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Ceviche Project
Master Critic Review
Ceviche Project
8.8
Chef Octavio Olivas transforms raw seafood into Mexico City-style ceviches in a tiny nautical-themed space that feels like stepping onto a vintage cruise ship. Fresh fish is diced behind the marble bar and dressed with inventive combinations like tai snapper with pineapple and cancha, while the Hawaiian kanpachi tostada layered with avocado mousse has become legendary among regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tai Snapper Ceviche, Hawaiian Kanpachi Tostada, Scallop Shooters with Uni
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Owner-chef prepares Mexican-style ceviche in a Wes Anderson-worthy jewel box setting
Who should go: Raw seafood lovers seeking inventive preparations and design-forward dining
When to visit: Tuesday-Saturday between 6-7pm before they sell out of fish
What to order: Tai snapper ceviche, kanpachi tostada, scallops with uni upgrade
Insider tip: Sit at the bar to watch Chef Octavio work and snag fresh herbs from his plant
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - competitive after 6pm. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away ($8 flat). Plan 10 extra minutes.
Dress code: Elevated casual - dark jeans and nice top works, but locals lean stylish. Skip athleisure.
Noise level: Intimate and conversational - the small space stays surprisingly quiet, perfect for actual conversation
Weekend wait: Reservation essential - walk-ins rarely accommodated after 6:30pm on Fri/Sat
Weekday lunch: Dinner-only operation Tue-Sat, closed Sun-Mon
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Not vegetarian-friendly - this is a raw fish temple with no vegetarian ceviches
Vegan options: No vegan options - seafood-only menu with dairy in most preparations
Gluten-free options: Naturally GF ceviches available - ask about tostadas (corn-based but verify preparation)
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Exceptional first date spot if they eat raw fish - intimate bar seating creates natural conversation, the nautical design gives you something to discuss, and the $50-65pp range feels impressive without intimidating. Skip if you're unsure about their seafood preferences.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Very difficult - only 20 seats total and they often sell out of fish by 8pm. Book on Resy 2+ weeks out for weekends, 1 week for weekdays. Walk-ins might score bar seats right at 6pm opening Tuesday-Thursday.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended under 14 - tiny space, adult atmosphere, raw fish menu with limited cooked options. No high chairs or kids menu. This is a date night/sophisticated dining destination.
Best For
Better for: Best in LA for Mexico City-style ceviche technique and design-obsessed small spaces. Choose over Connie & Ted's when you want artful preparations over volume, Providence when you want casual over formal, or Holbox when you want intimate over lively.
Skip if: You want cooked seafood options, need vegetarian alternatives, prefer larger portions over refinement, or are dining with picky eaters. Also skip if you want a long leisurely meal - the tight space and limited menu make this a focused 60-75 minute experience.