Sushi ii

The story

Sushi ii, Newport Beach – Michelin-Recommended Japanese Omakase | Wattafork

A Tradition of Precision

Sushi Ii brings a style of Japanese sushi to Newport Beach that traces its lineage back nearly two centuries. Chef Koji Takahashi, who spent over three decades honing his knife technique and mastering the nuances of nigirikata—the way a sushi chef shapes each piece to alter flavor—leads the kitchen. The result is an experience that, in its attention to detail, feels more like dining in Japan than in Southern California. In 2026, Sushi Ii earned a Michelin Recommended award, a recognition of its quiet excellence.

The restaurant opened in 2020 under Master Chef Susumu Ii, whose prior three-decade career in Orange County made him one of the region’s most respected sushi chefs. Chef Takahashi studied under Master Ii and now continues his traditions within a minimalist zen setting. The space is designed to be unobtrusive, allowing the artistry of the sushi to take center stage.

Omakase and the Art of Selection

Dining at Sushi Ii is built around omakase—entrusting the chef to compose a meal from the day’s finest ingredients. Three courses are offered: the Karatsu sushi course (a starter, eight nigiri, a roll, miso soup, and dessert); the Oribe signature course (starter, appetizer, ten nigiri, miso soup, dessert); and the traditional Bizen kaiseki course (starter, appetizer, seasonal broth, sashimi, grilled and fried dishes, five nigiri, miso soup, and dessert). A careful change in the smallest detail—how the fish or vegetables are cut—alters the flavor of each ingredient, a principle that guides every course.

For guests who prefer to choose their own path, an à la carte “okonomi” option offers nigiri, sashimi, traditional rolls, and cooked items prepared daily for the kaiseki course.

Sake, Wine, and Atmosphere

The beverage program includes artisanal sake sourced from Japanese breweries with long histories, some of which have only recently become available in the U.S. A sake pairing is offered to enhance the textures and flavors of the sushi. The wine list, handpicked from around the world by a French partner, provides additional options. The setting remains calm and focused, with counter dining available and amenities such as air conditioning, wheelchair access, and parking in the structure.