Prices, Quality Send Sushi Restaurant Customers Over the Moon

Rolling Moon Sushi in Murrieta has acquired quite a following with its big portions, quality ingredients and affordable prices. 

However, its unique roll customization and a blending of traditions is what sets this sushi restaurant apart from the rest.

"We are Japanese-style, but we have incorporated a lot of Korean-style with the white fish and spicy sauce, and Chinese-style with shellfish and scallops," said co-owner Chuck Korman.

Originally from Korea, Korman, 43, attended college in China and owned a bar and grill in Beijing in the 1990s.

"I swore I would never go back into the restaurant business but here I am," he said.

Korman's business partners Jay Moon and Jae Kim have helped round out the diverse menu offered at the local eatery.

This makes for a refreshing twist on sushi with many of the dishes being a combination of all three, such as Rolling Moon's signature Baked Lobster roll, which sells for $9.95.

Resembling a traditional roll, baked lobster, tomato and bell peppers create a subtle, pure flavor that leaves one full.

Another concept Korman believes sets Rolling Moon apart from other sushi restaurants is that they dice their fish, giving sushi aficionados more of the good stuff.

Rolling Moon is vegetarian-friendly, and offers chicken and beef entrees for those who do not like seafood or raw fish.

"We'd like to see more people eat sushi; it is one of those healthy things people should eat more often," Korman said.

The creative, the picky, or those who have allergies or diet constraints, can create their own roll. Rolling Moon's unique assembly-line system allows you to choose your own ingredients, sauces and toppings.

Prices range from $4 to $10 and lunch specials are available during the week. 

The restaurant is cozy with six tables for those who like to eat in. Rolling Moon also takes to-go orders and offers catering.

In business since summer 2011, many patrons are regulars who take advantage of the lunch specials.

Murrieta resident Blake Riser, 20, has become a regular customer. Oftentimes he brings along his friend, 26-year-old Nick Santos, of Wildomar.

Both agreed the "quality and the prices" keep them coming back.

"It tastes a lot better than other sushi places," Riser said. "And they are always really quick; I've never had to wait long."

Trevor Cole, 18, of Murrieta, also can not get enough.

"This is decently priced and I can see that it is clean," Cole said. "They are friendly and you are not going to get that just anywhere."

Rolling Moon Sushi is located at 40685 California Oaks Road, Suite J in Murrieta, near Chase Bank. Hours and other information can be found on their Facebook page.