π£ New Hidden Gem Omakase in LA β Refined, Clean & Balanced! π
In an era where high-end omakase often feels repetitive and overpriced, this intimate spot in Sawtelle brings back the true essence of Japanese cuisine. No flashy presentations β just skillful craftsmanship and thoughtful pairings. Left feeling perfectly satisfied, not overly full. A refreshing experience! π½οΈ Course-by-Course Highlights: 1οΈβ£ Fried Scallop in Rice Bran Light, crisp, and delicate β the thin rice bran coating lets the sweet scallop shine π. Paired with arugula and plum sauce β not a hint of grease! 2οΈβ£ Grilled Chicken Heart Incredibly fresh, zero gaminess. Crispy outside, tender inside β perfectly cooked! π₯ 3οΈβ£ Pufferfish & Squid with Uni A brilliant combo! The clean, bouncy texture of white fish meets the creamy richness of sea urchin. Layers of flavor and texture! π 4οΈβ£ Simmered Longtooth Grouper A rare fish β my first time trying it! Tender, rich, and deeply flavorful. Served with daikon and fish broth β perfect for fall π. 5οΈβ£ Fried Taro & Potato Mash A humble ingredient turned masterpiece! Lightly fried and served with bonito-infused sauce β creative and delicious π . 6οΈβ£ Bonito Sashimi Firm and flavorful, though a bit fatty for me. Balanced well with ginger and scallions π§ . 7οΈβ£ Simmered Daikon Soft and infused with dashi, lightly charred over charcoal for a smoky depth β simple but brilliant! 8οΈβ£ Grilled Chicken Juicy inside, crispy outside. Seasoned only with salt β clean and satisfying π. 9οΈβ£ Grilled Eel Crispy-skinned and tender, though slightly bitter from char. Sweetness was just right β not overpowering. π Wagyu Beef with King Oyster Mushroom Excellent on its own, but stood out less among other standout dishes. Rich flavor, but pairing felt a bit simple. 1οΈβ£1οΈβ£ Matsutake & Crab Soup A seasonal star! π¦π The sweet crab and earthy matsutake harmonized beautifully, enhanced by lily root β elegant and aromatic. 1οΈβ£2οΈβ£ Tuna Donburi Three types of tuna β from Japan and Canada, one lightly seared in dashi. Each had distinct texture. Sushi rice was a tad too acidic for me. π¬ Final Take: A thoughtful, skill-driven omakase that lets ingredients speak for themselves. Not the flashiest, but deeply satisfying. A must-try for purists! #LAOmakase #SawtelleEats #HiddenGemLA #JapaneseCuisine #CleanEating #ChefStyle