If you’re searching for authentic Japanese cuisine in DC Ranch or craving the best sushi in north Scottsdale, Tomu-San Sushi has quickly become the neighborhood’s go-to spot since opening late last year. Tucked into Market Street at DC Ranch at 20825 N Pima Road, this modern Japanese restaurant delivers fresh fish, artful presentation, and a vibe that transports you straight to Tokyo without the jet lag.
The Vision Behind the Sushi Bar
Tom Kaufman, the DC Ranch resident and Valley restaurateur behind The Living Room and Elvira’s, spent years dreaming up this concept. For Kaufman, Tomu-San isn’t just another restaurant; it’s a carefully crafted world where every moment feels intentional. With Executive Chef Christopher George leading the kitchen, the team blends traditional sushi craft with playful modern creativity. Chef George, a 20-year veteran of Roy’s, describes their approach as staging a narrative, one piece at a time, where discipline meets discovery.
What Makes Tomu-San Worth the Trip
Family-Style Japanese Dining
Unlike typical sushi spots, Tomu-San encourages sharing. Many dishes arrive family-style, designed to spark conversation and create connections over beautifully plated food. It’s the kind of place where grabbing extra chopsticks for your dining partner becomes part of the experience.
The Menu Highlights
Tomu-San’s offerings span classic to contemporary:
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Colorful nigiri flights and pristine sashimi
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Fire-kissed signature rolls are perfect for happy hour
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Lobster salad with delicate, fresh flavors
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Duck and mushroom gyoza that balance savory and umami
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Wagyu short rib that practically melts on your tongue
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Black cod with a beautifully caramelized exterior
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Spicy salmon crispy rice for texture lovers
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Tuna tataki seared to perfection
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Robatayaki grilled specialties
Looking for an affordable sushi happy hour near DC Ranch? Tomu-San offers a daily happy hour from 4:30pm to 6:00pm, featuring bold rolls kissed with fire and elegant cocktails at surprisingly approachable prices. These winter evenings call for warm sake and fresh fish, and Tomu-San delivers both flawlessly.
Drinks That Deserve Attention
The beverage program goes beyond basic sake. Expect rare Japanese whiskies, hand-selected sake flights, craft beers, and creative cocktails infused with yuzu, lychee, and matcha. Thoughtfully composed zero-proof pairings ensure everyone at the table can toast to good times. Each drink is selected to balance and enhance your meal’s progression, not just fill a glass.
The Atmosphere: Zen Meets Cinematic
Step inside and you’ll notice the minimalist design softened by natural light, bamboo accents, and bonsai trees offering quiet moments of stillness. The open kitchen lets you witness the delicate art of sushi preparation, where Chef George and his team work with precision and care. It’s serene yet cinematic, a space that invites you to slow down, breathe, and actually taste what you’re eating.
If you’re exploring more incredible spots that make DC Ranch special, the local dining scene continues to reshape what north Scottsdale has to offer.
Supporting a Homegrown Restaurateur
What sets Tomu-San apart is its roots. Tom Kaufman isn’t just a business owner; he’s a DC Ranch resident who understands what the community craves. His decade-long partnership with Whitestone at Market Street has created gathering spaces where hospitality meets artistry.
Tomu-San represents his most ambitious vision yet, bringing top-tier Japanese cuisine to Scottsdale sushi lovers who no longer need to drive downtown for omakase-level experiences.
Plan Your Visit
Location: 20825 N Pima Rd, Suite 100, Scottsdale, AZ 85255 (Market Street at DC Ranch, directly across from The Living Room)
Hours: Monday through Sunday, 11:00am to 9:00pm
Contact: tomusan@kaufmanhospitality.com | (480) 404-7030
Reservations: Available at tomusansushi.com for omakase seating and private events
Best For: Date nights, family-style dinners, happy hour gatherings, sake enthusiasts, and anyone seeking fresh sushi in north Scottsdale
Whether you’re settling in for a multi-course family dinner or stopping by for a casual sake flight during your lunch break, Tomu-San promises an experience where craft, connection, and care take center stage. This is Scottsdale’s escape, and it’s right in your backyard.
Visit Tomu-San Sushi and discover why DC Ranch locals can’t stop talking about their new neighborhood favorite.
Sources: tomusansushi.com, yelp.com, Tomu-San Sushi Facebook Page, Tomu-San Sushi Instagram Page
Header Image Source: tomusansushi.com
