Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey

Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey is a culinary hotspot that has masterfully combined Japanese precision with a touch of American boldness. The restaurant’s concept brings together the refined art of sushi and the robust character of whiskey, creating an experience that feels both innovative and grounded in tradition. Founded by celebrated chef Engin Onural, Sandfish has quickly become a favorite for both locals and visitors since it opened its doors in 2018.

The interior of Sandfish is sleek and modern, with a minimalist aesthetic that balances rustic wood with polished concrete, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and relaxed. Low lighting, ambient music, and a cozy bar area set the stage for a unique dining experience where patrons can enjoy expertly crafted sushi and an impressive selection of whiskeys from around the world.

PalmSprings.com Favorite Dishes:

The Spicy Tuna and Crab Roll: A masterful blend of flavors and textures, offering a delightful twist on a classic sushi roll. The inside features a flavorful combination of spicy tuna, succulent crab meat, and creamy avocado, creating a rich, melt-in-your-mouth base. This is beautifully contrasted by a topping of lightly fried potato threads, which add an unexpected crunch and a hint of earthiness.

The roll is elevated further with a drizzle of spicy aioli and teriyaki sauce, providing a balance of heat and sweet-savory notes that enhances the freshness of the seafood. The addition of microgreens and green onions introduces a fresh, herbal bite, while the finishing touch of black truffle zest adds an aromatic, luxurious depth.

Steamed White Asparagus with Norwegian Salmon: This exquisite dish is a standout on the menu, showcasing Sandfish’s skill in balancing delicate flavors. The steamed white asparagus is perfectly tender, providing a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich Norwegian salmon. The dish is elevated with a togarashi hollandaise sauce, adding a creamy, spicy kick. Garnished with borage blossoms, micro chives, and a sprinkle of truffle seaweed salt, this plate is both visually stunning and an explosion of flavor.

Sandfish Roll: For those looking for something unique, the Sandfish Roll is an excellent choice. This signature roll combines lobster tempura, avocado, and cucumber, topped with spicy tuna, jalapeño, and a drizzle of house-made eel sauce. The contrasting flavors and textures come together beautifully, offering a taste that’s both indulgent and refreshing.

Whiskey Pairing Specials: Sandfish’s whiskey selection is as carefully curated as its sushi menu. The staff is well-versed in pairing these distinct spirits with various dishes. The Japanese whiskeys, particularly the Hibiki and Nikka selections, complement the umami notes of sushi exceptionally well. The “Whiskey Flight” is a great way to explore different profiles and find the perfect match for your meal.

Sandfish Sushi & Whiskey is the brainchild of Chef Engin Onural, who has brought his unique culinary vision to life by blending his Japanese training with global influences. Chef Onural was born in New York, raised in Turkey, and has called the Coachella Valley home since 2006. Onural, known for his successful sushi ventures, aimed to create a space that pays homage to the Japanese art of sushi-making while embracing a distinctly American spirit through whiskey. The restaurant’s location in Palm Springs has allowed it to become a standout destination, attracting food enthusiasts from all over Southern California.