Skip to main content

ZipPicks Awards

Best Sushi in Santa Monica

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Pacific Catch 7.6
Santa Monica
Sustainable seafood specialist blends Pacific Rim flavors with California sensibility, offering poke bowls, sushi tacos, and fresh catch plates on a sunny patio. The extensive menu satisfies diverse tastes from traditional sashimi to innovative fusion creations.
Must-Try Dishes: Poke Duo Bowl, Wasabi Crusted Ahi, Coconut Shrimp Roll
Scores:
Value: 8 Service: 7.4 Consistency: 7.5 Food Quality: 7.8 Atmosphere: 7.9 Cultural Relevance: 6.8
What makes it special: Sustainable sourcing with Surfrider Foundation partnership
Who should go: Groups with varied preferences beyond sushi
When to visit: Weekend brunch for patio seating
What to order: Poke bowls, fish tacos, tiki cocktails
Insider tip: Dog-friendly patio with water bowls provided
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking with meters until 6pm, nearby paid lot $8 flat rate evenings, weekend parking fills up by noon
Dress code: Beach casual - shorts and sandals welcome, come as you are from the beach
Noise level: Lively outdoor patio - good energy but conversation-friendly, inside quieter
Weekend wait: 30-45 min for patio, 15 min for inside dining
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, patio fills 12:30-1:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie sushi rolls, edamame bowls, and salads available
Vegan options: Limited - veggie rolls can be made vegan, ask about poke bowl modifications
Gluten-free options: Yes - poke bowls with tamari, grilled fish plates, clearly marked menu items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual daytime dates - the sunny patio creates a relaxed vibe and sharing plates encourage conversation. Evening can get loud with families
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches yes, but make a reservation for dinner or weekend brunch. Bar seating often available for walk-ins
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, high chairs, and the patio space lets kids move around. Staff is patient and they'll make simple grilled fish or rice bowls off-menu
Best For
Better for: Groups who want variety beyond raw fish - their cooked seafood and fusion options outshine traditional sushi spots. Best sustainable seafood program in the area
Skip if: You're a sushi purist seeking authentic omakase or premium nigiri - head to Sushi Tsujita or KazuNori instead

Hours

Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 9pm