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Sushi by Scratch Restaurants (SLS Hotel)
Master Critic Review
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants (SLS Hotel)
8.7
Hidden inside the SLS, this 17-course omakase counter runs as an intimate tasting with cheffy toppings, storytelling, and a set progression of nigiri. It functions as a destination night out where reservations, cocktails, and the speakeasy setting make dinner feel like an event.
Must-Try Dishes:
17-Course Omakase Tasting, Signature Torched Nigiri Bites, Chef’s Hand Roll Course
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.9
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Immersive, reservation-only omakase hidden inside the SLS hotel.
Who should go: Tasting-menu lovers chasing intimate, chef-driven nights.
When to visit: Later seatings for livelier energy and fuller progression.
What to order: Full omakase, curated cocktail pairing, dessert course.
Insider tip: Arrive early to navigate the hotel and settle in at the bar.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet at the SLS is the most reliable option (around $15–$20); street parking on La Cienega and side streets is limited and heavily metered in the evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—think elevated date-night attire. Jeans are fine if paired with nicer shoes or a jacket.
Noise level: Moderate. The counter is intimate and conversational, with chef narration but no overwhelming background noise.
Weekend wait: No walk-in availability; all seats are prepaid and released in advance. Without a reservation, consider it fully booked.
Weekday lunch: N/A — the experience runs dinner seatings only.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very limited—this is a nigiri-driven omakase. They can accommodate minor adjustments but not a full vegetarian progression.
Vegan options: Not available. The format relies heavily on raw fish, butter, and specialty toppings.
Gluten-free options: Possible with advance notice. Many sauces contain soy, but the chefs can adjust components when alerted ahead of time.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want a memorable, structured dinner where the counter format adds fun interaction and eliminates menu stress. It’s less ideal if you prefer extended one-on-one conversation time, since chef narration structures part of the evening.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No. Seats are extremely limited and prepaid; cancellations do appear, but they’re rare. Check Tock the morning of for last-minute releases.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for young children—the tasting is structured, intimate, and nearly two hours long. Older teens who enjoy sushi and can follow the format may be fine.
Best For
Better for: Story-driven omakase with chef interaction, creative toppings, and an intimate speakeasy vibe that feels more like an experience than a meal.
Skip if: You prefer classic Edomae sushi, longer conversations without chef guidance, or have significant dietary restrictions that limit raw fish or butter-based sauces.