Top Sushi Restaurants in Palm Springs: Serving you fish, Queen!
Palm Springs is a vibrant playground for gay men looking to live their best lives. Whether you’re in town for the sun, the fun, or the stunning landscapes, one thing you can't miss out on is the… sushi?
We realize that “fresh fish” isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you’re thinking about the desert. But, YES, Palm Springs has some fabulous sushi spots that cater to all tastes and styles. 🍣 😋
What’s your favorite sushi roll? Have you visited any of these sushi spots in Palm Springs? Which Palm Springs sushi restaurant are you excited to try next? Tell us your best Palm Springs dining story!
If you have any particular favorites you feel should absolutely be included in this article, please email us and let us know (and let us know why you love it too)!
So, if you’re fishy queens like we are, here are our votes on the Top Sushi Restaurants in Palm Springs!
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey
1556 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey offers an eclectic mix that satisfies both sushi purists and adventurous eaters. We’re talking innovative sushi rolls paired with a selection of fine whiskeys. The ambiance is chic, making it a perfect spot for the sophisticated yet casual dinner. If the LA vibe is your style, then you’ll likely be a fan of what Sandfish is serving up.
Ponzu Sushi
100 W Tahquitz Canyon Way UNIT 130, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Ponzu Sushi is the newest kid on the block, located right in front of the “Forever Marilyn” Marilyn Monroe statue and the Kimpton Rowan Hotel. With its focus on fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere, this restaurant offers a range of traditional and inventive sushi rolls as well as creative concoctions. It's an excellent spot in a prime downtown location for those who appreciate a mix of classic and contemporary sushi flavors.
TAKA SHIN
641 N Palm Canyon Dr, Palm Springs, CA 92262
If you’re looking for simplicity and authenticity, TAKA SHIN is the place to try. This spot offers an authentic Japanese dining experience with meticulously crafted sushi. The chefs are highly skilled, ensuring that each piece of sushi is a work of art. It’s a minimalist, unpretentious atmosphere that is as relaxing as it is delicious. That said, I’d like a bit more sashimi for that price tag please!
Shabu Shabu Zen and Sake Bar
71680 Hwy111 #F, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
While not directly in Palm Springs – and not technically a sushi spot – this might be our favorite spot to rave about of all. Located in nearby Rancho Mirage, Shabu Shabu Zen and Sake Bar is a family-owned Japanese restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. Specializing in shabu-shabu (think Japanese fondue) and offering a great selection of sake, this intimate spot is perfect for those looking to enjoy a flavorful, authentic, and interactive meal. Reservations are recommended due to limited capacity. This is as authentic Japanese cuisine as it gets out here in the desert! Shout-out to the guys (owners) at Wabi Sabi Japan Living in Palm Springs – a home goods retail store that imports tableware, Sake, chopsticks, cookware and food from Japan and Asia – for first introducing us to this place!
Torakichi Ramen
5001 Ramon Rd, Ste 2 A, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Ok, this is not a sushi place at all. But sticking with the Japanese cuisine-theme, Torakichi Ramen offers some fabulous ramen at a very reasonable price. And good thing because it’s really the only ramen joint in town. It’s in the Staples complex out by the box stores at S Gene Autry Trail (Highway 111) and Ramon Rd, so it’s worth a pit stop after you’re done collecting paint swatches at Lowes.
Happy Sushi
155 S Palm Canyon Dr B-7, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Happy Sushi lives up to its name, serving a joyful dining experience with a wide variety of sushi rolls. It’s a more laid-back spot, better suited for lunch in our opinion – though the happy hour deals are also enticing. It’s not gourmet, so lower your expectations a bit, but you certainly won’t leave hungry.
Joyce’s Sushi (Palm Springs)
425 S Sunrise Way F-2, Palm Springs, CA 92264
Joyce’s Sushi is another new kid in town, and a hidden gem in Palm Springs. Their sister (and primary) location in Rancho Mirage has always been a quality spot. Now, with their second location in the Ralph’s shopping plaza (at Sunrise & Ramon), Joyce’s offers a cozy atmosphere with a very fresh menu that features a mix of traditional and innovative sushi rolls. They even have a “big whole tuna cutting show” every week if you’ve ever been curious where your sashimi comes from. But be aware: their website’s banner reads “In God We Trust,” and they are a bit God-heavy in their promotion. That said, if you decide to eat there, we fully encourage you to bring your posse of fearless, fabulous gay friends with you ;)
If you’re hungry for more, check out our The Perfect Gay Getaway in Palm Springs for the Solo Traveler article and our Best Dining in Gay Palm Springs article.
If you’re curious to learn more about Palm Springs and our beautiful Coachella Valley surrounding desert cities, check out Glen Nadeau’s Living in Palm Springs California YouTube channel. From hidden gems to best restaurants to best neighborhoods, uncover the magic of Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley with us as Palm Springs Guy (and local Realtor) Glen Nadeau guides you through the ins-and-outs of our vibrant Southern California desert haven!
Beyond the gay wonderland that is our low-desert oasis, Palm Springs is also about eclectic culinary experiences. The sushi restaurants themselves are even diverse, offering everything from authentic Japanese to creative and refreshing sushi rolls. The year-round warm climate makes sushi an always-refreshing option. And the friendly atmosphere always makes it easy to meet new people and form lasting connections. So pack your bags and get ready for a fabulous getaway in Gay Palm Springs!
