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Sushi Zo | Downtown Los Angeles
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Sushi Zo | Downtown Los Angeles
9.2
One of LA's premier omakase destinations serving traditional Edomae-style sushi with meticulous attention to neta and shari harmony. Chef-selected seasonal seafood arrives from trusted sources worldwide, with each piece seasoned and served at peak flavor to achieve perfect ittai-kan.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Tasting, Seasonal Nigiri Selection, Monkfish Liver
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 9.1
Consistency: 9.4
Food Quality: 9.6
Atmosphere: 8.8
Cultural Relevance: 9.5
What makes it special: Omakase-only format featuring pristine fish and impeccable rice at body temperature
Who should go: Serious sushi connoisseurs willing to invest in excellence
When to visit: Dinner service Monday-Saturday, reservations essential via Tock
What to order: Trust the omakase menu starting at $230
Insider tip: Book exactly 30 days in advance when reservations open
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet available $15, or nearby parking structures on 6th/7th Streets $8-12. Street parking nearly impossible evenings.
Dress code: Business casual to elevated - collared shirts recommended, no athletic wear. Think investment banker off-duty.
Noise level: Hushed and intimate - designed for conversation at the bar while watching chef work. No music, just knife sounds.
Weekend wait: Reservation-only, no walk-ins accepted. Booked solid 30 days out.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service - dinner only Monday-Saturday
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Not recommended - this is fish-focused omakase with no vegetarian menu
Vegan options: Not possible - the entire experience centers on seafood and traditional preparation
Gluten-free options: Notify when booking - tamari available but soy sauce integral to many preparations
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for 3rd+ dates when you're ready to impress - the $230+ price tag and intimate counter seating (no hiding) means this is for when you're already confident in the connection.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Effectively impossible. They operate reservation-only via Tock, and slots fill within minutes when they open 30 days out. Set a calendar reminder or check cancellations day-of.
Is it kid-friendly? Not recommended for children under 12 - the 2+ hour omakase requires sitting still, no substitutions allowed, and raw fish throughout. Better suited for teenagers who genuinely appreciate sushi.
How long does dinner take? Plan for 2-2.5 hours at the counter. This is a paced experience - roughly 18-20 pieces served one at a time with chef explanation. Don't book theater tickets after.
Do I tip on top of the omakase price? Yes - standard 18-20% on the full bill. The $230 is for food only, not service.
Best For
Better for: When you want traditional Edomae technique and trust the chef completely - this is about the fish, the rice, and nothing else. Superior for purists who appreciate subtlety over showmanship. Better than Sugarfish/KazuNori for serious enthusiasts.
Skip if: You want menu choice, cooked options, or lighter price point. Go to Q Sushi or Sushi Note if you want omakase under $150. Choose Morihiro if you prefer more creative/modern preparations.
Sushi Zo | Downtown Los Angeles
8.9
One of LA's pioneering omakase-only establishments maintains its elite status with pristine fish flown in from Japan and served at precise temperatures. The intimate 10-seat bar delivers approximately 25 courses where neta and shari achieve perfect harmony.
Must-Try Dishes:
Hokkaido Scallop, Blackthroat Seaperch, Blue Crab Handroll
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.4
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 9.3
What makes it special: Downtown outpost of legendary West LA omakase with Michelin pedigree
Who should go: Serious sushi connoisseurs celebrating special occasions
When to visit: Dinner only, reservations essential via Tock
What to order: Omakase-only format ($230), trust Chef Keizo Seki completely
Insider tip: NYC location earned a Michelin star; this shares same exacting standards