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Takami Sushi & Robata
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.4
A rooftop Japanese room with skyline views and a staff that’s used to navigating gluten-free requests. Sushi, sashimi, and robata plates are the safe lane, and servers will steer you away from soy-based pitfalls and suggest swaps. The vibe is date-night sleek, with food that stays solid even under heavy traffic.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sashimi assortment with GF soy, Robata salmon or black cod, Crispy rice with spicy tuna (GF sauce request)
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 9.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: High-rise sushi and robata with staff trained to accommodate gluten-free diners.
Who should go: GF diners craving a special-occasion rooftop meal.
When to visit: Sunset reservation for views and calmer pacing.
What to order: Sashimi set, robata fish, GF-modified rolls.
Insider tip: Ask for gluten-free soy and roll guidance right when seated.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available in the shared high-rise garage (typically $12–$15). Street parking is scarce after 6pm and not recommended for peak dinner slots.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning upscale; polished denim is acceptable but most diners opt for dressy-casual or date-night attire.
Noise level: Moderate—lively rooftop energy with steady music, but you can still hold a conversation without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation; the lounge may seat you faster but with limited table options.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait if they’re open for midday service; same-day early dinner reservations are easier to secure midweek.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetable sushi, tofu dishes, and several robata vegetables are reliable options.
Vegan options: Limited—mostly vegetable rolls and simple grilled items, but sauces may need to be omitted.
Gluten-free options: Yes—staff can guide you through safe sushi, sashimi, and robata picks, and they offer gluten-free soy on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—skyline views, polished service, and a sleek atmosphere make it an impressive but not overly formal first-date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—walk-ins are sometimes seated in the lounge or bar area, but prime outdoor tables typically require a reservation, especially at sunset.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly—it's more of an adult, date-night environment with limited kid-focused menu items and a higher price point.
Best For
Better for: Best for GF-friendly sushi with skyline views and a more upscale, celebratory feel than most DTLA Japanese spots.
Skip if: Skip if you want traditional izakaya-style menus, budget-friendly pricing, or a quiet, low-key meal.
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.5
A rooftop Japanese room where lunch feels elevated but still meeting-friendly, thanks to strong service rhythm and a view that does the talking. The sushi and robata lineup is broad enough for mixed tastes, with clean fish and dependable hot plates. Great for hosting when you want a downtown ‘up high’ mood without a long tasting-menu clock.
Must-Try Dishes:
Assorted sashimi set, Robata skewers, Spicy tuna hand rolls
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: 21st-floor sushi-and-robata lunch with skyline presence.
Who should go: Hosts who want a view-backed meeting.
When to visit: Weekday lunch before 1pm.
What to order: Sashimi set, robata, hand rolls.
Insider tip: Request window seating when booking.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking available in the 811 Wilshire garage; expect $8–$12 for lunch. Street parking is limited and unreliable during business hours.
Dress code: Smart casual—polished enough for client meetings; shirts, blouses, and clean jeans work fine.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at lunch, with a steady business crowd and minimal music bleed.
Weekend wait: Not applicable—they focus on evening reservations, but weekends can run 20–45 minutes if you walk in.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait with a reservation; walk-ins may face 10–20 minutes during peak noon–1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample vegetable robata, salads, and vegetarian rolls.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 rolls and select vegetable robata; ask staff to guide modifications.
Gluten-free options: Yes—many sashimi and grilled options translate well; soy sauce alternatives available upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—views add atmosphere without being overly formal, and the menu is broad enough to avoid pressure or complexity.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly—lunch walk-ins are often accommodated, but window seats and larger parties should secure a reservation.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids and teens who enjoy sushi will be fine, but the space skews business-focused and not ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: View-forward business lunches, quick but polished service, and a menu that bridges sushi lovers and cooked-dish preferences.
Skip if: You want a quiet, intimate setting or a deep omakase-style experience—nearby specialist sushi counters are better fits.
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.2
A rooftop Japanese spot where skyline views and a sleek dining room elevate the experience beyond the standard sushi-and-robata playbook. The space supports private parties well, especially for sunset-to-night events that want a downtown ‘up high’ mood. Best when you lean into sashimi, robata skewers, and chef specials rather than safe rolls.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chef’s Omakase Selection, Robata Skewers, Seasonal Sashimi Platter
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Rooftop sushi-and-robata dining with private party capability.
Who should go: View seekers and celebration diners.
When to visit: Sunset dinner for skyline transition.
What to order: Omakase, robata skewers, seasonal sashimi.
Insider tip: Request window-side or edge tables when booking private events.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking available in the Wilshire Grand structure; valet is typically offered during peak dinner hours. Street parking is scarce after 5pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish—elevated denim is fine, but most guests dress up for photos and skyline views.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during peak sunset hours; conversation is still manageable at smaller tables.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation, longer for window or patio-edge seating.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, though private-event blocks can limit availability.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options—vegetable rolls, salads, grilled skewers, and several small plates.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—simple vegetable rolls and select starters; confirm sauces in advance.
Gluten-free options: Strong options—many sashimi and grilled items are naturally gluten-free; soy sauce alternatives available on request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the rooftop setting and skyline backdrop create an impressive first-date atmosphere without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes—walk-ins are accepted, but prime view tables and sunset windows usually require advance booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids who enjoy sushi will be fine, but the sleek, nightlife-adjacent vibe isn’t ideal for very young children.
Best For
Better for: Skyline-driven sushi and robata dining that pairs well with celebrations and private events; the rooftop setting outshines most competitors.
Skip if: You want quiet, traditional omakase or strictly purist sushi—this spot leans more scene-driven than meditative.
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.3
A rooftop Japanese room where the best seats are at the sushi bar for a chef-guided omakase rhythm, with robata and small plates filling out the arc. The skyline setting elevates the experience, making it a reliable downtown chef-counter night when you want precision without full tasting-menu formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase nigiri set, Robata skewers, Crispy rice with spicy tuna
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Chef-counter sushi with a rooftop skyline backdrop.
Who should go: Date nights and downtown sushi fans.
When to visit: Evening reservations for city-light views.
What to order: Omakase, robata skewers, seasonal sashimi.
Insider tip: Ask for sushi-bar seating when reserving.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is typically available in the Wilshire tower garage, with self-parking validated after dinner; street parking is scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy—rooftop setting means elevated but not formal; dark denim, nice tops, and jackets all fit in.
Noise level: Moderate—lounge energy near the bar, quieter at the sushi counter where conversation is easy.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without reservations, especially for sushi-bar seats.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though lunch service is more limited than dinner.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable rolls, robata veg skewers, and salads.
Vegan options: Limited—primarily vegetable rolls and simple sides; confirm sauces ahead of time.
Gluten-free options: Good options—many sashimi and nigiri items are naturally GF; request gluten-free soy sauce.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—rooftop views, sushi-bar pacing, and a polished but not overly formal vibe make it an impressive, conversation-friendly first date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes—walk-ins are possible for dining room tables early evening or late night, but sushi-bar seats almost always require booking.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids familiar with sushi will be fine, but the rooftop lounge energy and later crowd skew adult-oriented; not ideal for young children.
Best For
Better for: Skyline views paired with a chef-guided sushi-counter experience—strong for date nights and groups wanting a scene without sacrificing technique.
Skip if: You prefer a quiet, traditional omakase room or need extensive vegan/vegetarian options; a dedicated sushi-only bar may suit those needs better.
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.5
A rooftop Japanese hideout on Wilshire that blends skyline views with a polished, date-leaning dining room. Sushi is clean and nicely portioned, robata skewers bring smoke and savor, and the cocktail program keeps the room lively. It’s trendy because the setting hits hard, but the food stands up beyond the view.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Tuna Rice, Robata Skewers, Nigiri Assortment
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Rooftop sushi with a full dinner arc and real DTLA views.
Who should go: Rooftop dates and downtown night-out pairs.
When to visit: Sunset into night, especially midweek.
What to order: Crispy tuna rice, robata skewers, nigiri set.
Insider tip: Time arrival 30 minutes before sunset for best tables.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet is available in the Wilshire Grand complex (typically $12–$15). Garage self-parking is possible but fills during peak hotel events. Street parking is limited and difficult after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy. Jeans are fine if paired with a polished top; many guests opt for date-night fits due to the rooftop setting.
Noise level: Moderate. Music and rooftop energy keep things lively, but you can comfortably carry a conversation at most tables.
Weekend wait: Expect 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially during sunset hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, and same-day reservations are easy to secure.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — vegetable rolls, salads, and several robata vegetable skewers.
Vegan options: Limited — a few vegetable rolls and skewers, though sauces may need modification.
Gluten-free options: Moderate — sushi and select robata items can be made gluten-free; ask about soy sauce substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The rooftop setting, skyline views, and shareable plates create an easy, romantic atmosphere without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly. Walk-ins are accepted, but sunset and weekends fill fast. The bar area is your best bet for last-minute seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat, but better suited for adults. The vibe leans date-night and cocktail-forward, with no specific kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Skyline views, polished date-night pacing, and a stronger robata program than most rooftop competitors.
Skip if: You want a quiet, low-key sushi experience or have a large group looking for budget-friendly options.
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.2
A rooftop Japanese hideout on Wilshire where open-air seating and skyline angles do as much work as the robata grill. Sushi is clean and well-paced, and the room leans romantic once the lights come up. It’s an outdoor-dining pick for when you want breeze, views, and a full dinner arc.
Must-Try Dishes:
Crispy Rice with Spicy Tuna, Wagyu Robata Skewers, Chef’s Assorted Nigiri
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Open-air rooftop sushi with a real DTLA skyline backdrop.
Who should go: View seekers and rooftop date pairs.
When to visit: Sunset into night, especially midweek.
What to order: Crispy tuna rice, robata skewers, nigiri set.
Insider tip: Bring a light layer—rooftop wind picks up after dark.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Validated parking in the Wilshire Grand garage; valet available; street parking is limited after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; rooftop setting means polished outfits fit best.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation is easy at two-tops, slightly louder near the bar and edge seating.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for outdoor tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; faster seating indoors than on the patio.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several vegetable maki, salads, and robata veggie skewers.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 maki options and grilled vegetables; not a full vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: Moderate—many items can be made gluten-free with tamari; sashimi and several robata dishes qualify.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the rooftop views, pacing, and shareable dishes make it a strong first-date setting without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes—walk-ins are possible on weekdays, but weekend evenings almost always require a reservation for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids and teens will be fine, but the rooftop setting and evening crowd make it less suited for young children.
Best For
Better for: Rooftop ambiance with a full sushi-and-robata dinner experience rather than just drinks-and-snacks.
Skip if: You want a deep, chef-driven omakase or a quiet, low-traffic environment—this leans lively and view-focused.
Takami Sushi & Robata
8.3
Perched high above Wilshire, Takami pairs an extensive sushi and robata menu with 21st-floor skyline views. It’s where downtown diners go when they want rolls, sashimi, and grilled skewers wrapped in a proper night-out atmosphere rather than a quick bite.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Tuna on Crispy Rice, Takami Specialty Roll, Yellowtail Carpaccio
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 7.3
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Skyline-facing sushi and robata plates served from a 21st-floor dining room.
Who should go: Guests prioritizing city views with sushi and drinks
When to visit: Golden hour into evening for sunset and nighttime skyline
What to order: Spicy tuna on crispy rice, Takami roll, yellowtail carpaccio
Insider tip: Book an earlier reservation and ask for a window table to maximize the view.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Garage parking in the Wilshire corridor; validated structure parking is available but fills during peak dinner hours. Street parking is limited and competitive after 6pm.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning dressy; polished jeans are fine but most guests opt for elevated night-out attire due to the rooftop setting.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; conversation is doable at smaller tables but expect buzzier energy near the bar and windows during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, longer for window tables.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; faster seating with smaller parties.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options including veggie rolls, tempura, salads, and several robata vegetables.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; a few vegetable rolls and robata vegetables are vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: Yes; many sashimi and nigiri items are naturally gluten-free, and staff can guide GF substitutions for sauces.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The skyline views and elevated ambiance create an impressive backdrop without feeling overly formal. It’s ideal for a date that balances fun and polish.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly on weekdays, but weekends almost always require a reservation. Walk-ins may be seated at the bar or high-tops first, with view tables reserved for bookings.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat, but not designed for young children. Older kids and teens accustomed to sushi fare will manage fine, though the energy skews adult and night-out focused.
Best For
Better for: Rooftop views, hybrid sushi-and-robata menus, and polished nightlife ambiance—ideal when atmosphere matters as much as the food.
Skip if: You want quiet, traditional sushi; the energy level and mixed menu lean more toward a night-out experience than a serene omakase setting.