Highlights
- Great tea selection
oChef » SOICHI – San Diego
SOICHI - San Diego
Photo from SOICHI
SOICHI at a glance
San Diego University Heights
- 🍣 Japanese Restaurant
$$$
Price per Person $91–$100
mentioned by 105 of the guests
#142 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#10 Japanese Restaurant out of 36 in San Diego
Excellent
8.3 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
615
Reviews
80.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Exceptional sushi
- Attentive service
- Pleasant atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Value concerns
- Reservation difficulty
- Parking challenges
The restaurant SOICHI in San Diego’s vibrant University Heights neighborhood offers you an authentic Japanese dining experience. You’ll discover a culinary journey where every detail is considered, from the exquisite dishes to the impressive great tea selection.
This Japanese restaurant invites you to unwind in an atmosphere that blends upscale sophistication with cozy comfort, making it a perfect spot for a memorable evening out.
Overview: Introducting SOICHI
SOICHI offers a culinary journey centered around exceptional sushi and omakase, often described as a transformative dining experience. Guests frequently praise the fresh ingredients and the meticulous preparation by the chefs.
The overall atmosphere is generally well-regarded, contributing to a memorable visit. However, some diners have noted challenges with securing a reservation and occasional concerns regarding the parking situation.
While the service is largely commended, there have been instances where the waiting time or certain aspects of the dining environment fell short of expectations.
Excellent
8.3
out of 10
615
Reviews
80.7%
Satisfaction
89
negative
30
neutral
496
positive
Overall, SOICHI earns a solid 8.3, reflecting a generally positive dining experience. This is further supported by a strong 80.7% customer satisfaction rate, indicating that most patrons leave content.
These insights are drawn from a substantial body of feedback, with 496 positive observations against 89 negative ones, out of 615 total customer comments. The culinary offerings stand out, with Food scoring an impressive (8.7), frequently described as exceptional.
The Service (8.0) also receives high marks for attentiveness and warmth, complementing the generally pleasant Ambience (7.9). However, opinions on Value (5.8) are more mixed, suggesting that while the experience is often worth it, some find the pricing a point of consideration.
What people like
- Exceptional sushi quality
- Attentive, warm service
- Pleasant dining atmosphere
What people don't like
- Value for money
- Difficult reservations
- Parking challenges
With a strong 8.5 recommendation score, SOICHI is certainly worth considering for those seeking a high-quality Japanese dining experience. The focus on exquisite food and dedicated service makes it a compelling choice, particularly for special occasions or an indulgent meal.
However, be prepared for the effort required to secure a table and potential parking hurdles. If you prioritize exceptional cuisine and attentive care over strict budget considerations, SOICHI delivers a memorable experience that many find truly rewarding.
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Verdict: Our expert take on SOICHI
Food (8.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 95% of the guests
When it comes to the food here, youre in for a treat! With a fantastic score of 8.7 and customer satisfaction soaring at 87.6%, its clear that diners are consistently impressed. Out of 330 customer remarks, a whopping 289 rave about the omakase, fresh sushi, and quality fish, praising the flavors and overall dining experience.
However, a few of the 29 negative comments point to some areas for improvement. Some found the rice too sour, felt the portion sizes were small, or noted inconsistent sushi quality. A couple even mentioned some tasteless sashimi, suggesting that while generally excellent, not every single dish hits the mark.
Food
330
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
29
negative
12
neutral
289
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fresh, quality fish
- Exceptional omakase experience
- Authentic, unique flavors
What people don't like
- Small portions
- Sour sushi rice
- Inconsistent sushi quality
Often praised
- foodOur chef, Martin, was fantastic, taking great care of us and explaining each dish. I loved all the food, and his explanations were much appreciated. The entire staff was incredibly helpful, guiding us through sake selections and ensuring we were well looked after throughout the evening.
- sushiMy experience at this restaurant completely changed my idea of how good sushi can be. Our chef, Daniel, mesmerized us with his technique in preparing each course, and eating them was even better.
- omakaseThe staff are all incredibly warm and friendly. I ordered the omakase and left full and satisfied, definitely getting my money's worth. As far as I know, sushi doesn't get much better than this!
- omakase experienceAll the courses were delicious, and they also offered a wide variety of sake. It was a really nice omakase experience we got in recent years!
- FoodFood was fresh and fantastic.
- fishWe received a good amount of kitchen dishes and nigiri. The fish was fresh, and we tried some cool fish types we hadn't had before. The sushi chef was super nice and chatted with us a good amount.
- sakeMy experience at this restaurant for our anniversary was wonderful. We opted for the full omakase and enjoyed two carafes of sake. The food was great, with the bonito being my personal favorite.
- OmakaseWe had been trying to get reservations for years, even before their coveted Michelin award, but were unable to. Finally, we got to experience the best Omakase. You can expect Friendly, Family, Fine Dining, Finesse, Fulfilled service and food.
- ToroThe 12 pieces of nigiri were bursting with freshness, flavor, and craftsmanship. Standouts included the creamy Uni, melt-in-your-mouth Toro, bold Iwashi, delicate Nodoguro, rich Kinmedai, unique Kawahagi, and luxurious Seki Aji. The Shirumono served as a gentle palate cleanser, accompanied by a light, pillowy tamago.
- dishesHaving spent some years in Japan, we noticed so many authentic flavors and found out that they do source many ingredients straight from family friends and connections back in Japan. Recommend reading up on the style of sushi Chef Soich specializes in so you can really appreciate how well done these dishes are.
Frequently criticized
- omakaseI've had much better omakase for less.
- portionsthe portions are so small
- amountthe amount was like an appetizer
- carry-out foodcarry-out food was not as good as expected
- dishthere was a dish that had several components to it that didn’t mix well together
- dishesdishes are not impressive
- fishDid not taste anything above average on the fish
- foodThe food was so mediocre
- hot souphot soup was served in a melamine bowl
- last two coursesThe last two courses were underwhelming
If you're seeking an exceptional omakase experience with incredibly fresh, high-quality fish, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be aware that while the overall experience is stellar, a few diners have noted smaller portions or occasional inconsistencies with certain elements like the rice.
Service (8 out of 10)
mentioned by 84% of the guests
The service at this establishment truly shines, earning a good score of 8 and leaving guests with a good satisfaction rate of 75.1%. With 136 positive remarks out of 181 total, diners consistently praise the friendly staff, great service, and attentive chefs who deliver exceptional hospitality and personalized conversations. However, it's not without its quirks, as 33 comments highlight some frustrations.
The most frequent challenge seems to be the reservation process, which can be quite difficult. A few guests also noted occasional waiting time between dishes or even a forgotten course, which can slightly interrupt the flow of the meal.
Service
181
Reviews
75%
Satisfaction
33
negative
12
neutral
136
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Personalized chef interactions
- Excellent hospitality
What people don't like
- Difficult reservations
- Long waits between courses
- Forgotten orders
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at Soichi has been consistently stellar for the past 5 years. They excel in providing top-notch sushi, complemented by friendly service with a smile and great hospitality. The ambiance is a perfect blend of fun yet chill.
- staffOur chef, Daniel, mesmerized us with his technique in preparing each course, and eating them was even better. The staff are all incredibly warm and friendly. I ordered the omakase and left full and satisfied, definitely getting my money's worth.
- serversI opted for the full course dinner, which included 3 plates of some of the best sushi I’ve ever had, along with soup and ice cream. The sake was also delicious, and the servers were extremely friendly and knowledgeable, willing to discuss the different sake options. This is the perfect place if you need to impress someone or want to go on a fancy date night.
- chefsTo enhance your initial visit, try to request a seat at the bar. This allows you to watch your delicious food being prepared and also provides an opportunity to chat with the chefs.
- Chef SoichiThe quality of the fish was honestly second to none, with most of it flown in from Japan, and the difference was obvious when tasted. Chef Soichi is a fantastic guy, who even comes out from behind the counter with his guitar to hang out and sing Happy Birthday to his guests. Reservations are tough to get, and with good reason, it’s always a great visit.
- ServiceFriendly, Family, Fine Dining, Finesse, Fulfilled is what you’ll get
- reservationTotally understand why you have to book months in advance to get a reservation.
- chefMy experience at the restaurant was a true honor. We had never tried many of the things on the menu before, and the chef treated us so well, making us feel at home. Everything was amazing!
- experienceThe staff were friendly and attentive, making me feel like part of the family. It was an unforgettable experience, thanks to Soichi.
- waitMany weeks in advance is required for a successful reservation. The wait is worth it! The best sushi I've ever had.
Frequently criticized
- reservationIt's a difficult reservation to get, but the experience was absolutely worth it. The food was incredible, the atmosphere was fantastic, and the chefs were very attentive to our questions.
- waiting timeWaited and waited, watched as people who came in after us received course after course. After waiting 45 minutes
- apologyNo apology, nothing
- closing timeMy experience was that the restaurant very politely did not seat us 15 minutes before closing time. I understand this, and it's okay, but I was just bummed out because I heard it was really great 👍😃.
- customer service policydisappointing due to their bad customer service policy
- deceittheir time wasting and deceit, are not worth it
- dishonestyThe dishonesty is really disgusting
- foodfood comes out a bit slowly
- forgotten coursethey forgot a course, that’s why we wasted 50min
- no flexibility for reschedulingno flexibility for rescheduling to a different date
If you manage to secure a reservation, you're in for a fantastic experience! The exceptional service, from the friendly staff to the engaging chefs, truly elevates the dining, making any initial booking struggles well worth it. Just be prepared for the reservation challenge and potentially a slight wait between courses.
Ambience (7.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 53% of the guests
The ambience here truly shines, earning a solid score of 7.9 and a commendable 78.1% customer satisfaction. Based on 57 positive opinions, guests frequently rave about the incredible experience and atmosphere, describing it as warm, friendly, and having a wonderful vibe. Many appreciate the beautiful decor, cozy feel, and even options like bar seating or outside tables with heaters, making for a memorable dining experience.
However, not everything is perfect, with 13 negative opinions pointing out some areas for improvement. Some found parking to be a challenge, while others were bothered by awful clientele or disruptive behavior. There were also mentions of place cleanliness issues and unsatisfactory restroom conditions, which detracted from the overall experience for a few.
Ambience
73
Reviews
78%
Satisfaction
13
negative
3
neutral
57
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Incredible dining experience
- Warm, friendly atmosphere
- Enhanced bar seating
What people don't like
- Difficult parking
- Disruptive clientele
- Unclean restrooms
Often praised
- atmosphereIt's a difficult reservation to get, but the experience was absolutely worth it. The food was incredible, the atmosphere was fantastic, and the chefs were very attentive to our questions. I suspect this place will be busy for some time, as I am already planning to come back.
- experienceThe omakase menu was delicious, diverse, and generous. The super nice staff contributed to a warm and friendly experience. I'm so happy I got the chance to come here!
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- ambianceexceeded all my expectations in terms of ambiance
- dining experienceThe best sushi I've ever had. The dining experience is second to none.
- placebeautiful place
- vibethe overall vibe of the restaurant was wonderful
- Fine DiningFinally, we got to experience the best Omakase. You can expect Friendly, Family, Fine Dining, Finesse, Fulfilled service and food.
- Michelin starscontaban con estrellas Michelin hasta después de 3 visitas y ahora lo entendemos todo 😍
- Noise levelNoise level:Quiet, easy to talk
Frequently criticized
- parkingparking is hard to find
- Michelin-rated establishmenthardly appropriate for a Michelin-rated establishment
- awful clienteleawful clientele, Customers who revel in drama
- disruptive and disgusting displays behaviordisruptive and disgusting displays behavior
- experienceIt was NOT an experience of a Michelin star restaurant
- host standseated next the host stand where some visitors stood for at least 30 minutes
- placeplace is small it’s loud
- place cleanlinessthe place was not very clean
- regularstheir behavior really took away from our experience. They were obviously loud
- restroomthe restroom and, let's just say, it was not up to par
If you're seeking a truly memorable dining experience with a fantastic atmosphere, this place is definitely worth a visit. Just be prepared for potential parking challenges and hope for a quiet night, as some past guests have noted disruptive clientele.
Value (5.8 out of 10)
mentioned by 24% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot seems to be a bit of a mixed bag, with a score of 5.8, placing it squarely in the average range. Customer satisfaction sits at 45.2%, which is also a mixed result, suggesting that while some feel they got their moneys worth, others werent quite convinced. Many appreciated the price of omakase, feeling it offered a full experience and was worth the money or a reasonable price, according to 14 positive remarks.
However, an equal number of 14 negative comments, out of 31 total remarks, highlight concerns about the effort to spend money and the overall price point. Some found the total bill to be quite expensive, feeling underwhelmed by what they received for the cost. It seems the value proposition isn't consistently hitting the mark for everyone.
Value
31
Reviews
45%
Satisfaction
14
negative
3
neutral
14
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Worth the money
- Reasonable price
- Full experience
What people don't like
- Too expensive
- Underwhelmed for price
- Small portions
Often praised
- priceMy experience at this restaurant was an all-round super one, and it was worth every penny. The fish was super fresh and a great variety was served.
- billsurprised how cheap the bill was
- bottle of winebottle of wine for only $38 which is wildly cheap
- full experienceWe paid for the $150 full experience
- mealI forgot what a phone or a camera was for about an hour and a half, so you’ll have to excuse the lack of pictures, but suffice it to say that even sharing pictures of the food would fall as short as dancing about architecture would. The meal was not inexpensive, but this is not some discount sushi; this was one of the finest and most complete dining experiences I’ve had in over a decade, and I would gladly partake again. (Thinking about the meal, to think of prices feels vulgar.) Be prepared for an absolutely stunning and fully-engrossing experience while dining at this show-stopping restaurant.
- moneyThis is worth the money
- money's worthThe staff are all incredibly warm and friendly. I ordered the omakase and left full and satisfied, definitely getting my money's worth. As far as I know, sushi doesn't get much better than this!
- price of omakasePrice of omakase was comparable to other places
- price tagit's absolutely worth the price tag
- pricingMy dining experience at this restaurant was truly exceptional, exceeding all expectations in terms of food quality, ambiance, and service. The pricing was remarkably reasonable, especially considering the exceptional quality and meticulous care evident in each dish. I will certainly be back.
Frequently criticized
- priceI don't understand how this can be the standard for a Michelin-recognized restaurant. If the focus is solely on service and Omakase dining, I suggest not offering carry-out orders, especially given the ridiculously high price, below-average taste, and small portion sizes.
- Omakase optionSounds reasonable gor omakase.. but it really wasn't..
- billour bill came out to $500
- effort to spend moneyIf it takes that much effort to spend money
- full omakasefull omakase was $175 after tip
- price pointdisappointing for the price point
- reservation depositpaid $25 per person to hold the reservation.
- total billwe paid $425.60 not including tip.. and outrageous amount for what we received
- value for moneybetter than for your buck since we didn't feel full
If youre considering a visit, be prepared for an experience that some find absolutely worth the cost, especially for the omakase. However, if youre particularly budget-conscious or expect large portions for a high price, you might find yourself a bit underwhelmed.
How are the prices at SOICHI?
You’re looking at roughly $99 per person – reported by 105 diners. That puts it in the $91–$100 category. For a Japanese Restaurant, this is certainly on the higher-end.
While the average is $99, our data shows that the vast majority of guests are actually spending $101+, indicating a premium experience rather than a budget-friendly option.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 105 reviews.
Comparing value for money: This Japanese restaurant versus similar spots in San Diego.
Considering the pricing, wed say this Japanese restaurant in San Diego is positioned for a more premium dining experience. If youre looking for top-tier Japanese cuisine and are prepared to invest, it could be a great choice.
Customer Reviews: what people think about SOICHI
Price per Person
- $81–$90
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Moderate
5
Tasty but Small Portions, Great Service
My experience at this restaurant was a mixed bag. While the food was tasty, it was also quite expensive, and the portions were so small. Each nigiri was like a 'mini' sized version of what I would get anywhere else, just a small bite.
On the positive side, the service was great; the staff were very friendly and attentive. However, despite the good service, I don't think I will go back due to the value proposition.
- food7
- service9
- staff9
- price3
- portions2
- nigiri2
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
7
Great Meal, Questionable Serving Ware
My experience at this restaurant was largely positive, with a great meal and excellent service. However, I was disappointed that the hot soup was served in a melamine bowl with a melamine spoon, which I found hardly appropriate for a Michelin-rated establishment.
- meal8
- service9
- hot soup3
- melamine bowl3
- melamine spoon3
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
10
Delicious Omakase and Wonderful Staff!
I had the best night! We started by being allowed to bring over a large teapot from their sister restaurant next door. The omakase menu was delicious, diverse, and generous.
The super nice staff contributed to a warm and friendly experience. I'm so happy I got the chance to come here!
- omakase menu10
- staff10
- experience10
Price per Person
- $101+
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Moderate
5
Good Food, But Lacking Value
My experience at this restaurant involved trying both the full omakase and nigiri omakase. The food was good, but nothing truly stood out. I usually love monkfish pate, but this version was my least favorite.
While all the food was prepared well, we've had better omakases elsewhere, often for less money. For instance, their negi toro was chewy. Reservations are hard to secure as they sell out quickly.
We visited on a Friday at 6 PM. The dining area is quite small, seating perhaps 20-30 people. There were a couple of birthdays during our meal, leading to the chef playing guitar and staff singing 'Happy Birthday.
' I'm giving this place 3 stars. The staff was attentive during the meal, promptly clearing plates, providing new utensils, and folding napkins. However, the restroom was not up to par due to a previous patron.
I discreetly informed the staff, and they assured me it would be handled. Unfortunately, when my partner used the restroom later, it still hadn't been cleaned, requiring them to get someone else's attention. This is unexpected for a Michelin-rated establishment.
I also rated this place lower because there are equally good omakases in San Diego that offer better value. We didn't feel full after our full meal and ended up ordering additional a la carte items.
- food6
- staff8
- dining area5
- monkfish pate3
- negi toro4
- restroom2
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Wait Time
- Moderate (16–30 min.)
9
Spectacular Omakase, Minor Wait
We had a wonderful time at the restaurant. Our reservation was for 8: 15 PM, and we were seated around 8: 45 PM, which was our only complaint. My two favorite dishes were the Yubadofu and the Toro.
The ice cream was also unreal and so delicious. The entire meal was pretty spectacular, and opting for the Omakase nigiri was definitely the right choice. We left feeling full and satiated.
- Yubadofu9
- Toro9
- ice cream10
- reservation4
What SOICHI offers
Planning
- Reservations required
- Accepts reservations
- Dinner reservations recommended
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Gender-neutral restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
- Restroom
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Wine
- Beer
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Table service
- Dessert
Service Options
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
Parking
- Usually somewhat difficult to find a space
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Upscale
- Romantic
- Cozy
- Trendy
FAQs
Do I need reservations to dine at SOICHI in University Heights?
Yes, reservations are required to ensure you secure your spot at SOICHI. Dinner reservations are highly recommended, especially given its popularity as an upscale and romantic Japanese restaurant in San Diego. You can easily make your booking to plan your visit.
What kind of dining experience and offerings can I expect at SOICHI?
At SOICHI, you can anticipate an upscale, romantic, and cozy atmosphere, perfect for a trendy evening. You’ll find healthy and vegetarian options, small plates, and a great tea selection. Enjoy wine, beer, or other alcoholic beverages with your dinner, available for dine-in or outdoor seating.
What is the overall dining experience like at SOICHI?
SOICHI holds a strong overall score of 8.3, with customer satisfaction at 80.7%. The Food (8.7) is highly praised, alongside commendable Service (8.0) and a pleasant Ambience (7.9). However, opinions on Value (5.8) are more mixed.
What do customers appreciate most about SOICHI?
Diners frequently highlight the exceptional quality of the sushi and omakase, often describing it as a transformative culinary journey. The staff are consistently praised for their warmth, attentiveness, and the overall welcoming atmosphere.
Are there any common challenges or drawbacks when dining at SOICHI?
Some patrons note that securing a reservation can be difficult due to high demand, and parking in the vicinity may present a challenge. Additionally, while many find the experience worthwhile, some express concerns regarding the value for money, particularly concerning portion sizes.