[Costa Mesa] [Japanese Cuisine] Sushi Shibucho

Sushi Shibucho

590 W 19th St
Costa Mesa, CA 92627

(949) 642-2677

High quality sushi + Very Reasonable Price in Orange County = Hidden Gem.

I wouldn't think this place as "sushi nazi" as others suggested. In fact, I do agree with others this is a very quiant, homey feel sushi joint. It seems like this place is run by family members, but uncertain.

However, the owner does not like people to talk on the cell phone while eating. He will "politely" to remind you. Just be respectful and he will do the same.

I was here for dinner and since we arrived early, we did not have to wait to be seated. However, towards 7-ish. All the seats were taken, and this is during a weekday night. Can imagine how packed this will be during weekend.

I ordered the Omakase sushi at the bar. It was served piece by piece. I mentioned that I want more "traditional" flair, which he did not disappoint me with. I was presented with fresh fishes from tuna, salmon, real tai (red snapper) with skin, orange clam, shrimp, sea urchin, mackerel, halibut, pike, eel, etc. The quality of the fish were very solid. I feel I am getting a very good quality fish for the price that was charging. Its definitely one of the better sushi joints in the area.

This place, however, is lack of exotic/unique fish. Its more on the safe side, but then, that's at chef's discretion since they are very clear to keeping this a family-style sushi joint.

I think some people get offended because they think sushi joints should offer cocktails, serve spider roll or philidelphia rolls. This is more like a traditional sushi joint unlike those "Asian/Japanese Fusions" or Korean owned sushi joint that will create creative rolls. However, this is definitely a place to visit if you are in the area and serious about eating sushi.

If you sit at the table, you can also order Omakase set, which is beautifully presented and delicious to eat too.

This is one of the few sushi restaurants that still holds its belief of running sushi joint in very traditional way, and I respect chef's decision and highly recommend for those who lives around the area and wants some high quality sushi for reasonable price.

For More pictures of this restaurant, please click (http://travelsmart8.blogspot.com/2010/07/costa-mesa-japanese-cuisine-sushi.html)