Are you looking for sushi with bold flavors? Look no further than Sushi Roku, a contemporary sushi haven in Manhattan Beach that combines innovative ingredients with time-honored traditions. Recently, a dozen Hill Section residents and publisher Randy Stager gathered at this renowned restaurant to savor a truly exquisite dining experience from start to finish.

Located next to BOA Steakhouse and owned by the same company, Sushi Roku delivers on all fronts—flavor, ambiance, and artistry. Known for pioneering contemporary sushi, the restaurant incorporates unexpected ingredients from Latin America and Europe, like jalapeños and olive oil, into its creations.

The meal began with a selection of appetizers and salads served family-style, and the responses were overwhelmingly positive. Lori Medicus praised the Brussels Sprouts Chips for being “light and tasty,” while Heather E. Donaleshen found them “crispy and delectable.” Charlene Lee echoed the sentiment, describing the chips as “crunchy and salty, with delicate yet bold flavors.” The Hamachi Serrano, a vibrant plate of thinly sliced yellowtail with garlic and yuzu ponzu, was another favorite, with Charlene calling it “melt-in-your-mouth delightful.” Meanwhile, Laura Jean Justin appreciated the Hanabi, featuring spicy tuna on crispy rice, for its perfect bite-sized balance of spice and texture.

Sushi Roku’s sushi rolls and nigiri exemplified the artistry and innovation the restaurant is known for, with several residents singling out their favorite dishes. Frances Hong found the White Lotus Roll, with its combination of popcorn shrimp tempura, avocado, and albacore topped with crispy onions, “crispy and tasty.” Charlene Lee was impressed by the Tuna Jalapeño Roll, noting that “every bite delivers a burst of flavor that surprises and delights.” The salmon nigiri, enhanced with lemon zest and yuzu salt, was a standout for Laura Jean Justin, who described it as “buttery and light.” Meanwhile, Heather appreciated the albacore nigiri’s unique garlic aioli topping, which she felt added “great flavor to the fish.”

Dessert brought the evening to a sweet conclusion with fresh and flavorful mochi, earning nods of approval from diners. Charlene called it “very fresh and sweet,” a simple yet satisfying way to end the meal.

The ambiance of Sushi Roku played a key role in the experience. Laura Jean Justin admired the restaurant’s décor and found the atmosphere “beautiful and appealing.” Frances Hong appreciated the intimate size of the space, noting that it felt neither too large nor too small. However, as the evening progressed, Heather mentioned that the lively crowd made it “a bit hard to hear and visit,” though the celebratory energy added to the charm. The service was impeccable, with Heather commending the hostess and server for being “informative, friendly, and absolutely wonderful.”

Sushi Roku in Manhattan Beach offers more than just a meal—it provides a dining experience that masterfully blends traditional sushi techniques with California innovation. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or simply looking for an exceptional culinary adventure, Sushi Roku is a destination worth visiting.

Sushi Roku
 3110 Sepulveda Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
 Hours: Monday–Friday: Lunch 11:30 AM–2:30 PM, Dinner 4:30 PM–9:00 PM; Saturday–Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
 Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4:30 PM–6:00 PM
 For reservations and menu details, visit sushiroku.com.