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Little Izakaya by Katsu-ya
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Little Izakaya by Katsu-ya
8.1
Master sushi chef Katsuya Uechi's casual spinoff delivers his signature crispy rice with spicy tuna and inventive rolls at surprisingly accessible prices. The compact izakaya contrasts sharply with his upscale Katsuya locations, drawing date-night couples and sushi purists who appreciate quality fish preparation without the nightclub atmosphere or inflated prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Baked Crab Roll, Little Izaka-ya Plate
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Master sushi chef pedigree at neighborhood prices with signature crispy rice invention
Who should go: Sushi enthusiasts seeking quality without scene tax
When to visit: Happy hour for exceptional value on rolls
What to order: Little Izaka-ya plate, baked crab roll, albacore with crispy onion
Insider tip: Arrive before 6pm or expect waits - no reservations accepted
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Strip mall lot with ample free parking - rare Sherman Oaks luxury
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and sneakers perfectly acceptable
Noise level: Intimate and conversational - compact space keeps volume moderate
Weekend wait: 45-75 min typical 6-9pm, arrive before 5:45pm to avoid
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, seats turn quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable tempura, edamame, and vegetarian rolls available
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options including cucumber roll and seaweed salad
Gluten-free options: Challenging - soy sauce in most dishes, request tamari and avoid crispy items
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate setting without pretension, moderate prices won't intimidate, and sharing plates naturally encourages conversation. The quality impresses without trying too hard.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations accepted period. Arrive before 5:45pm on weekends or after 8:30pm to minimize wait. Weekday lunches and early weeknight dinners are your best bet for quick seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Space is tight and atmosphere skews adult, but well-behaved kids are welcome. California rolls and tempura please younger palates. Better for ages 8+ who can handle chopsticks and appreciate sushi.
How does this compare to the upscale Katsuya locations? Same chef technique and signature dishes at half the price without the nightclub vibe. You lose the scene and full bar, but gain authenticity and value. Choose this for the food, Katsuya proper for the experience.
Is happy hour really worth it? Absolutely - premium rolls at $6-8 represent exceptional value for Katsuya-level execution. Avoid 6-7pm crush by arriving at 5pm or going late around 8pm when crowds thin.
Best For
Better for: Quality-to-price ratio on inventive rolls, intimate date nights without scene tax, experiencing celebrity chef execution at neighborhood prices
Skip if: You need reservations, want extensive sake selection, prefer traditional omakase format, or need spacious seating for groups of 4+
Little Izakaya by Katsu-ya
8.3
Celebrity chef Katsuya Uechi's accessible izakaya brings signature dishes like crispy rice with spicy tuna to Sherman Oaks at surprisingly affordable prices. The compact space fills quickly with locals who appreciate fresh fish and inventive fusion alongside traditional offerings. Service moves efficiently even during peak lunch and happy hour rushes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño, Black Cod with Miso
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Katsuya signatures at izakaya prices near the 405
Who should go: Sushi lovers seeking quality without the markup
When to visit: Lunch specials or happy hour before 6:30pm
What to order: Sushi bento box, crispy rice, daily specials
Insider tip: Arrive early - the tiny space fills fast with good reason