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ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Sawtelle Japantown
Master Critic Review
Asakuma Sushi
7.7
A high-volume poke counter on Sawtelle's Santa Monica Blvd stretch where the bowls move faster than the nigiri—salmon and tuna sashimi cut to order, built into straightforward rice bowls that prioritize clean fish over elaborate presentation. West LA regulars treat it as a reliable weeknight rotation spot, grabbing poke on the way home rather than sitting down for a full sushi experience. The format is grab-and-go efficient, with a small parking lot behind the building that keeps the logistics simple on weeknights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Poke Bowl, Salmon Sashimi, Tuna Sashimi
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: High-volume poke specialist on Santa Monica Blvd where the bowls outsell traditional sushi by a wide margin
Who should go: Poke fans and West LA locals wanting fast, fresh fish
When to visit: Weekday lunch for shortest wait on poke orders
What to order: Start with a poke bowl — it's what regulars order by a landslide — then add salmon or tuna sashimi on the side
Insider tip: Ask your server about off-menu specials or daily features
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Santa Monica Blvd with a small lot behind the building—manageable on weeknights, tighter on weekends
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Standard sushi vegetarian options available—build-your-own poke bowls allow all-veggie customization
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No - this is a tiny, no-frills sushi spot with roughly 4 tables and a strong delivery/takeout focus. Constant delivery driver traffic creates interruptions, and the minimalist dining room lacks romantic ambiance or intentional date-night lighting. The sushi quality is excellent, but the environment works against a first date. Better for a casual follow-up meal once you're already comfortable together.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - Asakuma is walk-in only and does not accept reservations. However, the dine-in space is extremely limited with only about 4 tables, so seating fills quickly during peak dinner hours. Weekday lunch or early dinner gives you the best shot. The restaurant leans heavily toward delivery and takeout, so dine-in is secondary to their operation.
Is it kid-friendly? Not specifically set up for kids - no kids menu, high chairs, or family-specific amenities were found. The casual, low-key vibe wouldn't be unwelcoming, but the very small dining room (about 4 tables) leaves little room for strollers or energetic children. Could work for a quick meal with older kids who enjoy sushi, but call ahead to confirm any family accommodations.
Is it good for groups? No - with only about 4 small tables in a tiny dining room, dine-in is best for solo diners or couples. No large tables, private rooms, or group booking options are available. If you're planning a group event, Asakuma does offer catering services through their website, which would be a better route than trying to squeeze a party into the restaurant.
Is there outdoor seating? No outdoor seating confirmed. The restaurant is in a strip mall-style location on Santa Monica Blvd with no mentions of a patio, sidewalk tables, or any exterior dining area across any available source. Call to confirm if this is important to your visit.
Best For
Better for: Quick, fresh takeout sushi—family-owned since 1985 with a made-to-order policy (never pre-made), tiny 4-table space built for grab-and-go, not lingering
Consider Alternatives If: You want a sit-down dining experience—only about 4 tables with constant delivery traffic flowing through
Hours
Monday11am - 3pm, 4pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday11am - 3pm, 4pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday11am - 3pm, 4pm - 9:30pm
Thursday11am - 3pm, 4pm - 9:30pm
Friday11am - 3pm, 4pm - 9:30pm
Saturday4pm - 9:30pm
Sunday4pm - 9:30pm