It’s no secret I am a huge fan of Sushi Noguchi. However, through the many years of my eating there, it has always been for sushi. Since the restaurant is up for a Golden Foodie Award under the Best Asian category next week, I decide to come and check out the a la carte menu.
My son wants sushi as well as what I order from the menu, however, I will not be documenting that portion of the meal. I’ve written about that before and if you follow me on Facebook, you’ll have seen all the comments there. You can read about sushi here if you’re interested.
We begin with Japanese Ceviche ($12) because the boy says he’s interested to see what Japanese ceviche is — he is only familiar with Peruvian or Mexican ceviche. Morsels of fresh tuna, yellowtail and salmon are lightly marinated in a dressing of fresh yuzu juice, extra virgin olive oil and minced garlic. It is subtle with a burst of freshness from the aromatic citrus.
I have eaten Albacore Sashimi Hiro Style ($11) many times before, but not my son. The heavenly slices of seared albacore topped with fried onions and jalapeno sauce is a textural delight. Each mouthful livens your senses with the crispiness from the onions, the kick from the jalapeno sauce, and the hints of char from the sear of the albacore.
Gindara Misoyaki ($12) is a melt-in-the-mouth piece of perfectly broiled black cod marinated in sweet miso sauce. I didn’t think my son will like this as there is a distinctive fish taste to it, but surprisingly, he loved it. It is tender with a mouthwatering umami from the miso. It is an item I will order again.
I am in the mood for hot noodles even though it is a warm balmy evening. The Mini Udon ($5) hits the spot with a dash of togarashi. Two slices of kamaboko adorn the top with some meticulously julienned scallions. It is comforting and welcoming in my belly.
If you’re looking to indulge, the Miyazaki Wagyu Steak (Grade A5) ($30) is sure to please. Wagyu from Miyazaki is considered the world’s finest Japanese wagyu because of its evenly distributed marbling. I’ve eaten Miyazaki, as well as Matsusaka wagyu before while living in Hong Kong and these are the best of the best when it comes to premium beef. Miyazaki has won two consecutive competitions in Japan. The plate is beautiful (although when you order it, you won’t get the “before” application, only the “after” it’s been cooked version — I am presented with it for photo purposes) and consists of beef, shiitake mushrooms, asparagus, and carrots.
The meat is prepared on the grill and oh so tender in my mouth that it almost melts away. My son’s face lights up when he eats his first bite. I remember my first experience more than 20 years ago — it is definitely etched deep in my memory.
It is refreshing to know that Sushi Noguchi is much more than an excellent sushi spot. They are highly deserving to be nominated in the Best Asian category. I love the fact that after so many years, this restaurant continues to remain in my top 10 of best restaurants in Orange County when it comes to Japanese cuisine.
Sushi Noguchi
18507 Yorba Linda Blvd
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Tel: 714-777-6789
All beautiful as always.
I cannot believe I have never been there but hear such wonderful things I just MUST make this a priority to go. Every item you described I would enjoy! Thanks Anita…. Wonderful… And bet Sab was in heaven too!