Next time you’re strolling downtown in Santa Monica and get a hankering for some traditional Japanese sushi or sashimi, or even nigiri then you might want to head over to Wilshire Boulevard (running parallel to its more famous sister Santa Monica Boulevard) and sample some of the well known, and lesser well known establishments.
La Brea Ramen & Sushi
This is great place to grab some super Sushi on Wilshire Blvd. But it is most well known for its Ramen dishes, due to it being so popular and its location it can get pretty busy, so be prepared if you are in a hurry. Read our full review.
Sushi Sasabune
Sushi Sasabune is a Japanese sushi bar specializing in hand rolls and omakase, it has become an established favourite with regulars and visitors for it’s authentic Japanese delights. Their brigade of highly skilled chefs and friendly severs keep patrons coming back week after week. You can choose to dine indoors in the restaurant with its modern décor, or sit outside in their outdoor patio dining area and soak up the signs and sounds while you enjoy your meal and wash it down with a glass of ‘Lucky Dog’ saké. If you are in a hurry and want to get something to go, or don’t want to leave home, their Bento Boxes come highly recommended!
Noma
Noma is a Japanese restaurant and sushi bar which has been a mainstay on Wilshire Blvd for decades, and for good reasons too. Its chefs are renowned for their craft in creating tasty traditional Japanese dishes and offering advice to those unsure what to try first, Noma consistently receives excellent ratings across the board for its quality of food (which also includes a large vegetarian menu), friendly and efficient staff and dining areas. The “Hungry Roll” which contains spicy albacore and cilantro/micro greens is a popular choice!
Sushi King
Another sushi spot which has been around for years in Santa Monica and loved by locals for its fresh and authentic dishes and excellent service. The sushi bar has been serving casual diners since 1981 with its open kitchen where you can sit at the bar and watch the chefs prepare your meal, or sit in the main indoor dining area. The miso sea bass is a must to get as an appetizer and their selection of thick sliced sashimi works so well with one another.
Kimuya
Kimuya describes itself as a Korean and Japanese fusion restaurant It serves a wide selection of Japanese sushi, ramen, teriyaki, sushi rolls, noodles, and Korean fusion items in its lantern-lit, booth-filled interior. It it also serves a full selection of spirits, beer, wine, sake, and soju. The menu is huge and, like a tourist on vacation, you might get lost trying to decide what and where to eat, Japanese or Korean, or maybe Japanese Korean fusion? Once you have decided what to order, and if you’re lucky enough to have arrived during happy hour, you should be pleasantly surprised with the offerings from Kimuya.
Kanpai Santa Monica
Another location on Wilshire Blvd to find quality sushi is Kanpai, the ambience is always spot on and the waiters are a delight. Portions are generous and every dish is tasty! Their vegan friendly options (the veggie tempura roll is popular) are always well received. Some might find their prices a little high.
Takami Sushi & Robata
Situated in Downtown in the Financial district, Takami Sushi & Robata offers a spectacular 360 degree view of the surrounding area with your meal. The restaurant is well known for its cocktails and is probably the most Instagrammable one on our list.
Takuma
Takuma offers great traditional Japanese food and amazing service, and if you are looking for a bento box that won’t disappoint, this is your go to place. If you can’t decide on what to have, try the kakuni bento (pork) it comes with a whole soy egg, stewed potato, potato mash, salad, and rice and will leave you feeling satisfied. Sometimes the choice of music isn’t exactly what you would expect from a Japanese restaurant……
Hara Sushi
Why not stop at Hara sushi on Wilshire Blvd for a ‘Wilshire Roll’? Ideal for large groups who can shares sushi platters and enjoy the reasonably priced house sake and other drinks.