Located in the heart of Irvine at 2222 Michelson Dr, Ootoro Sushi stands as a destination for those who appreciate the refined craft of traditional Japanese cuisine. In a city known for its diverse culinary landscape, this establishment has carved out a space that prioritizes the integrity of ingredients and the precision of preparation. Stepping into the restaurant, guests are greeted by an atmosphere that balances modern sophistication with the quiet, focused energy typical of high-end sushi dining. It is a place designed for those who view a meal not merely as a necessity, but as an experience to be savored slowly.
The philosophy at Ootoro Sushi is rooted in the belief that the quality of the fish should always take center stage. By sourcing premium seafood and pairing it with expertly seasoned vinegared rice, the kitchen team aims to honor the classical techniques of Edomae-style sushi. Whether you are a long-time enthusiast of Japanese gastronomy or someone looking to explore the nuances of raw fish preparation for the first time, the menu offers a thoughtful progression of flavors that highlight the natural sweetness and texture of the ocean's finest offerings.
What Defines the Ootoro Sushi Experience
Commitment to Ingredient Quality: The foundation of every dish served at Ootoro Sushi is the freshness of the seafood. By maintaining rigorous standards for sourcing, the restaurant ensures that each piece of nigiri or sashimi reflects the true character of the fish, providing a clean and authentic taste profile that resonates with discerning palates.
Mastery of Traditional Techniques: The chefs demonstrate a deep respect for the history of sushi making. From the precise temperature control of the rice to the delicate knife work required to enhance the texture of various cuts, every movement is calculated to create a harmonious balance between the fish and the seasoned grains.
An Atmosphere of Focused Elegance: The interior design of the restaurant at Michelson Drive is curated to minimize distractions, allowing diners to focus entirely on the culinary presentation. The minimalist aesthetic serves as a backdrop to the vibrant colors of the food, creating a serene environment suitable for both intimate conversations and quiet reflection.
Attention to Seasonal Nuances: The menu is designed to adapt to the rhythm of the seasons. By incorporating ingredients that are at their peak, the kitchen ensures that guests receive a dining experience that feels relevant and fresh, showcasing the best that the current harvest or catch has to offer throughout the year.
A Culinary Destination in Irvine
Navigating the dining scene in Irvine can often lead to many choices, but Ootoro Sushi distinguishes itself through a steadfast dedication to consistency and quality. The location on Michelson Drive makes it an accessible yet elevated choice for professionals working in the area or residents seeking a high-quality meal after a long day. The service team is trained to provide a seamless experience, offering guidance on the menu while respecting the pace of the diner, ensuring that the focus remains on the artistry of the meal itself.
Ultimately, a visit to Ootoro Sushi is an invitation to slow down and appreciate the subtle complexities of Japanese culinary traditions. It is a space where the simplicity of a single slice of fish, when prepared with care and intention, can leave a lasting impression. For those who value craftsmanship and a quiet, refined dining atmosphere, this restaurant remains a noteworthy point of interest in the Southern California food scene. We invite you to experience the dedication and passion that define every plate served at our table.
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot
Wheelchair accessible restroom
Wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in
Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Hard liquor
Healthy options
Small plates
Wine
Dining options
Lunch
Dinner
Dessert
Seating
Table service
Amenities
Bar onsite
Restroom
Atmosphere
Casual
Trendy
Upscale
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Planning
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Usually a wait
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
High chairs
Parking
Free parking lot
Free street parking
Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
Menus
Beverage
Perrier$5.50
Sprite$3.00
Calpico$4.50
Diet Coke$3.00
Coke$3.00
Iced Tea$3.75
Sashimi
Kama Toro Sashimi$72.00
Masago Sashimi$17.95
Uni Sashimi$55.15
OO Toro Sashimi$29.95
Kanpachi Sashimi$9.55
Ikura Sashimi$29.95
Hirame Sashimi$9.55
Me-Dai Sashimi$9.55
Toro Sashimi$17.95
Wild Sake Sashimi$17.95
Seared Sake Sashimi$16.75
Red Tobiko Sashimi$17.95
Albacore Sashimi$8.35
Tako Sashimi$6.60
Tamago Sashimi$8.40
Shima-Aji Sashimi$10.75
Amaebi Sashimi$16.70
Kinme-Dai Sashimi$17.95
Blue Fin Tuna Sashimi$10.75
Sake Sashimi$10.75
Hamachi Sashimi$9.55
Sake Toro Sashimi$16.75
Sushi
Unagi Sushi$8.35
Masago Sushi$6.60
Hirame Sushi$9.55
Sake Sushi$10.75
Albacore Sushi$8.35
Tako Sushi$6.60
Uni Sushi$40.50
Shima-Aji Sushi$10.75
House Salmon Special Sushi$17.95
Anago Sushi$15.55
Amaebi Sushi$16.70
Akamutsu Sushi$22.75
Blue Fin Tuna Sushi$10.75
Kanpachi Sushi$9.55
Wild Sake Sushi$17.95
OO Toro Sushi$29.95
Tamago Sushi$8.40
Kinme-Dai Sushi$17.95
Red Tobiko Sushi$7.80
Seared Sake Sushi$16.75
Hamachi Sushi$9.55
Ikura Sushi$13.15
Kama Toro Sushi$72.00
Toro Sushi$17.95
Toros Toro Sushi$29.95
Sake Toro Sushi$16.75
Me-Dai Sushi$9.55
Combo
Combo 1$39.54
Combo 2$39.54
Combo 4$39.54
Combo 3$39.54
Side Order
Yuzu Kosho$5.50
Fresh Wasabi$6.60
Grilled Chilean Sea Bass$30.50
Uni Pasta$63.75
Salmon Fried Rice$51.75
Grilled King Crab Leg$153.60
Una-Juh$39.30
Miyazaki Wagyu Fried Rice$57.75
Plates
Sushi Box$46.75
Chirashi$37.15
Handroll Box (5)$40.25
Premium Chirashi$62.15
Salmon Ikura Bowl$37.15
Blue Fin Tuna Bowl$37.15
Omakase B$104.85
Mix Sashimi With Eel Bowl$59.75
Sashimi Deluxe$64.95
Omakase A$158.60
Photos
Reviews Ootoro Sushi
Y T
05-04-2026
Chef’s Special Omakase
Price: $300–$500 per person (Pre-Order Only, Minimum 2 Guests)
If you’re searching for an unforgettable culinary journey, Otoro Irvine delivers an exceptional Omakase experience that stands out for its precision, creativity, and high-quality ingredients. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance is intimate and refined—perfect for a special night out, an anniversary, or an elevated culinary escape.
For those seeking the ultimate in luxury dining, the Chef’s Special Omakase is the crown jewel of Otoro’s offerings. At $300–$500 per person, this pre-ordered, curated experience is nothing short of spectacular.
Each course was thoughtfully crafted, blending traditional Japanese techniques with innovative, modern flair. The fish was incredibly fresh—melt-in-your-mouth toro, buttery uni, and flawlessly seared A5 wagyu were just the beginning. Every bite felt intentional, building in flavor, texture, and presentation as the evening progressed.
Highlighted Dishes from Chef’s Special:
• Toro Trio – Otoro, chutoro, and akami, served three ways (raw, seared, aged). A masterclass in tuna.
• Live Uni from Hokkaido – Presented in its shell with yuzu zest and fresh wasabi. Ocean-sweet, creamy perfection.
• A5 Miyazaki Wagyu Nigiri – Seared and topped with black truffle and caviar. Rich, tender, and luxurious.
• Scallop Carpaccio with Lime Foam – A delicate dance of citrus and umami.
• Foie Gras & Monkfish Liver Fusion – Paired with sake jelly—silky, rich, and surprisingly light.
• Abalone with Dashi Butter – Slow-poached and elegantly savory.
• Custom Dessert Course – A refreshing finish with yuzu sorbet and a black sesame matcha mochi cake.
And hot pot
Service was attentive yet unobtrusive—every dish was introduced with care, and the chef was clearly passionate about every creation. From the plating to the pacing, everything flowed with intention and grace. The staff made us feel taken care of without ever taking away from the focus: the food.
Otoro Irvine isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience. Whether you’re indulging in the $165 Nigiri Omakase, the $225 Standard Omakase, or going all-in with the Chef’s Special, you’ll find yourself immersed in an evening of culinary artistry and pure joy.
For those seeking top-tier Omakase in Orange County, Otoro Irvine is a hidden gem that delivers not just a meal—but a memory. Worth every penny for those who value quality, authenticity, and excellence at the highest level.
Rating: 11/10 – A flawless fusion of flavor, finesse, and feeling.
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$100+
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Eli Luong
05-04-2026
I had this place was bookmarked on my Google Maps for a while, and gave it a try today. I ordered takeout online, and *really* recommend ordering on their website instead of Google Maps. I had the Salmon Ikura Bowl, but I think the dinner … More
Susanna Wong
05-04-2026
Last week, we decided to try this sushi restaurant when we got to OC. We asked to sit at the sushi bar and the host said that at the sushi bar they only serve nigiri and sashimi. No problem, we sat down and started to order. The good and … More
Evan H
05-04-2026
On a recent work trip, I just had to take advantage of the opportunity to try some of the wonderful food SoCal has to offer. I have family/friends in the area, and my aunt really wanted to try this place. What better excuse to take her to … More
Kris Takasuka
05-04-2026
Lived up to the hype. Generous slices of sashimi that are super fresh. Patrons queued up before they open. Best to have a reservation. Closed on Sun/Mon. Parking is a challenge. Nice TI. Efficient staff. More
Dan Erfurt
05-04-2026
Fish quality mediocre. Rice was wet and loose, fell apart. Spicy yellow tail hand roll had small bone fragments. Blue crab hand roll had shell particles. Hamachi toro was lean, not fatty. Fish was too cold. Generous portions More
Nolan Rumble
05-04-2026
Excellent quality sushi that will rival and jump ahead of some top sushi spots in Japan. The food comes out with excellent presentation and in a consistent flow to ensure that you’re enjoying all the food while not feeling stuffed along the … More
Leng Ooi
05-04-2026
This is the best sushi I've had outside of Japan. We went through a typical selection of nigiri and sashimi and they're all totally fresh, to the point where the tuna has a texture that reminds me of a nice cut of wagyu. Beautifully made sushi with the freshest ingredients I've tasted. Still maintaining its standards. More
Pholex
05-04-2026
This place was Delicious! The best sushi I’ve ever had thus far. Tony was our server. He explained each dish very well and complimented the overall omakase experience. Im a big fan of seared salmon so this place did not disappoint. I cant wait to go back.
Lorin
05-04-2026
Very, very good food. Chilean sea bass and lobster fried rice are amazing. The kobe steak is the best beef I've ever tasted. Hot pot with the A5 is really good. The 3 way oysters are fun way to try different preparations. Both salmon sashimi plates were fresh and high quality. More
Michele Karl
05-04-2026
Tbh I was a bit socked to see the prices but the food was really good. We ordered the less expensive things and the quality of the food impressed us. My favorite thing was the soft crab hand roll, uffff, soooo goood! We ordered sashimi a la … More
Michael M
05-04-2026
Food was fresh and well done. The staff were friendly and helpful.
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Group size
5-8 people
David C
05-04-2026
We tried the lunch specials along with the Kobe beef steak. The steak was good, though naturally it couldn’t compare to what we’ve enjoyed in Kobe itself. Portions felt a bit small for the prices charged, but the quality and presentation of the food were definitely there. More
roostahktchn M
05-04-2026
3/6/26:
I would say this is our fourth time here. The food is very consistent with very high quality. The only drawback is a $45 for corkage fee. The most expensive corkage fee in Orange County the least. I dont mind a reasonable charge but this is very outrageous...
1. Sashimi deluxe: 5/5 - very fresh and very high quality. Every bite is sweet and tender, buttery.
2. Salad: 3/5 - delicious but needs abit more miso dressing.
3. Karaage: 3.5/5 - good but lacks of flavors and not crispy enough for my taste.
4. Seabass handroll: 5/5 - so yummy, light, tasty.
5. Spicy tuna: 5/5 - very delicious, balanced with flavors and taste.
6. Cod tempura: 5/5 - so delicious, the breading is light and crispy.
7. Trio desert: 3.5/6 - pretty good. The Macha cheesecake is very dense and hard, not creamy texture. The Lychee sorbet is very good with robust flavor. The Macha icecream is pretty good, not too bitter, pleasant Macha flavor and taste.
The service was great.
###
Tried this out. We made a reservation in advance so didn't have to wait long. Took 20' for a server to come greeting. The food and service were very slow and took long times. The server forgot to bring back a fried shrimp head... However, the food was delicious, fish was so fresh and very high quality, even the steamed rice. The pricing was very expensive, $12 for one small bite of wagyu ... yike. Any way, highly recommend this place for sushi/sashimi novice! Perhaps for special occasions... 🥰
Order type
Dine in
Meal type
Dinner
Price per person
$50–100
Food: 5
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
Group size
3-4 people
Seating type
Indoor dining area
Andy Ho
05-04-2026
Goodness gracious. You are going to be hard pressed to find a better sushi option in the area. The tuna and hamachi and sake were amazing. The true winner was my favorite, the kinmedai. Everything else was fantastic including the clam dish. Will definitely return the next time I’m in the area. More
Tammy Nguyen
05-04-2026
Make sure you call them up and make a reservation first before you go there for dinner. The wait is super long, I meant like 1h & 30 mins plus. The price is $22 and above for a dish, if I recall it correctly. But the food is super good. … More
Michael M
05-04-2026
Food was fresh and well done. The staff were friendly and helpful.
Price per person…
More
judy Altuwaijri
05-04-2026
Amazing service, outstanding food and nice atmosphere. The best sushi I’ve ever had was at otoro and I go at least twice a week. The staff are so kind and eager to help. Highly recommend. More
Y T
05-04-2026
Chef’s Special Omakase
Price: $300–$500 per person (Pre-Order Only, Minimum 2 Guests) … More
roostahktchn M
05-04-2026
3/6/26:
I would say this is our fourth time here. The food is very consistent with very … More
Jenna L
05-04-2026
Worth every penny. We got one of the omakase menus and every bite was nothing short of the perfection. I don’t think an omakase or a sushi restaurant has ever had me leaving so full. All of their seafood is so fresh. Their wagyu fried rice … More
Sleiman El Jamal
05-04-2026
The sushi is phenomenal!!!the wait time, not so much!! The prices, definitely more than your typical sushi restaurant. The quality is great but if you factor in the wait time, the price and the service that feels rushed, I’m not sure it is … More
Namhyo Elin Kim
05-04-2026
I ordered salmon roll for to go and when I opened it, there’s very tiny 6 rolls which has only salmon and avocado. And the cost was $15. Feel like much expensive than New York. I will never go back. Very disappointed… More
Reviews Ootoro Sushi