Matsuhisa

Beverly Hills

Matsushisa very well may have birthed my infatuation for sushi when I went for a birthday close to 20 years ago.

Often overlooked by its international super star of a partner, Nobu, Matsuhisa is where it all began for high end sushi in LA.  Located on La Cienega’s iconic restaurant row, Matsuhisa surprisingly remains true to its low-key roots dating back to the mid 80’s. 

Derived as a hybrid of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, Matsuhisa holds the heavyweight belt for being the clear innovator of Japanese-American Izakaya style cuisine.   One must indulge in the legendary cold dishes including a vast array of sashimi plates, carpaccio dishes and ceviche.  Then there are the “special dishes”, including the likes of your Miso Black Cod, Crispy Rice Spicy Tuna, and Wagyu Beef Dumplings.  Through all the complexities of the menu however, Matsuhisa remains true to its core,  a fine Sushi restaurant.  The Omakase’s range from the various sections of small plates to pure Sashimi and Sushi sets. 

You know what you are getting when at Matsuhisa.  It is an experience that emboldens the senses.  Would you be happy paying twenty euros for a Neapolitan Margarita while traveling in Sicily?  No sir… But if that pizza, made with the same ingredients and in the flawless manner of its homeland could be ordered in Beverly Hills, you will happily pay an arm and a leg for it.  That is Matsuhisa for you.   

Overall: The iconic flagship of “where it all started”, still delivers on a high level.  Just make sure to balance your checkbook ahead of time.   (Quality: Very High – Variety: Highest – Value: Sub Average – Vibe: Good)