Best Date Night Magic Japanese Restaurants in Long Beach
7 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Kihon
Chef-quality fish with Japanese authenticity rare in Long Beach
Notable Picks
#1
Kihon
8.6
Naples Island sushi restaurant focusing on traditional Japanese fundamentals with pristine fish quality. Modern izakaya style with tapas plates makes it suitable for business meetings despite dinner-only hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Albacore, Miso Black Cod, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño
What Makes it Special: Chef-quality fish with Japanese authenticity rare in Long Beach
#2
Kimu Sushi
8.3
Vibrant izakaya experience featuring a sushi bar styled like a Japanese street-side restaurant complete with roof overhang. Creative specialty rolls blend traditional techniques with modern presentations, while the yakitori and small plates program appeals to groups seeking variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Star Roll, Grilled Skewers, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Authentic izakaya atmosphere with theatrical sushi bar design transports diners to Tokyo
8.1
A straightforward Japanese sushi bar from an owner with 20+ years in the trade, emphasizing fish freshness over theatrical presentation. The waterfront location inside The Current draws regulars who appreciate the nigiri quality and hand rolls without destination pricing—expect a small room that fills up at peak hours. Works best for sushi-focused meals where the fish does the talking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Hand Roll, Salmon Truffle Hand Roll, Scallop Crudo
What Makes it Special: Chef Kay's traditional Japanese technique with premium fish selection in a waterfront setting at The Current
A polished outpost of the 15-year-old ramen chain known for 20-hour tonkotsu broths with customizable spice, richness, and noodle texture. The moody interior and outdoor fireplaces position it as a date-night option in the 2nd & PCH shopping center, though service pacing can lag during peak hours. Works best for ramen enthusiasts who want bowl control and appreciate the vegan-friendly menu depth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu Black, Spicy Creamy Vegan Ramen, Gyoza
What Makes it Special: Proprietary tonkotsu broths simmered 18+ hours with customizable spice, richness, and noodle firmness
Worthy Picks
#5
Sushi Ai
7.8
Intimate neighborhood sushi bar with dark atmospheric dining and traditional Japanese preparations. Lunch bento boxes and professional sushi chefs create authentic experience for business dining.
Must-Try Dishes:
Monkey Brain Roll, Sashimi Lunch, Lunch Bento Box
What Makes it Special: Traditional Japanese sushi chefs and affordable lunch specials
#6
Tokyo Wako
7.8
Vibes:
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Date Night Magic
Established teppanyaki theater combined with full sushi bar creates dual dining experiences under one roof. Theatrical chefs perform tableside while sushi artisans craft specialty rolls, making it ideal for celebrations and groups seeking entertainment with quality Japanese cuisine.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Edamame, Alaskan Roll, Hibachi Filet Mignon
What Makes it Special: Dual concept offering theatrical teppanyaki and quality sushi bar in single venue
7.7
A high-volume sushi operation on PCH that runs BOGO 50% off rolls Monday through Thursday, making it one of the stronger weeknight value plays in Long Beach. The menu leans into crowd-friendly rolls and bento boxes rather than omakase-level precision, and the Bixby Village Plaza location delivers a surprisingly immersive dining room for a strip-mall anchor. Best treated as a reliable rotation spot for casual sushi nights rather than a destination dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Salmon Roll, Bento Box, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna
What Makes it Special: High-volume Japanese spot on PCH with 2,000+ reviews, all-day BOGO 50% off rolls Monday through Thursday, and a dining room that regulars say feels like stepping into Japan.