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Sushi Ken
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Ken
8.2
Sushi Ken is a quietly serious traditional sushi bar on Hawthorne where the best way to eat is to leave things to the chef via omakase. The room is small and understated, but regulars rely on it for focused, multi-course nigiri flights built around seasonal fish.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Nigiri Set, Premium Chirashi, Salmon Skin Salad
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.2
What makes it special: Traditional sushi counter where omakase lets the chef curate your meal.
Who should go: Sushi fans who prefer focused omakase over rolls and fusion.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners when the counter is calmer and chef-driven.
What to order: Omakase nigiri progression, Premium Chirashi, Salmon Skin Salad.
Insider tip: Sit at the bar, give the chef a budget, and ask for a mostly-nigiri omakase to maximize variety.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small shared lot out front plus easy residential street parking along nearby blocks; generally available during dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual; clean jeans and a button-down are fine, but many guests lean slightly polished for omakase.
Noise level: Low to moderate; quiet enough for intimate conversation at the counter.
Weekend wait: Walk-ins may face a 20–40 minute wait depending on counter availability; reservations strongly advised.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait or short wait if omakase slots are open.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited; can offer vegetable rolls or salads but omakase is primarily fish-driven.
Vegan options: Very limited; not recommended for strict vegan diners.
Gluten-free options: Possible with guidance; many nigiri pieces are naturally gluten-free, but soy sauce and certain marinades require substitutions—inform the chef ahead of time.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—if the date appreciates traditional sushi and quieter, chef-led dining. The low-key counter and focused omakase format create an intimate, thoughtful atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes, especially on weeknights. On weekends, the counter fills quickly, so reservations or early arrival are the safest approach.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young kids; the space is small and the omakase format is best suited for teens or older children who enjoy sushi and can sit through a paced, multi-course meal.
Best For
Better for: A traditional, no-frills omakase focused on seasonal nigiri rather than elaborate rolls or modern fusions; ideal for diners seeking purity and chef-driven pacing.
Skip if: You want creative rolls, loud group energy, or flexible à la carte ordering. Choose alternatives if someone in your party needs extensive non-seafood or vegan options.
Sushi Ken
8.4
Sushi Ken is a low-key, chef-driven sushi bar where counter omakase and carefully balanced nigiri draw a mostly local crowd. The modest strip-mall exterior hides a focused, traditional experience that works well for couples who care more about pristine fish than flashy décor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Nigiri Sushi, Premium Chirashi Sushi, Sushi Ken Style Seafood Dynamite
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Traditional, chef-led sushi with quietly serious fish and omakase.
Who should go: Sushi-focused couples who prioritize craft over flash.
When to visit: Weeknight dinners when the counter is calmer.
What to order: Omakase nigiri set, premium chirashi, seafood dynamite.
Insider tip: Sit at the counter, be unhurried, and let the chef guide your order for the best progression of fish.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Shared strip-mall lot with solid availability; easiest during early evenings and weekdays.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans are fine but many couples opt for slightly polished attire at the counter.
Noise level: Low to moderate; quiet enough for intimate conversation, especially at the sushi bar.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes depending on counter availability; call ahead for timing.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; easy walk-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Moderate—vegetable rolls, cucumber maki, tamago, and simple appetizers are available.
Vegan options: Limited—expect only basic vegetable rolls and sides.
Gluten-free options: Good—most nigiri and sashimi are naturally gluten-free; request gluten-free soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—quiet, intimate, and chef-driven, ideal for couples who want a calm setting and thoughtful sushi without distractions.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are common. Arrive early on weekends if you want a counter seat for omakase.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids or teens who enjoy sushi will be fine, but it’s not designed for young children and has limited kid-focused menu items.
Best For
Better for: Purists who value traditional nigiri, slower pacing, and one-on-one chef interaction over flashy interiors or long menus.
Skip if: You want trendy rolls, big group seating, or a high-energy atmosphere; louder, more modern sushi spots will be a better fit.