New sushi spots surface in Eureka each season, yet endless options don’t guarantee excellence. From intimate counters where chefs work within arm’s reach to bustling halls echoing with celebration, these are the establishments that truly shine.
Nori • Sushi • Sake • Grill
$$ | (707) 630-4217 | WEBSITE
Nori • Sushi • Sake • Grill has fresh flowers on every table and comfy seats that make for a charming spot, along with enough space inside for you and a big group to enjoy solid sushi rolls, flavorful unagi don, and decadent fried ice cream. The Eureka restaurant also has a good selection of drinks, with some mentioning the great martinis. But mostly you come here to eat sushi, like their three-roll combo for a little under $30 that tastes exactly like dependable freshness.
Tanuki’s Den
No sushi bar in Eureka serves better fish than this chef-owned spot in town. Stay at the counter near the sushi case and order the omakase with your miso soup. Or head to the quaint dining area with intimate tables and a menu of unique rolls like the mango dango.
Oriental Buffet
$ | (707) 822-2286 | WEBSITE
Oriental Buffet in Eureka doesn’t serve any of its own sushi—there’s always a Chinese-American buffet out front and a dessert bar in back—but you’d be more than happy to linger for the variety and setup alone. Most days, you’ll find people at the buffet ordering plates (there’s a great all-you-can-eat for $15 deal) while chatting with friends, and families at the ample tables soaking up the clean atmosphere with a chandelier overhead.
We go for any vegetarian options on the menu (the eggplant in oyster sauce is our favorite), but if coconut shrimp or crispy peanut chicken are more your speed, they have those, too. Stop in for a meal, enjoy the private party space, and grab two more plates.
Tomo | Japanese Restaurant
$$ | (707) 822-1414 | WEBSITE
Tomo Japanese Restaurant in Arcata is almost always packed with locals enjoying their happy hour specials and flavorful dishes. Whether you’re relaxing at one of their comfortable tables in the main seating area or near the ceiling fans that keep the space cool, do it with a great cocktail everyone else is ordering. As far as food goes, the menu features tempting offerings like the ‘Humboldt Hunny’ roll, fresh sushi, and juicy teriyaki salmon dinner.
Sushi Spot McKinleyville
$$ | (707) 839-1222 | WEBSITE
With its impressive saltwater tank filled with vibrant marine life, Sushi Spot McKinleyville wins the award for the most relaxing ambiance in McKinleyville. It’s not just the atmosphere that’s pleasant, they serve things like consistently fresh sushi, delicious rolls, and a variety of options that cater to every palate. Come for the standout sushi experience when you’re craving something decent.
Or maybe for something like David’s warm, friendly service, his impeccable attention to detail, and a dining experience that can feel special one visit and inconsistent the next.
Sushi Spot Arcata
$$ | (707) 822-1221 | WEBSITE
This cozy sushi bar tucked away in Arcata is pretty intimate—if you come with a crowd you might end up sharing a table or two. But that just gives it the feel of a friendly neighborhood spot. Try something a little creative, like the seasonal sesame ginger oyster shooters, a fresh kani crunch roll, or maybe just some sashimi that runs about $18 for a generous portion. Along with all the different sushi, they have options like salads and poke bowls.
Sushi Spot Eureka
$$ | (707) 273-5104 | WEBSITE
Sushi Spot Eureka has a wonderful covered outdoor dining area full of string lights, greenery, and comfortable seating. Grab an excellent teriyaki tofu, a fresh Hama Kama combo, and anything on the menu made with their super fresh ingredients. We usually go for the Apple Crunch Vegetarian Roll that’s stacked with crisp vegetables, creamy avocado, and generous amounts of spicy mayo and eel sauce.
Bayfront Restaurant
$$ | (707) 443-7489 | WEBSITE
With its intimate dining area overlooking the bay, Bayfront Restaurant could probably host a few dozen romantic dinners. They have a beautiful waterfront setting with patio seating like it’s a special occasion destination, as well as a huge menu of sushi options, fusion dishes like Italian pastas and Asian specialties, bento boxes, and even some surprising Italian appetizers. Assemble that group of friends who want crispy soft shell crab, a great chirashi bowl, and a basket of spicy edamame.
Sushi Tao
$ | (707) 826-1988 | WEBSITE
Sushi Tao has a cozy, warm dining room where people unwind after work or enjoy intimate dates over fresh, melt-in-your-mouth fish and generous sushi rolls. Inside there’s a relaxed atmosphere, quick yet friendly service, and enough authentic Asian dishes to keep everyone in your party satisfied.
