30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Seafood in West Hollywood
Best Ramen in West Hollywood
Best Sushi in West Hollywood
Best Japanese in West Hollywood
Master Critic Review
Kinari Aburi Sushi & Noodle
8.0
Kinari Aburi Sushi & Noodle focuses on flame-seared aburi sushi and thoughtful ramen, including notable gluten-free and plant-based options. The small Fairfax dining room reads as a calm, chef-driven hideaway where torched nigiri and composed bowls feel more deliberate than flashy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Aburi Salmon Nigiri, House Gluten-Free Ramen, Soft Shell Crab Roll
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 6.4
What makes it special: Aburi-style sushi and ramen with real attention to gluten-free diners.
Who should go: Sushi fans wanting torched nigiri and thoughtful ramen options.
When to visit: Quiet weeknights or early weekends for relaxed, unhurried meals.
What to order: Aburi salmon, house ramen, soft shell crab roll.
Insider tip: Ask about gluten-free ramen and off-menu aburi specials at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Fairfax and side streets; expect light competition during peak dinner hours but generally manageable before 7pm.
Dress code: Smart casual; relaxed but polished fits the calm, chef-driven room.
Noise level: Low to moderate — conversations are easy, even during peak dinner service.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes for walk-ins, especially for small parties; the counter often opens faster.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; service is steady and seating turns quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several veggie rolls, salads, and customizable noodle bowls.
Vegan options: Limited — a few plant-based items and broth substitutions, but sushi options are minimal.
Gluten-free options: Strong — clear labeling, gluten-free ramen options, and careful handling of aburi items upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the small, calm dining room and precise sushi make it ideal for a low-key but thoughtful first date without the scene of larger Fairfax spots.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes. Walk-ins are common, especially early evenings or on weeknights, though a brief wait is normal on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — older kids who enjoy ramen or simple rolls will be fine; the space is small and quiet, so it’s not ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Gluten-free diners, torched aburi nigiri, and quieter meals where the focus is on technique over theatrics.
Skip if: You want a loud, buzzy sushi bar, extensive omakase, or large-group seating — nearby options cater to those better.
Hours
Monday5pm - 9:30pm
Tuesday12pm - 9:30pm
Wednesday12pm - 9:30pm
Thursday12pm - 9:30pm
Friday12pm - 10pm
Saturday12:30pm - 10pm
Sunday12:30pm - 9:30pm