Best Instagram Worthy Sushi Restaurants in Los Angeles
50 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Sushi Yamamoto
Former Urasawa space with $390 omakase featuring theatrical presentations.
Essential Picks
9.2
Ultra-exclusive eight-seat omakase hidden on the second floor of Two Rodeo, where chef Yusuke Yamamoto serves 22 courses of pristine nigiri with playful energy. The former Urasawa space delivers theatrical presentations like uni-caviar tempura and hay-smoked wagyu that explode with flavor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Uni-Caviar Tempura, Hay-Smoked A5 Wagyu, Melon Ice Cream in Hollowed Melon
What Makes it Special: Former Urasawa space with $390 omakase featuring theatrical presentations.
A destination omakase counter where technique and fish sourcing are the whole story. Each course is tightly calibrated, with subtle seasoning and temperature control that rewards attention. Expect a long, immersive meal aimed at serious sushi seekers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal nigiri omakase, Hokkaido uni, A5 wagyu bite (when offered)
What Makes it Special: High-end omakase with elite sourcing and exacting technique.
9.1
James Beard Award-winning Chef Tyson Cole's non-traditional Japanese cuisine elevates business dining with creative sushi and seasonal omakase. The sophisticated atmosphere balances energy with professionalism, making it ideal for impressing clients.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hama Chili, Gyutoro, Crispy Brussels Sprouts
What Makes it Special: James Beard Award-winning chef creates innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine
#4
715 Sushi
9
A Michelin-starred Arts District omakase room where chef Seigo Tamura’s Osaka-trained sensibility shows in knife work and restrained seasoning. The progression is thoughtful, mixing pristine nigiri with a few composed bites that highlight seasonality. It’s intimate and serious without feeling stiff.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nigiri omakase progression, Otoro with house soy, Seasonal uni course
What Makes it Special: Michelin-level omakase with Osaka-rooted precision.
Notable Picks
8.9
Chef Hilo creates a multi-sensory omakase experience with orchestral music matched to each course and entertaining storytelling that transforms dinner into theater. The intimate 16-seat counter provides front-row seats to masterful knife work and passionate presentations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Premium Omakase A, Kama (Tuna Collar), Santa Barbara Amaebi
What Makes it Special: Chef's theatrical presentation with music pairings
KazuNori’s Westwood outpost is a standing-room hand roll bar built entirely around made-to-order temaki. Warm rice, crisp nori, and high-quality fish move in a tight rhythm across the counter, making it the go-to spot in Westwood Village when you want focused sushi rolls rather than a sprawling menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro hand roll, Bay scallop hand roll, Yellowtail hand roll
What Makes it Special: A dedicated hand roll bar where every roll is assembled to order at the counter.
#7
Mori Nozomi
8.9
Mori Nozomi delivers meticulously crafted omakase centered on traditional techniques, pristine sourcing, and artistic presentation. Chef Nozomi leads an all-woman team, and guests praise the seamless execution and calm setting, making this a destination for serious sushi enthusiasts.
Must-Try Dishes:
Otoro Nigiri, Kasugodai, Hon Maguro Temaki
What Makes it Special: Michelin-starred, chef-led experience with rare, seasonal fish.
#8
Soko Sushi
8.9
Chef Masa Shimakawa's intimate sushi bar inside the Fairmont Miramar delivers refined Edomae-style technique with pristine fish flown in from Japan. The 12-course nigiri omakase showcases seasonal selections with house-aged rice and real wasabi, creating an elevated experience that rivals Tokyo's finest.
Must-Try Dishes:
Bluefin Tuna Trio Roll, Hokkaido Scallop Nigiri, Shimakawa Special Maki
What Makes it Special: Hotel hideaway with master chef from Hokkaido using traditional aging techniques
8.9
Chef Eduardo Chang Ogata brings Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion to Belmont Shore, blending traditional sushi technique with vibrant Peruvian flavors. The intimate space buzzes with energy as bright yellow bowls of ceviche and lemon-coated parmesan scallops arrive alongside creative Nikkei-style rolls drizzled with acevichado sauce. Ocean-fresh seafood meets eye-catching presentation in a stylish atmosphere that elevates this beyond typical neighborhood sushi.
Must-Try Dishes:
Parmesan Scallops, Crispy Tuna Tacos, Tiradito Nikkei
What Makes it Special: Michelin-recognized Peruvian-Japanese fusion with innovative flavor combinations and impeccable seafood quality
8.9
Chef Mark Okuda's intimate omakase bar delivers exquisite seasonal courses with over 20 years of expertise, featuring dry-aged fish from global sources. The sophisticated space with antique knife collections beneath your feet creates an unforgettable high-end experience perfect for special occasions.
Must-Try Dishes:
Seasonal Omakase Course, Dry-Aged Bluefin Tuna, Hokkaido Uni Nigiri
What Makes it Special: Dry-aged fish program and chef's meticulous attention to detail
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
#12
Kaviar
8.7
Upscale Japanese kitchen perched above Raymond Avenue serves Executive Chef John Hans Yeo's fusion masterpieces in an intimate upstairs setting. Premium ingredients including A5 wagyu and uni elevate specialty rolls, while the cozy dark ambiance creates special occasion atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro with Uni, A5 Wagyu Roll, Uni Pasta
What Makes it Special: Bird's-eye Raymond Avenue views paired with premium fish and creative fusion
8.7
The gold standard for temaki in LA features Kazunori Nozawa's iconic hand rolls with crispy nori, warm rice, and pristine chilled fish in a streamlined counter-seating format. Each roll arrives individually for immediate consumption, creating a ritualistic dining experience that has spawned countless imitators across the city.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro Hand Roll, Blue Crab Hand Roll, Yellowtail Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: The original hand roll bar concept from legendary chef Kazunori Nozawa with 40+ years LA history
8.6
Michelin-recognized Japanese-Peruvian fusion from Chef Shige Fujimoto creating irreverent dishes in a hip space with distinctive dining areas. The innovative menu balances ceviche and sashimi-quality seafood with playful creations like udon carbonara with smoked pork belly and sticky-sweet oxtail bao.
Must-Try Dishes:
Udon Carbonara, Oxtail Bao, Halibut Ponzu
What Makes it Special: Michelin Guide recognition for Japanese-Peruvian fusion from Michelin-star chef
#15
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
#16
Tsukiyo Sushi
8.6
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Birthday & Celebration Central
Trendy Table Hotspots
Opened in January 2025, this modern Japanese restaurant brings premium sushi craftsmanship with artistic presentation to Koreatown's Wilshire corridor. The menu balances traditional nigiri and creative specialty rolls with unique offerings like uni cream pasta and seasonal sake selections, drawing enthusiastic crowds to its warm, contemporary space with traditional tatami seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Volcano Roll, Uni Cream Pasta, Aburi Salmon Roll
What Makes it Special: Brand new modern sushi spot with premium fish and stunning traditional tatami rooms
8.5
Glamorous Japanese brasserie fusing traditional techniques with French culinary flair, transforming into a buzzy nightlife destination after dark. The Instagram-perfect space features dramatic lighting, live DJs, and show-stopping presentations like the 467 Carat Dragon roll with gold leaf.
Must-Try Dishes:
Diamond Roll with Caviar, Wagyu Carpaccio with Uni, 467 Carat Premium Dragon
What Makes it Special: Japanese-French fusion with nightlife atmosphere and live DJs.
#18
Norikaya
8.5
Michelin-starred Chef Akira Back brings elevated izakaya dining with creative handrolls featuring unexpected combinations like strawberry-unagi and pop rocks blue crab. The intimate, dimly-lit U-shaped bar creates a date-night atmosphere where sake flows and fusion temaki shine with theatrical presentations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Blue Crab Pop Rocks Hand Roll, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice with Chicharrón, Tropical Salmon Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Michelin pedigree meets playful fusion with Instagram-ready presentations and unique flavor combinations
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
#20
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.
#21
Mrs. Fish
8.4
An underground Downtown lounge-meets-sushi bar with a playful, nightlife-ready energy. Rolls and nigiri lean modern and crowd-pleasing, backed by solid fish quality and a deep whisky/cocktail program. Best framed as a full evening out rather than a quiet sushi dinner.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy rice spicy tuna, Yellowtail jalapeño sashimi, Chef’s nigiri selection
What Makes it Special: Sushi plus whisky-bar nightlife in an art-filled basement.
#22
Ōwa
8.4
A sleek Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar where nigiri, crudo, and signature maki meet serious drinks. The room skews polished and intimate—ideal for a more elevated sushi night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tokusen Sushi Omakase (7-piece), Chu-Toro Crudo, Ōwa Spicy Hotate Roll
What Makes it Special: Refined nigiri and sashimi program paired to a craft cocktail bar.
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.
#24
Sushi Roku
8.4
Contemporary sushi pioneer blending traditional Japanese technique with California innovation and global ingredients. Tucked in a charming Old Town courtyard, the recently renovated space delivers fusion rolls alongside classic preparations in an upscale-casual setting.
Must-Try Dishes:
White Lotus Roll, Katana Roll, Toro with Truffle
What Makes it Special: Pioneering fusion approach incorporating Latin and European ingredients into sushi
#25
Yume Sushi Bar
8.4
Modern Japanese spot with Chef Shige's 40+ years of expertise translating into creative specialty rolls and pristine nigiri. The sleek wood-accented space balances casual accessibility with special-occasion quality, drawing crowds for signature rolls like the Citrus Roll and fresh truffle preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Citrus Roll, Truffle Halibut Sashimi, Dream Roll
What Makes it Special: Chef Shige's scratch sauces and truffle-enhanced signature rolls
#26
Yunomi Handroll
8.4
Chef David Movsisian's Michelin-rated handroll specialist operates in The Culver Steps with a sleek industrial bar setting and just 24 counter seats. The focused menu delivers fresh handrolls made to order alongside quality sashimi appetizers, Japanese craft beer, and loose-leaf teas served in traditional tetsubin iron teapots.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Crab Roll, Negi Toro Handroll, Soft Shell Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: Michelin recognition for focused handroll-centric menu in modern industrial setting
#27
Katana
8.3
Vibes:
Trendy Table Hotspots
Business Lunch Power Players
Happy Hour Hotspots
Instagram Worthy Wonders
This buzzy robata grill combines dramatic ambiance with quality Japanese cuisine and craft cocktails. The elevated energy and creative menu make it perfect for business lunches that need to impress without being overly formal.
Must-Try Dishes:
Miso Popcorn Shrimp, Robata Grilled Items, Premium Omakase
What Makes it Special: Dramatic robata grill atmosphere with innovative Japanese-fusion cuisine
#28
Kimu Sushi
8.3
Vibrant izakaya experience featuring a sushi bar styled like a Japanese street-side restaurant complete with roof overhang. Creative specialty rolls blend traditional techniques with modern presentations, while the yakitori and small plates program appeals to groups seeking variety.
Must-Try Dishes:
Star Roll, Grilled Skewers, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Authentic izakaya atmosphere with theatrical sushi bar design transports diners to Tokyo
#29
Sama Handroll
8.3
A polished Arts District handroll bar from chef Lester Lai that leans into tight technique and a cocktail-forward izakaya mood. The rolls are clean, properly warm-rice-to-cold-fish balanced, and paced for lingering rather than rushing. Best experienced as a curated handroll set with drinks rather than à la carte grazing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Toro hand roll, Lobster hand roll, Uni hand roll
What Makes it Special: Chef-driven handrolls with a full cocktail-bar experience.
#30
Seabutter
8.3
Modern sushi concept specializing in pressed aburi-style sushi with creative flavor combinations and torched finishes. The lunch menu features innovative pressed sushi boxes that travel well for office meetings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pressed Toro Box, Kanpachi Yuzu Sashimi, Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice
What Makes it Special: Innovative pressed sushi technique creates Instagram-worthy presentations
8.3
Named after Tokyo's legendary fish market, this Main Street spot commits to sustainable seafood and daily hand-selection from four suppliers since 2012. The chutoro, engawa, and simaaji show off pristine quality in an environment that transports regulars to Japan with each beautifully plated course.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chutoro, Engawa Sushi, Planet Earth Roll
What Makes it Special: Maintained an A health rating since 2012 with daily fish selection
#32
Wabi on Rose
8.3
Modern Venice sushi with a lively room, shareable rolls, and a patio that works for an intimate, low-lit date. Nigiri is solid, and crisp rice and signature maki lean playful without losing craft.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice, Chef’s Selection Nigiri, Hamachi Serrano Roll
What Makes it Special: A stylish Venice room pairing polished nigiri with creative, crowd-pleasing rolls.
#33
Omakase By Osen
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
#34
Sōgo Roll Bar
8.2
This neighborhood hand roll bar from the Sushi Note team specializes in creative temaki with high-quality sashimi. Watch rolls crafted before you at the intimate counter featuring unique fillings like brandy-soaked albacore and scallops in masago mayo. The casual-refined vibe and shared patio with Go Get Em Tiger create a relaxed date atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Brandy Albacore Hand Roll, Masago Mayo Scallop Roll, Six Roll Set
What Makes it Special: Hand roll specialists from acclaimed Sushi Note team
#35
Budonoki
8.1
Budonoki brings izakaya spirit and creative sushi rolls to East Hollywood, with an intimate modern setting and chef-driven small plates. Signature aburi salmon sushi and scallop crudo anchor the menu, while a curated sake list and vibrant plating add flair. Freshly grilled specials round out a focused, contemporary experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Aburi Salmon Sushi, Scallop Crudo, Spicy Tuna Roll
What Makes it Special: Snug modern izakaya with chef specials and bold flavors.
#36
Koi
8.1
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Girls Night Out Approved
Sophisticated feng shui-inspired restaurant blends candlelight elegance with contemporary Japanese-California fusion cuisine. The zen-designed space with fireplaces and waterscapes creates stunning harmony, while signature dishes like Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna showcase innovative culinary artistry.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Miso Bronzed Black Cod, Baked Crab Roll
What Makes it Special: Zen-inspired design meets modern California-Japanese fusion cuisine
#37
Ootoro Sushi
8.1
Decades of experience culminate in edible art at this upscale omakase counter where each piece arrives as a photogenic masterpiece. The Instagram-savvy presentation includes dramatic torch work and colorful garnishes that make every course social media ready.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef's Omakase, Toro Tartare, Charcoal-Grilled Fish Collar
What Makes it Special: Theatrical presentation designed for social media
#38
Temaki Society
8.1
A handroll-leaning counter tucked inside a nightlife-style room, blending sushi precision with a downtown bar buzz. Fish quality is clean and well-seasoned, and the menu pushes beyond basics into richer, saucier temaki builds. Come for an elevated handroll session that feels like part of the night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy tuna temaki, Blue crab temaki, Uni & caviar temaki
What Makes it Special: Handrolls in a bar-driven, after-dark Downtown setting.
#39
YESS Restaurant
8.1
Progressive Japanese izakaya in a 1920s Arts District bank building where binchotan charcoal and wood-fired cooking anchor the approach. The whole lobster katsu burger and Monk's chirashi carry the menu; the cooking runs minimalist and somewhat monastic—reviewers call it polarizing for those expecting conventional izakaya energy. NYT 50 best US restaurants and LA Times 101 recognition validate the concept.
Must-Try Dishes:
Monk's Chirashi, Whole Lobster Katsu Burger, Junya's Daily Sashimi
What Makes it Special: Arts District izakaya with binchotan charcoal grilling and NYT top-50 recognition
8
Akuma pairs tonkotsu and truffle garlic ramen with a full sushi menu in an anime-decorated dining room and lantern-lit patio. It functions as a hybrid ramen bar and neighborhood sushi hangout, with all-day happy hour drawing groups and date nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Truffle Garlic Ramen, Tonkotsu Ramen, Akuma Roll
What Makes it Special: Anime-themed ramen and sushi bar with truffle ramen, rolls, and a busy patio.
8
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
What Makes it Special: Rare dedicated parking lot on Ventura Boulevard with exceptional carpaccio selections
#42
Izakaya Tora
8
Vibrant izakaya overlooking the famous rainbow crosswalk serves an explosion of colorful Japanese dishes from tender uni crowned with gold flakes to fresh flower-sprinkled chirashi bowls. The combination of special and casual creates perfect people-watching opportunities with authentic Japanese flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Uni with Gold Flakes, Chirashi Bowl, Takoyaki
What Makes it Special: Rainbow crosswalk views with Instagram-worthy colorful Japanese presentations
Worthy Picks
#43
Cento Raw Bar
7.9
A bleached-coral grotto on West Adams built around a tiered raw bar format—oysters, crudo, and uni pasta served in a space designed to be photographed as much as eaten in. The energetic, cavernous interior rewards groups and date nights who want spectacle with their seafood, though a back patio offers a quieter lane. A polarized review profile (70% five-star, 11% one-star, almost nothing in between) suggests the experience lands hard when it lands, but doesn't always connect.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oysters, Seafood Tower, Hamachi Crudo
What Makes it Special: A bleached-coral grotto design turned one of LA's most photographed restaurants, anchored by pristine oysters and tiered seafood towers
#44
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
7.9
A European sushi chain's first American location that leans into high-technique presentations—wagyu nigiri, hamachi mango, composed rolls—paired with a soju-and-sake-only drink program that keeps the focus tight. The room runs loud with trance and jazz on weekends, so it plays better as a social date night than a quiet conversation spot. Seasonal menu rotations every four months give regulars a reason to come back, though the brand is still proving itself in the LA sushi landscape.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hamachi Mango, Salmon Sushi Spoon, Wagyu Nigiri
What Makes it Special: First US outpost of a 50-location European sushi group, with a soju-and-sake-only cocktail program and a seasonal menu that rotates every four months.
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Group Dining Gatherings
Part of the Japanese chain pioneering revolving sushi technology, this location near the Wilshire/Vermont metro offers interactive dining with color-coded plates on a conveyor belt. The tech-forward experience includes tablet ordering and gamification elements while maintaining the company's commitment to ingredients free of artificial preservatives.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Nigiri, Spicy Tuna Roll, Tempura Udon
What Makes it Special: Interactive revolving belt sushi with tech ordering and gamification rewards
#47
Sushi Zanmai
7.8
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Instagram Worthy Wonders
Quick Bites Champions
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
The first US outpost of Japan's popular sushi chain brings the Tuna King's signature bluefin focus to Chapman Plaza with tablet ordering and a life-sized founder statue greeting guests. Quality tuna cuts shine across multiple preparations while other menu items remain serviceable in this casual, late-night-friendly format.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tuna Zanmai Sampler, Yukhoe Tuna Crispy Rice, Fatty Tuna Nigiri
What Makes it Special: First US location from Japan's 'Tuna King' Kiyoshi Kimura with specialized tuna focus and digital ordering
7.6
International brand's newest outpost combines Argentinian flair with Nikkei-tradition sushi alongside craft cocktails. The vibrant atmosphere features DJ sets on weekends while serving creative rolls and signature Negroni variations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Tuna Tartare, Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Tiraditos
What Makes it Special: Fusion concept blending sushi bar with cocktail culture
#49
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
7.5
A Latin-fusion sushi operation that layers Mexican-inspired sauces and preparations onto Japanese rolls—the Aguachile Roll and Cajun Tuna capture the concept at its sharpest. The Northridge outpost benefits from a lively patio-and-fire-pit setup that reads more like a night-out destination than a strip-mall sushi counter, though service pacing and drink pricing draw recurring complaints. Strongest as a group dinner spot where you stick to the signature rolls and take advantage of happy hour windows.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hawaiian Hurricane Roll, Lobster Roll, Spicy Tuna Hand Roll
What Makes it Special: Latin-fusion roll program that’s sauce-forward and unapologetically fun.