Oku
Stylish Asian-fusion eatery with ocean views, offering creative sushi, cocktails, and a vibrant rooftop patio experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Oku
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stylish Asian-fusion eatery with ocean views, offering creative sushi, cocktails, and a vibrant rooftop patio experience.
"Experience perfection with divine sushi and an explosion of taste, all with stunning ocean views!"
Reserve in advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups or if you want the best seating.
Explore beyond sushi
Don't miss out on other Asian-fusion delights like crispy cauliflower and wagyu dishes.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Japanese / Asian-Fusion
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ocean Views & Rooftop Ambiance
Dine with stunning ocean views, especially from the second-floor patio. Perfect for sunset with lanterns and heat lamps.
Creative Sushi & Asian Fusion
Experience unique sushi rolls and creative Asian-fusion dishes like wagyu dumplings and spicy salmon rolls.
Artful Cocktails
Savor creative cocktails, some served in charming lucky cat mugs, perfect for a stylish night out.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve in advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups or if you want the best seating.
Explore beyond sushi
Don't miss out on other Asian-fusion delights like crispy cauliflower and wagyu dishes.
Dine at sunset
Enjoy the romantic ambiance with strategically placed lanterns and glowing heat lamps during sunset.
Vegan Sushi Options
Vegans will rejoice with a wide variety of creative sushi rolls beyond the usual avocado and cucumber.
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve in advance
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups or if you want the best seating.
Explore beyond sushi
Don't miss out on other Asian-fusion delights like crispy cauliflower and wagyu dishes.
Dine at sunset
Enjoy the romantic ambiance with strategically placed lanterns and glowing heat lamps during sunset.
Vegan Sushi Options
Vegans will rejoice with a wide variety of creative sushi rolls beyond the usual avocado and cucumber.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oku is lauded for its exquisite sushi and creative Asian-fusion dishes, paired with a fantastic ambiance and stunning ocean views from its rooftop patio. While many praise the fresh ingredients, perfect roll proportions, and excellent service, some diners have noted occasional attentiveness issues during peak times and a less welcoming initial reception.
"Holy cow!!! I have been here once before and I remembered it being good so I came back, and it is just as good as i remembered if not better. The food takes a second to come out, but I think it was due to short staff. Our waitress looked pretty busy. The dessert was amazing, the atmosphere was great, and for an elevated experience restaurant, it wasn't super expensive. Apparently it's a very popular spot, and I can see why. Must go if you enjoy sushi, but they have more than that here."
Alexandria Moreno
"One of my new favorite restaurants in Santa Barbara! We loved that some of the drinks were served in an adorable lucky cat mug that you can even purchase (available in white, sage or pink- your choice!) The sushi was stellar and I loved the spicy salmon roll! I also recommend the miso soup. And to top it off, the beautiful ocean view just across the way. If you have a larger group I would make a reservation. Can’t wait to come back!"
Kim Scanlan
"My wife and I went to Oku on a Friday with a family member that was in town and we had an exceptional experience. This was our second time there and experience was just as great as the first. The staff were very friendly, especially our server Sarah, who gave awesome service. They have many great drink selections. The food is fantastic. As an appetizer, we tried the shrimp gyoza, which was very tasty. All the sushi we ate was delicious. The fresh ingredients, combined with excellent preparation created for superb sushi. Our favorite rolls were the “Everybody Loves Ramon” and the “Crouching Tiger.” The restaurant has a prime location. I recommend to make a reservation, so you can sit upstairs overlooking beachside Santa Barbara. Oku is a great place to go for a date night. We definitely will be back again to explore the other dishes on the menu."
A & B Life Adventures
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations are highly recommended, especially for larger groups or if you wish to secure a table with an ocean view.
Oku is known for its fresh sushi, creative rolls like the spicy salmon, and unique dishes like wagyu dumplings and crispy cauliflower.
Yes, Oku offers a surprisingly extensive vegan sushi menu with many creative roll options beyond the basics.
Visiting during sunset is highly recommended to enjoy the ocean views enhanced by strategically placed lanterns and heat lamps.
Yes, Oku is knowledgeable about and accommodating to gluten-free individuals.
Oku features a full bar with creative cocktails, sake, wine, and beer, including some served in unique lucky cat mugs.
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29 E Cabrillo BlvdSanta Barbara, CA 93101http://okurestaurant.com/. The menu at Oku, a Californian-Asian food inspired, is constantly changing to reflect the freshest seasonal ingredients, so there’s always something new to try. Whether you’re in the mood for light bites or a full-blown meal, Oku has something to suit your appetite.
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We were seated at the lovely table on the upper/rooftop patio with views of the ocean. Everyone on staff was so nice from the hostess that seated us to the bartender and our waitress. They also are a sushi place that is knowledgeable of and accommodating to gluten free individuals.
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It has been nonstop here for the past few months between holidays, work, and taking care of the kiddos. For that reason, I was super excited to get out of the house and try a new restaurant. Oku is the latest restaurant from Tina Takaya of Opal.
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