Shunji
West LA
Since opening in 2012, Shunji has taken the sushi scene of West LA by a storm. Who wouldn’t want to go to a restaurant that resembles Sponge Bob’s pineapple lair? For reference purposes, Shunji replaced Mr. Cecil’s California Ribs, which was around for decades. This makes for a funky yet inviting layout in a dome-like structure.
To understand Shunji, it is best to begin with Master Chef, Shunji Nakao. One of the original chefs at the fabled Matsuhisha, Chef Nakao brings a truly unique perspective to the art of food preparation. While the quality of the ingredients used in his enclave of omakase options are second to none, the intricacies of the preparation are what make each dish truly impress.
Ordering A La-Carte is nothing to shy away from, but selecting the route is what makes Shunji stand out. The sushi omakase, running in the $100 range explores multiple levels of seasonal and imported catch, bestowing the coined red vinegar rice (not to be confused with brown rice). Ready yourself for rare fish that translate the chefs care of perfection and quality. Most recently I experienced “Nodoguro” or Blackthroat Seaperch for the first time, which was absolutely superb. To further discover the far reaches of Chef Nakao’s expertise, one should get the Shunju Omakase. On this Odyssey, one should expect to try the true standout dishes like the Tomato “Tofu”. Courses not for the faint of heart will often be thrown into the mix like, Black Truffle with Whale Sperm. Just don’t ask too many questions! Expect to pay the price as Odysseus did in the Aegean Sea, as the set menu runs in the $160-180 range.
Don’t forget to get Shunji’s own Sake, made specially for Chef Nakao.
Shunji is the type of restaurant that reminds one of the spectrums of intricacy that rest behind sushi and Japanese cuisine as a whole. In the case of Shunji, the true uniqueness lies between the blend of complexity and simplicity.
Overall: Quality: Entering the domed shape restaurant is an experience in itself but traveling into Chef Shunji Nakao’s culinary world is a dream come true! (Quality: Highest – Variety: Highest – Value: Average – Vibe: Very Good)