A Guide to Sushi in Santa Barbara

There’s nothing like being in a coastal city to make you crave fresh seafood, so while you’re here, enjoy some locally-sourced sushi. Because of its popularity, Santa Barbara is full of Japanese restaurants. Here is our guide to the best in town:

ARIGATO

Located on State Street and always busy, Arigato is widely-believed to have the highest quality sushi in Santa Barbara. The elegantly decorated restaurant is always busy and offers an extensive menu of Japanese specialties.  Although pricey, this is the place to go if you are looking to indulge in the city’s finest. We highly recommend any of the carpaccio options, as well as the Magic Mushroom roll with truffle oil. For those who love and appreciate sushi, this is your spot.

Arigato Sushi. 1225 State Street. 805 965 6074.

SAKANA

Sakana is definitely a local favorite for sushi. Tucked away in the corner of the entrance to Montecito, this tiny restaurant is a Santa Barbara secret. Known for its unique flavor combinations, special sauces and stunning presentation, Sakana is Japanese cuisine unlike any you’ve had before. Try some of the specialty rolls, such as the Habanero Yellowtail Melt or the Montecito.  With limited seating and no reservations, weekends can get busy, but we think it’s well worth the wait!

Sakana Sushi Bar. 1046 Coast Village Road. 805 565 2014.

YUME

Yume is an excellent choice for quality sushi, great service and a friendly atmosphere. Because it is one of the newer spots in town, this place is generally less crowded than other options, and has great Japanese dishes beyond sushi, such as ramen and gyoza. Try the popular MexiCali roll with jalapeños and cilantro, or opt for the Tower Roll with spicy tuna, crab and scallop. The restaurant takes reservations, so feel free to call ahead and come with a group!

Yume Sushi. 428 Chapala Street. 805 965 8873.

EDOMASA

Edomasa not only offers high quality, affordable choices, it is also the only spot in town where you can get a late-night sushi fix. Whereas most restaurants in SB close at 9 or 10 pm, this place stays open until 12pm during the week and 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Be sure to try the fresh, local sea urchin specials or the ‘Santa Barbara Roll’ with shrimp, avocado and scallop.

Edomasa Sushi. 2710 De La Vina Street. 805 687 0210.