Welcome to Shogun Japanese Restaurant
At Shogun Japanese Restaurant, we bring the heart of Japan to Santa Cruz with a vibrant dining experience. Nestled at 1123 Pacific Ave, our spacious interior caters to families and groups alike, offering a menu rich in fresh flavors and quality sushi. From our zesty spicy garlic edamame to distinct rolls like the Titanic, each dish reflects our commitment to culinary excellence. With features like outdoor seating, takeout, and vegan options, we prioritise a welcoming atmosphere for everyone. Join us for a delightful meal where the essence of Japanese cuisine meets warm hospitality, and discover why we are a local favorite.
Shogun Japanese Restaurant: Reviews & Ratings
Don't be fooled by the modest exterior. This place is expansive on the inside with a large bar. We started with the spicy garlic edamame and the Hawaiian Poke salad. Both excellent. For sushi rolls we ordered the Titanic and the Spider. The Titanic was delicious and unique and the spider was a solid classic. I'd definitely come here again when visiting Santa Cruz.
It was a wonderful meal. Thank you chef Ken for always taking care of us. We will be back soon.
First time here. Every food that we ordered is very good. Fast customer service and the dining ambiance great for family get together. So far, I've been to different Japanese restaurants in Santa Cruz near Boardwalk, this place is what I'm looking for a Japanese cuisine! Highly recommended and definitely will come back here again!
Sushi was great from dragon roll to spicy tuna, maguro, ebi! I was surprised by the bill how reasonable it was.
first review of 2025 we came around lunchtime and it wasn't too busy, which was nice. the restaurant was quite spacious and i liked the arrangement. i got the shogun jumbo, and i really liked it! i thought the tuna tasted pretty fresh, and i loved how filling the roll was. i didn't love how the unagi had those little fish bones, but it didn't take away from the sushi. our food came very quickly, and the server was nice. i would definitely come again.
Service was great; super kind and efficient. Ambiance is nice and warm, I enjoyed spending eating there. Food was AMAZING, I absolutely devoured the dragon roll. Overall great experience here, and the food came out quickly. Slightly short staffed, but they work very hard and efficiently despite that.
I only ordered the chicken katsu, but it was S tier. It was perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The curry that the katsu chicken sat on was salty, savory, and a tiny bit spicy which was just right. Paired with the rice, the meal was great. Really really good chicken katsu and the portion size was very generous. The waiters were nice, so service was good. The place was pretty calm like a generic restaurant, nothing special, but it did have a nice Japanese feel to it with the decorations and setup around the sushi bar.
Location
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1123 Pacific Ave Santa Cruz, CA 95060 United States Hotline: (831) 469-4477
Welcome to Shogun Japanese Restaurant! Nestled in the heart of Santa Cruz, at 1123 Pacific Ave, this restaurant offers a cozy yet expansive dining experience that is sure to please any lover of Japanese cuisine. Whether you're a local or just passing through, Shogun stands out not only for its exceptional food but also for its welcoming ambiance and services.
Upon entering, you may be deceived by the modest exterior, but inside lies a vibrant space with a large bar and ample seating, making it ideal for family gatherings or casual nights out with friends. Shogun provides a perfect blend of traditional Japanese dishes and innovative culinary creations. Vegan options abound, alongside a curated selection of sushi that caters to every palate.
Highlights of the Menu:
- Appetizers: The spicy garlic edamame is a must-try—a delightful start to any meal, while the Hawaiian Poke salad showcases freshness and flavor in every bite.
- Sushi Rolls: The stunning Titanic roll offers a unique twist that leaves a memorable impression, while the classic Spider roll satisfies traditional cravings.
- Beyond Sushi: Customers rave about the shogun jumbo, a filling and flavorful roll that exemplifies the quality of ingredients used here.
Listeners to customer feedback will hear a chorus of satisfied diners, from the consistently praised dragon roll to the spicy tuna and maguro, each dish celebrated for its taste and presented at a wallet-friendly price. The quick service and thoughtful attention from staff—especially chef Ken, a favorite among many—further elevate the dining experience.
Shogun is not only about great food; it also offers convenience and accessibility. With options for reservations, takeout, and delivery, along with wheelchair accessibility, this restaurant caters to a diverse clientele. The outdoor seating invites patrons to enjoy their meals al fresco, while the private dining options make it perfect for those looking to celebrate a special occasion in style.
With a commitment to high-quality dishes and customer satisfaction, Shogun Japanese Restaurant is a place worth visiting again and again. Discover the flavors that await you—the next time you're in Santa Cruz, make sure to stop in and enjoy your slice of Japan!
Contact Information:
Phone: (831) 469-4477
Location: 1123 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, United States.
