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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeCaliforniaOrange CountyLake ForestJapanese Restaurant in Lake Forest DriveFat Fish 🍣 🥢
Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 ico

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢

20761 Lake Forest Dr # B, Lake Forest, CA 92630, USA

4.0
$40 AYCE requires a reservation before showing up and it was delicious. Their fish was very fresh. A lot of rolls have crab in them even though it’s not listed on the menu as a main ingredient - Jessica
Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 Introduce

For those in Lake Forest, California, and throughout the vibrant communities of Orange County, the search for a satisfying sushi experience often leads to Fat Fish 🍣 🥢. This local establishment has cultivated a reputation for delivering delicious sushi with a focus on fresh ingredients, making it a popular choice for both quick bites and indulgent meals. What truly sets Fat Fish apart for many local diners is its highly sought-after All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) sushi option, providing a fantastic opportunity to sample a wide array of their creations.

Fat Fish aims to provide a consistent and enjoyable dining experience, whether you're opting for individual rolls or diving into the AYCE feast. Customers frequently praise the freshness of their fish, a crucial element for any quality sushi restaurant. As one reviewer noted, "Their fish was very fresh," highlighting the quality that keeps patrons coming back. This commitment to fresh ingredients ensures that each bite delivers the authentic flavors sushi lovers crave.

Beyond the food, Fat Fish strives to create a welcoming and clean environment. With a "clean" restaurant space that includes a "big bag ware and a handful of tables," it offers a cozy yet efficient setting for enjoying your meal. The hospitality also receives positive mentions, with one customer noting that the "lady whom I think is the owner was very nice." This friendly service, combined with delicious food, contributes to an overall positive impression, making Fat Fish a compelling choice for Japanese cuisine in Lake Forest.

Location and Accessibility

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 is conveniently situated at 20761 Lake Forest Dr # B, Lake Forest, CA 92630, USA. This address places it along a key thoroughfare in Lake Forest, making it easily accessible for residents of the city and those traveling from neighboring Orange County communities. Lake Forest Drive is a well-known and frequently used road, ensuring that the restaurant is straightforward to locate whether you're navigating by car or familiar with the local area.

The restaurant is located within a modest strip mall, which offers practical advantages for diners. While it may not be in a large, bustling retail center, its setting often means "plenty of parking" is available, reducing the common stress of finding a spot in busy Southern California. As one reviewer noted, the restaurant "seems somewhat isolated" in a small strip mall, but this can actually be an advantage for parking availability. This ease of access contributes to a hassle-free visit, whether you're stopping by for a quick lunch, picking up a takeout order, or settling in for a more relaxed AYCE dinner.

For the local community of Lake Forest, Fat Fish’s location on Lake Forest Drive ensures it's a convenient and readily available option for Japanese cuisine. Its presence in a local commercial area contributes to its visibility and appeal, attracting both loyal customers and new patrons seeking a satisfying sushi experience. The combination of a practical address and convenient parking solidifies Fat Fish’s status as a go-to spot for locals looking for quality Japanese food close to home.

Services Offered

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 provides a range of services centered around its fresh sushi offerings, with a notable emphasis on its All-You-Can-Eat option.

  • Dine-In Experience: The restaurant offers a comfortable and clean dining area with a "big bag ware and a handful of tables," providing a casual ambiance suitable for relaxed meals. The service is often praised as "friendly, attentive, and efficient," with the owner noted for being "very nice," contributing to a welcoming atmosphere.

  • All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) Sushi: This is a major highlight and a popular offering. Priced at approximately $40 per person (as of recent reviews, subject to change), the AYCE option allows diners to enjoy a wide variety of sushi, rolls, and other dishes. Important rules for the AYCE include:

    • A reservation is required before showing up, especially for larger parties.
    • There is a two-hour time limit for AYCE.
    • Everyone in the party must opt for the AYCE option.
    • No to-go items are available from the AYCE menu.
    • Items not eaten will be charged at the regular menu price, encouraging mindful ordering.
    • Children 11 years old and up are typically charged the adult AYCE price.

  • A La Carte Menu: For those not opting for AYCE, Fat Fish offers a comprehensive a la carte menu. This includes:

    • Nigiri (2 pieces per order): Featuring popular options like Albacore, Salmon, Eel, Tuna, Yellowtail, and Escolar.
    • Sashimi (4 pieces per order): Including Albacore, Salmon, Eel, Tuna, Yellowtail, and Escolar.
    • Specialty and Classic Rolls: A wide array of rolls, such as the Rainbow Roll (noted as a "decent size"), Spicy Tuna Roll, California Roll, Philadelphia Roll, Shrimp Crunchy Roll, and unique creations like Samurai, Imperial, Sunset, Albacore Garlic, and many more. It's noted that "a lot of rolls have crab in them even though it’s not listed on the menu as a main ingredient."
    • Appetizers: Options like Edamame, Spicy Edamame, Miso Soup, Seaweed Salad, Squid Salad, Jalapeno Bomb (spicy tuna & cream cheese, deep-fried), Firecracker Calamari, and Fried Dumplings (praised as "cooked well and delicious").
    • Udon and Ramen: Including various noodle soups like Moriawase Udon, Tempura Udon, Chicken Udon, and different Ramen options.
    • Donburi (Rice Bowls) & Bento Boxes: Providing hearty meal options like Chicken Teriyaki Bowl and various Bento Box combinations that often include tempura, rice, miso soup, and salad.
    • Pho: Surprisingly, Fat Fish also offers a selection of Vietnamese Pho noodle soups, indicating a broader Asian culinary offering.

  • Takeout and Delivery: Customers can place orders for pickup directly by phone. Fat Fish also partners with major third-party delivery platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash, offering the convenience of having their dishes delivered to your home.

Features / Highlights

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 stands out in the Lake Forest dining scene due to several key features and highlights that consistently appeal to its local customer base.

  • Highly Praised All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) Option: This is arguably Fat Fish's most significant highlight. The $40 AYCE option (price may vary) is very popular, allowing diners to enjoy a wide variety of sushi and other Japanese dishes. This offers excellent value for sushi lovers looking to sample multiple items and eat to their heart's content, provided they adhere to the restaurant's straightforward rules regarding reservations, time limits, and uneaten food.

  • Very Fresh Fish: Despite being an AYCE establishment, Fat Fish is consistently lauded for the quality and freshness of its fish. Customers frequently mention that "their fish was very fresh," which is paramount for an enjoyable sushi experience and sets them apart from some other AYCE options.

  • Delicious and Well-Cooked Side Items: While sushi is the star, side dishes like the fried dumplings receive specific praise for being "cooked well and delicious." This indicates that the kitchen pays attention to all aspects of the menu, not just the raw fish.

  • Friendly and Nice Service: Customer reviews highlight the "very nice" and "friendly" demeanor of the staff, including what appears to be the owner. Attentive and pleasant service contributes significantly to a positive dining experience and encourages repeat visits.

  • Clean and Comfortable Ambiance: The restaurant is described as "clean" with a "casual ambiance," making it an inviting place for relaxed dining with friends or family. This comfortable setting enhances the overall enjoyment of the meal.

  • Diverse Menu with Surprising Additions: Beyond a comprehensive selection of sushi, sashimi, and rolls (including many with crab, even if not explicitly listed), Fat Fish also offers a range of appetizers, noodle dishes (Udon, Ramen), Donburi, and even Vietnamese Pho. This broad menu ensures that there's something to satisfy various tastes and preferences within a group.

  • Generous Roll Sizes: One customer noted that the "rainbow roll was a decent size," suggesting that portions are satisfactory, even for individual orders, providing good value.

Promotions or Special Offers

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 primarily offers its highly popular All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) option as a standing special, but like many local restaurants, they might have other promotions or deals. It's always best for potential diners to confirm the most current information directly with the restaurant.

  • All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) Sushi: This is the main and most consistent "special" at Fat Fish. As of recent reviews, it's priced at approximately $40 per person. This offer provides exceptional value for those who want to try a wide variety of rolls, nigiri, and other items from their extensive AYCE menu. Remember that reservations are recommended, and standard AYCE rules apply (e.g., 2-hour limit, all party members must participate, charges for uneaten food).

  • Delivery Platform Deals: As Fat Fish partners with major food delivery services like Uber Eats and DoorDash, these platforms frequently run their own promotions. Customers can often find discounts on first orders, reduced delivery fees, or special bundled deals for pickup or delivery through these apps. Checking the Fat Fish listing on these platforms is a good way to find current offers.

  • Lunch Specials: Many sushi restaurants offer special pricing or combo deals during weekday lunch hours. While not explicitly detailed in the provided reviews, it is a common practice that could be available at Fat Fish. Their menu does show "Sushi Combo" and "Deluxe Sushi Combo" options that come with miso soup, which often serve as lunch deals.

  • Party Platters: For larger gatherings or events, Fat Fish offers various Party Platters and Sushi Combos on their menu (e.g., Small Sashimi Combo, Large Sashimi Combo, Sushi & Sashimi Combo, Deluxe Sushi Combo). These bundled options often provide a cost-effective way to feed a group compared to ordering individual items, serving as a form of special offer.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current promotions, the exact AYCE pricing, or other special offers, it is highly recommended to call Fat Fish directly at (949) 837-1713. Additionally, checking their presence on popular food delivery apps or their website (if available) can provide insights into current deals.

Contact Information

For those in Lake Forest, California, looking to connect with Fat Fish 🍣 🥢, here is the essential contact information:

  • Address: 20761 Lake Forest Dr # B, Lake Forest, CA 92630, USA

  • Phone: (949) 837-1713

  • Mobile Phone: +1 949-837-1713 (This typically connects to the same main phone line)

Regarding operating hours, Fat Fish generally maintains consistent hours, though it's always wise to confirm directly. Based on available public data, their typical operating hours are:

  • Wednesday - Thursday: 11:30 AM - 8:30 PM

  • Friday - Saturday: 11:30 AM - 9:00 PM

  • Sunday: 11:30 AM - 6:30 PM

  • Monday & Tuesday: Closed

It is highly recommended to verify these hours by calling the restaurant directly before your visit, especially for holidays or any unexpected changes. The phone number is also the primary method for making reservations (especially for the popular AYCE option), placing takeout orders, or asking any specific questions about their menu or services. Their small size means reservations are particularly important for larger parties, as noted by a reviewer.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 in Lake Forest, California, is an exceptionally suitable and appealing dining choice for locals, particularly those in Orange County who appreciate quality sushi and excellent value. Its unique blend of features caters directly to the preferences and lifestyles of the community.

Firstly, the availability and quality of their All-You-Can-Eat (AYCE) sushi option is a major draw. For a fixed price (currently around $40, subject to change), diners can indulge in a wide variety of fresh, delicious sushi, rolls, and other Japanese dishes. This offers tremendous value, allowing patrons to explore the menu without financial constraints. Critically, despite being an AYCE spot, customers consistently praise the "very fresh" fish, which sets Fat Fish apart from establishments that might compromise on quality for quantity. This ensures a satisfying and high-quality experience for sushi enthusiasts.

Secondly, the restaurant’s commitment to providing a pleasant dining experience is evident in its clean environment and notably friendly service. Reviewers highlight the "nice" owner and general positive interactions, contributing to a welcoming and comfortable ambiance. This hospitable atmosphere, combined with the delicious food, fosters a sense of familiarity and encourages repeat visits, making it a true neighborhood favorite.

Furthermore, the diverse menu, extending beyond just sushi to include fried dumplings, noodles like Udon and Ramen, and even Vietnamese Pho, caters to a broad spectrum of tastes. This versatility ensures that everyone in a dining party can find something to enjoy, whether they are ardent sushi lovers or prefer other Asian culinary delights. The inclusion of dishes like the "delicious" fried dumplings demonstrates attention to detail across the menu.

Finally, its convenient location on Lake Forest Drive with generally ample parking, combined with the option for takeout and delivery through popular apps, makes Fat Fish incredibly accessible for locals. Whether residents prefer to dine in, grab a quick meal, or enjoy a sushi feast at home, Fat Fish offers flexible and reliable service. This blend of excellent food quality, great value through AYCE, inviting atmosphere, diverse menu, and convenient accessibility firmly establishes Fat Fish as a highly suitable and cherished culinary destination for the Lake Forest community, providing a go-to spot for satisfying sushi cravings.

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 Photos

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Fat Fish 🍣 🥢 Location

Fat Fish 🍣 🥢

20761 Lake Forest Dr # B, Lake Forest, CA 92630, USA

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