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ZipPicks Awards
Best Seafood in Silver Lake
Best Japanese in Silver Lake
Master Critic Review
The Hummingbird
8.6
Chef Ricardo Zarate brings Michelin-recognized Nikkei cuisine to this vibrant Echo Park ceviche bar opened in August 2024. The inventive Japanese-Peruvian fusion features technicolor ceviches, hefty hand rolls, and theatrical plating assembled at the turquoise-quartz bar, all in a scrappy-chic space with live piano music.
Must-Try Dishes:
Salmon Tiradito with Miso, Yellowtail Tostada, Shrimp Dumpling Ceviche
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized chef's Nikkei fusion with fine dining execution at casual prices
Who should go: Adventurous diners seeking innovative seafood under $30
When to visit: Dinner Tuesday-Saturday or Sunday brunch
What to order: Salmon tiradito, yellowtail tostada, shrimp dumpling ceviche, scallop hand roll
Insider tip: No liquor license yet but offers THC beverages; live music adds ambiance
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - competitive after 6pm but easier than most Echo Park spots; arrive 10-15 min early or use ride-share
Dress code: Elevated casual - nice jeans and a button-down work, but you'll see cocktail dresses at the bar; avoid athleisure
Noise level: Lively but conversational - live piano adds energy without overpowering; bar seats louder than tables
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday-Saturday; reservations strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Brunch only on Sundays; Tuesday-Thursday dinner typically 20-30 min wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Limited but creative - 3-4 options including mushroom ceviche and vegetable hand rolls; focus is seafood-forward
Vegan options: Very limited - 1-2 options possible with modifications; call ahead to confirm availability
Gluten-free options: Yes - most ceviches naturally GF, but confirm sauces; tostadas can be skipped, hand rolls use sushi rice
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - intimate bar seating encourages conversation, theatrical plating creates shared moments, and sub-$30 price point feels impressive without financial pressure. Live piano adds romance without being overly formal. Reserve a table over bar seats for less chaos.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible Tuesday-Thursday if you arrive right at 5:30pm opening or after 8:30pm. Weekends are nearly impossible - book 1-2 weeks ahead. Bar seats are first-come but expect 30-45 min waits after 7pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Not ideal for young children - no kids menu, intimate space with bar focus, and adventurous flavors. Teens 14+ who eat sushi will enjoy it, but skip for families with kids under 12 or picky eaters.
How long should I plan for dinner? Budget 90 minutes - ceviches arrive quickly but pacing encourages leisurely grazing. Rush crowds arrive 7-8pm; earlier or later slots feel more relaxed.
Is it worth the hype for the price? Absolutely - Michelin-level technique at $25-35 per person is rare. Portions are tapas-style so order 3-4 dishes to share, but quality rivals places charging double.
Best For
Better for: Choose The Hummingbird when you want Michelin-caliber creativity without fine dining formality or prices - the Nikkei fusion is more inventive than traditional ceviche spots, and the scrappy-chic vibe feels more authentic than polished competitors. Best for adventurous eaters who prioritize technique and Instagram moments over huge portions.
Skip if: Pick elsewhere if you want a quiet, intimate space (it's lively), need large portions (tapas-style), prefer traditional Peruvian over fusion, or have young children. Also skip if you need full bar service until they get their liquor license - THC beverages aren't everyone's preference.
Hours
MondayClosed
Tuesday5pm - 10pm
Wednesday5pm - 10pm
Thursday5pm - 10pm
Friday5pm - 10pm
Saturday5pm - 10pm
Sunday5pm - 10pm