Hamasaku

Brentwood

Celebrities love their sushi.  So, in a town as star studded as Los Angeles, sushi culture was bound to experience local crossover with the Hollywood industry. 

Hamasaku did just that when first opening its doors.  Focusing on a vast array of rolls with exquisite delivery, everything was named after the most recent a-list celebrity on the cover of Vanity Fair.  While all “Hollywood” on its cover, Hamasku has never been by any means pompous behind its doors.  Tucked in the corner of a shopping center off Sepulveda and Santa Monica Blvd., the restaurant has always emphasized excellent quality with un-orthodox presentation.   Beyond the artistic array of its cuisine, Hamasaku has always prided itself on its service. 

Hamasaku recently underwent an internal façade makeover along with the acquisition of Chef Yoya Takahashi (who also expanded the brand to Umi in El Segundo).  This has somewhat shifted the overall feel of the original bar but the restaurant has stayed true to its bones. The “Charlize Theron Tacos” are still a crowd pleaser with rolls like the DJ-Spider which is an explosion of lobster dynamite flavor.  One of the great advancements of the Hamasaku brand over recent years is the emphasis on omakase.  Priced to provide and well versed in variety, the ensemble keeps up with the seasons and is never static.

Make sure to thank the host when you walk out, because just about everyone leaving walks out with a satiated smile.  They might remember you as their own billboard favorite when you return!

Overall: Still a great Sushi restaurant. Not quite what it was 15-20 years ago, but still delivers on all levels.  (Quality: Very Good – Variety: Very Good – Value: Average – Vibe: Good)