Koi Japanese Cuisine

Koi, you never disappoint. Went here for a bday dinner Omakase. And since recently, we have had amazing Omakase in Japan, the bar was set pretty high, and boy, let me tell ya, it did not disappoint. We sat by the bar and asked for Omakase with Shin-san. And I trust him with all my heart and tummy. Loool! All the fresh fishes, local and important was just so fresh and greatly prepared. The Black cod appetizer truly melted in your mouth good. Shin-san also made the birthday dinner by preparing a special dessert! Shin-san really made this 3xperience so worthwhile, the service is even better than we evrr had in Japan. Definitely a splurge for Omakase but so worth it. So glad that a lot of the locals frequented there and the chefs knew rhem by name. Now, that's dedicqtion and love in their craft. The waitresses are always so courteous and attentive. Koi, you didnt disappount me then and you didnt disappoint me now. My ever favorite place for Omakase in SoCal! ありがとうほざいます。ごちそさまでした。

The only thing difficult here was to decide what to order. Albacore is my go-to for an appetizer, and it was delicious. I ordered the sashimi dinner and loved everything except the red Tuna. Portion size of the salad was very generous. Not pictured is the Miso soup, standard and tasty. Great dining experience, food was wonderful, and we will definitely return.

One of my favorite sushi restaurants!

A perfectly comfortable yet classy place to have the most fresh sushi. Service is quick and impeccable. The sushi chefs, if you sit at the sushi bar, will recommend the freshest catches. The live scallop was a pure delight! The bluefin Toro was like butter.

Seating for 2 at the bar in front of the chef. We went right before the Pandmeic started. It was a special night. Told the waiter we wanted to spend around $100 per person (not including drinks) and surprise us. We were served 10 small unique phenomenal dishes. Such a wonderful experience!

Honestly… the sake was delicious… smooth. The sushi was okay nothing too fancy. They offer different kinds of fish you would not find everywhere. So some of their dishes they offer regular or premium fish. We got the regular, but you could tell some of the items were not as fresh and while they make the plate look nice some of the better fish cut is way smaller in size. So it definitely pricy for the quality of food… but the selection of fish kinda compensated for the price/portion size… definitely not the quality. The toro was ok. The food presentation was great, gluten free option…. Servers were amazing. It was a bit loud… definitely had to raise the voice to hear your party.

This was a gift from friends. We normally don't go here. We had an excellent meal and drinks. People were lined up at the door at opening time. Fortunately, we had a reservation. I had mixed tempura which was good. Had interesting cold sake in these wooden boxes. It was good but a bit pricey.

Overall: A+ only one trip up...the poke bowl First pic is the poke. It was just a mess in flavor. Big miss. BUT the rest was amazing. Sashimi plate, toro tuna sashimi, chopped toro and rainbow roll. Everything was very fresh and clean flavor. Will definitely be going back.

Sushi has finally arrived in the main stream when a non-Japanese family sidles up to the Sushi Bar to celebrate their privileged and entitled 9 year old's birthday with 4 Omakase Dinners. This place serves fish to the community without reservations, so, be prepared it's the queue for you. But it moves quickly as the Chefs slice and dice in a blur. Koi has been a stalwart for 40 + years because the fish is impeccably sourced and Chef/Owner Kunio Go is there early and stays late. After all those years this truly charming fellow is still on site overseeing the kitchen, working the room like a Vegas lounge act, hugging the ladies and counting the money although now he spends more time counting the ladies and hugging the money. The decor is somewhere between a 60's Coffee Shop and Chiba Chic. Several taxidermied fish hang on the walls, booths line two dining rooms made of clear lacquered wood and feature muted tones. There is a bustling Sushi Bar manned by Ryori-cho/Itamae and there will be a butt on every stool at the opening bell. Plus, the fish is as fresh as that 9 year kid ordering specials for his nodding approving parents and bored sibling. The Staff: All young guns who are as enthusiastic and bubbly as effervescent Sake and all in constant motion like a Pachinko Machine. Who's in the house besides the know it all 9 year old? Mostly non-Japanese, locals who are within walking or walker distance. The Bar: The usual suspects for Japanese Beer, a few wines just in case, and a solid selection of Sake. A whole page of Sake in large font gives the appearance of many choices but there are really plenty of options and something for anyone to test their luck at a Sobriety Check Point. The Food: The Oysters rotate depending what's hot, what's not, what hits the spot, and what's got rot. The Hammersley Oysters come from a hot bed of cool oyster beds in Massachusetts. Misty Points come from Virginia. Pacific Oysters and Miyagis come from Japan. I thought a Fat Bastard was that 300 pounder baring his plumber's butt and swaying in front of you at the Eagles concert. Nope, it's a monster mutant Oyster requiring you to unhinge your jaw like an Anaconda swallowing a Pig to enjoy them, and you will. The night I dined at Koi I had the Sushi Master gave me a couple of baller beasts from Washington State. Those prehistoric creatures were the size of a Russet Potato and absolutely wonderful. If they have'em, you have'em. The Snapper Sampler Sushi Tray had 4 varieties one night and 8 varieties another night. And while both were great it's the luck of the fish draw as to which sampler is ampler. The Yellowtail Sushi was still wiggling when the Chef laid a slice out over the knob of perfect Vinegar'd Rice. Delicious. The Spider Roll was as big as Andrew Whitworth's forearm. The Roll had that kitchen sink stuffed inside feel to it. The Soft Shell Crab went directly from freezer to the fryer. And if you fry it I will buy it. So should you. Crispy is America's favorite flavor, isn't it? Most all seafood at sushi restos has been frozen alive and or dead at some point. This Soft Shell Crab Roll was wonderful and in The Chef's capable hands was brought back from the beyond to taste crunchy and perfectly fresh. The Chawanmushi (Steamed Egg Custard), sadly fell a hair short of the mark. It should be cooked covered in a Bain Marie (water bath) in order to gently get it to set. This version was broken and had curdled. Okay, it's an acquired skill like a French Omelet. Oh, and do have the Green Salad with both legendary dressings. (Sesame and/or Peanut). If you yucker the recipe for either dressing out of the owner you will be amply rewarded by adoring fans. Alas, not even Chef Kunio's kids know the recipe. The mystery of the salad magic makes this destination all the more attractive and inviting. The menu us huge. Can't decide what to eat? Snuggle up to that 9 year old Omakase Maven and let the little savant impress you. Don't be coy at Koi...it's all gonna be great.

Even though the small plate was lobster tempura, I wanted some melted butter with it. I think I expected better because it was near the marina. It seems like one should stick to the sashimi or sushi here. They didn't make my seared NY steak appetizer, so we were given a California roll instead. The red bean ice cream didn't taste like it, but the waiter had recommend the green tea flavor...

Drive +/- 1 Hr To Try. 2023 L.A Michelin The Plate. Order Crispy Tempura Kisu Fish (Yummy) , Grilled Lamb Chop (Very Yummy) , Sugi Combo (Chicken Teriyaki & Tempura) , Sushi Dinner. Free Range Chicken Teriyaki Tastes Sooo Goood ! Sushi Pieces Tastes Very Nice. Even The Complimentary Miso Soup & Salad Tastes Very Very Good. Worth The Trip.

Old standby for sushi. Still my go to. Fish is always pristine and the sushi chefs are well trained. Service has always been friendly and helpful. The attached photo was from an omakase experience about eight years ago. Amazing artistry.

FOOD was over priced and way too much. Although Loved the service and sushi bar. I think it would be nice if they remodeled

I recently dined at Koi Japanese Cuisine in Seal Beach and had a fantastic experience. The service was great, the ambience was serene and inviting, perfect for a relaxed evening out. The specialty rolls were a highlight, each bursting with flavor and expertly crafted. From the super california roll to the rainbow roll, every bite was a delight. The appetizers were also exceptional, especially the crab cakes and the flavorful miso soup. Overall, Koi Japanese Cuisine offers a wonderful dining experience that I highly recommend.

This is our go to sushi place whenever we visit Seal Beach. Always delicious food, fast service and cute ambiance. Just make sure you get there early or else there will be a line out the door. My husband tried the chicken katsu which was great. Delicious sauce, crispy breading, and juicy chicken. I tried several different sushi rolls and all of them were delicious. The rainbow roll and the seal beach roll were my favorites but the California roll and the crunch roll were also great. I also tried the sea urchin sashimi which was a first for me but it was very fresh and absolutely delicious. The shrimp sashimi was also great. You can tell they use fresh ingredients in all of their dishes and that they take time and pride to plate everything nicely with beautiful edible garnishes. We can't wait to come back during our next trip to California!

First time visit and we were impressed. The sushi bar was consistently full with people enjoying sushi. We sat in a booth. The pork was excellent as was the shrimp tempura. The shiitake mushroom with crab appetizer was excellent. Service was very good. Corner of PCH and 5th street in Seal Beach.

We ordered food to take out. My Husband ordered Beef Teriyaki and a rainbow california roll. He was very happy with his dinner selections. I ordered the Nabe. At first glance, the broth does not appear to be flavorful. Looks ARE DECEIVING! Nabe had fish, scallops, shrimp, shitake mushrooms, cabbage, onions and a VERY FLAVORFUL broth. It was delicious! I was feeling slightly under the weather. This dish to made me me feel great. Warm and full! Check out Koi Restaurant!

We came here prior to the dinner rush on a Saturday night. There wasn't one dish I was particularly crazy about. The restaurant itself has ample space and there is a sushi bar you can sit at. We had a couple of rolls and some other appetizer items. This restaurant would have scored higher with me if the quality was better. The sushi was good, but it wasn't anything special. We got two rolls, a wrap, a miso soup and one salmon cheek. Service by the staff wasn't good. Our waters weren't refilled, they didn't check on us at all and the wrap we ordered came well after we ate our entire meal. I know seafood and sushi comes with a hefty price tag at times but this restaurant wasn't worth it. We initially checked it out because we live nearby and pass by it often. This spot was one and done for me personally.

Always super fresh . This is my favorite local sushi spot ! Grab a no rice seal beach roll , they are hands down the best I've found ( cucumber wrapped ,tuna ,salmon yellowtail - shrimp& avocado ) . Yummy iced green tea is served here with a smile ! The chefs choice plate tonight was incredible ., the black cod literally melts in your mouth and the quail eggs were perfect !

Came here for our first date night post-baby for the omakase and left feeling like it was a fun experience, but not sure about the value, hence the 4-stars instead of 5. We sat at the sushi bar and asked for an omakase for $60 pp, so $120 total. The sushi chef gave us about 7-10 sushi pieces each. The highlight was probably the scallop for us. The experience was fun, but when you can order a sushi platter and have so much more food - the experience of the omakase left a little to be desired. Maybe I need to have a different mindset around it. I appreciate the chef serving us the items at the bar, but I also wish for perhaps slightly more background or have it be more experiential if it's focusing more on the experience than the quality of food. I'd come back and give it another try though and appreciate that there's an omakase sushi experience at Koi.

I went there Saturday at 730 pm for dinner and noticed it wasn't crowded like before. I thought it was odd because the restaurant usually busy. I ordered my usual but this time I noticed the foods weren't the same. I ordered stuffed mushrooms and I discovered they used imitation crab meat they used real crabmeat before. I ordered pork belly stewed and noticed they used cheap mashed potatoes and this time no bok choy. I ordered Agadashi tofu again I noticed it wasn't the same big soft fancy tofu. They used cheap small square pieces. They changed the quality of the food and maybe that's why people don't go there like before. I will never go back disappointed.

I went here with my immediate family and it was amazing. Very friendly staff even when busy and the food was amazing. I got a premium chirashi, my wife/parents/brother all got a sushi dinner, and my infant son had a teriyaki salmon. The premium chirashi was definitely omakase level sushi. The tuna melted in my mouth, crab meat was delicious and sweet, negitoro, scallops, and albacore were all delicious. We also did oyster shooters, salmon carpaccio, albacore jalapeno, and tempura appetizers which were all amazing. I can't wait to return!

I recently moved to this area and I've been looking for a new go to sushi spot. My partner and I got the rainbow roll and crunchy roll. Both rolls definitely satisfied my cravings and the fish was fresh. Also, their service there was amazing. My server, Alyssa, was really nice and was attentive to everything we needed. Overall, it was a great experience and I think I've found my new go to sushi spot!

If you want the best sushi in town then go sit at the sushi bar with Daigo. The freshest and best fish. His staff is friendly and professional. The food is the best sushi. I live in Newport but drive to Seal Beach for Daigo's sushi.

Koi used to be the premiere sushi location in Seal Beach. Over the pas decade I feel their quality and service has gone downhill. The interior is dated and does not reflect prices charged. Overall, disappointed in Koi's dishes compared to 7-10 years ago.

Came here on Saturday night with a group of 4. Met Daigo and Jay/Sonny. They were both so welcoming and the rest of the crew who were there. We went all out since it was our first time. $472? No problem! We all have been to many sushi spots and this spot... was alot more fresh than some spots weve been to. -The sashimi platter was amazing. Great presentation. I had them deep fry the head of the amaebi and in miso soup. Amazing! -braised pork belly : extremely tender - salmon cheek : delicious - crunch rolls : alot of tempura is thats your thing - oysters were fresh. No food poisoning so definitely a good sign hahahahaha - variety of beers and sakes - monkfish liver : definitely fresh. No stench - i forgot the rest lol but definitely worth it! The place was fully packed. I mean a full house and the timing of the service and food coming out was very quick. Surprisingly. Us 4 will definitely be back.

Came back a week ago for my wife's bday and the food and service are still top-notch. The selection of sushi is better than pretty much any sushi restaraut in SoCal and the freshness is second to none. I think this is one of the best sushi restaraunts in California and maybe even Tokyo. I know that is saying a lot, but ask the customers. The pricing may seem higher, but you get what you pay for and it really isn't too bad. The food from the kitchen is also really good too. Better than most Izakayas around OC. Very comfortable setting, BIG sushi bar and relaxed beach atmoshphere (or you can dress up, but I don't). Thanks Daigo!!!

Congratulations to my friend, Chef @daigochef, achieving his dream and made owner to his own restaurant! We have been seeing Daigo for many years at @koi_japanesecuisine in Seal Beach. His sushi is solid and his personality wins even more. We have always had omakase (you can name your price) at his restaurant and we were never disappointed at the end of the meal. We would highly recommend this spot for all our sushi and sake lovers. Reservations at 5pm only; walk-ins are welcomed anytime. Enjoy!

Look at this beautiful sashimi plate!! All the fish they use was super fresh, and I really enjoyed how the sushi chef was knowledgeable about sake. Servers are attentive & friendly. I love the cozy atmosphere,too!

My daughter and granddaughter joined Diane and me for another massive dinner here, beginning with live Scallops, a Seal Beach Roll, and for me a California Rainbow Roll that combined the best of two types of sushi. Then Diane concentrated on golden Shrimp Tempura while I more expansively delighted in both Shrimp and Vegetable Tempura, with the Sweet Potato my favorite vegetable specimen. The Sukiyaki Dinner rounded out my meal, with Miso Soup, a garden Side Salad with equally good Ginger and Sesame Dressings, Steamed White Rice, and Sukiyaki made with mushrooms, glass noodles, slices of lean ribeye, and a very flavorful broth. Food as usual was excellent, and service was good. Once again XXXX-1/2 stars overall!

My husband has been going here for 30 years. The fish is fresh, the servers give solid recommendations, the sushi is beautiful. Last night, we sat at the bar (usually we have our children and that's not a great option). We met some great people and it was so fun watching the chef's prepare the food and they answered all my questions. We ate the salmon & bluefin toro, then some Sea Bass & Albacore. I love the different flavors the chefs add to compliment different fish. One of our neighbors had a shrimp boat which we tried and another got a bowl of Omakase/Chefs choice that was gorgeous. We also had the A-5 wagyu beef which was delicious. Parking is plentiful in lot and chefs were still wearing masks. We got there at 5:30pm and got last 2 seats at bar. The restaurant is usually packed.

Not 100 % Real Crab in the California Roll anymore! Something that simple the new owners ruined!

Service is not good. Food is a little expensive and not decent for pricing. I have to wait long time to get something to eat because the chefs take care customers only at bar someone come after me but they get food before me. It is not make sense. Servers he never take care of us. He walk around us pass by and never ask like would you like anything's else... I am very disappointed for that service and not come back here again

I heard that this restaurant has been around for quite some time and it is a very beloved local establishment. I finally made my way down to Seal Beach to try it out. My friend and I arrived right at 5PM on a Thursday evening and there were already quite a few diners inside. Luckily, we were able to snag a seat at the sushi bar. We opted for the sushi omakase, and honestly I'm not sure how many pieces I ate but it was pretty good. Some fish definitely tasted fresher than others, but nothing was bad. We also got a few oysters to try, and they tasted very fresh. It was fun to entrust the chef with choosing our sushi for the evening, because who knows better than him right? Overall, the sushi was good. Not mind-blowing, and not the best I've ever had, but I would come back. A lot of people seemed to be ordering the sashimi omakase and the presentation on that was beautiful. I will have to try that next time. My favorite bite of the night was the toro topped with shiso and uni. The quality of uni offered really says a lot about a sushi joint, and I have no complaints about this one. The staff was very friendly and attentive. The interior of the restaurant is definitely dated, but I heard that Koi will soon be under new management. I'll have to come back and try it when that transition occurs and hope that the new management takes this restaurant to a whole new level.

I have been eating here for decades but FIFTY DOLLARS for two little slices of over salted farmed fish (ocean trout). I was completely insulted and taken advantage of by the new people. You will never see me again.

Amazing local spot. Been around for decades! Love the quality of fish and service here and happy to support small businesses.

Best sushi around! Been going here for 15 years and have never had sushi this fresh and sushi rice this good anywhere else. Sushi chefs are legit and helpful. Life Koi!

Best Sushi ever. Great service and ambience as well. Loved the spicy tuna sushi and the avocado sushi.

Great low key sushi spot! Friendly staff , energetic vibe but still mellow. The sushi chefs know what they are doing! It's hard to find fresh seafood so I appreciate that my seafood was fresh and presented clean and beautiful. First time but will definitely be back. Keep up the good work and happy friendly atmosphere / delicious fresh seafood!! Fresh being the key!! Chef Sunny

Just went back to Koi for the first time in four years. Our favorite chef Daigo-san is now the owner as of about a month ago, and the quality of food is as good as it's ever been. By far the best sushi in the area, and excellent by any standard. This is especially the spot for you in you like sashimi and nigiri sushi.

Great sushi place in seal beach but get there early because it's packed all the time Great sushi place in seal beach but get there early because it's packed all the time

WE LOVE DAIGO. if you know, you know. We have NEVER been disappointed here - in terms of taste, freshness, and variety. Also, we have never been seated outside of the sushi bar. As soon as we sit down, Daigo knows and starts prepping our food. We start with a platter of sashimi, then various cooked food and nigiri. Daigo always knows what to pair our food with Sake. Always the best times! We have met some awesome people sitting by us as well. Can't wait to come back. :) Plenty of parking in the lot, shares with other eateries and McDonalds. $$$$

Many of us locals have been faithful to Koi for over 30 years. Sadly, when our chef Taka had a medical issue and resigned, the place has never been the same. Daigo took over Taka's poistion and manged to piss off the locals with smug personality as he tries to upsell his omakase with high price sake. Now that Daigo is the owner, it will never be the Koi we once knew and loved.

I just went there for my anniversary. Everything was lovely. The food, let me just say it was the first time I have felt full in a long time. The service was spectacular and the the ambiance was perfect for an anniversary.

My parents just returned to Koi last night and let me know they had a very good experience. They said the food and service was great and the old owners weren't there. Based on this along I will try it again and will immediately delete my 11 year old 1 star review.

I'd heard raves of this place from family & friends, that it has quality food- And that it did, however I'm giving a 2 star due to the service we received from the waitress. Quite frankly, you (waitress) don't tell the customer they said XYZ when the customer said ABC & you were taking notes. We ordered Shrimp & Veggie Tempura Entree, but it came out as Veggie only. Didn't make a big deal of it, but it was not a pleasant experience as the waitress sidestepped our table multiple times even before this conversation took place. Don't get me wrong- the food is on par with higher end Japanese cuisine; good tempura says a lot. Hate to say this, but given my experience I'd only recommend takeout or sushi bar- which I will try next time to give them another shot. Looking forward to the good sushi (& better service)

Never again. Worst service ever. I will never visit the place again.., I understand under staffed , however, waiting for your order that was never placed is in sane . I'm not a local however I am still a paying customer. why I stayed is shame on me.

Been coming here since I was in middle school, I'm now 38. Best tempura ever and I've eaten a lot of it from different places. They have the best batter, light and crunchy never oily or too thick. It's simply perfection. Love the yakitori, chawanmushi (not sure the spelling), and salad with sesame dressing. Our family use to order the boat for years but since Covid, they cancelled that menu item. The restaurant has simple decor but the food speaks for itself! Staff are always friendly.

Small family owned, friendly with excellent food and service. We were seated right away. The prices are decent for the area and quality of food. Everything tasted fresh and tasty. Portions were huge. Its now our go to neighborhood Japanese.

It used be nice service but after corona server are all changed and service went down bad. Food still good but the experience is not good at all Such a bummer for nice food.

Terrible service, waited forever for everything including no napkins or silverware for a steak dinner....the food was also brought to the table cold, on the second time around it was brought out lukewarm...all in all a terrible experience. Yeah and the waiter got my order wrong. Not going back. Too many other great Japanese Restaurants in the area.

First time eating here and we ordered the omakase. Very crowded place if you want to make a reservation so it before they open at 5 pm. Nice spot in seal beach. Service-4. Grant it they were very busy but seem to forget the sushi bar area for drinks refill. Very nice servers Ambience-3 nothing special built typical sushi restaurant Food-4 stars. fish is good, not great for omakase. We are used to do LA sushi restaurant where the fish just melts in your mouth. We ordered the sweet shrimp amaebi and the head came out after dessert was given to us lol. Smoked salmon was really good. The only think I forgot to tell them not not give was the monkfish liver. Slices could have bee slightly better, but overall great local spot. Price-Greta bang for your bucks!

Koi's chefs choice/omakase is a great experience! I would highly recommend if you are able to sit at the sushi bar.

Our go to place for the past 4 years but our resent visit 3/24/23 , one of us was very disappointed with the Ell Roll! It had small 1/4 in pieces of hard dark dried out ell on top. Some pieces even smaller. I don't know why I didn't send it back. Respect for the staff perhaps. PLEASE DON'T LET QUALITY slip down and for these prices $$$$

Loved this place before the pandemic but felt the quality and service have gone down after my recent visit. It's still good sushi especially for the area with less Asian options. I like their sushi dinner menu with fresh fish and great selection of appetizers such as calamari and crispy salmon skin salad. The fish for some reason wasn't as amazing as I remembered but it was still good but not "melt in your mouth" good. It did have a chewier texture and it's mainly from the tuna and yellowtail rolls. Also, the rice from the sushi pieces kept falling off and not sticking to the fish while I eat it so that was a bit of concern. Nevertheless, I enjoyed my experience and the waitress even brought out a special sorbet dish for my friend's birthday at the end which was a special surprise.

Been frequenting this spot since they opened over 40 years ago when the restaurant was half the size it is today. Prior to it's closing from a fire back in the 80's Taka was the head sushi chef. He couldn't wait for it's reopening and ended up in Diamond Bar. I visited him there 8-10 years ago and he was still going strong. I judge a good sushi bar by their Uni. Koi's is excellent every time. Daigo is the current head sushi chef and he's a real artist. I'll oftentimes order Omakase. Never been disappointed.

A friend of mine turned me onto this place. A little pricey but delicious expertly prepared fresh fish. Restaurant has a very authentic Japanese feel inside.

I am so disappointed with Koi. This used to be my favorite higher priced sushi in this area. I visited recently for a birthday and their quality dropped so much. The fish didnt taste fresh. The sushi rice was soooo bad. It was hard in the middle but wet outside. Undercooked and used too much water. It wasn't seasoned well. The sushi tasted like grocery store sushi. Not to mention it is not a cheap restaurant, won't go there again even if it is half the price . The service was ok but nothing special.