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ZipPicks Awards
Best Luxury Dining Japanese in Pasadena
Best Instagram Worthy Sushi in Pasadena
Best Sushi in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Oji Sushi & Sake Bar
8.2
This sake-forward establishment sources fish from Tokyo's famed Tsukiji Market while offering both traditional omakase sets and creative fusion rolls. The spacious interior and extensive sake selection make it ideal for pre-theater dining near the Pasadena Playhouse.
Must-Try Dishes:
Scallop Carpaccio, Monkfish Liver, Ikura Uni Salmon Donguri
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Direct sourcing from Tsukiji Market in Tokyo
Who should go: Sake enthusiasts and pre-theater diners
When to visit: Weekday happy hour 3-5pm for deals
What to order: Omakase set, scallop carpaccio, premium sake flight
Insider tip: No reservations taken - arrive early to avoid wait
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Colorado Blvd and side streets, typically available but fills up after 6pm on weekends. Public lot behind building $8 flat rate evenings
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - anything from nice jeans to business attire fits in
Noise level: Moderate to lively - conversation-friendly but energetic during peak hours
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical since no reservations accepted, up to 60 min on Saturdays
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min max during lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable rolls, tempura, edamame, and several specialty vegetarian maki options
Vegan options: Limited - cucumber/avocado rolls, edamame, seaweed salad, and vegetable tempura (confirm batter)
Gluten-free options: Moderate - sashimi, most nigiri (bring own soy sauce), and designated GF rolls available on request
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, especially during happy hour - the sake selection creates natural conversation starters, atmosphere is lively but not too loud, and the no-reservation policy keeps it casual
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations at all - arrive before 5:30pm on weekdays or 5pm on weekends to minimize wait. Bar seating often available sooner
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids (10+) who enjoy sushi. No kids menu but they'll do simple rolls. The sake-forward vibe and lack of high chairs make it less ideal for young children
Best For
Better for: Superior sake selection and education compared to other local sushi spots, plus the Tsukiji Market connection delivers fresher specialty fish than competitors relying on local suppliers
Skip if: You need reservations for a special occasion, want BYOB options, or prefer quieter intimate omakase experiences - try Sushi Kimagure in Old Town instead
Hours
Monday11:30am - 9:30pm
Tuesday11:30am - 9:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 9:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 9:30pm
Friday11:30am - 11pm
Saturday11:30am - 11pm
Sunday12pm - 9:30pm