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Sat at the counter to get the best sushi vibes. We were craving some nigiri and the seafood tasted very fresh here. However, I do wish they used fresh wasabi. I needed a little more of a kick. Service was impeccable and the Hokkaido scallops were so refreshing.
Took my wife here for her birthday since she's a sushi fanatic and it was perfect. Reservations are a must in my opinion otherwise you'd have to wait for a time slot since this place is always packed. We were sat at the bar and was able to watch all types of sushi being made. We were so full by the end of our orders! The fish was fresh and the chef would explain every detail of the fish and how to eat it. This place was very busy but the food came out perfectly spaced out so you didn't have much on your table. I would definitely get there early since parking isn't that great. We had to park two blocks and walk over but it wasn't too bad since the food made up for it. Noise level was moderate but that was a given for a great sushi place as this one. Definitely will come back to try other stuff and possibly the omakase!
Great place. We had to make a reservation in advance and still we only got a table at 8:15pm. Place is super busy. Service was super friendly and attentive. And they are extremely fast, you get your food right away. Ambience is very low key, pleasant, mostly outdoor dining under the cover. The menu is pretty decent. We had spicy edamame which was excellent. Miso soup also excellent. They unfortunately didn't have any mocktails. We had 2 orders of tostadas which we absolutely loved. After one order of tostadas we realized we needed more food and got a second order. YTS sashimi was excellent. We also had California roll that unfortunately we didn't find very good, even though it had a real crab. Tuna roll was excellent as well. Overall amazing experience with excellent food.
We had an incredible dining experience. Every dish we ordered was fresh, beautifully presented, and packed with flavor. The shishito peppers were the perfect start to the meal, and the hamachi tostadas were a standout! Crispy, fresh, and bursting with flavor in every bite. The hamachi jalapeño and salmon jalapeño dishes were equally impressive, offering the perfect balance of freshness, spice, and texture. We also enjoyed the Honeymoon oysters and Shikoku oysters, both of which were incredibly fresh and showcased the quality of the seafood. The miso black cod was absolutely delicious! It was buttery, flavorful, and cooked to perfection. The hamachi kama was another highlight, tender and rich with incredible flavor that made it one of our favorite dishes of the night. Every dish was thoughtfully prepared and absolutely delicious. The cucumber wrap and matsu rolls were just ok to me. The only downside was the price as it was a tad high, but that's somewhat expected given the location in La Jolla and the quality of the ingredients. Parking was also a bit difficult to find, so plan accordingly. Even with those minor inconveniences, the food and overall experience made it well worth the visit.
Came here on a date and let's just say the food stood out a lot more than the date himself LOL The sauvignon blanc was a nice pairing, a little more on the acidic side, and the fish quality was great as well! I think the yuzu on the hotate overpowered the natural sweetness of the scallop and the sinew on the chutoro was a bit tough to chew, but everything else was great! Not pictured was the spicy tuna hand roll (spicier than I anticipated, but nonetheless yummy!)
Superb omakase experience with great quality fish and vibes. Nothing truly beats having smooth, buttery fish on a dinner night. Out of the dishes I got -- hon maguro nigiri, ika with shiso nigiri, iwashi nigiri, nodoguro nigiri, zuke nigiri, himitsu roll, and himitsu sushi -- my favorite was surprisingly the ika with shiso nigiri. The ika was fresh and the shiso gave that sweet and delicate notes that did not disappoint. Although this was my favorite, all the other nigiris were also amazing as expected from a quality omakase place. Service was quick and friendly. Our server checked on us quite often. Chef mitsu also consistently made sure that we were enjoying the food and experience. The chef also gave his opinions on various fish and gave background to what fish he likes to select and suggest. Honestly, there was nothing better than hearing from a chef who loves his art and craft.
They are normally closed on Sundays, but on some Sundays they are open for a special omakase only. It's usually the last Sunday of the month but recently they've been experimenting with 2 Sundays a month. Check on Instagram or call and ask. Reservations for the omakase are almost a must as they start and end at a certain time and limited to 10 people. We started with a pumpkin soup which was very creamy. There were a few unique dishes and preparations. I liked the lobster sashimi which I haven't seen at other omakase experiences. I of course liked the nodoguro and kinmedai. But what surprised me was the ika which I normal don't like was torched and gave it a better more firm texture. I also liked the unagi. It was much smaller but I had not had it torched to that extent before. So good. I also liked the Wagyu that was slow braised with the chipotle sauce. It was quite a unique blend of Japanese and local flavors. There were a lot of servers so a lot of attention was paid to the few diners around the sushi bar. The restaurant is basically closed except for the omakase. A sign out front says closed for private event. Himitsu provides quality fresh sushi under normal business hours. Their special omakase was no different.
EXCELLENT spot! Vibe was incredible. Rodrigo was charming, accommodating, and incredible! Food was fantastic. Specials were unbelievable! A must hit.
I WAS CAT FISHED. Had the Torro sushi and sashimi which were priced appropriately for La Jolla But I was 1000% short changed on the Ribeye Katsu sando. See their photos what I saw online vs what I got. It will make you laugh at me as my wife did when I got back to the hotel room. All the pictures I found before ordering were 3 pieces sometimes 4 solid pieces. I paid $18 for 2 tiny hand sandwiches that to their credit were awesome but just didn't make sense for such a small amount of ribeye on what could be wonder bread ended up being $18 Take out adds 15% tip umm okay? 6 pieces of sushi 1 child size sampler of ribeye $105 Idk La Jolla was great. This one stung getting back to hotel with.
Went here today for lunch for my birthday. First time trying Himitsu but seeing it on social media, I really had to give it a try so wife and I stopped by this afternoon. It did not disappoint. Food: Had various dishes which included the sando, miso cod, hand rolls, kaarage...the list goes on and EVERYTHING was delicious. A++ Service: They automatically charge a 20% gratuity but even with that, the service was deserving and they did not lack on attention whatsoever. They even gave us a free bday ice cream for my bday lunch. A++ Ambiance: Loved the look and feel of Himitsu. If say this is now one of my too 5 sushi spots in San Diego after giving it a go. A+ Thanks again for making my bday lunch so delicious. We WILL be back for sure!
My husband discovered this gem about three years ago, surprising me with a birthday lunch that's since become one of our favorite traditions. We've practically built date nights around Himitsu ever since. While reservations are a must, they're absolutely worth planning ahead for. One of the things we love most is that every visit becomes a chance to try something new. We're adventurous eaters, so nothing on the menu is off-limits, and we've never left disappointed. On one memorable visit, we ordered the Daily Bento Box, the Tasha Roll, and the Himitsu Sumaki Roll. While the Sumaki Roll leaned more subtle in flavor, the quality of the fish spoke for itself. The Bento Box was a collection of beautifully prepared bites, fresh salads, and perfectly cooked fish that showcased the kitchen's attention to detail. Oddly enough, one of the biggest standouts that day was the rice. It had a wonderful texture, a natural off-white color, and tasted remarkably fresh--as though it came from a small producer who truly cares about quality. Whether that's true or not, I can't say, but it's those little details that make Himitsu feel special. The food is consistently exceptional, but the service deserves just as much praise. The staff is warm, attentive, and genuinely passionate about what they do. You can feel that this isn't just a job--it's a craft they take pride in sharing with every guest. Most recently, I brought my sisters here while they were visiting me in San Diego for a much-needed sister date. We ordered the Karaage Rice Bowl, the Himitsu Bowl, and the chef's recommended sushi (three pieces each). We were so excited to dig in that we forgot to take a picture until after we'd already eaten one piece--that probably tells you everything you need to know. The sushi was, without exaggeration, phenomenal. To quote one of my sisters: "Seriously... the best sushi I have ever had... ever." High praise from someone who's eaten plenty of sushi, and honestly, I couldn't disagree. After years of visits, Himitsu continues to deliver the same outstanding quality, creativity, and hospitality. Restaurants this consistently excellent are incredibly rare. Himitsu is an absolute gem, and every visit reminds us why we keep coming back. We already can't wait for our next culinary adventure.
Starting off the new year with a bang! Found Himitsu on Youtube on the Gareth Eats channel, check him out for recos in San Diego (& southern Cali) and it did not disappoint. Himitsu catapults into the #1 sushi spot in SD for me! Although this place is a little more expensive than other sushi joints, the quality of the food is undeniable. The service was also really great and everyone was friendly. Loved that they provide a basket for your bags so they're not on the floor or hanging on your chair. The place itself is small so make sure to grab a reservation. We got seated on the outside patio, cute decor, super clean. They also had outdoor seating near the small parking lot. The lunch and dinner was a bit different & we opted for options on the lunch menu (dined around 12 and could order from both menus). Their sandwich board of specials were actually brought to us so we can see the options. Ordered the Nigiri Paradise [$39] & it did not disappoint. Came w/10 1 pc nigiris and everything on that plate was soooo fresh. The toro, tuna & yellowtail were all melt in your mouth goodness. Their motto is "no soy sauce" and definitely did not use any throughout the whole meal. Also got a bite of their Matsu Roll [$24] which was really good too. The thing about Himitsu is that they focus on the fish and nothing else. With that being said, the sushi roll was light on the rice and heavy on the fish. Loved thaaat! Typically, we're so full of rice we don't enjoy the fish enough, but it's opposite of that here. We also got the Buri (one of their specials) which is a winter yellowtail [$8.50/pc] as well as the Hokkaido Scallop [$8/pc] w/yuzu salt. Both were delish! So manyyy good things to say about this. Try it out!
Food was on point, service was friendly and knowledgeable. Must try! Chefs were comical. Can't wait to come back.
8 years ago
Very Very Good! Had the Omakase and everything was delicious. Really cool build out and not pretentious. Is fairly expensive but definitely high quality. Some of my favorites: Crab stuffed tempura squash blossom Uni Sashimi chef selection Surf and Turf Octopus app All in all, 9.5/10 would eat again ! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
I've been wanting to try this place since I heard they were opening last October. I've been to Sushi Ota last year (another phenomenal place), and when I heard one of their chefs was opening up his own restaurant, I knew I just had to go. I am very picky with sushi - I don't go unless I know it will be good quality, and I don't mind paying a high price for it. This place gets 5 stars because I truly believe that for San Diego, it is up there in the top three for sure. Here's my experience: Food: There is a great mix of traditional nigiri, hand rolls, and tekka maki rolls I also loved the secret menu (not so secret) they advertised up on the wall behind the sushi counter. It was their specials, which I'm sure changes seasonally My husband got the sashimi platter plate, which we shared and both devoured. I got a bunch of traditional sushi pieces - see pics below For dessert, the sesame seed panna cotta was the perfect way to end the meal. It wasn't too sweet, and I personally just love sesame seed flavored desserts. Atmosphere: Very intimate - I believe the restaurant tables can only seat around 20 people and 8 at the bar. I recommend going to the bar for the best experience and watching the chefs do their thing. Chef Mitsu is pretty funny and easy to talk to. Our guy serving us was also very good - Rodrigo, two thumbs up, man! Location: I love that it's not located in the busy La Jolla cove area - there is a small private parking lot and plenty of street parking nearby. Very convenient! IMO, way less stress to park than at Sushi Ota in PB. For that reason alone, I'd prefer to come here. I also want to because the sushi quality is very similar I would definitely return again! This is the place to drop $200 on sushi easily and have a good time doing it. A great special occasion, or if you just want quality sushi. This is also a good place to take another couple to double date with if they love and appreciate good sushi as much as you do. G read more
7 years ago
Wonderful sushi experience. When I say wonderful, I mean at the connoisseur level of appreciating fine sushi and its craft. So if you are looking for a bunch of crazy rolls type of sushi place; then off to mitsua or sushi deli 2 because this review is not for you! Want high grade, "ota" level sushi with out the ota snobbery and packed in like sardines ota ambiance? Then this hip designed, cool relaxed atmosphere from the great guy that ran ota for years is for you! Mitzu is outstanding, knows his craft and really the only thing to do here is put him on auto pilot, strap yourself in and off to amazing sushi land you go! Tips: -Place is on the small side so make reservations -Sit at the sushi bar preferably in front of Mitzu San read more
8 years ago
Apparently, I took the below photos ten months ago, intending to type a review soon after. Unfortunately, life got in the way, but it's better late than never, yeah? I don't remember some specifics but I do remember overall impressions. The best way to describe my omakase at Himitsu is that it was less consistently tasty than my omakase at Sushi Ota, but was much more adventurous. The decor, ambiance, and service also outrageously exceeded my expectations. If San Diego became a Michelin city, Himitsu would undoubtedly be in the running. With only 139 ratings, Himitsu is one of San Diego's best kept secrets*. Chef Aihara takes great pride in his craft and it shows in the attention to detail and presentation. I'm also willing to bet he also had a hand in the decor and ambiance as everything was meticulous, from the fine drinking glasses to the outdoor patio to the music selection. Chef Aihara is in the driver's seat and I want to be along for the ride. I have an adventurous taste bud so I told Chef Aihara not to be afraid to challenge me. Boy, I tasted some truly obscure things (sorry, I can't remember what they were; I just remember being thoroughly impressed)! There were a handful of minor missteps (e.g. underwhelming dessert), some due to creative but not quite successful liberties taken and others due to less than ideal basic decisions. But everything else in the restaurant went so far above and beyond that it was clear that Himitsu is about much more than just the food but rather about the entire experience. When you are paying this much for omakase, you expect perfection, and Himitsu very nearly delivered. Omakase is pricier than Sushi Ota's, but if you want to impress a date, friends, or family, treat them to something they'll never forget: Himitsu. And ask to be seated with Chef Aihara. I'm already salivating while typing this review 10 months later! 4.75 stars ----- *Coincidentally, or perhaps not, "himitsu" means "secret." ----- NOTE: I've included 29 photos but the Yelp app only shows seven. To view all 29 photos, use an internet browser. read more
BEST SUSHI EVER. If you're into raw fish sushi, this is a go-to. Favorites: The sashimi plate "chef's choice" is always my favorite because you can never go wrong with any of the raw fish! -soft shell crab hand roll (the fried crab is so light/crisp) -tuna roll (sounds basic but it seriously melts in your mouth!) Price: Costs more than the avg sushi restaurant but you're paying for the quality of raw fish here. Also, it's really clear that the chefs take time on the presentation/plating. I would suggest making a reservations for dinner because even when I've gone during the week day, it's still busy and there aren't many tables. read more
6 years ago
5 years ago
Love this little spot tucked away. Terrific ambiance and decor with ample heaters on patio for chilly nights. We had the miso soup which was terrific as well as some spicy edamame. Highly recommend the hamachi sashimi and all the rolls (we each had different ones and they were excellent). Extremely fresh and tasty. We'll come back again our next visit. read more
3 years ago
5 years ago
5 years ago
Took my friend here for her bday and everything was amazing! Been here a few times and the service was alway superb. We ordered the Chef's omakase with 10 piece nigiris, scallops and the Honeymoon oyster! read more
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I did their Omakase option and it was great! I like the small and intimate ambiance. Only critique would be they put us on the same time limit even after they seated us late, regardless I enjoyed everything :) read more
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taste a fresh is worth it, meat well cha, in the mouth that kind of tender [color R] picture is the amount of 3 people, eat very full Figure 1 Katsu Sando [awesome R] $19 we eat a little cold when so the bread is a little soft, just on the time to eat is the best! Corn Scallop $18 Scallops, love this sauce! Figure 2 Cucumber Wrap $22 Just remember very vegetarian, is the whole table we think should not order Himitsu Roll $26 Good but can be put in the last consideration, more occupy the stomach The following are the sushi plate inside (written is the price of a single): Kinme Dai $8 Red snapper sushi Lobster $9 Lobster Sushi Sake Belly $4.5 Actually it's salmon belly WAGYU with UNI $23 This whole plate of sushi is my favorite and not to mention the most expensive hhhh... Wagyu + Sea Urchin really tastes great ZUKE $6.5 Marinated Tuna Figure 3 Honeymoon Oyster $23 a piece, sea urchin + oyster, this match needs no further explanation! read more
4 years ago
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5 years ago
This place is so wonderful. Every time I have had the pleasure to dine here the service has been lovely and the fish so incredibly fresh. If you're looking for an impressive, quaint, relaxing dining experience this is it. The menu is creative and executed perfectly. Some of the best sushi I've ever had has been from here and I can not wait to come back! read more
4 years ago
The price is different from online menu on yelp. The menu should be updated by the restaurant. read more
I came here to treat my girlfriend to her birthday in March. She loves sushi (not so much myself) and this review is based of her thoughts and reactions. We reserved 2 seats by the chefs and got to watch them as they worked their craft. It's incredibly intimate as there is ~8 seats available. I highly recommend a reservation if you want this experience. We were greeted warmly by the chefs and servers and got seated promptly. My girlfriend got the omakase (chef's choice) and asked half of it to be sushi and half of it to be sashimi. I personally ordered the wagyu katsu sandwich (it was delicious). And then the magic began. The chef began with the sashimi and crafted a visually appealing piece of art where all the fish was placed on the shell of a large shellfish. My girlfriend loved it. The presentation was amazing and the fish was incredibly fresh. Next, the chef prepared the sushi. The chef leads you on a journey as each sushi comes out piece by piece. As a result, you focus your attention on what is in front of you as it come out. You appreciate the presentation, savor each bite, notice the intricacies, and think about how all the flavors transition from one piece to the next. Needless to say, she loved every bite and the experience. We also ordered a seasonal item called 'shirako', or black cod milt. Not many people would dare try it, but its something to try if you're feeling adventurous. Since it was her birthday too, they ended the meal with complimentary green tea ice cream! This place is quite the experience. The chefs are very experienced and their craft is a reflection of that. My girlfriend said she had a great birthday dinner and would want to visit this place again in the future! read more
4 years ago
5 years ago
Fabulously good! Everything we had - from hand rolls, to sashimi/nigiri, to the dessert - was delicious. Service was also really great. Highlights were the aburi toro, o toro, nodoguro, & kanpachi. read more
2 years ago
8 years ago
This sushi place had been on the list to try for awhile as some of my friends from Bangkok were here recently and wanted to try it. It's hard to break away from what you already know and like. Himitsu did not disappoint. We sat at the bar where all the action was. I really like the layout and flow of this restaurant. It's intimate yet flows nicely to the patio dining. The kitchen is open and the energy and focus is 100% transparent. Best to get a seat at the bar if possible. The sushi counter is wood and set very low not like other traditional sushi places. So you as the guest feel you are literally apart of the creative process. This is entertaining and mesmerizing to watch the ingredients and dishes come to life. We chose to do omakase and let the chef choose our dining destiny. I have included pics. Service and sashimi was simple and excellent. I would come back for a special occasion. read more
4 years ago
4 years ago
More info about Himitsu
1030-G Torrey Pines Rd
La Jolla, CA 92037
La Jolla
Directions
(858) 263-4463
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Visit Website
http://himitsusd.com
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Ask the Community - Himitsu
Are there GF sushi options?
Yes they are very good at gluten free. The staff are knowledgable and they have GF soy sauce. Some have said their fryer is GF but others haven't, so you should confirm that when you go.
What is the typical price range for omakase for 2 people?
It is $85 per person for the basic omakase (which comes with a ton of food but no sea urchin). If you want sea urchin, then the price increases to $120.
Do they offer omakase/chef's choice sets for lunch?
I believe they do. I’ve been there for dinner but I think so at the inside bar seating
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