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Sushi Tomoki
Master Critic Review
Sushi Tomoki
8.7
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Trendy Table Hotspots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Birthday & Celebration Central
Former Sushi Enya chef Tomoki Honbe opened this celebrity favorite in 2023, drawing Miley Cyrus and Jenna Ortega with his signature truffle halibut and albacore belly. Intimate counter service emphasizes premium fish quality and seasonal Japanese preparations in a sleek, modern setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Albacore Belly with Fried Onion, Black Cod Gindara, Truffle Halibut Sashimi
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 8.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Celebrity chef destination with premium fish and truffle-enhanced specialties
Who should go: Diners seeking high-quality omakase in lively modern atmosphere
When to visit: Reservations essential; weekday lunch less crowded
What to order: Take Omakase ($150), albacore belly, truffle halibut
Insider tip: Request sushi counter for best interaction with chef
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Ventura Blvd challenging after 6pm; paid lot behind building $8, valet service available $15
Dress code: Smart casual to elevated - dark jeans acceptable but most wear dress shirts/blouses, no athletic wear
Noise level: Moderate at counter, livelier at tables - can hold conversation but expect some ambient buzz
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins rarely accommodated, 90+ min wait typical
Weekday lunch: 15-20 min wait without reservation, counter seats easier to snag
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited - vegetable tempura, avocado rolls, tamago available but omakase is fish-focused
Vegan options: Not recommended - minimal options beyond cucumber roll and edamame
Gluten-free options: Yes - tamari available, chef accommodates with advance notice for omakase modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice if you want to impress - intimate counter seating creates natural conversation, upscale but not stuffy atmosphere. Budget $200+ per person with drinks. Skip if your date is vegetarian or uncomfortable with raw fish.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very difficult on weekends - they book out 2-3 weeks ahead for prime dinner slots. Your best bet: try counter walk-in Tuesday-Thursday before 6pm, or join waitlist via Yelp day-of. Otherwise, book ahead via Resy.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - intimate space, $150+ omakase pace doesn't suit restless kids. Teens who appreciate sushi will love it. No kids menu, but chef can prepare simpler rolls if requested.
How does this compare to Sugarfish? Tomoki is premium traditional omakase ($150+) with chef interaction and truffle flourishes. Sugarfish is reliable, approachable sushi ($40-60) with no customization. Choose Tomoki for special occasions and seafood exploration, Sugarfish for consistent quality without the ceremony.
Is the celebrity hype justified? Yes - Chef Tomoki's pedigree from Sushi Enya shows in fish quality and technique. Celebrity presence adds energy but doesn't compromise the food. You're paying for legitimately excellent sushi, not just Instagram appeal.
Best For
Better for: Premium omakase experience with personality - Chef Tomoki's direct interaction and signature touches (truffle halibut, aged fish program) elevate this beyond typical high-end sushi. Modern vibe attracts younger crowd than traditional spots like Asanebo. Better fish quality than chains, more approachable than ultra-formal Hama.
Skip if: You want affordable sushi (Sugarfish, KazuNori), traditional quiet atmosphere (Asanebo), cooked Japanese food emphasis (Katsuya), or vegetarian-friendly options. Also skip if you need last-minute seating - this requires planning.