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Sushi Bar Tetsuya
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Bar Tetsuya
8.9
Third-generation sushi chef Tetsuya Tanabe brings traditional Edomae technique with contemporary innovation to Studio City. The intimate space features both counter and table seating where modern signature rolls meet classic nigiri, all showcasing exceptional fish quality and precise rice preparation that honors his family's legacy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Selection, Signature House Rolls, Seared Albacore Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 9
Consistency: 9.1
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Third-generation sushi chef merging traditional Edomae technique with modern innovation
Who should go: Sushi enthusiasts seeking authentic craftsmanship with contemporary flair
When to visit: Dinner reservations recommended, especially Tuesday-Saturday evenings
What to order: Omakase for full experience, signature rolls, daily specials
Insider tip: Sit at the counter to watch Chef Tetsuya's masterful knife work and rice shaping technique
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot behind restaurant (10 spaces), street parking available on Ventura Blvd but competitive after 6pm, valet not available
Dress code: Smart casual recommended - dark jeans acceptable but most diners dress up for the occasion, avoid athletic wear
Noise level: Intimate and conversational - perfect for date night dialogue, quieter than typical sushi restaurants
Weekend wait: Reservations essential - walk-ins unlikely Friday-Saturday, 60-90 min waits common
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only Tuesday-Sunday starting 5:30pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - dedicated vegetable nigiri, vegetable tempura rolls, miso-marinated eggplant, cucumber salads, but limited compared to fish-focused menu
Vegan options: Very limited - cucumber rolls, avocado rolls, edamame, vegetable tempura (specify no egg wash), rice preparation uses rice vinegar only
Gluten-free options: Yes - tamari available upon request, most nigiri naturally gluten-free, chef accommodates with advance notice but cross-contamination possible
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent first date choice - intimate without being uncomfortably quiet, impressive presentation creates conversation starters, counter seating provides natural focal point if conversation lulls, price point shows effort without being intimidating ($60-90 per person with drinks)
Can I get a table without a reservation? Counter seating sometimes available for walk-ins Tuesday-Thursday before 7pm, but table reservations strongly recommended any night. Call day-of around 3pm to check cancellations, or arrive right at 5:30pm opening for best walk-in odds
Is it kid-friendly? Better for teens (14+) than young children - sophisticated atmosphere, limited cooked options beyond tempura, no kids menu. If bringing younger kids, request table seating over counter, visit early (5:30-6:30pm) when quieter, order California rolls and chicken teriyaki as safe options
How does the omakase work here? Chef's choice tasting menu, 12-15 pieces served progressively from lighter to richer fish, counter seating only for omakase experience, 60-75 minutes, $95-120 per person depending on market prices, notify server of any fish aversions when ordering
What's the Instagram factor? Highly photogenic - Chef Tetsuya's plating is artistic, dramatic knife work at counter, signature truffle salmon aburi roll is stunning, minimalist Japanese aesthetic with warm wood tones, expect other diners photographing food
Best For
Better for: Traditional technique with modern creativity - outshines chain sushi spots in fish quality and rice preparation, more intimate and date-friendly than larger sushi establishments, third-generation chef pedigree provides authenticity without the Century City price tags
Skip if: You want all-you-can-eat volume over quality, need extensive cooked menu options beyond sushi, prefer casual atmosphere for large groups (8+), seeking budget sushi under $40 per person, or want omakase with 20+ courses and $200+ experience - this occupies the elevated middle ground
Sushi Bar Tetsuya
8.8
Third-generation sushi chef Tetsuya Tanabe brings modern innovation to traditional Edomae techniques at this contemporary 2024 newcomer. Each nigiri showcases meticulous rice shaping and precise fish butchery, with signature inside-out rolls that balance creativity with restraint.
Must-Try Dishes:
O-Toro Nigiri, Black Cod with Miso Almond, Yuzu Ponzu Roll
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Third-generation chef brings family legacy to modern sushi counter experience
Who should go: Sushi enthusiasts seeking refined traditional technique with contemporary flair
When to visit: Dinner Tuesday-Sunday, reservations strongly recommended
What to order: Omakase ($80), O-Toro, Black Cod Nigiri
Insider tip: Counter seats offer best view of chef's meticulous knife work