Omakase by Gino — Restaurant in Santa Ana

Making the reservation three months in advance, flying into town for the weekend, planning our trip around this experience, and then showing up with a couple local friends to enjoy Gino's hand crafted sushi over the course of a couple hours with great service by his staff was all worth it. We will be back. It was a wonderful experience and well worth the time and money.

The menu lists that the omakase includes three appetizers, one sashimi, one signature dish, two owan, and nine pieces of sashimi. On Saturday evening when we were there, he also included a couple more servings as well. Each dish was deliberately crafted with each layer of flavor, texture, and temperature to provide the best experience possible of the fresh fish he chose that day.

The ambiance and decor are very inviting and warm. Between that and the casual attire and professional polite demeanor of Gino helped to make the entire evening relaxing and comforting. We were able to savor each item as it hit our tongue and then get excited for the next offering.

The beverage list includes a good selection of a dozen or so sake, a half dozen beers, and a half dozen wine choices, as well as hot or cold matcha, sparkling water, and spring water. There is a corkage fee if you want to bring in your own beverages to enjoy.

Definitely make it a point to come enjoy this experience. It's well...

What a lovely chef, and an unbelievable meal. This was one of the best restaurant experiences I’ve had in my entire life. The service was attentive, the food thoughtful and inspired, the atmosphere comfortable and clean. On its own, the menu was incredible. Every single plate was well-described and beautifully prepared. I may never recover.

And Gino… was LOVELY. I have met many chefs, and dined in fine-dining/Michelin-quality restaurants around the world. This was a superior experience. Gino was knowledgeable, kind, and friendly in a way that is truly rare. We would have come back for the food alone, but Gino made it a memory and an experience. He also personally (and kindly) chased us down to return my purse — the food was so good that I completely forgot it.

Thank you — from a couple of new Canadian transplants who felt infinitely welcomed...

I've been wanting to go here for some time but never felt like I deserved to. Or even if I did, I never had someone who would possibly enjoy it with. So I was so excited to have been able to finally go today to celebrate @wakandinh 's birthday and do a date night. This was honestly some of the most prettiest and tastiest food I have had. These were some of my favorites tonight. They honestly were all so well thought out and meticulously prepared. I am so grateful to have experienced this Omakase service. The staff and Chef Gino were very attentive, friendly, and endearing. The ambiance was cozy and intimate. 10/10 will have to come back another time not just for the beautiful meal but Chef Gino himself. Thank you Chef for this wonderful...