Best Sushi in Downtown Palm Springs: Your Ultimate Guide
“What are the best sushi spots in Downtown Palm Springs?”
When guests arrive to the Alejo Breeze Downtown Palm Springs Monthly Vacation Condo Rental, one of the most frequently asked questions is, ‘What’s your go-to sushi spot?’
Sushi is our favorite go-to meal for a quick and tasty bite as well as the perfect experience for dinner out on the town in Palm Springs.
While it may be true that sushi options are less abundant in Palm Springs compared to other types of restaurants, some great options are still available that excel in both quality and taste. You can still indulge in your favorite sashimi, sushi rolls, and other dishes typically served at sushi restaurants. There are traditional quick favorites and interesting and unique takes on the classics.
History of Sushi in Palm Springs
The introduction of sushi to the Palm Springs area is a testament to the region's cultural diversity and culinary fusion. Sushi, a traditional Japanese dish, made its way to Palm Springs in the midcentury as the city began to attract a diverse group of visitors and residents. The rising popularity of Japanese cuisine across the United States paved the way for the introduction of sushi in Palm Springs, offering locals and tourists alike a new and exciting culinary experience.
As Palm Springs grew into a bustling tourist destination and community, sushi restaurants began to emerge, catering to the evolving tastes of both residents and visitors. These establishments showcased the artistry and craftsmanship of sushi-making, providing an authentic experience reminiscent of Japan's sushi traditions. The sushi chefs in Palm Springs honed their skills, using only the freshest ingredients and traditional techniques to create a wide variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri. The local sushi scene thrived, attracting sushi enthusiasts from all walks of life.
Today, Palm Springs boasts a vibrant and diverse sushi dining scene, offering options for every sushi aficionado. From traditional sushi bars to modern fusion restaurants, the city has something to satisfy every palate. Local sushi restaurants showcase classic favorites and innovative creations that blend Japanese tradition with local influences. Whether you're seeking a cozy spot for an intimate dining experience or a lively venue for a social gathering, Palm Springs has a sushi restaurant to suit your preferences. The rich history of sushi in the Palm Springs area continues to shape the culinary landscape, making it an exciting destination for sushi enthusiasts seeking a taste of Japan in the heart of Southern California.
Vegetarian/Vegan Sushi in Palm Springs
In Palm Springs, there are no sushi restaurants that are exclusively vegetarian or vegan. However, all of the local sushi restaurants offer plant-based options and take pride in doing so. It is recommended to triple-check with your server regarding any unlisted ingredients to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
Palm Springs Sushi with Food Allergies
Eating out at restaurants with food allergies or sensitivities is challenging, and sushi is no exception. As with most restaurants, you should know that even if they clean a section, the kitchen is full of potential allergen contaminants. We have found that all of the sushi restaurants in Palm Springs desire and try to be accommodating to food allergies. However, many of them do not understand the potential allergens within their food, so you have to be the expert and know to ask the right questions. If your reaction is mild, you might feel comfortable. If your reaction is a potential medical emergency, you should call or stop by in advance and have an in-depth conversation with the management or chef to determine your comfort level.
What Sushi Should I Order?
If you're new to sushi, don't hesitate to ask your server for recommendations. They'll guide you toward the most popular choices, such as salmon, tuna, California, or veggie rolls. You might prefer the rice on the outside, so be sure to request an inside-out roll. For sides, consider trying edamame (suck out the soy bean and place the shell in the empty bowl), miso soup, or seaweed salad. And for dessert, we highly recommend the frozen ricemilk ice cream with a doughy outside known as mochi, or the delicious mango sticky rice. Trust us, you won't be disappointed!
Sushi Etiquette
When going out for sushi at a restaurant, the most important aspect is savoring the sushi, the company, and the ambiance. Feel free to eat as you please, whenever you please. However, if you are curious about traditional sushi etiquette, here are some fundamental guidelines.
The highlight of the dish is the fish. We highly recommend trying it prepared just as the chef intended to fully savor its rich and delicious flavors. If you desire a little extra taste, a modest amount of soy sauce or wasabi can enhance the umami flavor, but be sure not to drench the dish.
Traditionally sushi was eaten by hand, which is totally OK if you want, but it is now customary to use chopsticks. It's easy with the proper introduction and some practice. There are many pro-level details to the etiquette of chopsticks, but just focus on the basics. You are welcome to ask your server for standard Western utensils.
Top Sushi Spots in Downtown Palm Springs
Here are our picks for the best sushi options in Palm Springs.
We have also included distances and walking directions for our guests at the Alejo Breeze Downtown Palm Springs Monthly Vacation Condo.
BEST SUSHI SPOT IN THE CENTER OF DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS
Happy Sushi
14 min walk
This local sushi spot is our go-to when we want an easy roll for dinner when we have had a long day and don’t want to cook, or when we want a light meal before a night out on the town.
We want to serve our customers the highest quality sushi with affordable prices by eliminating the high prices you find nearly everywhere else.
To all sushi lovers, our goal is to serve you the … highest quality sushi … at the best possible price so that you can have your sushi on a daily basis without hurting your wallet.
At Happy Sushi, you will find everything you expect to see at a classic sushi spot, including rolls such as spicy tuna and crunchy salmon, sides like a seaweed salad, sushi-adjacent entrees such as teriyakis, ramen and poke, desserts, and a vast selection of sake.
Dine in to enjoy the atmosphere in the restaurant or on the patio in the center of Downtown Palm Springs, or place a to-go order on the phone or online before you arrive.
Happy Sushi Palm Springs
(760) 318-0717
Exit the lobby and walk left toward the mountains. Cross the street at Palm Canyon, turn left, and pass Amado, Andreas, and Tahquitz Canyon. You’ll see a multi-story complex with multiple restaurants featuring outdoor seating - Happy Sushi is right inside. If you pass Hits Cannabis Studio, you’ve gone too far.
BEST TRADITIONAL SUSHI RESTAURANT IN DOWNTOWN PALM SPRINGS
Taka Shin
6 minute walk
Sushi Chef Shin moved to Palm Springs in 2008, dreaming of opening his own restaurant. In 2018, that dream came through when he opened Taka Shin, a traditional Japanese sushi restaurant focused on authenticity and quality.
As one of the few Japanese restaurants and sushi bars in Palm Springs, TAKA SHIN® is dedicated to bringing Japanese culinary art, elegance, sophistication and tradition to its customers.
The Omakase (chef’s choice) is specially designed daily with seasonal fish and vegetables, along with the chef’s inspiration and techniques. You can sit at the sushi bar and get to know the chef while they prepare your meal, or dine at a table and enjoy all the classic rolls, nigiri, sashimi, sides, drinks, and desserts you would expect.
Taka Shin is the perfect place to sit and enjoy dinner when you want something a step up from a quick roll spot but not looking to make an over-the-top occasion. Taka Shin also offers a bento box lunch special.
TAKA SHIN
(760) 600-5806
Walk left out of the lobby door toward the mountains. Cross Indian Canyon, cross Palm Canyon, and turn right at Just Fabulous. Walk North and see the Desert Art Center, Birba, and Cheeky’s across the street. You've walked too far if you get to Cookies Dispensary with the blue pillars.
THE TRENDIEST SUSHI NIGHT OUT IN PALM SPRINGS
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey
23 min walk, 6 min bike ride, 7 min drive
Sandfish is where Palm Springs Sushi meets the LA restaurant vibe. The team at Sandfish takes pride in their work with the top global and local purveyors to create the perfect balance of flavors in every bite. The environment is modern, sleek, and highly designed for a trendy night out on the town.
Cool, modern and refined. Sandfish Sushi and Whiskey by Chef Engin Onural offers a global twist on traditional Japanese cuisine. Exquisite sushi creations come together with unique whiskey and cocktail pairings for an unforgettable dining experience.
Chef Engin Onural was born in New York, raised in Turkey, and has called the Coachella Valley home since 2006. He is among a small group of sushi ambassadors of the Japanese government, has been designated Best Chef in America, and performed well at the World Sushi Olympics.
Sandfish is where we go when we want to go out for a sushi dinner with a bit more spectacle. You can often run into the who’s-who of Palm Springs here, and every time you go back, you can find something new and unique. It is an excellent destination for exploring the Uptown Arts District or returning from a Tram ride.
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey Palm Springs
(760) 537-1022
Walk out of the lobby, turn left, and right on Palm Canyon. You will pass Mr. Turk, The LGBT Center of The Desert, Bootlegger Tiki, and Dunn-Edwards Paints. After about 20 minutes, cross Stevens Road, and Sandfish will be up the block on your right.
BEST SUSHI IN A BOWL
Haus of Poké
12 minute walk
If you want your sushi fix along with a quick-service restaurant Chipotle/Sweetgreen/Cava bowl vibe, you’ll love a Poké Bowl (pronounced: Poh- kay).
We think of Poké as oversized and deconstructed sushi rolls.
A hot, new quick-casual restaurant concept that features a combination of vibrant Pacific gamefish, housemade sauces, and locally sourced vegetables presented in a fun, interactive; you choose, we create, service model.
Stop into Haus of Poke for lunch while you are on the go downtown — pick up a bowl and sit in the park by the waterfall.
Haus of Poké Palm Springs
Walk toward downtown and turn left on Palm Canyon. Turn right when you get to the Museum Way (with the Marilyn Monroe statue). Haus of Poké will be on your left.
BEST PLACE TO GET ALL YOUR SUSHI ACCESSORIES & SOUVENIRS
Wabi Sabi Japan Living
7 minute walk
Palm Springs is the home of one of the country’s most impressive home goods stores that imports goods from Japan and across Asia. Here in this friendly and accessible shop, you can find an assortment of Japanese dinnerware, chopsticks (over 100 styles!), Japanese kitchen knives, decorative hand fans, jewelry, and bonsai.
In a few words, Wabi Sabi is about the "impermanence and imperfection" of Japanese art and design.
At Wabi Sabi, you can browse an extensive selection of Japanese groceries and sake to take home and enjoy at the Alejo Breeze Downtown Palm Springs Vacation Condo Rental or as a souvenir of your trip to the Coachella Valley. If you aren’t sure what you like or want to learn more about sa, enjoy one of their legendary sake flight tastings.
Wabi Sabi Japan Living
Walk toward downtown and turn left on Palm Canyon. You’ll find Wabi Sabi on the left at the corner of Amado and Palm Canyon.
BEST WAYS TO GET SUSHI TO THE ALEJO BREEZE WITHOUT WALKING OR DRIVING
The couch is comfortable, and you want to stay home today. Already out walking and want to pick food up on your way home? No problem. Order pickup or delivery by calling the restaurant directly, checking their website for online ordering, or using one of these delivery services:
Seamless/Grubhub
$10 off with the link above
Uber Eats
USE CODE AT CHECKOUT: eats-uexq0
$20 off with this code
Instacart
USE CODE AT CHECKOUT: BKAYNE10F1F9
$30 off with this code
By using our referral link to sign up and place your first order, both of us can receive account credits. Thank you in advance for clicking on our link before signing up.
Conclusion About Sushi in Downtown Palm Springs
Sushi in Palm Springs offers a diverse and vibrant dining scene, catering to locals and visitors who appreciate high-quality cuisine. Despite the city's relatively fewer options compared to other culinary styles, the sushi establishments in Palm Springs excel in delivering an authentic experience with a fusion of traditional and modern flavors. The history of sushi in the area reflects the cultural diversity and culinary fusion that characterizes the region, adding to its appeal as a destination for sushi enthusiasts.
From the quick and convenient rolls at Happy Sushi, perfect for a casual evening or a quick bite, to the traditional and authentic experience at Taka Shin, where the chef's dedication to quality shines through, Palm Springs has something to offer every sushi lover. Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey presents a fusion of global flavors with exquisite sushi creations and unique whiskey pairings for those seeking a trendy and refined atmosphere. And if you prefer a quick-service option with a Chipotle-style bowl concept, Haus of Poké provides oversized and deconstructed sushi rolls in a fun and interactive setting.
To complement your sushi experience, Wabi Sabi Japan Living offers a selection of Japanese dinnerware, sake, and other unique souvenirs to take home and enjoy. Whether you dine in, take out, or have your sushi delivered to the comfort of your home, Palm Springs ensures that sushi enthusiasts can indulge in their favorite cuisine without compromising on quality.
In summary, Palm Springs may not have a vast selection of sushi restaurants compared to other culinary styles, but the sushi establishments in the area are a cut above the rest. They offer a wide range of dining experiences that cater to sushi enthusiasts of all tastes and preferences. From the quick and convenient rolls at Happy Sushi to the refined atmosphere at Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey, every sushi lover will find something to satisfy their cravings. Moreover, the commitment to quality, authenticity, and innovation exhibited by the sushi establishments in Palm Springs ensures that patrons can indulge in their favorite cuisine without compromising on taste. So if you're looking for a delightful destination for sushi in Southern California, Palm Springs is definitely worth a visit.
Where is your favorite sushi spot in Palm Springs? Have you tried any of our suggestions? Suggestions or corrections? Please contact us.
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Once you’re finished shopping, stop by Palm Springs Bottle Shop in Mojave Flea for tasty snacks, wine, beer, non-alcoholic, and CBD drinks. This amazing little shop in the back of the market just across the street from the Alejo Breeze is LGBT-owned and operated and features products from brands owned by women, BIPOCs, and other communities not normally represented in the industry. Tell them you’re Benji and Brendon’s VIPs for 10% off.
Stay, work, and play in our downtown Palm Springs condo, the Alejo Breeze, available for monthly rentals here.
