Food

Local’s Take, Toyosu Sushi in Walnut Creek, California

Today we’ll be taking a closer look at a local hidden sushi gem in Walnut Creek, California – Toyosu Sushi. I originally found it when I tried to go to lunch at Kaiwa (cheaper and located two storefronts away), and I’ve gone back several times.

Nestled just off of Main Street, Toyosu Sushi boasts a classic sushi bar ambiance. It’s marked by its narrow layout but offers a sense of coziness through its dark-wood designed interiors.

  • Address: 1552 Locust St, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
  • Offers a classic sushi bar ambiance accentuated by its dark wood interiors.

Parking

Toyosu in Walnut Creek

Toyosu is situated just a street away from North Main, on Locust street. Parking is conveniently available in a lot located across the street, adjacent to the Lesher Center. You can also try for street parking, especially around lunchtime.

Menu

The menu is a balance between variety and quality, with a selection ranging from classic sushi rolls to more creative offerings.

As expected from a fancier sushi place, the prices are on the higher end, with basic items such as a can of Coca-Cola or bowl of rice priced at $3.

It’s pricey!

Best Items to Get

Here are some of my favorite items on the menu.

  • The udon soup is delicious and big enough for two people to share for a lunch. I like their tempura udon.
  • I wasn’t a big fan of the agadashi tofu. It’s a bit too slimy in texture for my taste.
  • Both their fancier sushi rolls and classics like the California Roll are delicious
  • Their green tea is excellent. It tastes almost like matcha it’s so well flavored.
Udon soup
Rainbow roll
Rainbow roll
The green tea is delicious
I’m not a fan of the agadashi tofu

Is Toyosu Worth it?

Toyosu is pricey. If Kaiwa is open, I tend to go there, since it’s cheaper and still tasty.

If you’re looking for a fancier place (maybe for a date night or a business lunch), though, Toyosu is a great bet. Their fish feels high quality and the ambiance is fancier.

If I’m eating there casually, I like to split the udon soup or a few rolls to keep the price down. I also skip sodas since they feel pretty expensive for a can of Coke.

Simple rolls like the California roll are a good bet

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an alternative to your regular sushi restaurant or want to dine in a place with a little bit extra, Toyosu sushi does not disappoint. With its variety of offerings, friendly and cozy atmosphere, and quality sushi, it’s perfect for those fancier dining occasions.

  • Perfect sushi spot for those seeking an alternative or a more extravagant experience.
  • Offers variety, ambiance and quality sushi – ideal for a fancier dining experience.

Thomas Smith

Thomas Smith is a food and travel photographer and writer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. His photographic work routinely appears in publications including Food and Wine, Conde Nast Traveler, and the New York Times and his writing appears in IEEE Spectrum, SFGate, the Bold Italic and more. Smith holds a degree in Cognitive Science (Neuroscience) and Anthropology from the Johns Hopkins University.
Back to top button