So, you’re finally ready to try sushi — welcome to the club. Whether you’ve been sushi-curious for a while or you just walked into Maizuru Sushi Bar & Japanese Restaurant with friends, you’re in for a treat. And no, you don’t need to be a sushi expert to enjoy your experience.
Located in the heart of Irvine, Maizuru is one of the city’s most welcoming spots for newcomers and seasoned sushi lovers alike. With a wide range of menu options—from classic rolls to flavorful ramen and combination bento boxes—this is the perfect place to take your first (delicious) dive into Japanese cuisine.
Here’s your beginner’s guide to ordering at Maizuru, a top-rated destination for sushi in Irvine.
1. Start Simple: California Roll & Cucumber Roll
If you're new to sushi, it’s smart to ease in with familiar ingredients and mild flavors. The California Roll—featuring crab (usually imitation), avocado, and cucumber—is a gentle entry point. No raw fish here, just creamy, crunchy goodness in every bite.
The Cucumber Roll (Kappa Maki) is another refreshing option for first-timers. Light, crisp, and vegetarian-friendly, it’s a great palate cleanser or starter roll.
Available on Maizuru’s All You Can Eat Sushi menu, both are excellent ways to get your feet wet.
2. Try Cooked Rolls Like Shrimp Tempura or Chicken Teriyaki Roll
Worried about raw fish? No problem. Maizuru’s menu includes a variety of cooked sushi rolls perfect for beginners who want the sushi experience without stepping too far out of their comfort zone.
Popular options include:
Shrimp Tempura Roll – Crunchy shrimp tempura with avocado and sweet sauce
Chicken Teriyaki Roll – A warm, satisfying twist that feels like a sushi burrito
These rolls are flavorful, filling, and perfect for easing into Japanese restaurant dining without pressure.
3. Warm Up with a Bowl of Ramen
Still on the fence about sushi? Get cozy with a bowl of ramen first. As a ramen restaurant as well as a sushi bar, Maizuru offers a variety of comforting options.
Start with:
Tonkatsu Ramen – Rich pork broth, springy noodles, and sliced pork cutlet
Spicy Miso Ramen – For those who want a little heat with their slurp
Ramen is the ultimate Japanese comfort food and a great way to start building your love for Japanese flavors before exploring sushi further.
4. Don’t Miss the Bento Box
Not sure what to order? Let Maizuru’s combination bento boxes do the work for you. These beautifully arranged meals come with a variety of items: rice, salad, gyoza, a sushi roll, and your choice of protein like karaage chicken, tonkatsu, or beef teriyaki.
Bento boxes are a beginner’s dream — you get to try a little bit of everything without having to make too many decisions. Plus, they’re satisfying, balanced, and fun to eat.
5. Ready to Level Up? Go for Nigiri or the Irvine Roll
Once you’ve built up a little confidence, you might be ready to try nigiri—hand-pressed rice topped with fresh cuts of fish like salmon, tuna, or yellowtail.
Still want something beginner-friendly but a bit more adventurous? Try the:
Irvine Roll – A spicy tuna roll that’s full of flavor without being too bold
Ultimate Albacore Roll – Lightly seared albacore with ponzu sauce and crispy onion
These rolls are among the most popular on the sushi Irvine scene and a great step forward for first-timers ready to try something new.
Bonus: Go AYCE with Confidence
Yes, you can absolutely enjoy all you can eat sushi Irvine style even as a beginner. The team at Maizuru is friendly, helpful, and ready to guide you through the process. The AYCE menu offers endless options, so you can try a little of this, a little of that, and come back for more of your favorites.
Pro Tip: Let your server know you’re new to sushi. They’ll help you pick beginner-friendly dishes and avoid anything that might feel overwhelming on your first visit.
Visit Maizuru Sushi Bar – The Most Welcoming Japanese Restaurant in Irvine
Sushi doesn’t have to be intimidating. At Maizuru Sushi Bar, we believe great food should be approachable, exciting, and shared with good company. Whether you’re trying your first California Roll or leveling up to nigiri and sashimi, our menu is designed to welcome everyone.
Located in Oak Creek Shopping Center, we offer dine-in, takeout, and Japanese food catering for parties and events.