I’ve known restaurants to change menus, change chefs, and even change locations. I’ve seldom known restaurants to change names, but that’s exactly what Sushi Ii has done.
The intimate Japanese restaurant in Newport Beach’s Mariner’s Mile has entered its next chapter as Sushi Suhama, with a new name that reflects both the restaurant’s Japanese roots and, according to press material, its connection to the coastal landscape it calls home.
I have been told that Sushi Suhama remains an evolution of the restaurant guests have come to know. I was happy to hear that, because Sushi Ii has been one of my favorite omakase experiences. I will never forget sitting at the chef’s counter and having our chef prepare a variety of dishes – some familiar, some foreign – that resulted in one of the most unusual and fascinating evenings of culinary delights.
I was reminded that since opening, the restaurant has been recognized by the Michelin. According to press material, the name Suhama comes from an ancient Japanese term referring to a beautiful or picturesque shoreline. For the restaurant, Suhama evokes the natural shoreline that defines Newport Beach, creating a connection between Japanese culture and the coastal setting that has been part of the restaurant’s identity since opening.
Renowned Japanese artist Hiroshi Sugimoto was commissioned to help shape this next chapter and selected the name Sushi Suhama for the restaurant. One of Sugimoto’s celebrated seascapes will also be displayed within the space, further connecting the restaurant’s new identity to the meeting of sea, landscape, and Japanese artistry.
“Suhama felt meaningful because it gives the restaurant a sense of place. This is still the restaurant our guests know, but the new name gives us an opportunity to express more clearly who we are today and where we are going, while remaining true to what has always defined the experience,” said Director Natsuko Travioli.
Along with the new identity, Sushi Suhama has refined its omakase offerings to give guests distinct ways to experience the restaurant.
Here’s what I have been told: The Sai Kaiseki Course offers the most expansive progression through the traditions of Japanese multi-course dining, while the new Ran Signature Course balances composed seasonal dishes with a greater emphasis on sushi. The Mio Sushi Course places nigiri at the center of the experience, offering the most sushi-forward expression of the three.
The new structure allows guests to choose the style of omakase experience that most appeals to them, from a complete kaiseki progression to an experience centered more heavily on sushi. The menus evolve with the seasons and the availability of ingredients at their peak.
Sushi Suhama is located at 100 West Coast Highway in Newport Beach. Visit www.sushisuhama.com.
Sushi Roku in Fashion Island has introduced fresh, new dishes to its menu. The new offerings showcase the restaurant’s signature artistry that includes small plates and signature selections.
Among the new dishes: Seaweed Salad with hiyashi wakame, cucumber and citrus vinaigrette; Tuna Tataki; Octopus Carpaccio; Salmon Hanabi; and Grilled Salmon.
New Roku Signature Style Sushi (each offered a la carte and served with seaweed to be eaten like a hand roll) includes Salmon Belly Sushi, Truffle Crab Sushi with snow crab and truffle, andA5 Wagyu Sushi.
I have been told that Sushi Roku has been credited for being the pioneer of contemporary sushi, with a diverse menu that combines traditional Japanese cuisine with the seasonal bounty that California provides.
If you go to Sushi Roku, I recommend ending your meal with the cotton candy dessert. It’s a show worthy of Las Vegas.
Oh—and don’t forget to indulge in sake. Certified sake sommeliers are happy to recommend sake in all styles and price ranges.
Visit www.sushiroku.com.
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