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KazuNori | Koreatown
Master Critic Review
KazuNori | Koreatown
8.7
The gold standard for temaki in LA features Kazunori Nozawa's iconic hand rolls with crispy nori, warm rice, and pristine chilled fish in a streamlined counter-seating format. Each roll arrives individually for immediate consumption, creating a ritualistic dining experience that has spawned countless imitators across the city.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Hand Roll, Blue Crab Hand Roll, Yellowtail Hand Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: The original hand roll bar concept from legendary chef Kazunori Nozawa with 40+ years LA history
Who should go: Purists seeking perfectly executed traditional temaki and hand roll enthusiasts
When to visit: Weekdays for shorter waits, arrive before 6:30pm or after 8pm
What to order: 6-piece set with toro, yellowtail, blue crab, and lobster additions
Insider tip: No tipping—16% service fee is built into all orders automatically
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Chapman Plaza parking lot available, street parking on 6th Street usually easier than adjacent blocks
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and sneakers perfectly acceptable
Noise level: Moderate - counter seating and open kitchen create ambient buzz but conversation is easy
Weekend wait: 45-75 min peak hours (6-8pm), counter-only seating limits capacity
Weekday lunch: 15-30 min typical, fastest before noon or after 1:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited - cucumber and avocado rolls only, not the focus here
Vegan options: Not recommended - nori and rice-focused but fish is the centerpiece
Gluten-free options: Yes - naturally gluten-free hand rolls, just skip soy sauce or request tamari
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for sushi lovers - counter seating creates natural conversation flow and shared experience watching chefs work, but no private corners if you prefer intimacy. Fast-paced service means 45-minute meal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Counter seating only, no reservations accepted - expect 45-75 min waits during prime dinner hours. Best strategy: arrive at 5:30pm opening or after 8:30pm, or try weekday lunch.
Is it kid-friendly? Works for ages 8+ who can sit still at counter and appreciate sushi - no high chairs, fast turnover style. Not ideal for toddlers or picky eaters given the specialized menu.
How long does dinner take? 45-60 minutes typical - hand rolls arrive one at a time for immediate eating, creating natural pacing. Counter service is efficient but not rushed.
Do I need to order the full set? No - order à la carte individual rolls ($5-8 each) or the 6-piece set ($38). Most first-timers do the set plus 1-2 premium add-ons like toro or uni.
Best For
Better for: Pure hand roll craft and nori crispness - the warm rice/cold fish/crispy seaweed timing is unmatched. Also better for solo dining (counter culture) and experiencing the original concept that launched LA's hand roll obsession.
Skip if: You want traditional nigiri or sashimi platters, need reservations or private seating, prefer slower-paced omakase, or are dining with vegans/vegetarians. Also skip if you dislike counter seating or want full-service table experience.