Sushi Roku

Sushi Roku Restaurant Review:

The Newport Beach outpost of the Sushi Roku brand does a nice job of fitting right in with its Fashion Island surroundings. Patrons like to chill on the patio or by the lively, well-lit bar and enjoy a cocktail or saké, while the open main dining space is festooned with bonsai trees and flashes of color to provide a restrained elegance. Sushi aficionados can also gather at the sushi bar and watch chef Shin Toyoda and his team craft a nice array of sushi and sashimi, which range from basic yellowtail and salmon to more advanced bites like sea bream, freshwater eel and monkfish liver. There are several familiar and signature rolls, but we recommend exploring the starter section first. The premium edamame and fluke kumquat sashimi are particularly worthwhile. Entrées prepared over Japanese bincho charcoal such as Prime rib-eye steak "Japonais" are available for those who want to digress from the main draw. There are also plenty of thoughtfully composed vegetarian and vegan options on the menu if you're looking for a healthy lunch. Desserts are highlighted by the bananas flambé, which is accompanied by a spark-emitting mini-tower.