If you’re a San Diegan who loves sushi, chances are you have made the drive up to L.A. or Orange County just to get your hands on a “Trust Me” box. But the road trips are officially over. After years of rumors (and begging from local foodies), L’A.’s most famous sushi cult-favorite is finally heading our way.
SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa has officially confirmed it’s opening in San Diego
Slated to open this spring at the new 2100 Kettner Boulevard development in Little Italy, this is easily the most anticipated restaurant arrival of 2026. If you’ve never been, here’s what you need to know: SUGARFISH does not operate like your typical neighborhood sushi joint. Chef Kazunori Nozawa is legendary for his incredibly strict “no substitutions” rule.
What’s on the menu?
You won’t find heavy fusion sauces, spicy tuna, or California rolls on this menu. Instead, you operate by their famous mantra: “Don’t think. Just eat.” You order from a tiered selection of omakase-style “Trust Me” boxes, featuring meticulously sourced, melt-in-your-mouth fish. It’s all served over their signature warm, loosely packed rice and wrapped in crisp nori.
Going to SUGARFISH is an authentic, premium omakase experience – but without the intimidating $200 price tag you normally find.
Welcome to San Diego, SUGARFISH!
The new Little Italy space will be an intimate, 40-seat dining room with natural concrete floors and massive windows. It’s perfect for sunsets over the harbor!
With the grand opening officially set for spring 2026, you’ll want to start planning your date nights now. If the L.A. locations are any indicator…you can expect lines out the door from day one. Worth it, though!
