one for my younger sister with extra tofu she dropped them off and said here's some extra tofu for you! I kid you not there was zero pieces of tofu we then showed her she giggled and took it back. We ordered teriyaki chicken it came out ice cold we sent it back and asked for them not to bring it back out. For the rolls we got spicy tuna it was fine just basic. The shrimp tempura roll was burnt tempura. This overall was an awful experience and we hope this place can change and focus on customer experience and not the price! We don't mind paying for quality but this unfortunately had zero quality from service to food. Restaurant is a nice vibe just wished the service and food matched. If you're looking for a new place I'd skip this one. read more

Delicious and food comes fast! We've ordered Rainbow, Tempura, Cali and Philadelphia. All came quick and good portioned. Also we had a table outside, so we enjoyed the City view. Everything is clean and service is very polite. Good place! read more

Taka - Rolls - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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This year for my fiancé's birthday we decided to stay local and do a staycation in our own City. We have been really practicing social distancing so this was a big deal for us. For dinner on our last night in Downtown, we decided to enjoy a sushi dinner. They offer outside dining and you can tell this is a go to locals spot. They looked a bit understaffed but during these times, I am sure it can be challenging knowing how many staff members to have on a Monday night in downtown. However once seated, we couldn't tell. Service was amazing. The sushi was delicious. Fresh, and perfectly rolled. We will definitely be back. read more

Taka is a pretty solid sushi joint in the heart of the Gaslamp district. We came late one night for a quick bite and drinks. To start I'm no sushi expert by any means, but I eat enough of this stuff to gather what is good and what is decent. We started with the Agedashi Tofu. I generally don't eat a lot of tofu, but the Agedashi Tofu was almost creamy to the bite while the strong scented shiitake mushrooms was an aromatic punch. My favorite bite of the night needless to say! We didn't go to crazy while adding to our orders Spicy Tuna, Spicy Scallop, California, and Salmon Rolls. We had a picky eater in the group. However simple the meal maybe; the rolls wasn't too banging with flavors, but my complaint would it wasn't as wrapped tightly as I'm used to. However, taste wise it'll do the job. We also ordered their fried rice which they did a great job with. I'm not used to the sushi fried rice style, but it worked somehow. In the end, Taka has a small sushi joint charm while popping out some good bites. I still can't get pass how much I loved the Agedashi Tofu, but the sushi rolls will suffice your appetite also. - Enjoy! read more

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Excellent quality rolls, great service, nothing to complain about. Have returned a few times and it's been consistent and I haven't found anything I'd remove a star for. read more

Had a weekend at The Pendry and asked around for a sushi recommendation. Taka sushi was highly recommended and boy did it deliver. I ordered the Omakase, and had the best sushi, maybe meal, of my life. I have seen videos where the host says wow, that sushi fish just melted in my mouth yet still has so much flavor. That is exactly the experience that I had. Everything was delicious and was such an experience. Always dreamed of visiting Japan for fancy sushi, but I think Taka sushi gave me that experience. I will always visit Taka when in San Diego. Highly recommend. read more

Just as amazing as it was 15 years ago. Great reminder that nigiri is about the rice. The nigiri uni and quail eggs were the perfect finish to the meal. read more

Had a great sushi meal here with the wife. Sat on patio on a lively Saturday evening. Fun! Great service and the sushi was fantastic. Toro belly melt in your mouth. Also good Miso soup with mushrooms. Will be back when downtown. ( not often) read more

Taka - Sushi and Toro - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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This sushi restaurant fulfilled my San Diego sushi dreams. My friend and I wanted a night in and went a little ham in ordering sushi to go. We got miso soup, seaweed salad, tuna tartare, Philadelphia roll, salmon rolls, tuna roll, salmon sashimi and roe. Everything was super tasty, with the exception of the atypical seaweed salad which was literally different kinds of seaweed that looked like it was taken straight outta the water. read more

Taka - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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I was very unsatisfied with the service and quality of food for the price. They forgot one of my orders as well.

Great people, great sushi. I like simple traditional sushi/sashimi/hand rolls. Food fresh, was well made, and delicious!

Stayed at the Omni hotel and the concierge suggested this place as a nice romantic / great Japanese food place for a bday dinner. I wouldn't really call it 'romantic'. It's kinda loud, kinda bright. The hostess was great and seated us immediately. Wasn't too packed at this point on a Saturday night. We ordered salmon ($17.75) and yellowtail ($18.75) sashimi. The pieces weren't that generous and it wasn't the 'melt in your mouth' feel that you'd expect to have when you pay these type of prices. The BF had a roll - don't remember which one - but he found it ok I ordered for an appetizer: SPECIAL DYNAMITE $11.50: Scallop, white fish, shitake and spinach baked with dynamite sauce - really not good. Not enough seafood , just tasted the overly creamy sauce THE biggest disappoint of the night was my entree ( I know, i know - why the heck did i order a New York steak at a Japanese restaurant...) NEW YORK STEAK $25.00: 10oz prime with oroshi yuzu ponzu and sesame miso See pic... It was truly TERRIBLE. Flavorless. Over priced. Presentation was ghastly. And for $25. I tried to eat it b/c my poor BF was looking at me like 'oh no'. He could give two sh*ts about the price of the steak , he was just concerned that I'd hate my bday steak . I literally took two bites and that was it. Couldn't even eat the veggies as they were bland too. The incredible busboy or maybe another waiter saw my uneaten plate and asked if everything was ok. I just frowned and said well, the steak wasn't very good. He smiled and said let me bring this back to the kitchen and see what I can do. Unfortunately, he wasn't able to do very much. Didn't get another dish. Didn't get comped for the steak. AND, since we were staying at the hotel, I couldn't even doggy bag it for Mr Fido at home. Truly tragic. They did give us a free bday dessert. Didn't taste very good but the gesture was appreciated. Would we come back to this place to eat? No way. There are better places in SD to get charged up the arse of sushi and enjoy the meal ... read more

Taka - NY steak $25 - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

I have been Yelping for about 2 years and have never given anyone 5 stars until now. Now I know why I waited. Every other rating of mine will now be compared to this place. I'll be back for sure. Here's a quick recap. Sitting at the counter (sushi bar) with chefs. The chef asked me what I would like. I asked him to surprise me. He asked if I like everything. I said yes and I like to be surprised and adventurous. He brought me live clam and a live shrimp among other items. Loved it. The clam was Orange Clam. Never heard of it or had it. He sliced it thin for me. Very good. He was happy I liked his plate and said he had more ideas for me. He then put two pieces in front of me I have never had as sushi, Spanish Mackerel and Halibut. He drizzled some chili oil on them with ginger and scallion. I think he likes me as I keep telling him I don't want to order but trust his mastery. I'm in love at this point. Finally, They deep fried the shrimp head for me. Yummy!!! read more

Taka - Chef's choice for me. Includes live shrimp (it's moving), clam and Uni - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

All time favorite. Great staff. It certainly changed over the years, but still has the same great quality. I wish they would bring back the Green Tea Brûlée. read more

I thought everything I ordered tastes very fishy. With Covid we sat outside and the place is located next to a cigar bar. So while you're trying to eat dinner cigar smoke is blowing into your face. read more

Taka - Crappy sushi - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

WONDERFUL steak i loved it so much and the sushi was also delicious i highly recommend stopping here the price was right as well

Amazing experience! Make sure you sit towards the front at the sushi bar and you will be well taken care of by the head chef who is very knowledgeable and warm. read more

Best sushi I've had in SD. Really good sashimi and many other fresh choices. We had blue fin, yellowtail, king salmon, toro, Uni, halibut and albacore. Everything was super fresh. Very well priced for the quality. They also are on 5th where the streets are closed off and they offer patio dining or inside at bar or tables. Service at the bar is fun. The chefs have personality which makes it even more enjoyable. They definitely have something for everyone but It's NOT the fusion saucy roll style location if that's what your looking which is typical of most others. read more

Taka is the best Sushi downtown. The restaurant is small and can get busy (when we are not in pandemic panic). The chefs are excellent, great attention to the details. Food quality is superb. Prices are slightly on the higher side but for this level of quality - well worth it. They are doing takeout right now and the quality has not suffered at all. Enjoy. read more

Taka - Pandemic takeout magic. Welcome back. - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Went during a weekend to treat some out of town relatives. Was able to get a seat inside during a cold night. What we ordered were the yellowtail roll, eel roll, soft shell crab roll, Philadelphia roll, and the salmon skin roll. Also a side of the yellowtail kama. The must order would be the yellowtail roll and the yellow tail collar both are 5/5. Great service super nice staff and they have a great selection of sake. Overall the food was fresh decent place for sushi in gaslamp. read more

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My bf found this place through his Yelp app and we were craving sashimi. We were seated at the sushi bar and was greeted by the sushi chef. FYI, talk to your sushi chef! He'll explain the daily special and hook it up with a discount or free salad. -Uni (sea urchin): the biggest I've ever seen! Ask for uni sashimi, not sushi. It is basically uni sashimi on top of its own shell (picture posted). So delicious! You can tell it's really fresh too- creamy and light yellow color. -Live shrimp: the head and legs are basically still moving, but the shrimps are lethargic due to being soaked in sake, so they don't feel pain as much. The shrimp sashimi is so fresh! You get a choice of fried shrimp head or shrimp miso soup with your order- the waiter will take away your shrimp heads after you finish the sashimi (picture posted). -salmon, yellowtail, toro: delicious, huge slices. Very fresh! -green tea ice cream with toppings- forgot the name but it's basically green tea ice cream with red bean syrup, jello, and fruits. Really good! I love this place, but it can be pricey. California roll here is $10 BTW.... I also wish that they had a bigger menu selection. read more

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This is place is surprisingly delicious! We came in on a busy Saturday night and they were willing to accommodate us. Our server made us feel comfortable and made the experience ten times better! Don't be fooled by the boring looking menu, the food quality is subpar I would definitely come back here. read more

Taka - Oyster shooter - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Food here was horrible. The wait isn't long and now I see why. The drinks were limited, I tried a cucumber martini and yikes. The food was super sloppy and gross. The options are VERY limited and whoever is making the sushi just throws it together. The service was decent some of the girls have bad attitudes and don't bring you what you need. Honestly overall just don't come here. It was a bad experience and the food was just gross read more

Delicious nigiri. Definitely the best we've had in San Diego and we've been to most of the popular spots. Sit at the sushi bar for the best experience. read more

This place had phenomenal sushi nigiri at a very reasonable price! We came in on a Friday as walk-ins and we were seated right away :) The waiters were friendly and attentive! read more

Taka - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

Thank you YELPers for rating this gem so highly. It was DELICIOUSLY fresh, every single bite! We sat at the bar and it was a busy Sat night. We ordered the calamari salad, soft shell crab, octopus and a few rolls. Everything was so yummy. Since we sat at the bar, our sushi chef timed each plate. We enjoyed some sake too! Small restaurant but well worth the wait! read more

Taka - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

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Best sushi rolls ever!!! Really great service. Outdoor seating with heaters or indoor.

I live in the DC area and travel to San Diego for business and pleasure. I had the fortune of discovering Taka on one of my trips and have been going back every opportunity I have. The food and service are amazing and the staff is always incredibly friendly. I would highly recommend Taka to anyone who loves great sushi! read more

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This is the best sushi in San Diego the Belly toro and Belly Salmon were melt in your mouth delicious only to be topped by the Uni it was light and delicate and tasted of the ocean Service was first rate and they had a good selection of whisky The Aji was also great and once Bones wee fried we made the whole fish disappear Define toy will be back every time we are in San Diego read more

Absolute rip off for omakase. $98 for 14 pieces of sushi, it was a chefs combo at best, not an omakase read more

Taka - Omakase. Rip off - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California

After my husband and I had Not-so-good sushi for a dinner, we decided to come to Taka to redeem ourselves by eating GOOD sushi before we go to bed :) My must-have is Uni (Sea Urchin) Nigiri. The amount of Uni they serve is very generous. Mmmmm ahhhh. It is just TASTY. Hamachi Kama ( Grilled yellowtail collar) is to die for. I picked the meat between bones as much as I can. It is that good ! Every time we visit San Diego, this is always our favorite restaurant to dine in. They never disappoint us. Will be back again ! read more

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Heroshi was the best sushi chief I have ever met! Food was beyond amazing!!!!! Will be coming back!!!! read more

Taka - Spicy Tuna - Sushi Bars Near Me - San Diego, California