Sushi Karen — Restaurant in Pasadena

I was looking for a new sushi spot in Pasadena and saw this had a perfect score, so I went and checked it out. The booths are separated by separator stands so you’ll have a feeling of a little more privacy with your guests.

I ordered the salmon skin salad, soft shell crab appetizer, blue crab roll, salmon belly sashimi and uni. The salmon skin salad was definitely one of the best versions I’ve had, solid dressing and just the right amount of salmon skin. The blue crab roll was also good, hoping it was a little warmed up but still delicious. The salmon belly was top quality and the flavor was on point. The uni was delicious and on point. Lastly the soft shell crab appetizer was definitely good. Overall it was a great meal, but the price was definitely up there. $15 for one piece of uni is pricey but at least it was that good, I think two pieces would of been more reasonable.

I definitely recommend this spot but the price is a lot higher compared to other restaurants. The quality of sushi is definitely top notch. Now parking is limited to the plaza and streets which...

I had not been here since this was a different restaurant, but I have been curious about Sushi Karen. It is a small restaurant where reservations are essential. Parking is limited in the lot, but I found a spot on Arroyo. Just read the signs!

It's a quiet spot with the tables separated by paper screens. I got the sushi lunch special and my friend ordered individual sushi. The quality was top notch. The nigiri sushi is one piece, not the typical 2, but the pieces are large. I added a seaweed salad and 1 other piece of sushi. Everything was delicious and I was full at the end. Without alcohol, we spent $110 for lunch for two. To me that is on the pricey side but I felt worth it.

The fish really shines here. If you are a fan of lots of different rolls or fusion type of cuisine, I would look elsewhere. Sushi Karen is for fans of nigiri sushi and sashimi. I would like to come back and try...

This place is amazing. You are definitely paying for the quality and love put into the fish. You have to call ahead to make a reservation as there is limited seating.

I always order only nigiri as I've found it to be the best items on the menu. The rolls and other crispy fried rice dishes aren't as good as what is prepared by the sushi chef. The tempura veggies and shishito peppers are good appetizer choices. The prices are about $5 per piece of nigiri, so just be prepared for that going into it. My top choices in order are: amber jack, scallop, seared salmon, snapper, yellowtail belly, and sweet shrimp.

I would highly recommend this place. We bring friends and family whenever they visit and warn them that it ruins your sushi expectations. I will always come back here when...