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Leona's Sushi House
Master Critic Reviews (3 Lists)
Leona's Sushi House
8.6
Michelin-recognized Japanese-Peruvian fusion from Chef Shige Fujimoto creating irreverent dishes in a hip space with distinctive dining areas. The innovative menu balances ceviche and sashimi-quality seafood with playful creations like udon carbonara with smoked pork belly and sticky-sweet oxtail bao.
Must-Try Dishes:
Udon Carbonara, Oxtail Bao, Halibut Ponzu
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Michelin Guide recognition for Japanese-Peruvian fusion from Michelin-star chef
Who should go: Creative professionals and industry types seeking elevated fusion
When to visit: Lunch Tuesday-Friday for business, dinner for full experience
What to order: Chef specials like shimeji risotto, whole baked branzino
Insider tip: Valet available—multiple distinctive spaces for different dining moods
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available, street parking challenging in Ventura Boulevard area—arrive early or use valet
Dress code: Smart casual to business casual—elevated but not formal, skip the hoodie
Noise level: Moderate to lively depending on section—can conduct business conversation but not library-quiet
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday nights—reservations strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait Tuesday-Friday lunch service, walk-ins usually accommodated
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several vegetable-forward dishes including mushroom risotto and creative vegetable preparations
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options possible with modifications, Japanese-Peruvian fusion means seafood-heavy menu
Gluten-free options: Moderate options - sashimi and ceviche work, but many signature dishes use soy/wheat (udon carbonara)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice—Michelin pedigree impresses without stuffiness, multiple dining spaces let you pick your vibe, sharable plates encourage interaction. Skip if you want quiet intimacy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch yes, dinner risky. Bar seating often available as walk-in option. Friday/Saturday dinner absolutely book ahead—popular with industry crowd.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children—trendy atmosphere and adventurous fusion menu better suited for teens and adults. No kids menu, but teens interested in food culture will appreciate it.
Best For
Better for: Creative fusion over traditional Japanese, Michelin-caliber execution in casual setting, unique Japanese-Peruvian combinations you won't find elsewhere in Studio City, business lunches where you want to impress without stiffness
Skip if: You want traditional sushi omakase, need quiet romantic ambiance, prefer straightforward Japanese without Latin influence, or you're bringing young kids who need chicken tenders
Leona's Sushi House
8.4
Michelin Guide-recognized Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant with multiple distinctive dining spaces from sleek indoor-outdoor areas to intimate sushi bar booths. Chef Shige Fujimoto crafts inventive dishes like udon carbonara with pork belly and oxtail bao alongside excellent nigiri and creative rolls, all served in a trendy, design-forward setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
Yellowtail Cilantro Roll, Udon Carbonara, Seared Salmon Roll
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Michelin Guide Japanese-Peruvian fusion with dramatic multi-room design and creative menu
Who should go: Couples wanting trendy atmosphere with adventurous fusion cuisine
When to visit: Dinner for full menu access, patio seating perfect for fireplace-side romance
What to order: Yellowtail cilantro roll, udon carbonara, halibut with ponzu
Insider tip: Choose your dining room strategically - patio for romance, sushi bar for quieter experience
Leona's Sushi House
8.5
Japanese-Peruvian fusion spot with Michelin Guide recognition serving irreverent dishes alongside creative sushi rolls. The hip multi-space venue attracts creative types with distinctive offerings like udon carbonara and oxtail bao complementing quality seafood preparations and specialty rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Halibut Ponzu, Specialty Sushi Rolls, Udon Carbonara
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Michelin Guide Japanese-Peruvian fusion with irreverent dishes and creative spaces
Who should go: Adventurous diners and creative industry professionals
When to visit: Dinner for full menu; weekend reservations recommended
What to order: Halibut ponzu, fusion specialty rolls, oxtail bao
Insider tip: Multiple distinctive dining spaces attract creative and beautiful people crowds
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available $15, street parking competitive in Studio City - arrive 10-15 min early
Dress code: Elevated casual - dark jeans and nice top work, but dress to impress for the scene
Noise level: Lively buzz - can hold conversation but not a quiet date spot
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday-Saturday after 7pm, book ahead
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - creative vegetable rolls and fusion appetizers, decent selection
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 modified rolls possible, call ahead for best experience
Gluten-free options: Yes - tamari available, many sashimi options, staff knowledgeable about modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want to impress - the Michelin Guide buzz and Instagram-worthy presentation create energy, but the lively atmosphere means less intimate conversation. Better for 2nd/3rd dates when you want fun over quiet connection.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible Tuesday-Thursday before 7pm at the bar or in the lounge space, but weekend dinner requires advance booking. Try walking in right at 5:30pm opening for best walk-in odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal - the trendy scene and creative fusion menu don't cater to children. No kids menu, limited plain options. Save this for adults-only outings and date nights.
How does the fusion concept work? Japanese technique meets Peruvian flavors - think citrus-heavy ceviche influences on sashimi, anticucho spices on grilled items. It's playful not traditional, so skip if you want pure omakase experience.
What's the damage for two people? Expect $120-160 for two with specialty rolls, a couple fusion dishes, and drinks. The $$$ price reflects Michelin Guide quality but isn't stratospheric - solid value for the experience.
Best For
Better for: Creative fusion approach and scene - you come here for the Japanese-Peruvian mashup and to see/be seen. Better than traditional sushi spots if you want adventurous flavors, Instagram moments, and a buzzy crowd over quiet omakase precision.
Skip if: You want authentic traditional sushi, quiet conversation, family dining, or budget-friendly rolls. Also skip if fusion experimentation sounds gimmicky - this is playful not purist, so traditionalists should hit conventional spots instead.