Sushi 101 — Restaurant in Los Angeles

There is nothing I can write here to actually express how grateful I am that Sushi 101 exists. I've lived in the SFV my entire life, and been a chef for almost 16 years in every type of cuisine you could think of. I can honestly say with every part of my being that this is the only restaurant I've ever come across where I wouldn't change a thing. It's a simple, casual location, that brutally undersells how phenomenal their food and service truly is. I've been coming here to treat myself on and off for the last year or so, and take my word for it, there hasn't once been a single bit of food I could find room for improvement on. Working in the industry can give you this jaded view on perfectionism and finding any possible issue. But here? I actually feel at home. Every time I come to eat, I scour the menu for anything new, try a few appetizers, and then go insane with sushi. They have a monthly rotating menu that shows the chef recommendations for sushi that's in season or selling well. I usually live exclusively off of that, or even leave the choices completely up to the house. But I can honestly say I've never had a single bite here that wasn't completely satisfying. Moto, Chef Toshi, and the entire staff are so welcoming and kind. I honestly tuck money away every paycheck just so I can treat myself and come here to enjoy what food should truly be. I could rant for hours about this place, and I always do to my friends and family. Surviving as a small business, especially a restaurant is brutally hard. Even over places I've poured countless hours of work into, I can say this is the most deserving staff and establishment I've ever come across. Thank you all for always giving me the respite from how stressful and problematic this world can be. To be able to wander in to a small, cozy casual place in a strip mall and be handed Michelin level food from people who treat you like friends they've known forever, I couldn't hope for anything more. Be it the appetizers, chirashi bowls, soups, or every single piece of nagiri you could imagine, this place is special. I mean SPECIAL. This is the type of restaurant I've always hoped to achieve myself. I love and thank you all, and promise I'll be back as soon as I can be. Stay alive and well through these tough times my friends, let Sushi 101 live on...

I once asked a Japanese friend at the gym which sushi place he would recommend, so we've been going to 101 for 20 years since. So if you like "Un-slick" and cheaper by a lot in an ugly strip mall…. It reminds me of the place in Tokyo in the series "Midnight Diner" on Netflix. It has achieved "not trying/Is" -ness.

Last night we ordered a generous amount in an a la carte variety that included items we’ve never had, like Yellowtail collar, and mushroom Miso soup, for example. All served quickly with excellent taste.

My wife asked me to guess the price and I guessed $45 and it was $35, including beer. They were about 75% filled on a Friday night at 6:30. So if you want quality and you have an accepting attitude… They won't yell "Ohai-O!" when you come in, just a warm welcome.

My favorite "tell" is that you have to step over an unceremonious drainpipe three feet directly in front of the front door. The place is like one of those famous Japanese teacups with the rough finish "mistake" i.e. “wabi sabi” glaring out at you lovingly. The whole place says “wabi sabi” come to think of it. Their unglamorous friendliness is refreshing.

Btw, Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were playing softly in the background as we walked in. Louis Armstrong and other early Jazz was also played. Who does that? I think Joni Mitchell and Elvis C. might go there buy not Elton John, if you get my drift.

Try it. Or don't, because I love it 75% full, but 85% wouldn't wreak it. I only risk telling you because we love them and feel better saying...

My Sushi 101 experience in 2024 left me disheartened, and I feel compelled to share my story, particularly due to what I believe may be racially motivated behavior. Seeking a moment of respite after work, I entered the restaurant with a simple request for green tea. The initial interaction with the host was unremarkable, but as I perused the menu, a server persistently pressured me to order food. After a mere five minutes, I was abruptly asked to leave, despite only two other patrons in the nearly empty restaurant at 6 pm.

To exacerbate the situation, I sensed uncomfortable stares directed at me as I sat there, leading me to question whether my race played a role in the treatment I received. It's disheartening that such incidents can still occur in 2024, highlighting the need for continued awareness and change. The ambiance, with an unpleasant odor reminiscent of a senior home and worn-out furniture, added to the unwelcoming atmosphere. This, coupled with the perceived racial undertones, left me questioning the establishment's commitment to fair treatment.

I strongly discourage others from dining at Sushi 101. Choose an alternative with a more inviting atmosphere, and be aware of potential racial biases when considering this establishment. Eat at Sushi 101 at your own risk, recognizing that incidents like this shouldn't persist in the...