Sushi Gen

Sushi Gen was where I first tasted sushi sashimi.  After that experience, my life has never been the same.  (Thank you to C for taking me there).  Let's just say that if there's one place you want to be to get sashimi de-virginized, it's at Sushi Gen.  I'll also say that if I had a choice, Sushi Gen would play a big role in my last meal on Earth, someway, somehow.

It's quite simple, friends.
Fresh fish is not a new concept.  In fact, if you're going to eat it raw, it better in heck be fresh!  But sadly, such is not always the case in the hundreds of sushi places that clutter -- and get lost among -- the LA streets.  For all you roll-lovers, maybe you can be fine at a mediocre sushi shop, but if you're into thick slices of fish so fresh it's buttery, I would recommend Sushi Gen without a second breath.  It's just really that good.

While sitting at the bar precludes you from ordering off their lunch or dinner menu, it does give you more facetime with the jolly chefs who make you feel very special merely by a respectful bow, smile and enthusiastic greetings (Arigato gozaimasu to you too!!).  So that's what we decided to do with a 4 order minimum per person.  Here's a peek of our pure indulgence:

Salmon

Yellow Tail

Tuna

Unagi (Eel)

Halibut

Spicy Tuna Hand Roll

Chef-in-training learns from the master

There's nothing more to say than you need to go to Sushi Gen to satisfy your sushi craving.  As an added bonus the service is also impeccable.  Be ready, however, to wait because there is always a line.  But be patient.  It'll all be worth while.


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cuisine: Japanese
location: Little Tokyo

hours: M: 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM; 5:30 PM - 9:30 PM

T-F: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM; Sat: 5:00 PM - 9:30 PM; closed Sun.

website: { yelp }

attire: Casual 

parking: Street parking or lot ($3 w/ validation)

notes: Don't be dissuaded by the sight of the long line.  It's not cheap.  But you're not getting gyped.