Top Sushi Bars in Monterey and Carmel

Sushi Bars Recommendation in Monterey County

When you're out and about in Monterey and looking for a great place to try some sushi, our recommendation might come handy. Here are our top six spots to try:

1. Crystal Fish

Between excellent service and out-of-the-ordinary entrees, Crystal Fish tops our list of places in Monterey restaurants on this list. People have raved about their Sexy rolls, Firecrackers, and Big Sam rolls, and, though some of their meals aren't as spicy as some other ones you'll find, they are guaranteed to leave your mouth watering for more. Oh, and ask about their BBQ squid appetizer. You can thank us later.

2. Toro

Nestled in gorgeous Carmel-by-the-Sea, Toro is the newest Sushi Bar on the Peninsula offering authentic Japanese cuisine in a cozy environment. We love their small yet perfected menu and yes their Sake flights are a must-try! From Dynamite, seared Rainbow and Carmel rolls you'll sure find something to your liking.

3. Pacific Bowls & Sushi Rolls

Combining the casual dining and "do-it-yourself atmosphere of a place like Chipotle, Pacific Bowls & Sushi Rolls allows you to create your own sushi bowls for a fraction of what you would pay at a more "upscale" venue. Some people have complained about the staff not being exceptionally friendly, and slow lines during busy hours, but all in all, you would be hard pressed to find an unhappy customer. Their concept is unique and we loved the fresh ingredients.

4. Oh! Sushi!

"Don't judge a book by its cover" should be the mantra for this dream of Monterey restaurants, because even though it doesn't look like much on the outside, the inside will leave you begging for more. Whether dining in or taking it to go, Oh! Sushi! is the perfect spot for a quick lunch with coworkers. Though hardcore sushi snobs may find it not quite up to their par, for average joes you can't beat it.

5. Sushi by The Bay

Sushi by the Bay is perfect for the quick pick up or dining out atmosphere. The taste may not be everything you're looking for, but between the variety and super-friendly staff, it's hard to find much to complain about. And if you're looking for something especially intense, try the heart attack sushi: it's a mix of fried jalapeno, spicy tuna, and cream cheese. Delicious!

6. Ocean Sushi Deli

Live by the review, die by the review, and this case, Ocean Sushi has soared. Serving as a hole-in-the-wall operation for years, this place knows their sushi and knows it well. People have raved about the made-to-order ingredients, calling it one of the best sushi bars they've ever been to. We would tend to agree.

6. Sushi Heaven

Have we actually found sushi heaven? We would say so, with this place being the proverbial promised land. The prices may be on the higher end (it is sushi after all), but for California, the prices are about right. Accessible parking, fantastic service, and a great atmosphere make this one of the best sushi places around.