Best Hidden Gems Japanese Restaurants in Los Angeles
50 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Shunji Japanese Cuisine
Michelin-starred omakase from a Matsuhisa original chef with two-decade mastery
Essential Picks
9.3
Chef Shunji Nakao delivers one of LA's most refined omakase experiences at this Michelin-recognized counter, where seasonal fish sourced from Japan meets impeccable technique. The intimate 12-seat space (split between two chefs) showcases aged tuna, barely-seared blackthroat seaperch, and Santa Barbara uni with rice that melts seamlessly with each bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Aged Tuna Nigiri, Blackthroat Seaperch, Toro Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Michelin-starred omakase from a Matsuhisa original chef with two-decade mastery
#2
Totoraku
9.2
Exclusive invite-only Japanese wagyu BBQ experience where Chef Kaz personally grills premium American wagyu tableside. Known as LA's most secretive restaurant, securing a lunch reservation here signals serious business intentions.
Must-Try Dishes:
A5 Wagyu Omakase, Wagyu Beef Tartare, Grilled Wagyu Tongue
What Makes it Special: Invite-only status makes this LA's most exclusive Japanese dining experience
#3
Sushi Park
9
This unassuming second-floor gem offers one of LA's most authentic omakase experiences with premium ingredients. The intimate setting and traditional approach create an ideal environment for sophisticated business discussions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Omakase, Premium Nigiri Selection, Chef's Choice Sashimi
What Makes it Special: Authentic omakase experience in unassuming strip mall location
Notable Picks
#4
Matsumoto
8.9
Chef Naruki Matsumoto sources fish directly from Tokyo's Toyosu Market for this essential omakase experience. The 15-piece nigiri-focused tasting showcases pristine seasonal fish with exacting Edomae technique, from buttery nodoguro to delicate Japanese sardine. Operating since 2016 in the space formerly known as Hirozen, this strip mall gem delivers high-end sushi without the usual pretension.
Must-Try Dishes:
15-Piece Omakase, Seared Nodoguro, Spanish Mackerel Nigiri
What Makes it Special: Daily fish flown from Tokyo's Toyosu Market with 20+ years chef expertise
#5
Nozawa Bar
8.9
Michelin-starred intimate omakase counter hidden behind Sugarfish, where Chef Fujita serves 22 courses of adventurous nigiri selected daily from LA fish markets. The ten-seat bar maintains strict timing and traditional preparation, creating a temple-like experience for serious sushi devotees.
Must-Try Dishes:
Japanese Jellyfish, Live Sea Urchin, Blue Crab Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Michelin-starred omakase with fish hand-picked daily from LA markets.
8.9
This omakase-focused sushi bar delivers daily-flown fish from Japan with a traditional approach that lets ingredients shine. The lunch omakase offers exceptional value with personalized selections based on seasonal availability and guest preferences.
Must-Try Dishes:
Daily Omakase Selection, Blue Fin Toro, Live Santa Barbara Uni
What Makes it Special: Daily fish flown directly from Tsukiji market with zero compromise on quality
8.8
Third-generation sushi chef Tetsuya Tanabe balances innovation with tradition through signature rolls that marry modern technique with family legacy. The contemporary space features both counter and table seating, where modern innovations meet timeless sushi craft in carefully composed specialty rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Truffle Halibut Roll, Seared Specialty Rolls, Albacore Belly Nigiri
What Makes it Special: Third-generation chef innovating traditional sushi with contemporary precision
8.7
Kitakata Ramen Ban Nai specializes in light, springy, curly noodles and soy-forward broths served in a compact shop along Pacific Coast Highway. Locals come for bowls that balance clean, pork-light broths with generous chashu and precise toppings, making it one of South Torrance’s most reliable ramen stops.
Must-Try Dishes:
Kitakata Shoyu Ramen, Chashu Ramen, Green Chili Shio Ramen
What Makes it Special: Classic Kitakata-style ramen with light, springy noodles and precise broths.
#9
Laki Ramen
8.7
Laki RAMEN specializes in rich, chicken-forward ramen from a chef trained at Menya Takeichi, with a focused menu of creamy baitang broths, tsukemen, and standout vegan options. Locals hit this Miracle Mile spot for deep, balanced flavors, crisp karaage, and a modern, cozy dining room that works for both quick solo slurps and lingering dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Baitang Ramen (Chicken Chashu), Spicy Chicken Baitang (Pork or Chicken Chashu), Spicy Vegan Ramen
What Makes it Special: High-precision chicken baitang ramen with serious depth and technique.
#10
Sushi Tomoki
8.7
Chef Tomoki Hombe's 2023 opening quickly became a celebrity favorite, delivering Valley-style omakase with expertly seasoned nigiri and familiar specialty rolls. The intimate blonde-wood space tucked beside jazz club The Baked Potato offers exceptional bang-for-buck with entry omakase starting at $80.
Must-Try Dishes:
Albacore Fried Onion Roll, Seared Salmon Roll with Truffle, Nodoguro
What Makes it Special: Former Sushi Enya chef delivering celebrity-favorite rolls with exceptional value
8.6
Ariyoshi is a busy Mid-Wilshire sushi bar and izakaya where long menus of rolls, skewers, and comfort plates back up late-night hours and a serious sake list. Regulars rely on it for reliable fish quality at accessible prices, plus a deep menu that works for both casual dinners and celebratory spreads.
Must-Try Dishes:
Ariyoshi Crunch Roll, Yellowtail Collar, Chef's Choice Sushi Combination
What Makes it Special: Lively izakaya-style sushi house with deep menus and late hours.
#12
Kihon
8.6
Naples Island sushi restaurant focusing on traditional Japanese fundamentals with pristine fish quality. Modern izakaya style with tapas plates makes it suitable for business meetings despite dinner-only hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Garlic Albacore, Miso Black Cod, Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño
What Makes it Special: Chef-quality fish with Japanese authenticity rare in Long Beach
8.6
Since 2013, Chef Shigefumi Tachibe's family-owned restaurant has earned acclaim for both its premium shabu-shabu featuring Saga wagyu beef and its seasonal omakase. Jonathan Gold praised it as an 'izakaya-plus' with fish selections rivaling Japan's best.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Omakase Sushi, Saga Beef Shabu-Shabu, Shishito Tempura Stuffed Spicy Tuna
What Makes it Special: Creator of the original tuna tartare, per Chef Tachibe
#14
Roji Sushi
8.6
Led by Chef Chano with over 25 years of fine dining experience, Roji serves freshly imported fish at approachable prices in a cozy, modern setting. The intimate space features both indoor dining and a relaxed patio, making it ideal for conversations. Strong omakase program balances traditional techniques with contemporary flair.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Selection, Yellowtail with Truffle, Hamachi Nigiri
What Makes it Special: Expert sushi chef with 25+ years experience serving affordable omakase
#15
Sushi Gone Wild
8.6
Sushi Gone Wild is a compact, high-energy sushi bar where locals crowd in for creative rolls, generous sashimi, and a lively neighborhood feel. With strong multi-platform ratings and hundreds of reviews, it’s the go-to South Torrance spot when you want fun, reasonably priced sushi with real regulars’ energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Gone Wild roll, Baked Alaska roll, Dragon roll
What Makes it Special: Lively neighborhood sushi bar with creative rolls and strong value.
#16
Susuru Ramen Bar
8.6
Thai-owned ramen shop serving intensely flavorful tonkotsu with a silky, almost overwhelming richness that balances beautifully with their Thai-influenced spice levels. The signature khao soi ramen reimagines Northern Thai curry as a luxurious coconut milk broth with crispy fried noodles, while the menu extends to sushi, rice bowls, and katsu sandos for those wanting variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tonkotsu Ramen, Khao Soi Ramen, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Extremely rich tonkotsu broth with Thai-fusion khao soi variant that brings authentic Southeast Asian flavors to traditional ramen
#17
The Hummingbird
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
#18
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
#19
Ichimi Ann
8.5
Ichimi Ann is a soba-focused noodle shop in Rolling Hills Plaza, praised for springy buckwheat noodles and a focused menu of tempura, rice bowls, and comforting broths. Regulars treat it as a low-key noodle house where quality stays high whether you’re slurping cold zaru soba or warming up with hot kake udon.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cold zaru soba, Tempura soba, Katsu-don
What Makes it Special: Soba-centered noodle house with consistently praised handmade buckwheat noodles.
#20
Irori Sushi
8.5
Irori Sushi is a long-running tatami-style restaurant tucked into a shopping center, known for floor-level seating, bento lunches, and a surprisingly affordable omakase. Regulars come for the mix of traditional ambiance and strong value on sashimi, nigiri, and hot dishes.
Must-Try Dishes:
12-Piece Omakase, Bento Box Lunch, Yellowtail Collar
What Makes it Special: Tatami-style seating and an omakase-and-bento format that balances tradition and value.
#21
The Ramen Joint
8.5
Tucked into a small strip along 87th Street, The Ramen Joint is a cozy, high-volume favorite known for long-simmered tonkotsu and shoyu broths, generous toppings, and fast, friendly service. With thousands of reviews and a constant flow of travelers and locals, it’s the most battle-tested bowl near LAX and still feels like a relaxed neighborhood spot.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shoyu Tonkotsu Ramen, Japanese Fried Chicken, Braised Pork Rice Bowl
What Makes it Special: House-made broths and big flavors in a tiny, always-busy shop.
8.5
Specializing in premium unagi imported weekly from Japan, this refined restaurant offers a unique focus rarely found in LA. The elegant setting and specialized cuisine create memorable business dining experiences.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Unagi Box, Unagi Ohitsu, Chef's Sushi Selection
What Makes it Special: Only restaurant specializing in premium Japanese unagi imported weekly
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Chibiscus is a compact strip-mall cafe where a ramen-heavy menu, kimchi fried rice, and brick toast draw a steady neighborhood following. The tonkotsu and spicy miso bowls are known for punchy, comforting broth, with plenty of options for gluten-free and vegan diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Miso Ramen, Kimchi Fried Rice
What Makes it Special: Strip-mall ramen cafe with robust broths, generous portions, and flexible dietary options.
#24
Kazan
8.4
MICHELIN Bib Gourmand recipient Kazan elevates ramen to art form with handcrafted noodles made daily in their on-site lab and French-Japanese fusion techniques. Their truffle chicken broth and spicy 'Lamb in Lava' represent the volcanic innovation that defines this boundary-pushing noodle destination.
Must-Try Dishes:
#1 Truffle Chicken Soba, #7 Lamb in Lava, Chashu Nachos
What Makes it Special: On-site noodle factory creating unique French-Japanese fusion ramen
8.4
A longtime Northridge institution where a classic burger counter unexpectedly turns out solid, fresh sushi. Locals come for generous cuts, playful specialty rolls, and the reliable casual vibe across decades. The hybrid concept feels quirky but works because the fish program is taken seriously.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hon-Maguro 3 Way, Spicy Tuna Roll, Salmon Belly Sushi
What Makes it Special: A rare burger-stand-meets-sushi-bar concept that’s been good for decades.
#26
Koshiji
8.4
Koshiji is a cozy yakitori-focused izakaya on Hawthorne where skewers grill over binchotan in full view of the counter. South Bay regulars come for carefully seasoned chicken, offal, and vegetables, plus a solid list of sake and beer in a room that feels closer to Tokyo than a strip mall.
Must-Try Dishes:
Negima chicken thigh skewer, Tsukune chicken meatball skewer, Beef tongue skewer
What Makes it Special: Binchotan-grilled yakitori with a cozy, transportive izakaya atmosphere.
#27
Kusaki
8.4
Kusaki offers a stylish, plant-based omakase experience blending Japanese tradition with modern vegan creativity. Known for extraordinary vegan rolls, attentive service, and a cozy setting ideal for intimate dinners, it stands out for its inventive flavors. Chef Pearl and team deliver delightful chef’s choice experiences that surprise even non-vegan diners.
Must-Try Dishes:
King Mushroom Roll, Trumpet Mushroom Nigiri, Crispy Avocado Rice
What Makes it Special: Innovative vegan omakase led by Chef Pearl.
8.4
Secret fourteen-seat omakase hidden in Rodeo Collection's underground parking garage, where Chef Kiminobu Saito crafts 20 courses of pristine nigiri. This intimate jewel box feels like discovering a Tokyo speakeasy, complete with thoughtful wine pairings curated to enhance each course.
Must-Try Dishes:
Dry-Aged Amberjack, Hokkaido Scallop with Sea Salt, Yuzu Gelato
What Makes it Special: Underground parking garage location creates Tokyo speakeasy vibe.
#29
Daichan
8.3
Vibes:
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Business Lunch Power Players
Family-owned Japanese soul food restaurant serving authentic comfort dishes like pork katsu-don and chicken katsu curry in a cozy space decorated with colorful Japanese artwork. Founded in 2002 by Gary and Kathy Wang, this unassuming spot focuses on quality ingredients and home-style execution rather than trendy presentations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Katsu-Don, Chicken Katsu Curry, Unagi Bowl
What Makes it Special: Authentic Japanese soul food run by Japanese staff with genuine home-style cooking
8.3
Located inside the Tokyo Central PCH food court, Ramen Ginza Onodera serves refined, dashi-driven bowls supervised by the team behind Sushi Ginza Onodera. The focus is on clear, deeply savory shoyu and fish-based broths that feel more omakase-closing course than typical mall ramen.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Fish Broth Shoyu Ramen, Premium Onodera Kiwami Shoyu Ramen, Black Garlic Ramen
What Makes it Special: Michelin-associated ramen concept showcasing clear, fish-forward shoyu broths.
#31
Ramenya
8.3
Ramenya is a longstanding strip-mall spot beloved for its affordable, generous bowls and remarkable consistency over the years. With standout shoyu and miso ramen, this local fixture's straightforward menu and cozy interior provide a relaxed setting for solo and family dining. Expect efficient service and the crowd-favorite Asiana Tantanmen, drawing repeat visits from devoted regulars.
Must-Try Dishes:
Asiana Tantanmen, Miso Ramen, Fried Chicken
What Makes it Special: Classic counter-service ramen with decades of steady quality
#32
Sora Sushi
8.3
Tucked inside Parkwest Bicycle Casino, Sora Sushi is a modern sushi bar that also serves a full lineup of ramen and noodle soups for players and locals looking to linger over something warm. The focus is on clean, well-executed fish and broths rather than volume, making this one of the more polished places in the area to pair ramen with sake or beer.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pork Belly Ramen, Shrimp & Veggie Tempura Ramen, Seafood Combo Ramen
What Makes it Special: Casino-side sushi bar with a surprisingly deep ramen and noodle section on the menu.
#33
Sushi Gen
8.3
A Little Tokyo institution since 1980 where the $23-26 sashimi lunch special delivers halibut, fatty tuna, uni, scallops, and oysters at prices that confuse people given the quality. Strip mall setting, no reservations, long waits—all part of the deal. Regulars know the sashimi lunch is table-only; the dinner omakase and a la carte nigiri satisfy those who want the counter experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sashimi Lunch Special, Chirashi Bowl, Omakase
What Makes it Special: Little Tokyo institution offering exceptional sashimi value since 1980
#34
Uzumaki
8.3
Head Chef Moto from the historic Chiba sushi bar brings modern minimalist aesthetics to this neighborhood gem established in 2017. The streamlined menu focuses on traditional nigiri and curated rolls with multiple omakase tiers starting at reasonable prices, featuring standouts like seared salmon belly with truffle and their signature baked crab handroll.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Handroll, Seared Salmon Belly Nigiri, Uzumaki Plus Omakase Set
What Makes it Special: Former Chiba chef's precise knife work and fish aging program in minimalist space
#35
Kai Ramen
8.2
Chef Nishimura's family ramen legacy spans over 20 years, bringing Mountain View's expertise to Montana Avenue with house-made broths simmered daily for authentic Japanese flavors. This cozy neighborhood spot balances traditional tonkotsu excellence with modern touches like flame-torched chashu and extensive vegan options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tokyo Bomb Ramen, Classic Tonkotsu with Torched Pork Belly, Crispy Chicken Steam Buns
What Makes it Special: Only dedicated ramen shop on Montana Avenue with daily house-made broths
#36
Murakami
8.2
Murakami is a long-running Melrose fixture known for build-your-own chirashi bowls and straightforward sushi at moderate prices. It leans more neighborhood workhorse than scene restaurant, with consistently fresh fish that keeps regulars coming back decades after opening.
Must-Try Dishes:
Build-Your-Own Chirashi Bowl, Salmon and Tuna Sashimi Combo, Spicy Tuna Roll
What Makes it Special: Decades-old sushi spot centered on customizable chirashi bowls and fresh fish.
#37
Yamakase
8.2
A 10-seat kaiseki-meets-omakase counter where Chef Kiyoshiro Yamamoto runs a four-hour, 20+ course progression blending traditional nigiri with cooked dishes featuring premium ingredients like frozen toro and seasonal Japanese seafood. The invitation-only format and single nightly seating create an unhurried, interactive experience where guests engage directly with the chef. Often cited as delivering luxury omakase quality at roughly half the price point of LA's top-tier competitors, with a BYOB policy that further tilts the economics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Frozen Toro Toast with Uni, Blue Crab & White Truffle, Japanese Hairy Crab, Wagyu Beef with Black Truffle
What Makes it Special: Invitation-only 10-seat omakase counter where Chef Kiyoshiro Yamamoto serves 20+ kaiseki-meets-sushi courses over four hours
#38
Azai Hand Roll
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Azai Hand Roll is a casual 3rd Street spot centered on customizable hand-roll sets, crispy rice, and sashimi at approachable prices. It’s ideal when you want a quick, build-your-own lineup of rolls with a bit more neighborhood personality than the bigger chains.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna, Hand Roll Set Menu, California Cut Roll
What Makes it Special: Hand-roll focused sushi with flexible set menus and takeout.
#39
Hama Sushi
8.1
A decades-old Little Tokyo sushi counter where the chef runs an omakase-style program built around whatever is freshest that day — you sit, you trust, you eat what's put in front of you. The format rewards solo diners and regulars who prefer a chef-led cadence over menu browsing, and the price point lands well below what the omakase label typically commands. Expect a no-frills counter setup with zero pretense and fish that reflects the morning market, not a preset rotation.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef's Choice Omakase, Eel, Scallop
What Makes it Special: Decades-old Little Tokyo sushi counter where the chef dictates the meal from whatever is freshest that day
#40
Ko-Ryu Ramen
8.1
Ko-Ryu Ramen is a long-running Crenshaw shop best known for rich, spicy broths and customizable bowls in a tight, counter-heavy space. Regulars build their own combinations of chashu, spice levels, and add-ons, making it a go-to for big-flavor ramen on the South Torrance side streets.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Miso Ramen, Shacho Ramen, Garlic Bomb Ramen
What Makes it Special: Customizable, spice-forward bowls in a small, ramen-first shop.
8.1
Master sushi chef Katsuya Uechi's casual spinoff delivers his signature crispy rice with spicy tuna and inventive rolls at surprisingly accessible prices. The compact izakaya contrasts sharply with his upscale Katsuya locations, drawing date-night couples and sushi purists who appreciate quality fish preparation without the nightclub atmosphere or inflated prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Baked Crab Roll, Little Izaka-ya Plate
What Makes it Special: Master sushi chef pedigree at neighborhood prices with signature crispy rice invention
#42
Minori Sushi
8.1
A neighborhood Japanese-sushi room that keeps things steady with fresh fish, generous portions, and a calm local rhythm. Rolls lean classic with a few house favorites, and the kitchen is dependable for both dine-in and takeout. A useful repeat spot when you want comfort-leaning sushi without the hype.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chirashi bowl, Albacore toro nigiri, Crunchy spicy tuna roll
What Makes it Special: Low-key local sushi with dependable freshness.
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Hidden Gems Heaven
Eagle Rock Ramen is a small counter-service shop beloved for classic tonkotsu and shoyu bowls priced under $15 and an unfussy, quick-dining vibe. Reviewers cite robust broths and springy noodles, along with efficient staff making it a go-to for solo diners and quick lunches. Though located in a strip mall, the food consistently delivers comfort and quality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Shoyu Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, Spicy Pork Ramen
What Makes it Special: Affordable ramen, speedy service, consistently flavorful broths.
#44
Soregashi
8.1
This unassuming strip-mall sushiya draws a predominantly Japanese clientele for minimalist, traditionally-prepared nigiri and sashimi alongside izakaya specialties like miso-glazed black cod and wagyu tataki. The intimate space emphasizes fish quality over flash, with a curated sake selection imported directly from Japan.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Nigiri, Nasu Miso Eggplant, Wild Black Cod with Miso
What Makes it Special: Strip-mall location belies pristine fish quality and traditional Japanese preparation that attracts Japanese locals
#45
Sunny Blue
8.1
California's pioneering omusubi specialist crafts Japanese rice balls fresh daily with unexpected fillings like curry chicken and spicy salmon. The eco-conscious counter-service spot transforms grab-and-go into an art form with rice balls wrapped in crispy nori.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken Curry Omusubi, Spicy Salmon Omusubi, Miso Beef Curry
What Makes it Special: First and only dedicated omusubi shop in Southern California since 2010
#46
Sunny Blue
8.1
A walk-up counter window shaping oversized onigiri to order since 2010—the first shop of its kind in the country, and the format hasn't drifted. The rice balls run bigger and bolder than traditional versions, with fillings like miso beef and spicy salmon built for a full lunch rather than a snack. It works as a no-fuss, cash-and-carry stop where the line moves fast and the price stays low.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Salmon, Miso Beef, Miso Mushroom
What Makes it Special: The first made-to-order onigiri shop in the U.S., open since 2010, shaping oversized rice balls fresh with every order.
8.1
A straightforward Japanese sushi bar from an owner with 20+ years in the trade, emphasizing fish freshness over theatrical presentation. The waterfront location inside The Current draws regulars who appreciate the nigiri quality and hand rolls without destination pricing—expect a small room that fills up at peak hours. Works best for sushi-focused meals where the fish does the talking.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Hand Roll, Salmon Truffle Hand Roll, Scallop Crudo
What Makes it Special: Chef Kay's traditional Japanese technique with premium fish selection in a waterfront setting at The Current
#48
Sushi Kiyono
8.1
Family-operated traditional sushi bar run by an Okinawan master chef since 1992. The lunch nigiri sets offer exceptional quality at reasonable prices with generous cuts of pristine fish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tuna Biscuits, Dr. John Hand Roll, Halibut Carpaccio
What Makes it Special: Three-decade legacy with same Okinawan chef maintaining traditions
#49
Boss Sushi
8
Chef Tom Sagara's hidden gem since 2005 combines traditional Osaka training with creative LA flair, featuring house-made special sauces and beautifully designed rolls. The intimate strip mall location keeps this world-class sushi destination refreshingly unpretentious while delivering exceptional omakase experiences.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Selection, Nate Blonds Roll, Abashiri Scallop
What Makes it Special: Secret sauce recipes and personalized omakase from Osaka-trained chef
#50
Gushi
8
Gushi is a long-running Korean walk-up in Westwood Village where charbroiled plates, fried rice, and budget-friendly ramen bowls feed UCLA students late into the day. The ramen here is straightforward—beef, chicken, egg, or kimchi—but combined with big portions and low prices, it’s one of the most relied-on hot-soup stops near campus.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Ramen (choice of beef, chicken, egg, or kimchi), Kimchi Pork Belly Plate, Kimchi Fried Rice
What Makes it Special: Korean counter-service spot where affordable ramen joins huge grilled plates.