Irassae

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Huntington Beach, Irassae is a sushi restaurant that sushi aficionados and casual diners alike will find irresistible. This cozy yet bustling spot serves up an authentic Japanese dining experience that combines fresh, expertly crafted sushi with an inviting atmosphere that feels both intimate and lively.

At Irassae, the menu is a treasure trove of flavors and textures, showcasing the finest seafood selections wrapped in innovative and traditional styles. Signature dishes such as the Time Roll and Ghost Roll offer a tantalizing blend of bold ingredients that burst with umami and subtle spice. The Albacore Sashimi and Salmon Sashimi are sliced thick and fresh, delivering a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that highlights the quality and care behind every cut. For those craving a lightly fried indulgence, the Soft Shell Crab and the crispy Crunchy Roll bring perfect textures that contrast beautifully with creamy sauces and fresh vegetables.

The menu also boasts unique specialties like the Stuffed Jalapeno and the elegantly delicate Hotate Nigiri (scallop sushi), each bite curated to offer a layered experience of heat, sweetness, and subtle brininess that lingers on the palate. Not to be missed are the rich, buttery Black Cod and the carefully balanced Spicy Scallop Roll with Soy Paper, which offer flair and finesse for the adventurous diner.

Irassae’s lunch specials, such as the Chicken Teriyaki with 4 Cali Roll and the Spicy Tuna Bowl Lunch, provide excellent value without sacrificing any of the savory depth sushi lovers crave. The option to pair your meal with a cold, crisp beer or traditional Sake elevates the experience even further, making every visit memorable.

The atmosphere at Irassae is intimate and energetic, with closely arranged seating that creates an engaging social vibe. Expect a lively crowd, especially as evening approaches—customers advise arriving early or preparing for a wait, a testament to the restaurant's popularity and the quality that keeps patrons coming back. Staff and sushi chefs are noted for their warmth and attentiveness; many guests recount personalized recommendations from chefs who take genuine pride in their craft, making dining here not just a meal but a shared cultural moment.

Regular guests like Mike Doyle, a local realtor, praise Irassae as a "hidden gem" with "delicious sushi, amazing rolls, and great appetizers," while J L highlights the "very fresh sashimi with thick cuts" and commendable affordability. The Sackin-Stone Team raves about the flavorful specials that require no soy sauce to enjoy fully, and Sierra Gutierrez fondly recalls a memorable evening at the sushi bar, delighted by the thoughtful chef's personalized flavor suggestions.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, craving the comfort of expert sushi craftsmanship, or simply exploring the rich flavors of Japanese cuisine, Irassae promises a dining experience that excites the senses and feels uniquely welcoming. This is sushi dining at its finest in Huntington Beach—fresh, flavorful, and infused with a passion that’s as vivid as the ocean just moments away.