30 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Sushi in Santa Monica
Best Japanese in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Sushi Hanashi
8.1
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Happy Hour Hotspots
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Quick Bites Champions
This neighborhood favorite since 2013 serves generous portions of fresh nigiri and creative specialty rolls in a casual, no-frills setting. The warm greeting from the sushi bar, extensive sake selection, and happy hour pricing (3-5pm with a third off) make it a reliable local haunt where quality consistently delivers.
Must-Try Dishes:
Santa Monica Roll, Hanashi Roll, Salmon Sashimi Salad
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Huge fish portions on nigiri that locals return to weekly
Who should go: Sushi lovers seeking quality without fine-dining prices
When to visit: 3-5pm happy hour for one-third off entire menu
What to order: Lunch special: salad, 8-piece sushi platter, and hand roll
Insider tip: The California roll is surprisingly decadent with ultra-fresh crab
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Wilshire and side streets, metered until 6pm. Small lot behind building usually has 2-3 spots.
Dress code: Ultra-casual - athletic wear and flip-flops totally fine
Noise level: Quiet - intimate conversations easy at counter or tables
Weekend wait: 10-15 min for counter seats, tables may require 20-30 min
Weekday lunch: Immediate seating, busiest 12-1pm
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - inari, avocado rolls, cucumber rolls, and vegetable tempura
Vegan options: Limited - cucumber roll, avocado roll (specify no mayo on certain rolls)
Gluten-free options: Moderate - sashimi and nigiri work, request tamari instead of soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual/low-pressure dates - the counter seating creates natural conversation starters with the chef, but it's not romantic or impressive. Better for second or third dates where comfort matters more than wow factor.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. Counter seats (8 spots) fill fastest during dinner rush, but table turnover is quick. Arrive before 6:30pm on weekends or hit happy hour 3-5pm for easiest access.
Is it kid-friendly? Surprisingly yes - casual vibe means no one cares if kids are a bit loud, and they'll make simple rolls like California or cucumber. The lunch special works well for adventurous kids 8+. High chairs not available.
Best For
Better for: Regulars who want generous portions and consistent quality without paying Malibu prices - this is your weekly neighborhood spot where the fish-to-rice ratio always impresses and happy hour pricing beats the chains
Consider Alternatives If: You want omakase experience, date-night ambiance, or Instagram-worthy presentation - this is about substance over style, so head to Mori Sushi or Hama instead if atmosphere matters
Hours
Monday11:30am - 10pm
Tuesday11:30am - 10pm
Wednesday11:30am - 10pm
Thursday11:30am - 10pm
Friday11:30am - 10pm
Saturday1pm - 10pm
Sunday1pm - 9:30pm