Best Japanese Restaurants in Silver Lake (90026)
6 hand-picked restaurants, AI-analyzed and critic-validated
Notable Picks
#1
Tsubaki
8.6
Michelin Bib Gourmand izakaya by Chef Charles Namba showcases pristine kanpachi sashimi and ikejime fluke alongside yakitori in an intimate Echo Park setting. While primarily focused on small plates, the beautifully plated sashimi selections and Japanese aesthetic create highly photogenic moments worth the pilgrimage.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kanpachi Sashimi, Ikejime Fluke with Yuzu, Potato Pancakes with Salmon Roe
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized izakaya serves limited but exceptional sashimi between acclaimed yakitori and seasonal small plates
8.6
Chef Ricardo Zarate brings Michelin-recognized Nikkei cuisine to this vibrant Echo Park ceviche bar opened in August 2024. The inventive Japanese-Peruvian fusion features technicolor ceviches, hefty hand rolls, and theatrical plating assembled at the turquoise-quartz bar, all in a scrappy-chic space with live piano music.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Tiradito with Miso, Yellowtail Tostada, Shrimp Dumpling Ceviche
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized chef's Nikkei fusion with fine dining execution at casual prices
8.4
Silver Lake's most photogenic izakaya transforms traditional sushi into edible art with gold leaf, black tobiko, and truffle oil presentations. Chef Damon Cho's Premium Sashimi Hashimori features 18 pieces arranged like a cornucopia, while the Miso Crab Salmon wrapped in truffle oil draws crowds with cameras ready.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Sashimi Hashimori, Truffle Toro Bowl, Miso Crab Salmon
What makes it special: Gold leaf and caviar-topped presentations elevate traditional izakaya sushi into showstopping Instagram moments
8.2
Chef Damon Cho's omakase-focused sibling restaurant delivers theatrical multi-course experiences with caviar-topped toro, truffle-enhanced sashimi, and baked king crab hand rolls. The intimate counter seats and table options showcase seasonal Japanese fish with modern flourishes designed for maximum visual impact.
Must-Try Dishes:
Miso Crab Salmon, Caviar Toro Appetizer, Baked King Crab Hand Roll
What makes it special: Focuses exclusively on sushi with decadent caviar and truffle presentations unavailable at sister restaurant
Worthy Picks
#5
Kombu Sushi
7.9
Vibes:
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Pet Friendly Paradise
Family Friendly Favorites
Family-owned neighborhood gem pairs fresh nigiri and creative signature rolls with an unexpected backyard patio and rotating classic films projected on the wall. The Nirvana Roll and truffle sashimi showcase chef creativity, while the dog-friendly patio and movie screenings create a distinctly Silver Lake vibe.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nirvana Roll, Baja Salmon Fusion Roll, Truffle Sashimi
What makes it special: Combines sushi counter artistry with outdoor movie nights and extensive vegan options rare in traditional sushi bars
#6
Santō
7.6
Mexico City import brings Roma Norte energy to Sunset Junction with Japanese-Mexican fusion sushi that includes Oaxacan chocolate-blowtorched hamachi and charcoal-seared otoro. The sleek counter and street-facing seats showcase Chef Hiroshi Kawahito's creative cross-cultural interpretations since opening in 2023.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Choco Nigiri, Santo Tiradito, Hamachi Truffle Hand Roll
What makes it special: Only LA restaurant blending traditional Edomae technique with Mexican ingredients like Colima salt and Oaxacan chocolate