Shunji in Santa Monica – A Disappointing LA Omakase Experience 🍣😕

This restaurant once held a Michelin star back in 2019. I just moved to LA and hadn’t tried many Japanese places here, so Shunji was my first omakase experience in the city. Having previously had omakase in various Asian cities, I have to say: In LA, it’s better to lower your expectations from the start. ✨For example: • The quality of the fish itself just isn’t on the same level. • I was genuinely surprised to see salmon sushi served in an omakase course 🤯. • Even in July—peak summer—there was no sardines or high-quality shellfish available… But on a positive note: 👍 The owner and his wife are very warm and welcoming, which made the dining experience pleasant. I’m curious why LA, despite being by the ocean, falls short on sashimi quality. (Maybe I just haven’t found the right spot—no hate please!) ✨According to some insights: • The U.S. has very strict regulations on raw seafood—for example, requiring deep-freezing at -20°C for 7 days to kill parasites. • Many ultra-fresh fish commonly served “same-day caught” in Japan lose flavor after freezing. • Some premium Japanese fish species are even banned from live import. Plus, customs clearance is slow, and shipping takes time… All of this adds up. That said, honestly… I probably won’t return, and I’m hesitant to try other Japanese omakase spots in LA. Compared to Asian cities—even outside Japan, like Hong Kong or Shanghai—the quality and value are just on another level (especially Hong Kong). #JapaneseCuisine #RestaurantReview #LAJapaneseFood #LAFood #LARestaurants #Omakase #SushiFail #EatingInLA #FoodDisappointment #SantaMonicaEats