Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi

For those in Costa Mesa, California, seeking an truly exceptional and authentic Japanese culinary journey, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi stands out as a remarkable destination. This isn't just another sushi restaurant; it’s a hidden gem that has quickly captivated locals with its commitment to unparalleled food quality, warm hospitality, and delightful surprises. Blending the traditional "Kappo" style of Japanese cooking (which emphasizes cutting and simmering) with exquisite sushi, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi offers a diverse and deeply satisfying dining experience that caters to the discerning tastes of California residents.

From the moment you step in, you’ll discover a place where passion for Japanese cuisine shines through every dish. Diners consistently rave about the "amazing" fish quality, describing how it "melts in your mouth," a testament to the restaurant's dedication to sourcing the freshest ingredients, some directly from Japan. Beyond the stellar sushi and sashimi, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi distinguishes itself with a broader menu that includes delicious cooked dishes and, notably, some of the "best dessert" in Orange County. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking for a fantastic meal in a welcoming setting, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi promises an excellent experience that will have you eager to return. Its status as a "hidden gem" means you're in for a treat that feels exclusive and truly special.

Location and Accessibility

Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi is conveniently located at 20070 Santa Ana Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA. This address places it within the vibrant culinary landscape of Costa Mesa, a city easily accessible from various parts of Orange County. Santa Ana Avenue is a well-established route, making the restaurant relatively straightforward to find for both local residents and those visiting from surrounding communities.

For California locals, especially in bustling areas like Costa Mesa, ease of access and parking are crucial factors in choosing a dining spot. Fortunately, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi is situated in a strip mall or plaza, a common setup in Southern California that typically offers practical parking solutions. Customer reviews explicitly mention "tons of parking and valet" in the vicinity, indicating that finding a spot should generally not be an issue. This ample and convenient parking removes a significant hurdle often associated with dining out in busy areas, allowing patrons to arrive without stress and fully enjoy their meal. The location in Costa Mesa also benefits from its proximity to major freeways and local thoroughfares, further enhancing its accessibility for a wide range of diners across Orange County. This thoughtful placement and practical parking contribute significantly to a seamless and enjoyable dining experience from the moment you decide to visit.

Services Offered

• High-Quality Sushi and Sashimi: Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi is highly praised for its exceptional fish quality. The menu features a wide selection of sushi and sashimi, with bluefin tuna, chu-toro, halibut, yellowtail, salmon, and unique offerings like golden eye snapper and abalone, often described as melting in your mouth.
• Omakase Experience: For those seeking a chef-curated journey, Kappo Sui offers an Omakase experience (e.g., a 13-piece Omakase for around $118). Diners at the sushi bar might have a minimum piece requirement for omakase. The chef, Gino, is noted for his knowledge and personable approach during the omakase.
• Authentic Kappo and Izakaya Dishes: Beyond raw fish, the restaurant provides a diverse menu of cooked Japanese dishes in the "Kappo" tradition (cutting and simmering), including Ribeye Steak, Grilled Black Cod Yuan, Homemade Crab Cream Croquettes, Shrimp Ball, Fried Oysters, various tempura, and delightful soups like Garlic Clam Soup.
• "Secret Menu" and Unique Creations: The restaurant offers a "secret menu" with delicious options and creative dishes like the "Salmon Quintet" and "Burrito Roll," encouraging diners to explore unique flavors.
• Exceptional Dessert Selection: Kappo Sui is renowned for its desserts, with customers calling them the "best dessert I had in Orange County." Complimentary dessert samples are also noted, including items like Basque Cheesecake, Panna Cottas (Blueberry, Matcha, Mango), and Yuzu Sherbet.
• Friendly and Attentive Service: The staff is consistently described as "super friendly and warm," providing great and attentive service that enhances the dining experience.
• Dine-In Options: The restaurant offers both sushi bar seating (approx. 13 seats) for an interactive experience with the chef and table seating (approx. 7 tables for 2-4 people) for a more private meal.
• Takeout and Online Ordering: For convenience, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi offers online ordering and efficient to-go service, allowing customers to enjoy their high-quality Japanese cuisine at home.

Features / Highlights

• Outstanding Fish Quality: This is arguably the most celebrated feature. Customers consistently rave about the "amazing" fish quality, with descriptions like "melts in your mouth" for their salmon. They are known for getting a lot of their fish straight from Japan, ensuring unparalleled freshness and flavor.
• Exceptional Desserts: A unique highlight, the desserts at Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi are consistently praised as some of the "best dessert I had in Orange County." The complimentary dessert samples also add a delightful surprise to the dining experience.
• Friendly and Warm Staff: The service is a standout, with staff described as "super friendly and warm" and "attentive." This welcoming atmosphere contributes significantly to the overall positive experience, making diners feel well-cared for.
• "Hidden Gem" Status: Many refer to Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi as a "hidden gem" in Orange County, suggesting that it offers a uniquely high-quality and satisfying experience that exceeds expectations, often feeling like a special discovery.
• Authentic Japanese Experience: The restaurant embodies the fine tradition of "Kappo" dining, focusing on the quality of the fish and avoiding unnecessary fancy ingredients, which appeals to those seeking an authentic Japanese culinary experience.
• Chef Gino's Expertise and Personable Approach: Chef Gino is highlighted for his knowledge and efficiency, particularly during the Omakase experience, where he is noted for being personable and providing great information.
• Diverse Menu Beyond Sushi: While sushi is a highlight, the extensive menu includes a variety of cooked Japanese dishes, cold appetizers, and soups, offering something for every palate and making it suitable for a wider range of preferences.
• Cozy and Calm Ambiance: The restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with calm instrumental music, making it a comfortable and pleasant place for dining.

Promotions or Special Offers

Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi offers attractive promotions that provide excellent value to its customers, particularly through its daily Happy Hour and Reverse Happy Hour. These specials make it even more appealing for locals in Costa Mesa to enjoy high-quality Japanese cuisine.

• Daily Happy Hour: This popular promotion runs every day from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM. During this window, diners can typically enjoy discounted prices on a selection of their delicious sushi, Izakaya appetizers, and beverages. It's an ideal time for an early dinner or a substantial snack.
• Daily Reverse Happy Hour: For those who prefer dining later, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi also offers a "Reverse Happy Hour" every day from 9:00 PM until closing. This allows patrons to enjoy special pricing on select items into the late evening, perfect for a post-event meal or a relaxed late-night bite.

While specific menu items included in these happy hours can vary, common offerings at such establishments usually feature:

• Reduced-Price Sushi Rolls and Nigiri: A selection of popular sushi and sashimi pieces or rolls at a special happy hour rate.
• Discounted Appetizers: A variety of Izakaya-style small plates, perfect for sharing or trying different flavors.
• Beverage Specials: Deals on Japanese beers, sake, and other non-alcoholic drinks to complement the food.

It is important to note that happy hour promotions typically come with some restrictions, such as often not being valid on major holidays or for very large parties (e.g., 16 or more people), and reservations may not be accepted specifically for happy hour seating. To ensure you have the most current information on the happy hour menu and any other ongoing promotions, it's highly recommended to visit Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi's official website or call them directly using the contact information provided. These generous daily offers truly enhance the value and accessibility of this exceptional Japanese restaurant for the Costa Mesa community.

Contact Information

To experience the amazing food and friendly service at Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi, you can reach them using the following contact details:

• Address: 20070 Santa Ana Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA
• Phone: (714) 429-0141
• Mobile Phone: +1 714-429-0141

We recommend calling ahead for reservations, especially if you plan to visit during peak dining hours or wish to experience their popular Omakase.

Conclusion: Why Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi is Suitable for Locals

Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi is an exceptional dining establishment that is perfectly suited for locals in Costa Mesa, California, and the broader Orange County area. Its unique combination of high-quality cuisine, outstanding service, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a compelling choice for a variety of dining preferences.

Firstly, the unparalleled quality and freshness of the fish are a major draw. Californians are known for their appreciation of fresh, meticulously sourced ingredients, and Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi consistently exceeds these expectations. Descriptions of fish "melting in your mouth" and direct sourcing from Japan highlight their commitment to providing a truly premium sushi and sashimi experience. This dedication to quality aligns perfectly with the health-conscious and food-savvy culture of the region.

Secondly, the warm and friendly staff contribute significantly to the overall positive experience. Customers consistently praise the "super friendly and warm" service, noting how attentive and personable the staff, including Chef Gino, are. This creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere where diners feel valued and at home, fostering a sense of community that encourages repeat visits. The experience feels personal and genuinely caring.

Thirdly, the inclusion of both traditional Kappo dishes and a wide range of sushi/sashimi, coupled with a "secret menu" and unique creations, caters to diverse palates. Whether you're in the mood for an exquisite Omakase, a classic sushi roll, or a delightful cooked dish, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi offers a rich culinary exploration. This variety ensures that there’s always something new to discover, appealing to the adventurous spirit of many Californian foodies.

Finally, the convenient location with ample parking makes it an easily accessible destination. In a region where parking can often be a challenge, the ease of access to Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi removes a common barrier to enjoyable dining. This practicality, combined with the lure of "the best dessert in Orange County" and attractive daily happy hour deals, makes it a truly irresistible choice.

In conclusion, Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary haven for Costa Mesa locals. It offers a consistently excellent dining experience characterized by superior food quality, genuine hospitality, diverse menu options, and practical accessibility. It’s a true local gem that promises to delight and become a favorite spot for any resident seeking top-tier Japanese cuisine in Orange County.

Kappo Sui / Sazu Sushi

20070 Santa Ana Ave, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, USA