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Sushi Go 55
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Sushi Go 55
8.0
A long-running Little Tokyo-area standby that stays focused on clean sashimi and classic nigiri without the Downtown hype tax. The fish is fresh and portioned generously, and the vibe remains quietly neighborhood-rooted. Great for a dependable sushi meal that doesn’t feel like a scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi bowl, Salmon belly nigiri, Hamachi nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Quiet Little Tokyo staple with strong chirashi and sashimi value.
Who should go: Locals wanting reliable classic sushi.
When to visit: Lunch for easy seating.
What to order: Chirashi, salmon belly, hamachi.
Insider tip: Chirashi is the best bang-for-buck move here.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking available in the Little Tokyo Galleria structure; typically $4–$8 with validation. Street parking is limited and competitive during peak hours.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; come as you are. No need to dress up.
Noise level: Low to moderate – conversation is easy, even during peak meal times.
Weekend wait: Usually 15–25 minutes; the flow is steady but rarely overwhelming.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but workable—vegetable rolls, cucumber/avocado maki, and some sides.
Vegan options: Minimal options; mostly basic veggie rolls and steamed rice.
Gluten-free options: Moderate support—many sashimi/nigiri items are naturally gluten-free; request gluten-free soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a low-key, no-pressure sushi spot. It’s quiet, steady, and intimate without trying too hard, making it ideal for relaxed conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Walk-ins are common and generally easy, especially at lunch. Dinner may require a short wait but rarely anything excessive.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families dine here regularly. The spacious booths and unfussy menu make it easy for kids, though picky eaters may gravitate toward teriyaki or rice bowls.
Best For
Better for: Classic sushi lovers seeking generous portions, chirashi value, and a calmer experience than trendier Arts District handroll bars.
Skip if: You want high-end omakase theatrics, flashy interiors, or fusion-style rolls—other Downtown or Arts District spots serve that lane better.
Sushi Go 55
8.2
A long-running Little Tokyo standby focused on traditional sushi with dependable sourcing. The room stays calm and neighborhood-rooted, while the menu covers straightforward nigiri, sashimi, and cooked staples. A reliable sit-down option when you want classic technique without a scene.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi bowl, Salmon belly nigiri, Hamachi sashimi
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Traditional Little Tokyo sushi with strong everyday reliability.
Who should go: Locals wanting classic sushi done right.
When to visit: Lunch for quieter seating.
What to order: Chirashi, salmon belly, hamachi.
Insider tip: Chirashi is the best value move.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Little Tokyo parking structures nearby (around $6–$10); limited metered street parking, easier before 5pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; comfortable attire is fully appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate-low — conversations are easy and the room stays calm.
Weekend wait: 15–30 minutes depending on peak flow.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; seating is smooth and steady.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: A few maki and vegetable sides available; enough for a simple meal.
Vegan options: Very limited — mostly cucumber/avocado rolls and basic sides.
Gluten-free options: Sashimi and most nigiri are naturally gluten-free; request gluten-free soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the calm, traditional setting works well for conversation without the formality of omakase-style rooms.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially at lunch; dinner may require a short wait on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — relaxed atmosphere, quick service, and simple rolls make it approachable for families with school-age children.
Best For
Better for: Dependable, classic sushi in a calm environment without trendy crowds or long waits.
Skip if: You’re looking for high-end omakase, flashy rolls, or a nightlife-driven dining scene.
Sushi Go 55
8.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Business Lunch Power Players
Comfort Food Classics
Hidden on an upper floor in Little Tokyo, Sushi Go 55 is a long-running, family-operated sushi bar that balances traditional nigiri with a focused roll selection. Regulars come for the old-school counter experience, carefully cut fish, and the feeling of stepping into a quieter pocket of downtown.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna Roll, Spider Roll, Blue Crab Hand Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Classic Little Tokyo sushi bar with decades of history and careful fish work.
Who should go: Traditional sushi fans who appreciate counter-service rituals.
When to visit: Quieter weeknight dinners or early lunches.
What to order: Spicy tuna roll, spider roll, blue crab hand roll.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar and ask about daily specials flown in from Japan.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking is available in the Little Tokyo Galleria structure; street parking is limited and often metered, especially during dinner hours.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; many diners come straight from work, and neat jeans are perfectly acceptable.
Noise level: Low to moderate; the upper-floor location keeps things quieter than most Little Tokyo sushi spots, making conversation easy.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes without a reservation, especially during peak tourist and convention weekends.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with occasional brief delays for counter seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate options including cucumber, avocado, oshinko, and vegetable rolls, plus salads and simple sides.
Vegan options: Limited but workable — vegetable rolls and salads are available, though sauces may need confirmation.
Gluten-free options: Good options if you request gluten-free soy sauce; sashimi and many rolls can be adapted by removing sauces or tempura elements.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its quieter, traditional atmosphere makes it ideal for conversation, especially if your date appreciates classic sushi rather than trend-driven spots.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, particularly on weekdays or early evenings; weekends may require a short wait, though the bar is usually easier to snag.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who enjoy sushi; the calm room and straightforward menu work well, but very young children may find the atmosphere too quiet.
Best For
Better for: Traditional sushi techniques, peaceful dining, and consistent roll execution without the flashiness of trendier downtown spots.
Skip if: You want modern fusion rolls, loud energy, or an omakase-style tasting experience—this is more classic and understated.