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Aria Sushi & Dining
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Aria Sushi & Dining
8.0
Recently rebranded from Karma Sushi Bar, this sushi destination emphasizes pristine carpaccio and crudo preparations alongside an extensive roll menu. The beautiful patio and dedicated parking lot address two major Ventura Boulevard pain points, while the fresh sashimi and creative specialty rolls keep the dining room buzzing with satisfied regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hokkaido Scallop Carpaccio, 911 Roll, Albacore Crudo
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Rare dedicated parking lot on Ventura Boulevard with exceptional carpaccio selections
Who should go: Couples and groups wanting upscale sushi without parking hassles
When to visit: Lunch or dinner; beautiful patio ideal for spring evenings
What to order: Hokkaido scallop carpaccio, 911 roll, Vegas roll
Insider tip: The parking lot behind the restaurant is a huge advantage in this area
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Dedicated parking lot behind restaurant - rare find on Ventura Blvd, free and convenient
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - date night appropriate, avoid gym wear
Noise level: Moderate - can hold conversation comfortably, livelier on weekends
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, book ahead for prime slots
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - veggie rolls, tempura, and multiple appetizer options
Vegan options: Limited - avocado roll, cucumber roll, edamame, request modifications
Gluten-free options: Yes - sashimi and carpaccio excellent choices, request gluten-free soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - upscale but not stuffy, beautiful patio creates romantic atmosphere, and the parking lot removes pre-date stress. Price point shows effort without breaking the bank.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch and early dinner (before 6pm) usually fine for walk-ins. Weekend evenings book up - reserve ahead or expect 30-45 minute wait. Bar seating often available.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for well-behaved kids 8+ - they have California rolls and teriyaki, but atmosphere leans adult. Lunch more relaxed than dinner service.
How does it compare to Sugarfish? More traditional menu variety vs Sugarfish's omakase focus. Better for groups wanting different things. Similar quality fish, more creative rolls, and you get actual parking.
Is the patio heated? Yes - patio has heating for cooler evenings, making it comfortable year-round. Request patio seating when booking for best experience.
Best For
Better for: Groups wanting variety, dates needing guaranteed parking, diners who want creative specialty rolls beyond basic sushi, anyone tired of Ventura Blvd parking nightmares
Skip if: You want traditional omakase experience, need budget sushi under $25/person, prefer ultra-minimal Japanese aesthetic over modern remodel
Aria Sushi & Dining
7.9
A newer addition to Ventura Boulevard emphasizing fresh fish and attentive service from a welcoming team. The kitchen turns out quality specialty rolls alongside traditional sashimi, with signature items like the 911 roll and Vegas roll earning local following. Indoor seating and outdoor patio accommodate various dining preferences.
Must-Try Dishes:
911 Roll, Vegas Roll, Yellowtail Yuzu Sashimi
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 7.4
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Service-driven approach with fresh sashimi and creative rolls
Who should go: Diners wanting professional service and variety
When to visit: Lunch or dinner; parking lot in back
What to order: 911 roll, Vegas roll, yellowtail yuzu sashimi
Insider tip: New opening means eager-to-please staff and fresh energy
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free lot in back with 20+ spaces, easily accessible from Ventura Blvd
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and nice top work fine
Noise level: Low to moderate - good for conversation, quieter patio
Weekend wait: 20-30 min without reservation, recommend booking ahead
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins typically seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - avocado rolls, veggie tempura, cucumber wraps, inari
Vegan options: Limited - vegetable rolls without mayo-based sauces, ask server
Gluten-free options: Yes - sashimi and rice bowls, tamari available on request
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate patio seating, attentive but not hovering service, and mid-range prices ($40-60pp with drinks) create a relaxed romantic atmosphere without stuffiness
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6:30pm) usually fine for walk-ins. Friday/Saturday evenings get busy - reserve ahead or expect 20-30 minute waits
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 5+ - patient staff, simple rolls like California and cucumber available, spacious tables. Not ideal for toddlers during busy dinner service
How fresh is the fish? Daily deliveries emphasized by ownership - newer restaurant means they're building reputation on quality. Yellowtail and salmon particularly stand out
Is the outdoor seating worth it? Absolutely - covered patio feels like an oasis, quieter than inside, heated on cool evenings. Request it when booking
Best For
Better for: Service quality and welcoming atmosphere - staff genuinely enthusiastic vs. established spots with transactional service. Better fresh fish selection than strip mall competitors
Skip if: You want omakase experience or ultra-traditional sushi - this leans American-style specialty rolls. Also skip if you need late-night options (closes 9:30pm weeknights)