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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeCaliforniaLos Angeles CountyPasadenaJapanese Restaurant in South Lake AvenueSUGARFISH by sushi nozawa
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa ico

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa

146 S Lake Ave #108, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA

4.0
Sugarfish is always a solid choice. They don't take reservations so there is always a bit of a wait but the Pasadena location is great because there is a nice courtyard you can wait in! We did take out today and their take out box is so cute too! Fresh sushi and they have a little sauce guide on the box. There is a paid parking garage right behind the restaurant but you can find free street parking on green street or cordova if you're willing to walk a little - Sam Lee
SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa Introduce

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For discerning Californians with a passion for authentic and high-quality sushi, SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa in Pasadena stands as a celebrated institution. This renowned sushi establishment, stemming from the legendary Sushi Nozawa, has cultivated a devoted following by adhering to a philosophy of simplicity, exceptional freshness, and traditional preparation. It's more than just a meal; it's an experience designed to highlight the purity and nuanced flavors of expertly prepared fish.

SUGARFISH has become a benchmark for sushi excellence, offering a streamlined yet profoundly satisfying dining journey. Their commitment to serving impeccably fresh fish and perfectly prepared rice, often still warm, sets them apart. If you're looking for a sushi experience that prioritizes quality and tradition, SUGARFISH in Pasadena is a must-visit.

Location and Accessibility

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa is conveniently located at 146 S Lake Ave #108, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA. This prime spot on South Lake Avenue places it within a vibrant and easily accessible district of Pasadena. While SUGARFISH locations typically do not take reservations, which can lead to a wait, the Pasadena location offers a distinct advantage: a nice courtyard where you can comfortably wait for your table, enhancing the overall experience. For parking, there's a paid parking garage directly behind the restaurant, accessible via Shoppers Lane, which offers validation for the first two hours. Additionally, for those willing to walk a short distance, free street parking can often be found on nearby Green Street or Cordova Street, making a visit to SUGARFISH remarkably convenient for local diners.

Services Offered

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa focuses on providing a refined and traditional sushi experience, emphasizing the quality of ingredients and the craft of preparation. Here’s what you can expect:

  • "Trust Me" Omakase Menus: The signature offering at SUGARFISH is their "Trust Me" menu, a curated omakase experience that allows diners to entrust their meal to the chef. Options include "Trust Me" ($30 lunch/$35 dinner), "The Nozawa Trust Me" ($39 lunch/$46 dinner), and "Don't Think. Just Eat." ($59), which is the most comprehensive option, typically featuring a sashimi course, seven orders of nigiri, and two hand rolls.
  • Exceptional Quality Sushi and Sashimi: The restaurant prides itself on serving incredibly fresh and flavorful fish. Highlights from customer reviews include Tuna Sashimi with ponzu and chives, Albacore Sushi with ponzu and chives, Salmon Sushi with toasted sesame, and melt-in-your-mouth Toro Hand Rolls. Other praised pieces include Lobster Sushi, Eel, Japanese Yellowtail Sushi with lemon, Chutoro Sushi, New Zealand Sea Bream Sushi with citrus salt, and Hirame Sushi with yuzu ponzu.
  • Signature Hand Rolls: SUGARFISH is particularly famous for its hand rolls, prepared "Nozawa-style" with warm, loose rice and crispy nori. The Blue and Dungeness Crab Hand Rolls are a consistent favorite.
  • Individual Sushi Orders: While the "Trust Me" menus are highly recommended, guests can also order individual pieces of nigiri, sashimi, and cut rolls, allowing for a customized experience. Available options include Albacore, Salmon, Tuna, Yellowtail, Scallop, and more.
  • Takeout Options: SUGARFISH offers thoughtfully packaged takeout boxes, which are popular for their convenience and quality. These boxes come with a "sauce guide" to ensure the at-home experience matches the in-restaurant standard, highlighting their commitment to quality even for off-premise dining.
  • Beverage Selection: To complement the sushi, they offer a selection of beer (Sapporo), sake (including Nozawa Super Dry Sake), and wine (Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc).
  • Dine-In Experience: The restaurant provides a clean, cute, and well-maintained environment that enhances the dining experience, with a focus on attentive and amazing service.

Features / Highlights

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa is celebrated for several distinctive features that make it a premier sushi destination:

  • Unwavering Commitment to Freshness: The most frequently praised aspect is the exceptional freshness of their fish, which is paramount to the SUGARFISH philosophy. This dedication ensures each bite is incredibly flavorful.
  • Masterful Rice Preparation: Sushi Nozawa is known for its signature warm, loosely packed rice, which is made in small batches and refreshed frequently. This attention to detail elevates the entire sushi experience.
  • Streamlined "Trust Me" Menu: The omakase-style "Trust Me" menus simplify ordering and guide diners through a curated selection of their best offerings, providing a cohesive and satisfying meal.
  • Impeccable Service: Customers consistently laud the attentive, professional, and friendly staff. Reviewers often highlight specific servers for their excellent care, contributing significantly to a positive dining experience.
  • Cute and Clean Ambiance: The restaurant maintains a clean, well-kept, and aesthetically pleasing environment, including well-maintained restrooms, which adds to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the meal.
  • Thoughtful Takeout Packaging: For those opting for takeout, the "cute" and functional packaging, complete with a sauce guide, ensures the quality of the SUGARFISH experience can be enjoyed at home.
  • Courtyard Waiting Area: While there can be waits due to their no-reservation policy, the Pasadena location offers a pleasant courtyard for waiting, making the standby more comfortable.

Promotions or Special Offers

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa does not typically offer traditional "Happy Hour" promotions or widespread discounts like many other restaurants. Their pricing strategy is generally consistent with the premium quality of their ingredients and the experience they provide. However, they do have a notable loyalty program:

  • Birthday Club: SUGARFISH offers a "Birthday Trust Me" gift to loyal customers. To be eligible, guests need to register and complete their profile, then check in at the restaurant on at least two separate occasions (at least 7 days before their birthday). The gift, a complimentary "Trust Me" menu, is valid on the actual day of the birthday for dine-in only.

It’s always best to check their official website or inquire directly for any specific limited-time offers or updates to their loyalty program.

Contact Information

To indulge in the exquisite sushi at SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa in Pasadena, here's how to reach them:

  • Address: 146 S Lake Ave #108, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA
  • Phone: (626) 298-8386

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For residents across California, and particularly those in the greater Pasadena area, SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa represents a premier destination for a high-quality sushi experience. Its philosophy of "Don't Think. Just Eat." simplifies the dining process, allowing patrons to fully immerse themselves in the expertly prepared, fresh, and flavorful sushi. The convenient Pasadena location on South Lake Avenue, coupled with thoughtful parking solutions, ensures accessibility for local diners.

The dedication to excellence is evident in every aspect, from the consistently praised freshness of the fish and the signature warm rice to the exceptionally attentive service. While there might be a wait, the comfortable courtyard waiting area at the Pasadena location makes it a more pleasant experience. For celebrating special occasions, enjoying a sophisticated meal, or simply treating yourself to top-tier sushi, SUGARFISH offers a reliable and deeply satisfying culinary journey that resonates with the discerning palates of California locals.

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa Photos

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SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa Location

SUGARFISH by sushi nozawa

146 S Lake Ave #108, Pasadena, CA 91101, USA

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