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Fish Japanese food in Downtown LA

A Japanese spot where the fish is the focus, rather than being buried under heavy sauces or excessive toppings.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Momi Sushi image 1
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Sushi restaurant

Small, unassuming sushi spot with cozy seating and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Friendly, straightforward vibe suits casual meals or takeout more than formal dining. Known for fresh, high-quality sushi that rivals pricier places.

Sushi features extremely fresh fish with a higher fish to rice ratio that keeps it flavorful and light. Service stays welcoming and efficient, complementing the authentic and tasty offerings.

Extremely fresh fish stands out with a higher ratio of fish to rice, making sushi flavorful and not too filling. The chef customizes fish and sauces based on preferences, ensuring a tailored experience.

People are saying

"I found Momi Sushi to be a phenomenal, top-notch spot."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh and tasty."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's like being back in Japan."

Good to know

1

Momi Sushi has limited seating, making it better suited for takeout.

2

Street parking can be crowded; consider using the Ralph's parking lot for 90 minutes.

3

The restaurant is small, so it's not ideal for large groups.

02
Guzzu Bento-ya image 1
Restaurant

Spacious, modern interior combines Japanese retro pop music, anime projections, and local artwork for a cozy, welcoming vibe. Calm atmosphere suits peaceful meals, casual catch-ups, and board games. Unique blend of warehouse setting and intentional design creates a hidden gem feel.

Bento boxes stand out with great flavor and presentation. The Wild Salmon Bento features flaky, sustainably sourced salmon grilled to juicy perfection. Portions are good and prices reasonable.

Fish dishes feature tender and flavorful meat with a savory umami taste that is not overpowering. The fish stays moist and avoids dryness.

People are saying

"The Japanese food's presentation is amazing and the sides are just as good."

"The food here is amazing, especially the salmon."

"The fish here is buttery, crispy, and perfectly grilled perfectly."

Good to know

1

Street parking is easy to find near the restaurant.

2

The food is made to order, ensuring freshness.

3

The online ordering system is seamless and very convenient.

03
Izakaya Go Los Angeles image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japan-inspired interior creates a cozy, lively atmosphere with a stylish, inviting design. Large TV screens show NBA games, adding a sports-friendly vibe. The place draws a crowd seeking authentic Japanese izakaya experience with sushi, skewers, and sake.

Fresh sushi and sashimi melt in your mouth with every bite. The menu offers authentic Japanese food including yakitori skewers and unique dishes like monkfish liver and wasabi-marinated octopus.

Fish comes very fresh and tastes fantastic. Nigiri pieces highlight the freshness well.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and authentic Japanese."

"The sushi and sashimi here are incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger groups to ensure seating.

2

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Validated parking is available in the nearby lot with a restaurant receipt.

04
Bar Sawa image 1
Sushi restaurant

Basement sushi bar with intimate omakase seating around a 10-12 person counter offers a speakeasy vibe and open kitchen experience. Atmosphere stays light and friendly, with a cool, killer vibe that feels like a secret culinary world. Guests interact closely with a young, humorous chef while enjoying high-quality, creative sushi and specialty whiskey cocktails.

An intimate omakase experience offers a unique selection of fish paired with cocktails and sake. The sushi combines world-class quality with a speakeasy-style atmosphere and attentive service.

Freshness stands out with ultra-fresh fish and high quality selections. Flavors balance perfectly and presentation looks beautiful, offering a creative take on fish compared to other omakase spots.

People are saying

"The omakase here is the best Japanese food I've ever had."

"I thought the food here was delicious and very good."

"The fish here is ultra-fresh and creative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating at the counter.

2

The restaurant is located in the basement of a building with no signs.

3

Parking is easy inside the building, avoiding poor air quality outside.

05
Temaki society image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar with open bar-style seating and modern decor creates a cozy but noisy atmosphere. High top tables and a wrap-around counter attract a casual crowd rather than special occasions. Known for fresh, high-quality hand rolls with inventive twists, it offers a quick, affordable sushi experience.

Fresh, high-quality hand rolls stand out with generous portions and great value combos. Sushi includes buttery, melt-in-your-mouth salmon and tuna sashimi plus fresh uni imported from Japan.

Fish arrives incredibly fresh with a melt-in-your-mouth texture and is served with care. Dishes like raw marinated shrimp and assorted sashimi highlight the high quality fish and balanced flavors.

People are saying

"The hand rolls here are outstanding, easily some of the best I've had."

"The salmon sashimi here is buttery, flavorful, and melts in your mouth."

"The fish here is so fresh and premium quality."

Good to know

1

The bar only opens at 5 pm.

2

The establishment is 21+ after 5PM, which is important for potential diners to know.

3

There is a parking lot in the same block that requires payment, located right next to the Pershing Square metro stop.

06
Sama Hand Roll / Grill image 1

Sleek design and minimalistic branding create an upscale and inviting atmosphere with perfect lighting and beautiful wall art. Spacious interior suits families, large parties, or intimate dinners with a calm, non-flashy vibe. Sake cocktails and exceptional hand rolls stand out alongside fusion dishes and quality grill options.

Handrolls feature crispy nori and perfectly seasoned rice with sashimi that melts in your mouth. Yakitori options include chicken thigh and green onion. Lobster dashi pasta stands out as a notable dish.

Fish arrives with flawless freshness and a clean, sweet taste. Hand rolls feature generous cuts of premium fish wrapped in crisp nori, showing clear precision and care.

People are saying

"You have to try the crispy rice at this Lunch Spot; it's perfectly crunchy."

"The Japanese food here, especially the hand rolls, is so fresh and delicious."

"The fish here is so fresh and clean."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 5:00-6:30pm with special menu items.

2

Parking is free for two hours with validation from the restaurant.

3

Validated parking is available on E 3rd St and Aliso parking.

07
Mafia Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Open layout with a bar creates a bright and clean setting. EDM music sets an upbeat yet relaxed vibe, making it a casual and cozy spot. Frequented by those seeking fresh sushi near event venues, it offers friendly atmosphere, reasonable prices, and dog-friendly accommodations.

Fresh and high-quality fish stands out with salmon sashimi and Godfather roll as highlights. Presentation is excellent, and options include raw rolls like AHI and SALMON recommended by staff.

Fish arrives daily, ensuring super fresh quality. Sashimi, nigiri, and rolls feature high-quality fish with great prices.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was the best I had ever eaten."

"The gyoza here were amazing and yummy."

"The fish here is super fresh and high-quality."

Good to know

1

They recently obtained their liquor license and are working on happy hour specials.

2

Street parking is available, but parking can be an issue.

3

They have always been able to accommodate walk-ins.

08
Sushi Takeda image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small bar seats about eight people in an intimate, Japanese-inspired interior with a cozy, relaxed vibe. The atmosphere stays calm and chill, with friendly, attentive service and perfectly paced courses. Known for fresh sushi, Michelin-quality fish, and carefully paired sake, it offers a unique omakase experience at great value.

Sushi here offers an intimate Edo style experience with exquisitely made traditional sushi. The omakase tasting features standout items like seared tuna nigiri, tuna belly, uni, and fish custard, all served with impeccable, friendly service.

Every dish features seasonal fish of the highest quality with incredible freshness and texture. Nigiri pieces highlight the best versions of fish like King Mackerel and sardine, handled with care and precision.

People are saying

"The omakase here is the best Japanese food experience I've had."

"The fish here is so fresh, especially the dry aged bluefin tuna."

"This Lunch Spot has an incredible mix of precision and traditional technique."

Good to know

1

Advance, pre-paid reservations are recommended to ensure a time.

2

You pay around $200 for a full course meal, excluding drinks, tax, and tip.

3

Parking validation is not available.

09
Eigikutei image 1
Japanese restaurant

Minimalist Japanese design combines with modern architecture and authentic outfits to create an elegant, cozy space. Calm, serene atmosphere contrasts with busy downtown streets, enhanced by high ceilings and calming music. Occasional robot service adds a unique touch to an otherwise traditional dining experience.

Shabu shabu features American Wagyu with a balanced fat content. The Mai level Sushi Kaisรจki offers a mix of raw and cooked dishes that build into a subtle symphony of flavors. The dashi broth stands out for its authenticity and quality, rarely found even in Japan. Complimentary desserts include red bean cakes, mochi, fresh fruits, and plant-based ice creams.

Fish comes imported straight from Japan with perfect aging that enhances flavor. Quality stays excellent across all ingredients.

People are saying

"The omakase Japanese food here is an amazing value."

"The seafood here is exotic, like jellyfish and monkfish liver."

"I felt like I was in Japan with this authentic fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant offers a variety of vegan options on the menu.

3

The cheapest set menu starts at $87 per person.

10
OOTORO LITTLE TOKYO image 1
Sushi restaurant

Modern interior creates a zen atmosphere with dim lighting and an intimate feel. Bar dining area invites guests for an Omakase experience. Space feels spacious and clean, supporting a sophisticated vibe.

Sushi here features authentic Japanese style with standout items like otoro sushi and premium chirashi. Seafood tempura offers crispy, hot bites including lobster tail and fresh vegetables.

Fish here is very fresh and of high quality with generous portions. Cuts are thick, well-prepared, and presented smartly, especially in the chirashi bowls which offer a hearty variety.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, the sashimi melts in your mouth."

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and high quality."

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult on weekends; nearby garages may charge around $30.

2

Expect to pay around $100 for two people, depending on the order.

3

Lunch specials offer great prices for a variety of dishes.

11
715 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar reflects chef's personality with Osaka vibes and fresh fish from Japan. Lighting creates a casual, cozy atmosphere despite limited space and close seating. Experience includes sybaritic Omakase with distinct, savory rice and memorable dishes like monkfish liver and chestnut egg.

Omakase here features fresh, well-balanced sushi with each piece crafted deliberately. The rice uses a soy sauce and rice vinegar blend, adding a savory depth to the nigiri.

Fresh fish shines with excellent quality and skillful knife work. The chef uses edomae style techniques and balances textures from natural and farm-raised fish.

People are saying

"The fish here is so fresh, especially the tuna from Hokkaido."

"The Omakase here is fresh, well-balanced, and memorable."

"I considered this one of the best omakase meals."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance for dining.

2

Parking is very limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

A $175 online deposit is required, refunded after the meal.

12
OOmasa image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with elegant woodwork and authentic Japanese decor creates a cozy, calming atmosphere. Seating includes small booths, a sushi bar, and outdoor tables for people watching. The vibe suits quiet meals with friends or family rather than lively gatherings.

Fresh cuts of sashimi and sushi stand out here, with the spicy tuna roll made without filler. Bentos like teriyaki chicken and tonkatsu come cooked perfectly, and homemade gyoza adds to the variety.

Fish here is consistently fresh and of great quality. The sushi features an old school style with delicious, fresh fish.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh, especially the toro."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the sushi and sashimi."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy at the Japanese village structure with 2-hour validation.

2

Arrive early to avoid long wait times, especially during busy events.

3

The meal costs around $22, offering good value for sushi and drinks.

13
Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a spacious outdoor patio and live music duo that create a chill, classy atmosphere. The space features beautiful decor and a cool vibe with pleasant music, though volume varies. It suits both dates and groups, with fresh sushi and an excellent sake collection.

Freshly made sushi offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience with high quality and excellent sashimi selections. The menu includes delicious gyoza and a happy hour that provides unbeatable prices.

Fresh fish arrives in good portions and pairs with warm sake. Sushi includes wasabi between fish and rice without upfront notice.

People are saying

"The sushi here is fresh and flavorful; it's amazing."

"You have to try their buy-one-get-one-free happy hour on sushi and rolls."

"The fish here is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 PM to 7 PM every day.

2

Late-night happy hour is from 10 PM to 2 AM.

3

They offer a buy 1 get 1 special starting at 5 PM daily.

14
Hama Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi bar seats about 18 people with intimate counter seating and two small tables for groups. Atmosphere feels serene and traditional Japanese, evoking a sense of being in Tokyo or Osaka. Sushi chefs prepare food openly, creating an authentic and engaging experience with top-tier sushi quality.

Sushi here features amazingly fresh fish with outstanding sashimi and rice quality. The presentation is stunning, and the atmosphere feels authentically Japanese.

Fish arrives with amazing freshness and unbelievable quality. Every bite showcases the chefs' skill and pairs perfectly with the rice.

People are saying

"I found the sushi here to be top of the line and incredible."

"I experienced an authentic sushi meal, just like in Japan."

"The fish here is unbelievably fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect to wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has very limited seating, so arrive early.

3

Parking is free with validation from the restaurant.

15
Azay image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant with wabi-sabi aesthetics and a laid-back vibe. The space feels intimate and authentic, offering a unique blend of Japanese and French-influenced dishes. Energy shifts noticeably when the chef appears, adding to the homey atmosphere.

Authentic Western-style Japanese dishes include mochi cake in New Year soup, egg custard with salmon roe, and grilled eel over rice. Japanese breakfast and daily bento feature a variety of pickled vegetables and freshly prepared, flavorful foods.

Fish comes very fresh with no smell, showing it is not frozen. Dishes feature crispy skin, flaky meat, and seasonal options in the Japanese breakfast.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is authentic and delicious."

"This Japanese food is comforting, balanced, and satisfying without feeling heavy."

"I made a special trip for this authentic Japanese breakfast with seasonal fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect long wait times if you don't reserve ahead.

3

Parking can be challenging; arrive early to secure a spot.

16
Izakaya BIZAN image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style restaurant offers an authentic Japanese atmosphere with friendly, calming energy and J-Pop and funk music at a moderate volume. The space feels tucked away and intimate, attracting those seeking Japanese comfort food with standout yakitori and good shochu selections.

Japanese food here features delicious yakitori and a fresh Chirashi bowl with perfectly seasoned sushi rice. The menu covers classic izakaya dishes like sukiyaki and udon noodles, all full of flavor and tender textures.

Fresh assortment of fish shines in the Chirashi bowl with perfectly seasoned sushi rice. Fish head and yakitori offer delicious, flavorful options. Cuts of fish stand out as outstanding.

People are saying

"You have to try the yakitori; the chicken skin and hearts are amazing."

"The Japanese food, especially the yakitori, was juicy and flavorful."

"The fish here is outstanding, especially the monkfish liver."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-6 PM on weekdays.

3

Parking validation is available for customers dining at the restaurant.

17
Izakaya Gazen image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Corner space with a cool triangle table creates a unique seating arrangement. Atmosphere blends relaxed charm with a peaceful jazz vibe, evoking an authentic Japanese izakaya feel. Menu offers innovative yet authentic Japanese dishes with generous portions and fair prices.

Fresh, high quality sashimi and authentic Japanese food stand out here. The sushi, including Nagiri and Ponzu Salmon, is delicious and served in generous portions.

Daily imports from Japan ensure extremely fresh fish. Sushi chefs serve generous cuts on sashimi plates with phenomenal fish quality.

People are saying

"You have to try the housemade tofu sampler; it's effortlessly tasty."

"You have to try the Japanese food, especially the signature tofu sampler."

"The fish here is so fresh, they import it daily from Japan."

Good to know

1

They validate parking for two hours with a restaurant receipt.

2

Expect a 15-minute wait even with a reservation during peak hours.

3

Lunch deals are available and offer great value.

18
Mrs. Fish image 1
Japanese restaurant

Underground Japanese restaurant with aquarium ceiling creates a relaxed, elegant vibe. Live music and DJs add vibrant energy without overpowering conversation. Unique menu and decor offer a distinct dining experience.

Ramen stands out with its rich flavor. Sushi includes barracuda sashimi that tastes like a mix of eel and yellowtail, plus fresh uni sashimi served with ginger and wasabi.

Offers rare fish varieties like Barracuda, Sea Bream, and Golden Eye Snapper. Serves Japanese yellowtail unlike any typical sushi spot.

People are saying

"The seafood here is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented."

"The fish tanks here are beautiful and add to the stylish, energetic vibe."

"The Japanese food here is so good and so fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Valet parking costs $17.57 before tip, with no street parking available.

3

Happy hour runs from 5 to 6:30 pm with discounted sushi options.

19
Tamon Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Quiet Japanese restaurant on a hotel second floor offers calm ambiance and excellent views over a historic street. The space feels relaxed and welcoming, with some Japanese spoken and authentic Washoku cuisine served. It stays uncrowded, making it easy to find a table.

Sushi here features very fresh fish with great presentation and includes sets like Fatty Fish nigiri and Senior Bento with grilled fish and tempura. The menu focuses on authentic Japanese dishes served in a calm setting with friendly service and reasonable prices.

Fatty Fish nigiri set offers chu-toro, yellowtail, and salmon with two pieces each for $20. Senior Bento includes grilled fish, simmered vegetables, mixed tempura, rice, and miso soup. Tamon Sashimi plate serves a fresh, well-portioned selection of fish.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and tasty."

"The Japanese food here is delicious and authentic."

"The fish here is so fresh, I loved the sashimi."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:30 to 7:30 pm with reduced prices on sake, shochu, and beer.

2

The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Wednesdays.

3

Parking is available inside the restaurant, with additional spots on 1st street.

20
Sushi Rush image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers fresh, flavorful sushi with high-quality fish and varied sushi rolls. The setting is casual and lively with limited seating and a counter featuring multiple sauces. The atmosphere suits sushi lovers seeking a straightforward dining experience.

Freshness stands out with incredibly fresh fish and high-quality nigiri like Japanese Yellowtail. The omakase offers flavorful, melt-in-your-mouth sushi with a great variety and affordable prices.

Freshness stands out with high-quality fish that melts in the mouth. Omakase servings include two pieces per fish type, offering variety and solid presentation.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here is incredibly fresh and flavorful."

"The fish here is so fresh and high quality."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a sushi sampler for $15 with five pieces.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially for at-kitchen seating.

3

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to avoid waiting.

21
Tokyo Haus Sushi & Grill All You Can Eat image 1

Spacious, clean interior features minimalist decor with Japanese-themed artwork and stylish plating that enhances the dining experience. Atmosphere balances casual comfort with an upscale feel, though loud jazz music raises noise levels. Group-friendly seating encourages sharing and socializing.

Sushi comes incredibly fresh with exceptional presentation that looks like art. The all-you-can-eat options include Premium Sushi and Roll served in unique wooden boxes, paired well with a diverse sake selection.

Fish here is consistently fresh with an ideal fish to rice ratio. Options include generous sashimi slices and unique fish dishes in all-you-can-eat sets, plus alternatives for those avoiding raw fish.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat Japanese food has a time limit and leftover charges."

"The all-you-can-eat sushi and BBQ selection is crazy good."

"The fish here is so fresh and top-quality."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials are available from 11 AM to 3 PM on weekdays.

2

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3 PM to 6 PM.

3

A mandatory 18% tip is added for parties of two or more.

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