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Q Sushi
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Q Sushi
8.0
A low-key downtown sushi counter where going gluten-free is straightforward if you stay with sashimi, nigiri, and simple rolls. The staff will usually flag sauces and crunch add-ons, and rice-forward bowls are an easy backup. Not a scene, but a dependable GF-friendly sushi stop in the core.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nigiri set, Sashimi platter, Simple rolls with GF soy on request
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Sushi spot with a clearly navigable gluten-free path.
Who should go: GF sushi fans wanting a simple downtown meal.
When to visit: Lunch or early dinner for fastest service.
What to order: Nigiri, sashimi, straightforward rolls.
Insider tip: Request gluten-free soy and skip tempura/crispy toppings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 7th Street is limited and metered; nearby paid garages at The Bloc and along Flower Street are the most reliable options.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; office attire fits in, but no need to dress up beyond neat basics.
Noise level: Low to moderate; the counter layout keeps things conversational even during lunch rushes.
Weekend wait: Typically minimal to moderate; 10–20 minutes depending on downtown events.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, especially before 12:15pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate; simple veggie rolls and sides are available but not the focus.
Vegan options: Limited; a couple of vegetable rolls and edamame, but options narrow quickly.
Gluten-free options: Strong; sashimi, nigiri, and plain rolls are easy wins, and staff will advise on sauce swaps.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Solid for a low-key, conversation-friendly date where you want quality sushi without a flashy scene. Not ideal if you’re aiming for an upscale ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes; walk-ins are common and usually seated quickly outside peak Friday lunch windows or major downtown events.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy sushi; no special kids’ menu and the counter-style setup fits best for short, focused meals.
Best For
Better for: Quick, dependable GF-friendly sushi without the long waits or formality of higher-end omakase rooms.
Skip if: You want premium cuts, chef-led omakase, or a destination-level atmosphere—this is more about convenience and consistency than spectacle.
Q Sushi
9.1
Q Sushi is an intimate Edo-style omakase counter where Chef Hiroyuki Naruke serves a tightly choreographed progression of sashimi and nigiri built around top-quality fish flown in from Japan and California. The hushed, minimalist room, Michelin recognition, and meticulous rice work make it a go-to for serious sushi lovers celebrating an occasion in Downtown LA.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal omakase nigiri progression, Flounder ponzu with scallion, Japanese snapper with black sesame
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.5
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Serious Edo-style omakase by a veteran Tokyo-trained chef in a calm, 26-seat room.
Who should go: Sushi purists, anniversary dates, and destination omakase seekers.
When to visit: Weeknight or Friday dinner seatings for an unhurried experience.
What to order: Trust the full omakase: sashimi openers, seasonal nigiri, and uni.
Insider tip: Book bar seats to watch Chef Hiro work and ask about special seasonal fish flights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is usually available at nearby hotels for $12–$15. Street parking in the Financial District is scarce after 6pm; nearby paid garages are the safest bet.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale. Dark denim is fine, but most guests opt for dress shirts, sleek dresses, or business attire.
Noise level: Low. The room is intentionally hushed so you can easily hold a conversation and hear the chef’s explanations.
Weekend wait: Reservations are essential; walk-ins are rarely accommodated. Without a booking, expect no availability.
Weekday lunch: Q Sushi does not typically serve lunch; dinner-only omakase means no weekday lunch waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited. Omakase is fish-forward, though the kitchen may provide a few vegetable-based bites if notified in advance.
Vegan options: Not recommended. The format relies on seafood and seasoned rice; vegan substitutions are extremely limited.
Gluten-free options: Manageable with advance notice. The team can adjust soy sauces and marinades, but some items may still contain trace gluten.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a quiet, intimate, and refined setting. The calm counter and multi-course omakase create a naturally slow, shared experience that works well for a memorable first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Unlikely. With limited counter seats and an omakase-only format, Q Sushi books out days to weeks ahead. Always reserve, especially for weekend seatings.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly. The tasting format, quiet atmosphere, and long dining time make it better suited for adults or teens who genuinely enjoy omakase.
Best For
Better for: Meticulous Edo-style technique, intimate chef interaction, and pristine fish quality that outshines trendier, louder omakase spots.
Skip if: You prefer à la carte rolls, a faster meal, louder social energy, or a more budget-friendly sushi night.