Seared Salmon at FOB Sushi Bar – Worth the Hype?

January 5, 2026

Seared salmon

If there is one item at FOB Sushi Bar that people remember, crave, and talk about long after they leave, it’s the Seared Salmon.

Even guests who try many rolls, nigiri, and inari often agree on one thing: this is the bite they go back for.

FOB Sushi Bar is known for its pay-by-the-pound sushi concept, but the seared salmon stands out as something special. It is simple, warm, flavorful, and comforting—perfect for both sushi lovers and people who are not big fans of raw fish.

Let’s take a closer look at why this dish has earned so much love.

What Is the Seared Salmon Here?

The seared salmon is usually served as nigiri, meaning a slice of salmon placed on top of seasoned sushi rice. But this is not just plain salmon.

The fish is lightly torched on the outside. This gives it a soft, buttery texture with a gentle smoky flavor. The inside stays tender and juicy, while the outside brings warmth and aroma.

Many days, it comes finished with chili crisp or chili oil, which adds:

  • A little heat
  • A crunchy texture
  • A deep, savory flavor

This small detail turns a simple piece of fish into something memorable.

Why Even Non–Raw Fish Fans Love It

One thing that comes up often is how much people enjoy the seared salmon even if they don’t like raw fish.

Because the salmon is lightly cooked on the outside, it feels less intimidating. The warmth changes the texture and removes that cold, raw feeling some people dislike. That makes it a great “gateway” sushi option.

Several guests mention that this was their favorite bite of the whole meal—and some came back just for it.

Flavor That Feels Rich but Clean

The word many people use to describe this dish is “buttery.”

The salmon melts in your mouth without tasting greasy. The rice underneath is filling, and the topping brings everything together. When chili crisp is added, the flavor becomes bold without being overpowering.

You get:

  • Soft fish
  • Warm rice
  • A hint of spice
  • No strong fishy taste

It’s balanced, comforting, and very satisfying.

Freshness You Can See

FOB Sushi Bar stays busy, and that actually works in your favor.

Because so many people are coming through, the sushi trays turn over fast. Staff constantly bring out fresh pieces and replace anything that looks low or empty. Many guests notice this and say it makes them feel confident about what they’re eating.

You can often see:

  • Sushi being refilled in real time
  • Staff wiping counters
  • New trays rotating in

That freshness is a big reason why the seared salmon tastes so good.

How the Pay-By-The-Pound System Helps

FOB Sushi Bar charges by weight, not by piece. This changes how people order—and it’s perfect for something like seared salmon.

You don’t have to commit to a full roll. You can grab:

  • One piece
  • Two pieces
  • Or several, if you really love it

Many guests mix seared salmon with rolls, inari, and other nigiri. Others admit they loaded up on salmon and didn’t regret it.

Because the price feels fair, people feel free to explore.

Portion Size and Value

The seared salmon pieces are not tiny. The salmon cuts are thick, and the rice portion is filling. One piece feels like a real bite, not a sample.

Most people say:

  • One tray feels filling
  • Two people can share comfortably
  • The value matches or beats many Seattle sushi spots

Even guests who are careful about price still feel satisfied with what they get.

When It’s Available (And When It’s Not)

One thing to know: selection can change daily.

Some days there are many seared salmon options. Other days, they might sell out early or not be available at all. This is because FOB rotates items and keeps things fresh.

Because of that, many regulars recommend:

  • Going earlier in the day
  • Not waiting too long in the line before grabbing favorites

When seared salmon is out, people notice—and some are disappointed they missed it.

Best Pairings With Seared Salmon

People often enjoy the seared salmon alongside:

  • Inari (tofu pockets)
  • Spicy salmon gunkan
  • Simple rolls with salmon or crab

Ginger and soy sauce are available at the self-serve station, and many guests love cleansing their palate between bites.

Some say the ginger here is especially good.

The Experience Around the Dish

FOB Sushi Bar is casual and fast-paced. Seating is limited, so many people take their food to go or eat nearby.

That said, the seared salmon travels well. It still tastes great if you:

  • Eat it at a park
  • Take it back to work
  • Enjoy it at home

It’s a no-fuss dish that fits the FOB style perfectly.

Honest Notes From Customers

Not every review is perfect, and that’s okay.

A few guests mention:

  • Rice can feel a bit heavy
  • Seating can be tight
  • Lines can get long

But even in those reviews, the seared salmon is still praised. Many say it was the best item they tried.

That says a lot.

Final Thoughts

Is the Seared Salmon Worth It?

Absolutely.

The seared salmon at FOB Sushi Bar is one of those dishes that feels simple but expertly done. It’s warm, rich, and satisfying without being heavy. It works for sushi lovers, beginners, and everyone in between.

If you’re visiting FOB Sushi Bar and only pick one item to try, make it this one—especially if it comes with chili crisp.

Seared salmon
Eel and seared salmon sushi
Nigiri by the pound. Seared salmon, salmon, squid and chutoro!
3 sushi bombs, unagi nigiri, seared salmon nigiri and assorted rolls
Writer - Daniel Carter

Daniel Carter

Daniel Carter is a Seattle-based food writer specializing in sushi, poke, and modern Japanese dining. With over seven years of experience reviewing local restaurants, he provides clear, unbiased insights to help diners understand menus, pricing, portion quality, and overall value. His straightforward writing style makes sushi easy to enjoy for both first-time visitors and regulars.