LA is known for its spectacular weather, celebrity sightings, and exceptional dining - especially sushi! LA boasts an abundant supply of sushi restaurants in Los Angeles to fit every budget and palate imaginable - from intimate high-end omakase experiences to casual conveyor belt sushi offerings. But with such variety available how can one select their restaurant of choice in Los Angeles? Don't fear fellow sushi enthusiasts; here we provide 10 essential tips that can help navigate LA's vibrant sushi scene successfully:
1. Know Your Sushi Styles!
Los Angeles offers an abundance of delicious sushi experiences. Here is an introduction to some of its primary styles: Omakase: For an elevated dining experience, this multi-course tasting menu designed by your chef from seasonal ingredients may be best. An indulgence that makes an impressive statement on special occasions.
Nigiri: Nigiri features slices of fresh fish elegantly placed atop hand-pressed, vinegared rice to highlight their quality and maximize flavour. Sashimi offers thin slices that allow purists to fully appreciate its seafood flavors without added spices and flavors from additional marinades or seasoning.
Uramaki (Inside-Out Rolls): These renowned rolls include rice on the outside and seaweed on the interior, and can be filled with components such as fish, veggies, or tempura - perfect for daring diners!
Kaiten-zushi (Conveyor Belt Sushi): Kaiten-zushi offers an exciting yet economical sushi eating experience that involves plates of sushi that rotate on a conveyor belt! Enjoy tempting food that you find tantalizingly close!
2. Consider Your Budget:
Sushi can range from pocketbook-friendly to extravagant; Omakase experiences may cost hundreds of dollars while casual kaiten-zushi restaurants provide plates at under $5 each. Determine what amount is comfortable spending before choosing an establishment that aligns with it.
3. Fresh is King:
Freshness is King (and Queen). Achieving an unforgettable sushi dining experience requires high-quality fish delivered daily from local suppliers who focus on seasonal catches; reviews mentioning how fresh the fish was are an indicator that you have found an outstanding restaurant!
4. Peeking Power:
Don't be shy! In many sushi restaurants in Los Angeles with open kitchens, it is perfectly acceptable for you to peer inside the chef's workstation and observe his/her technique and ensure their workspace remains tidy and safe for preparation of sushi meals.
5. Reviews Reveal:
Online reviews can be an invaluable source. Look out for reviews that mention quality fish, menu variety and service; just remember some reviews might reflect personal opinions rather than objective truths.
6. Location, Location:
Keep location top of mind when making your selection. Are you in search of an intimate dinner date at an iconic dining destination, or is lunch just something quick and casual near your office?
7. Venture Beyond Yellowtail and Salmon:
Los Angeles offers an abundance of fish beyond yellowtail and salmon; adventurous eaters may wish to discover lesser-known varieties like albacore (ahi), escolar (butterfish), or monkfish (anko).
8. Enjoy Your Uni Experience:
Sea urchin can be both a delicacy and a challenge when it comes to dining out, so if you want to give this delicious delicacy a try, be sure to find a restaurant known for serving uni and make sure it comes fresh and creamy.
9. Vegetarian and Vegan Options:
While sushi typically features fish as its staple ingredient, many restaurants now provide vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu items as well. Look out for restaurants offering creative veggie rolls or vegetable nigiri options as these may offer alternative offerings.
10. Accept Extras: Won't Forget Extras
Don't forget the extras! Traditional sushi comes complete with pickled ginger for palate cleansing between bites, as well as wasabi (green paste with spicy kick). Some sushi restaurants in Los Angeles even provide sides like edamame beans (soybeans) or miso soup for additional variety!
Drunken Fish offers an oasis of delicious flavors!
Our sushi chefs specialize in crafting delightful nigiri, imaginative rolls, and authentic Japanese fare to satisfy every palette imaginable. Complete with our carefully chosen sake selection and handcrafted cocktails to provide an exciting atmosphere perfect for dining pleasure at Drunken Fish where unforgettable sushi awaits diners!
Los Angeles awaits your sushi adventure! By using these 10 tips as your guide, you should soon have found yourself the ideal restaurant that will tantalize your palate and create an unforgettable dining experience.
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