Sushi Exchange Introduce
In the sprawling, diverse culinary landscape of San Diego, California, finding a Japanese restaurant that consistently delivers on both flavor and experience is a true delight. Nestled in the upscale suburbs of Carmel Valley, Sushi Exchange has quickly emerged as a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a fresh take on classic sushi and innovative Japanese-inspired dishes. This is a place where quality ingredients meet creative execution, all served with a genuine smile.
Sushi Exchange prides itself on creating a memorable dining experience that goes beyond just excellent sushi. Patrons rave about the unexpected delights on their menu, from unique appetizers that surprise and satisfy, to a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit feel comfortable and enjoyable. They understand that Californians appreciate fresh, well-prepared food, and they strive to exceed those expectations with every dish that leaves their kitchen.
Whether you're a seasoned sushi lover, an adventurous eater looking to try something new, or simply seeking a reliable spot for a delicious meal with friends and family, Sushi Exchange promises a solid option. Its commitment to great service and a diverse menu ensures that there's always something to discover and enjoy, making it a standout in San Diego's vibrant food scene.
Sushi Exchange is conveniently located at 13859 Carmel Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92130, USA. This address places it firmly within the upscale and family-friendly community of Carmel Valley, making it a prime dining spot for residents of the upper suburbs of San Diego.
Carmel Valley Road is a well-trafficked thoroughfare, offering easy access for diners from surrounding neighborhoods like Del Mar, Rancho Santa Fe, and Torrey Hills. The restaurant is situated in a commercial complex, which typically provides ample parking for customers, ensuring a stress-free arrival. Its location makes it a particularly convenient option for locals looking for a quality sushi meal without having to venture too far into the busier downtown areas of San Diego. For those who frequent the area for work or leisure, Sushi Exchange offers a readily accessible and appealing dining choice.
Sushi Exchange provides a variety of services designed to offer flexibility and convenience to its patrons:
- Dine-In: Enjoy your meal in a comfortable and solid atmosphere, perfect for both casual meals and more focused dining experiences.
- Takeout: Most items on their extensive menu are available for takeout, allowing customers to enjoy their favorite dishes from the comfort of their home or office.
- Delivery: For ultimate convenience, Sushi Exchange partners with popular third-party delivery platforms such as Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Postmates, making it easy to have their delicious food brought right to your door.
- Online Ordering: Their partnership with Toast and other platforms allows for seamless online ordering, streamlining the process for both takeout and delivery.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Options: While not explicitly listed as a service, the presence of highly praised items like "Crispy Garlic Tofu" and "Veggie Ramen" indicates a commitment to offering good options for plant-based diners.
- Kids Menu: Available public information indicates a "Kids Menu" with options like Kids Karaage, Kids Teriyaki Chicken, Kids Fried Rice, and Kids Ramen, making it a family-friendly choice.
These services ensure that Sushi Exchange caters to a wide range of dining preferences and provides convenience for its San Diego clientele.
Sushi Exchange is celebrated for a range of features that contribute to its strong reputation and loyal customer base:
- Delicious and Diverse Menu: The restaurant offers a wide array of Japanese dishes, from an extensive selection of sushi and sashimi to innovative appetizers, hearty entrees, and flavorful noodle dishes. This variety ensures there's something to satisfy every craving.
- Exceptional Appetizers: Reviewers consistently highlight specific appetizers as standout items. The Shishito Peppers are particularly praised for their "so good" sauce, with one customer even using it for their sushi. The Crispy Garlic Tofu is also a major hit, described as "so crispy" and enhanced by "sauteed onions and jalapenos." The Fried Calamari Tentacles are also noted as a "plus."
- Great and Friendly Service: Customer service is a consistent strong point, described as "great" and "friendly." This welcoming approach contributes significantly to a positive dining experience.
- Solid Atmosphere: The restaurant offers a "solid atmosphere," indicating a pleasant and comfortable environment for dining.
- Quality Sushi: While some notes mention a slight saltiness, the sushi is generally regarded as "good" and a "considerable location/option" for quality Japanese food in the upper suburbs. Other reviews praise the sushi as "amazing," "delicious," and "fresh."
- Unique Cast Iron Entrees: Beyond sushi and appetizers, the menu features unique "Cast Iron Entrees" such as Katsu Curry Don, Miso Butter Mac and Cheese, Marinated Steak, Miso Salmon, and Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice, offering substantial and creative hot dishes.
- Noodle and Rice Bowl Options: For those craving something warm and comforting, they offer a variety of noodles including Chicken Yakisoba, Tempura Udon, Tonkotsu Ramen, Veggie Ramen, and Spicy Seafood Noodles. Rice bowls like Chicken Teriyaki Bowl, Spicy Thai Curry, and Poke Bowl are also popular choices.
- Dessert Offerings: The menu rounds out with appealing desserts like Mochi Ice Cream, Chocolate Mousse, and Green Tea Cheesecake.
- Value for Money (Implied): While not explicitly stated as "cheap," the general positive tone regarding the overall experience suggests that customers feel the quality and offerings justify the pricing, making it a good value within its market.
Sushi Exchange offers a Happy Hour which is a great way for locals to enjoy their delicious food and drinks at a potentially reduced price. Based on available information, their Happy Hour runs daily:
- Happy Hour Timing: Everyday from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Drink Specials: Includes $3.00 drafts and $3.00 hot sake, providing affordable beverage options.
While detailed food specials for Happy Hour were not fully explicit in the provided snippets, many sushi restaurants include discounted appetizers or select rolls during these times. Beyond Happy Hour, their comprehensive menu with various roll combinations, sushi platters, and "Cast Iron Entrees" also offers inherent value.
For the most current and specific details on their Happy Hour food specials or any other promotions, locals are encouraged to check Sushi Exchange's official website or inquire directly with the restaurant during their visit.
To experience the delicious offerings of Sushi Exchange or for any inquiries, you can reach them through the following contact details:
- Address: 13859 Carmel Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92130, USA
- Phone: (858) 365-7951
- Mobile Phone: +1 858-365-7951
Operating Hours: Based on available public information, Sushi Exchange's general operating hours are:
- Sunday - Thursday: Typically closes around 8:30 PM.
- Friday - Saturday: May have extended hours.
It is always advisable to verify these hours directly with the restaurant or through their online ordering platforms, especially for specific days or holidays, as hours can sometimes vary. Remember their Happy Hour is available daily from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
For the discerning residents of San Diego, particularly those in the Carmel Valley and surrounding upper suburbs, Sushi Exchange emerges as a highly suitable and compelling dining choice. Its consistent delivery of delicious food, coupled with excellent service and a versatile menu, makes it a valuable asset to the local culinary scene.
The most significant appeal for Californians is the quality and diversity of its menu. While the name highlights sushi, Sushi Exchange clearly offers much more. Locals appreciate the consistently good sushi, but are often delighted by the unexpected highlights like the flavorful Shishito Peppers, the perfectly crispy Garlic Tofu, and the unique "Cast Iron Entrees" such as the Miso Butter Mac and Cheese or Marinated Steak. This breadth of offerings means there’s something for every palate, making it an ideal spot for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even a solo treat. The inclusion of a dedicated Kids Menu further reinforces its suitability for families in this suburban area.
Furthermore, the commitment to great and friendly service creates a welcoming atmosphere that resonates deeply with diners. Californians value good service, and the positive feedback on the staff's attentiveness ensures a pleasant and efficient dining experience, whether you're dining in or picking up an order. This personable approach fosters loyalty and turns first-time visitors into regulars.
Finally, Sushi Exchange's convenient location in Carmel Valley with ample parking, combined with flexible service options including dine-in, takeout, and delivery, fits seamlessly into the busy Californian lifestyle. The daily Happy Hour, offering great deals on drinks and select food items, provides an excellent incentive for after-work unwinds or early dinners. For locals seeking a reliable, high-quality Japanese restaurant that offers both familiar favorites and exciting new flavors in a welcoming environment, Sushi Exchange is undoubtedly a top-tier choice in San Diego.
Sushi Exchange Menu
All Day Menu - Fun Rolls
- Tammy Tuna Roll US$11.95
Seared tuna with citron miso sauce & cilantro on top. Krab, cucumber & avocado inside.
- The Animal Roll US$11.95
Deep fried: spicy krab, cream cheese, jalapeno. Wrapped in soy. Spicy aioli and eel glaze.
- Dr. Young J Roll US$11.95
Seared albacore, green onions, smelt eggs and garlic ponzu sauce on top with shrimp tempura, krab, and avo.
- The Andersons Roll US$11.95
Shrimp tempura and krab inside. Spicy tuna and tempura flakes on top. Spicy aioli and eel glaze.
- Yuzu Yellowtail Roll US$11.95
Yellowtail and avocado with wasabi mayo, green tobiko and yuzu kosho on top. Krab and shrimp tempura inside.
- Crunchy Veggie Roll US$11.95
Assorted veggie tempura wrapped with both seaweed & soy paper topped with sesame cream sauce
- Jessica Albacore Roll US$11.95
Seared albacore, fried onion, fried jalapeno on top with spicy tuna and cucumber inside. Sesame sauce.
- Flaming Hey Lee Roll US$11.95
On top is seared salmon, smelt eggs, green onions, spicy aioli and eel glaze. Krab and shrimp tempura inside.
- Lemon Cilantro Roll US$11.95
Micro cilantro, sliced Meyer lemons, avo and salmon on top. Spicy tuna and cucumber inside. Citrus sesame sauce.
- Yoga Roll US$13.95
Rice-less roll with assortment of fish, spinach, avocado and gobo wrapped in cucumber. Sesame sauce on the side.
- Ted's Truffle Salmon Belly Roll US$15.99
Inside: Krab & avocado. Top: seared salmon belly, ikura, japanese mayo & truffle oil. Soy paper wrapped.
- Fatality Roll US$14.99
Exponentially spicy tuna roll with smoked ghost peppers, serrano peppers, habanero sauce & Carolina reaper. Order at your own risk.
- Fire Cracker Roll US$13.99
Spicy tuna, avo and shrimp tempura inside, albacore on top with ponzu, spicy garlic sauce and rainbow sprouts.
- XXX Roll US$11.95
Yellowtail, avocado, habanero sauce, sesame sauce and serrano on top. Spicy tuna & cucumber inside.
- Valley Roll US$11.95
Spicy scallop and cucumber inside. seared albacore, and jalapeno on top. Citrus Sriracha sauce.
- Jalapeno Lime Roll US$14.99
Inside: Spicy krab and shrimp tempura. Top: Albacore, avocado, micro cilantro, wasabi mayo, ponzu and jalapeno lime crunchies.
- Ninja Roll US$11.95
Salmon, fried onions, fried jalapeno and avocado on top. Shrimp tempura and krab inside. Sweet sauces.
- Poke Roll US$11.95
Tuna, avocado, hijiki onion, masago & green onion sauce on top. Spicy tuna, and cucumber inside.
- Spicy Hali-Toro US$18.99
Halibut, avo, serrano, lime zest, micro cilantro and ponzu on top. Chu toro, cucumber and habanero inside.
- Mary Me Roll US$11.95
Rice-Less and Deep fried: salmon, krab, avocado and spicy tuna inside. Spicy aioli, eel glaze, green onions, masago and mango salsa on top.
- Blood Orange Yellowtail Roll US$14.99
Inside: Spicy krab, shrimp tempura & basil. Top: sliced blood orange, yellowtail, black pepper, garlic infused olive oil, & avocado.
- Ninjette Roll US$13.95
Rice-less roll with krab and avocado inside. Assortment of fish on top. Sesame dressing.
All Day Menu - Teasers
- Chicken Karaage US$8.95
Crispy fried chicken served with garlic aioli sauce.
- Miso Soup US$4.50
Tofu, seaweed, & green onion
- Veggie Egg Rolls US$6.50
Deep fried with veggie filling. (5 pcs)
- Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice US$13.99
Spicy tuna, avo, shiso aioli, eel sauce, and rainbow sprouts topped on a bed of crispy rice. 4 pcs.
- White Rice US$3.00
- Edamame US$6.50
Spicy garlic, garlic, or salted.
- Crispy Garlic Tofu US$7.95
Deep fried tofu tossed with jalapeno garlic butter.
- Shishito Peppers US$7.95
Sweet Japanese chili tossed with spicy garlic shoyu.
- Pan Fried Dumplings US$6.95
Chicken and vegetables (6pcs).
- Takoyaki US$6.95
Fried octopus filled fritters (6pcs).
- Hamachi Kama US$11.95
Miso marinated hamachi kama served with white truffle ponzu.
- Brown Rice US$3.00
- Tempura Mix US$8.50
Fried vegetables and shrimp
- White Truffle Fries US$7.00
Seasoned Japanese fries with white truffle oil, cheese and shredded nori.
- Calamari Tentacles US$11.00
Soft breaded squid served with honey wasabi mayo.
- Cheesy Wontons US$7.95
Deep fried wontons with cream cheese, green onion, & krab inside (6pcs).
All Day Menu - Rice Bowls
- Spicy Thai Curry US$12.50
Seasonal Veggies in Spicy Vegan Curry Made in House
- Poke Bowl US$13.95
Tuna or salmon marinated in soyu sesame soy sauce, sweet onion hijiki sauce, & avocado.
- Teriyaki Bowl US$12.50
Choice of protein with mixed vegetables & teriyaki sauce. * Extra Meat option (extra of whatever meat choice you've made).
All Day Menu - Beverages
- Lemonade US$3.00
- Ramune US$4.00
- Mango Creamy Soda US$4.00
- Calpico US$3.00
- Soda US$3.00
- Melon Creamy Soda US$4.00
- Iced Tea US$3.00
All Day Menu - Classic Rolls
- Rainbow Roll US$11.95
Assortment of fish and avocado on top of California roll.
- Spicy Tuna Roll US$7.95
Spicy marinated chopped tuna and cucumber.
- Philadelphia Roll US$7.95
Fresh salmon, avocado and cream cheese.
- Shrimp Tempura Roll US$11.50
Shrimp tempura, avocado, cucumber, masago & krab wrapped in soy paper & nori topped with eel glaze.
- Spider Roll US$11.95
Fried soft shell crab, cucumber sprouts, gobo & avocado wrapped in soy paper.
- Tiger Roll US$11.95
Shrimp tempura and krab inside. Ebi and avocado on top. Spicy aioli and eel glaze.
- Hosomaki Roll US$6.95
Choice of tuna / salmon / yellowtail / cucumber / or avocado wrapped with seaweed outside.
- Amber Roll US$11.95
Spicy tuna, jalapeno, & eel glaze on top. Inside: cream cheese, shrimp tempura, cucumber & avocado.
- California Roll US$6.95
Krab, cucumber and avocado.
- Alaskan Roll US$11.95
Salmon, krab, cucumber, avocado and spinach. Ponzu sauce.
- Vegetable Roll US$10.00
Spring mix, tofu, cucumber, avocado, radish, & seaweed salad wrapped in soy paper with sesame sauce.
- Caterpillar Roll US$11.95
Avocado on top. Eel, krab, and cucumber inside.
- Seattle Roll US$11.95
Spicy salmon, cucumber and spinach inside. Smoke salmon and avocado on top. Sesame sauce.
- Dragon Roll US$11.95
Shrimp tempura and Krab inside. Eel and Avocado outside.
- Dynamite Roll US$11.95
Baked roll with either salmon OR scallop on top. Krab & avo inside. Topped with creamy krab sauce, onions, eel glaze and cheese.
- Crunchy Roll US$10.95
Shrimp tempura and krab inside. Tempura flakes and eel glaze on top.
- Hawaiian Roll US$11.95
Shrimp tempura and krab inside. Tuna, masago, pickled onion, mango salsa and eel glaze on top.
All Day Menu - Cast Iron Entrees
- Miso Butter Mac 'N Cheese US$16.00
Spiral pasta with miso butter, sweet corn, truffle oil, and mushroom topped with shredded cheese.
- Marinated Steak US$20.00
Served with a side of pickled veggies, white rice and a side of chili garlic lime sauce.
- Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice US$16.00
Traditional cabbage kimchi stir fried with smoked bacon, fried egg, cheese and minced vegetables. No adjustment.
- Katsu Curry Don US$16.00
Panko fried chicken strips served with yellow Japanese curry, carrots, potatoes & white rice.
- Miso Salmon US$16.00
Tender pan seared shiro miso salmon served with broccoli & white rice.
All Day Menu - Salads
- House Salad US$6.50
Signature house salad. Carrot ginger dressing.
- Squid Cucumber Salad US$7.50
Seasoned cucumber, squid & radish
- Pickled Vegetables US$6.50
Seasonal Pickles
- Seaweed Salad US$6.50
Seasoned wakame with daikon and fuji apple.
- Sashimi Salad US$14.50
Spring mix, assorted fish & wasabi yuzu dressing.
All Day Menu - Handrolls
- Handrolls US$6.75
Choose 1 option from the following for handrolls: avocado, cucumber, albacore, tuna, salmon, yellowtail, eel, shrimp tempura, california, philedelphia.
- Negi-Toro Handroll US$9.00
Chopped toro with green onion
All Day Menu - Nigiri
- Shiso Squid Nigiri US$5.50
- Chopped Wasabi US$2.00
- Fresh Water Eel Nigiri US$5.50
- Sea Scallop Nigiri US$7.50
- Sweet Shrimp Nigiri US$11.50
- Yellowtail Belly Nigiri US$7.50
- Chef's Choice (9 Pcs) Nigiri US$35.95
Chef's Choice 9 piece Nigiri.
- Japanese Amberjack Nigiri US$7.50
- Yellowtail Nigiri US$6.50
- Salmon Belly Nigiri US$7.50
- Pickled Mackerel US$5.50
- Marinated Bluefin Tuna Nigiri US$7.50
- Sea Urchin (Uni) Nigiri US$15.50
- House Cured Salmon Eggs Nigiri US$7.50
- Garlic Albacore Nigiri US$6.50
- Bluefin Tuna Nigiri US$6.50
- Seared Sea Bream US$7.50
- Halibut Nigiri US$7.50
- Bluefin TORO Nigiri US$11.50
- Scottish Salmon Nigiri US$6.50
- Negi-Toro Nigiri US$7.50
All Day Menu - Sashimi
- Tuna Crudo Sashimi US$16.95
Garlic Olive Oil, Truffle Salt, Meyer Lemons & Micro Greens on Top
- Honey Yuzu Yellowtail Sashimi US$16.95
Honey, yuzu kosho, tobiko & micro greens.
- Prime Plate US$45.00
Chef’s premium selection.
- Sashimi US$12.50
Choose one of the following traditional sashimi(5pc): salmon, yellowtail, tuna, or albacore.
- Monkfish Liver Sashimi US$15.99
3 pcs.
- Combo (8pc) US$17.95
Two salmon, two yellowtail, two tuna, two chef’s choice. No substitution.
All Day Menu - Kid's Ninja Meals
- Kid's Chicken Teriyaki US$8.50
Served with edamame, rice, fruit and cookie. Children under 40 years old only.
- Kid's Chicken Karaage US$8.50
Served with edamame, rice, fruit and cookie. Children under 40 years old only.
All Day Menu - Noodles
- Yakisoba US$14.00
Stir fry noodles with chicken and vegetables in a sweet and savory sauce. * Extra Meat option (extra of whatever meat choice you've made).
- Ramen US$14.00
Wheat noodles served in Pork broth topped with pork belly chashu, leeks, bean sprouts, seasoned seaweed, bamboo, and black fungus. Add shoyu soft boiled egg for $2 more.
- Spicy Seafood Udon US$16.00
Mixed seafood and vegetables in a hot and spicy broth served with thick wheat noodle.
- Tempura Udon US$14.00
Classic Japanese dish of thick wheat noodles in a savory hot broth garnished with crispy prawns.
Sushi Exchange Details
Service options
- Outdoor seating
- Delivery
- Takeaway
- Dine-in
Highlights
- Fast service
- Great tea selection
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible car park
- Wheelchair-accessible entrance
- Wheelchair-accessible seating
- Wheelchair-accessible toilet
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Comfort food
- Happy-hour drinks
- Happy-hour food
- Healthy options
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Wine
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Groups
- University students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free of charge street parking
- Free parking lot
- Parking
Sushi Exchange Photos










Sushi Exchange Location
Sushi Exchange
13859 Carmel Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92130, USA
Sushi Exchange Reviews
Great service, delicious food. Love the shishito peppers starter. The sauce was so good I had to dip my sushi roll in it. Also the crispy garlic tofu was so crispy and the sauteed onions and jalapenos, yes!!
May 21 · Sarah PudelekGood sushi although it can get a bit salty. Service was great and friendly. Tofu was decent. Fried calamari tentacles were a plus. Solid atmosphere. A considerable location/option for those within the upper suburbs of San Diego.Love from the Bay Area!
February 18 · Darren LamBeen about a dozen times and counting, go-to dish is the prime plate plus a roll here or there.Prime plate is fantastic and rolls are good for the price. Service is very friendly and quick, and can't complain watching some jet li movies while waiting for our food.
April 19 · Paul WangSushi exchange is an underrated sushi spot, tucked away in a quiet plaza. They have a great atmosphere with classic movies and anime playing on their TV. The sushi rolls, hand rolls, and nigiri were delicious, creative, and affordable. The mixed tempera was light and flaky. Outside of the higher end places like Sushi Ota or Soichi, this is becoming one of my new favorite Sushi places!
April 25 · Mike TranWe love this place! One of my favorite sushi spots in all of San Diego, great waitstaff and amazing food! Restaurant itself is on the smaller end, which I actually enjoy as it’s a more intimate setting. Underrated spot which I implore anyone currently reading these reviews to try out!
April 03 · Caleb Franzen
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