Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

Top 10

Destinations Worldwide

Must Visit

Guide to

Eat, Stay & Do

Rio de Janeiro

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

Best Smoothie Bowls

Travel Guide

Koh Kood

Island Escape

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

San Diego

Himitsu in La Jolla is renowned for its fresh and high-quality sushi offerings, attentive service, and intimate dining atmosphere. Guests frequently commend the freshness of the seafood, the expertise of the chefs, and the overall dining experience. However, some patrons have noted concerns regarding portion sizes and pricing.

Himitsu: La Jolla's Refined Sushi Experience

Nestled in the scenic Torrey Pines area of La Jolla, 

 offers an exquisite taste of authentic Japanese cuisine brought to life by a talented Sushi Ota alum. This snug and elegant spot in San Diego County specializes in nigiri sushi and a variety of Japanese small plates that highlight fresh, locally sourced seafood paired with innovative flavors and impeccable presentation.

Guests rave about the freshness and quality of the seafood, with standout dishes like the Big Belly combo featuring buttery Toro, salmon, and hamachi that melts in your mouth. The daily specials, often handwritten on a blackboard, include unique treats such as the Honeymoon Oyster topped with uni, egg, and caviar, and the Soft Shell Crab Appetizer with its perfectly crispy texture and sweet sauce.

Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or gluten-free, Himitsu thoughtfully caters to diverse dietary preferences — their vegetable tempura and crab tempura rolls are cherished by patrons who haven't been able to enjoy these dishes elsewhere for years. Fun fact: even their soy sauce is homemade, enhancing each bite with a unique depth of flavor.

Set against a backdrop of lush greenery and subtle outdoor seating, Himitsu offers a chic yet relaxing atmosphere ideal for intimate dinners or special celebrations. Attentive and knowledgeable staff, including servers who bring personality and fun to the dining experience, ensure every visit is memorable.

For those who appreciate the artistry behind their meal, the chef’s engagement while preparing your dishes adds a personal touch that elevates the dining experience. While pricing reflects the premium quality and service, many diners agree that the value is well worth the indulgence.

Do I need a reservation or do they accept walk-ins?

 Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and limited seating.

 Yes, Himitsu offers a patio with seating.

 Himitsu operates Tuesday through Saturday, with lunch from 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM and dinner from 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM. It is closed on Sundays and Mondays.

North America

United States

Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, California, Himitsu is a hidden gem that redefines the sushi dining experience. This intimate restaurant, adorned with lush greenery and a chic ambiance, invites guests to indulge in exquisite Japanese cuisine crafted by skilled chefs. With a menu that emphasizes freshness and authenticity, Himitsu is not just a meal; it’s an experience that tantalizes the senses.

At Himitsu, every dish tells a story, starting with the standout Honeymoon Oyster. This delightful creation features a large oyster topped with uni, egg, and caviar, bursting with flavor that transports you straight to the ocean. Another must-try is the Soft Shell Crab Appetizer, where crispy, deep-fried crab meets a sweet sauce that perfectly complements its savory crunch. For sushi lovers, the Amaebi, known for its subtle sweetness, and the rich Uni Sushi from Hokkaido are not to be missed.

Honeymoon Oyster: A flavor explosion with uni, egg, and caviar.

Soft Shell Crab Appetizer: Crispy crab paired with a delightful sweet sauce.

Amaebi: Fresh and subtly sweet, a sushi lover's delight.

Uni Sushi from Hokkaido: Creamy and rich, a must-try.

Conveniently located at 1030 Torrey Pines Rd G, La Jolla, Himitsu is just a stone's throw away from the stunning La Jolla Cove, where visitors can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and explore tide pools. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the coast or visit the nearby Birch Aquarium to continue your day of exploration.

Himitsu is renowned for its commitment to quality and freshness, with many ingredients sourced locally. The chef, a former protégé of the esteemed Sushi Ota, brings a wealth of expertise and passion to each dish. The restaurant also features a secret dessert menu, adding an element of surprise to your dining experience.

What is Himitsu known for? Himitsu is celebrated for its refined Japanese cuisine, particularly its fresh sushi and unique small plates.

Why visit Himitsu? The combination of an elegant atmosphere, exceptional service, and a menu that emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients makes Himitsu a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

What's nearby? After dining at Himitsu, guests can explore La Jolla Cove or visit the Birch Aquarium, both offering stunning views and experiences.

Whether you're a local or just visiting, Himitsu promises a dining experience that is both memorable and delicious. Make your reservation today and discover the artistry of Japanese cuisine in an enchanting setting.

Snug spot doling out nigiri sushi & Japanese small plates prepped by a Sushi Ota alum.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfNGFlRkpnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBwRwduMD3IARBabqdbYhZQ4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfNGFlRkpnEAE

Really good, upscale restaurant. Good location, good service, portions are on the small side. The appetizer peppers were good, but one pepper was unexpectedly and extremely spicy — I hadn't had that pain from spicy food in a long time. The moment I bit into it, I knew... Good ambiance, but again, the portions were small. I went right after my last final of Fall 2024.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2b3BIREVnEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBwRwduMD3IARBabqdbYhZQ4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2b3BIREVnEAE

Everything about this place felt authentic, fresh and made to order. The atmosphere is lovely bathed in greenery, and they will pretty much cater to what you would like to eat within their realm. It’s heaven for gluten free options, I had the vegetable tempura, crab tempura rolls which I haven’t been able to enjoy in years! Even their soy sauce is homemade. Delicious and will be back for sure!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnbnBud3ZnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBwRwduMD3IARBabqdbYhZQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnTURnbnBud3ZnRRAB

Super delicious sushi and great service. Our server, Julia, was informative and fun while delivering us a great meal. My vegetarian roll even had vegan caviar! I would recommend Himitsu to any friends visiting La Jolla!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuOE02cFhREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBwRwduMD3IARBabqdbYhZQ4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuOE02cFhREAE

Had an awesome experience here.  The seafood is fresh and top notch.  Man, that Big Belly combo of Toro, salmon and hamachi... Melts in your mouth.  Absolutely buttery smooth.
The chef was friendly and service was attentive.  When you pay for quality... It's not just the food... The service has to be comparable too otherwise the whole experience is downgraded.
Check out the photos and come try Himitsu out for yourself!
It's not cheap but as you know... You pay more you get more, pay less you get less.  This isn't a dollar store meal.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNucGI3YzJ3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJBwRwduMD3IARBabqdbYhZQ4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNucGI3YzJ3RRAB

A Hidden Gem for Japanese Cuisine in La Jolla!

Himitsu offers refined and elegant Japanese cuisine. It's a popular spot, so reservations are highly recommended. Their daily specials are listed on a blackboard, and it’s definitely worth choosing something from there.

The Honeymoon Oyster is a standout— a large oyster topped with uni, egg, and caviar, bursting with flavor. The Soft Shell Crab Appetizer features crispy, deep-fried crab with a sweet sauce that’s incredibly enjoyable. The Himitsu Plate offers a delectable assortment of sashimi, each piece a delight.

As for sushi, I recommend trying the Amaebi, which is fresh and has a subtle sweetness. The Uni Sushi from Hokkaido is so creamy and rich that you'll be tempted to order more. The Wagyu Sushi, made with grilled wagyu, is perfectly cooked with a nice balance of flavors.

Don’t forget to ask about their secret dessert menu—a scoop of ice cream that’s a perfect end to the meal.

The atmosphere is chic and relaxing, and the chef is quite engaging as he prepares your dishes. While it’s on the pricier side, the overall dining experience is well worth it.

Himitsu: Upscale Japanese Restaurant in La Jolla, CA

Himitsu is a Japanese restaurant located in La Jolla, California, known for its fresh sushi and intimate dining experience. The restaurant has received numerous positive reviews for its quality of food and service.

The History of Himitsu in La Jolla, California.

Nestled on Torrey Pines Road in La Jolla, Himitsu has become more than just a restaurant; it’s a culinary gem celebrated for its exceptional sushi and intimate atmosphere. Since its inception, this establishment has captured the hearts of locals and visitors alike, offering a unique dining experience that highlights the artistry of Japanese cuisine.

Timeline of Key Events in Himitsu's Journey.

: Himitsu opened its doors in La Jolla, offering a unique sushi dining experience.

: The restaurant gained recognition for its omakase experience, attracting a loyal customer base.

: Himitsu expanded its outdoor seating area to accommodate more guests.

With a commitment to quality and authenticity, Himitsu has also been praised for its vibrant atmosphere and attentive service. The culinary team, including chefs trained by renowned sushi masters, ensures that every dish reflects their dedication to the craft. Diners frequently rave about the freshest fish sourced from local markets, and the meticulous presentation that turns each meal into a work of art.

Dining at Himitsu is an experience that goes beyond just eating; it’s about savoring the flavors, engaging with the staff, and enjoying the serene ambiance. The intimate setting, enhanced by greenery and soft lighting, makes it a perfect venue for romantic dinners or special occasions.

As Himitsu continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of quality Japanese cuisine in La Jolla, drawing food enthusiasts from across San Diego and beyond. Whether you’re a sushi aficionado or a curious newcomer, a visit to Himitsu promises a delightful culinary journey.

A curated selection of fresh sushi and sashimi offerings.

Omakase Sashimi Sushi

Soft Shell Crab Roll

Tokusen Chirashi

Honeymoon Oyster

Fried Shrimp Head

Omakase Handroll

Himitsu Sashimi

Oyster Special

Sashimi Deluxe

Omakase Sushi

Himitsu Menu

Discover Himitsu’s Exquisite Japanese Menu

Nestled in the heart of La Jolla, Himitsu offers a refined dining experience showcasing a curated selection of fresh sushi and sashimi that delights food enthusiasts and trend-conscious travelers alike. Every dish is crafted with precision, celebrating authentic Japanese flavors with an upscale twist.

Begin your culinary journey with elegant starters that tease the palate. The 

 dazzles with a luscious blend of oyster, uni, egg, and caviar bursting with umami depth. For a crispy delight, savor the 

 starter featuring deep-fried crab paired with fresh lettuce, yamagobo, salsa, and peppery kaiware for a satisfying crunch. The 

 offers a unique crispy savoriness perfect for adventurous palates, while the 

 showcases the freshest oysters delivered from the sea to your plate.

Himitsu's main selections offer a luxurious dive into Japanese cuisine, perfect for sushi aficionados and sashimi lovers. Experience the 

 where the chef's expert selection brings a fresh, seasonal variety of nigiri and rolls to your table. The 

 offers a chef’s carefully curated handroll that is a delight in every bite. For sashimi enthusiasts, the 

 present an assorted array of premium, fresh-cut seafood selections destined to melt in your mouth. The 

 crowns sushi rice with a vibrant bouquet of assorted sashimi, delivering a colorful and satisfying feast.

Complete your refined meal with Himitsu’s secret dessert menu, featuring a perfectly crafted scoop of ice cream that offers a delightful and refreshing finish to your Japanese dining experience. Keep an eye on the daily specials blackboard, where seasonal and chef-inspired creations such as the celebrated 

 and soft shell crab appetizers shine with luxurious flavors and artistic presentation.

Himitsu complements its cuisine with a well-chosen selection of wines and beers, thoughtfully paired to enhance your sushi and sashimi dishes. Whether you prefer a crisp white wine or a refreshing craft beer, there is a beverage to suit your mood and meal.

 Premium seafood selections that melt in your mouth.

 Sushi Ota alum brings expert technique and passion to every dish.

 Extensive options catering to gluten-sensitive diners.

 Chic, greenery-bathed interiors create a relaxing dining atmosphere.

Savor exquisite flavors at Himitsu in La Jolla, San Diego. Delight in a unique dining experience that promises stunning ocean views. Book your table now!

Dine at Himitsu: La Jolla’s Oceanview Restaurant

San Diego County

Himitsu

A chef's choice multi-course meal showcasing the freshest selections.

Omakase Experience

A selection of sake chosen to complement the omakase experience.

Sake Pairing

Himitsu: La Jolla's Premier Japanese Dining Destination in San Diego California USA 

Nestled in the picturesque neighborhood of La Jolla, San Diego, Himitsu offers a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere that beckons sushi connoisseurs and lovers of refined Japanese cuisine alike. This upscale spot on Torrey Pines Road is celebrated for its fresh, authentic flavors and elegant presentation, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in California.

Himitsu specializes in an exquisite omakase experience priced at $170, where diners embark on a chef-curated journey featuring the freshest sushi and Japanese small plates. The menu highlights standout dishes like the Honeymoon Oyster topped with uni, egg, and caviar, and the soft shell crab appetizer that delights with its crispy texture and sweet sauce. Each bite is thoughtfully crafted, showcasing top-quality seafood like buttery Toro, salmon, and hamachi that melt in your mouth.

 are thoughtfully included, such as vegetable tempura and vegan caviar-topped rolls, ensuring everyone can enjoy a taste of Himitsu’s artistry. The homemade soy sauce adds an authentic touch that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Complement your meal with a curated sake pairing for $50, perfectly selected to elevate the delicate flavors of your omakase course. Himitsu also offers a fine selection of beer and wine to suit various palates. The chic, greenery-bathed dining room creates a relaxing setting, whether you choose to dine indoors or in the outdoor seating area.

While the portions might be on the smaller side, each dish delivers intense flavor and quality that justifies the premium pricing. The attentive service by friendly staff and the engaging chef add to the overall exceptional dining experience that Himitsu is known for.

 to secure your spot at this popular La Jolla restaurant.

 including a lot and street options for convenience.

 — best for adult diners looking for an elegant and quiet meal.

 including contactless payments, debit, and credit cards for ease of transaction.

Why Himitsu Stands Out in San Diego's Culinary Scene

Himitsu is not just another sushi restaurant; it is a carefully curated experience that balances tradition and innovation. With a sushi chef pedigree from Sushi Ota and a focus on seasonal, fresh ingredients, this spot caters to discerning palates that crave an authentic taste of Japan in Southern California. Guests leave impressed by the harmony of flavors, the stylish yet intimate ambiance, and the attentive service that makes every visit special.

Himitsu: A refined sushi experience in la jolla's vibrant dining scene.

Nestled on Torrey Pines Road in the picturesque neighborhood of La Jolla, Himitsu invites food lovers to indulge in a sophisticated Japanese dining journey. This snug restaurant, crafted by a Sushi Ota alum, is celebrated for its fresh, high-quality nigiri sushi and elegant small plates. The intimate setting, enhanced by lush greenery and outdoor seating options, creates a romantic and inviting ambiance perfect for special occasions or quiet dinners.

Himitsu consistently impresses with its delicious and meticulously prepared sushi, including standout items like the Big Belly combo featuring toro, salmon, and hamachi that melts in your mouth. The restaurant caters well to special dietary needs, offering a variety of gluten-free options and even vegan caviar on vegetarian rolls. Friendly and attentive service enhances the dining experience, with knowledgeable servers who make recommendations and engage with guests. Moreover, the availability of outdoor seating allows diners to enjoy the beautiful San Diego weather while savoring their meals.

Reservations recommended due to popularity

While Himitsu shines with its quality and atmosphere, potential guests should be aware of certain drawbacks. The restaurant's pricing leans toward the higher end, reflecting the premium ingredients and expert preparation, which may not suit all budgets. Those with vegetarian preferences might find the menu somewhat limited, as the focus remains primarily on seafood and sushi. Additionally, some visitors have noted that portion sizes are modest, which could leave appetites wanting more if not ordering multiple dishes.

Higher price point compared to some competitors

Himitsu stands as a gem in La Jolla's culinary landscape, enticing sushi enthusiasts and lovers of refined Japanese cuisine. Its combination of fresh ingredients, thoughtful service, and a tranquil atmosphere make it a memorable choice for those seeking quality over quantity. While the experience comes at a premium price and may not cater extensively to vegetarians, the restaurant's dedication to authenticity and guest satisfaction shines through. Whether enjoying a romantic dinner or celebrating a special moment, Himitsu offers a dining experience well worth exploring in San Diego.

California

Indulge in premium sushi at Himitsu in La Jolla! Enjoy fresh sashimi, engaging chefs, and a chic atmosphere. Book your table now!

Experience La Jolla's Himitsu: Upscale Sushi Delight

Discover everything about Himitsu in La Jolla! Get tips on menu highlights, reservations, and must-try dishes for your next visit.

Ultimate Guide to Himitsu Restaurant in La Jolla

Learn about Himitsu's rich history, unique offerings, and what makes it a must-visit sushi haven in La Jolla. Experience fine dining!

Discover Himitsu’s Exquisite Japanese Menu

Starters at Himitsu

Mains: Sushi and Sashimi Excellence

Desserts and Specials

Beverage Offerings

Why Choose Himitsu in La Jolla