I’ve been sitting on this review for quite some time. It is such a dichotomy when I find a restaurant that excites and tantalizes my taste-buds, but at the same time, raving about them may mean it will be so much harder for me to get a table when I want to go. Oh the dilemma! However, I want to shout at the top of my lungs as to how much I’ve enjoyed dining here, on several occasions.
Sushi Nikkei is a Peruvian style sushi spot, nestled in the heart of Belmont Shores, Long Beach. By the looks of it, it’s already become the talk of the town, jam packed with customers even on a Tuesday evening. I have to thank my friend, Chef Renzo Macchiavello (of Renzo’s A Taste of Peru in Lake Forest) for introducing me to Sushi Nikkei, and chef, Eduardo Chang.
Chef Chang has several renowned restaurants in Peru which he co-owns with his brother, and it is evident this isn’t his first rodeo. Feel free to order from the menu, but I prefer to let the chefs take the rein by ordering Omakase (Chef’s Choice).
Start with Grilled Scallops ($15/4pcs) which sees Peruvian scallops bathed in butter, topped with quinoa “pop” (crispy quinoa), and garlic limo. The juxtaposition of textures play delightfully on the tongue, with the butter adding a layer of richness on the palate.
Tuna Taco ($14/2pc) is a fun item to eat. Crispy ‘taco’ shells made from wonton wrappers act as a vehicle to hold the chunks of bluefin tuna, avocado, kiuri (cucumber), and sprouts, seasoned with an Asian sauce. The crunchiness from the taco shell perfectly contrasts with the textures from the other ingredients, creating a satiating bite.
One of my favorite things to eat at a Peruvian restaurant is ceviche, and Peruvian Ceviche ($25) at Nikkei does not disappoint. Featuring the catch of the day (sea bream) marinated in leche de tigre and aji amarillo, the plate is finished with cancha (Peruvian corn nuts), and crispy sweet potato straws. I love the tartness of Peruvian ceviche, which opens up the palate in anticipation for all the other dishes to come.
While I love all the dishes we had, what I am truly enamored by is the array of sushi available. Acebichado ($17) is a roll stuffed with crispy shrimp and avocado, topped with tuna, acebichado sauce, togarashi, and green onion – my favorite roll at Nikkei.
Next, we had so many delicious nigiri sushi, I’m not able to remember all of them, but the photos will display everything we had.
My favorite was the Aburi Tuna, which I kept ordering more of. It was simply to-die-for, melting in my mouth from its unctuousness.
We pretty much let Chef Eduardo decide which sushi to send out, and we were not disappointed! Everything was absolutely delicious. I highly suggest making a reservation if you plan on dining at Sushi Nikkei, especially if you’re traveling a distance, so you won’t be disappointed. I can’t wait to come back again!
Sushi Nikkei (no website)
3819 Atlantic Ave
Long Beach, CA 90807
Tel: (562) 283-3042
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