Overview | It’s no secret that a number of some of the best sushi and sushi restaurants can be found right here in Los Angeles, probably within feet of where you’re standing now. We’re incredibly fortunate to be in such a predicament because Angelenos are practically white on rice when it comes to sushi and sashimi as we seem to be an inseparable pair. Despite how many ‘top of the line sushi’ (i.e., Nobu, Urasawa, Kiriko, etc) options we actually have here in Los Angeles, not many of us ever get the privilege to give them a try – myself included. Instead we frequent the casual local joint where despite our better judgement we order a yellow tail sashimi dish smothered in ponzu and crispy onions, or an intimidatingly large roll of the fried tempura variety – AKA the “Californiafide” version of what has traditionally been known as sushi. I may eat a number of what most would consider wonderful meals, I may love cuisines of the Asian variety more than any other, but without have a title that includes VIP, MVP, PREZ, DR., $250 a person for one meal is not a drop in the well, especially when $250 is all I had to spent on that the well in the first place. This is not to say though that at some point in the life as a foodie you/me/we should experience what “the best” entails.
This weekend I had the privilege and pleasure of taking part in a once in a lifetime dining experience with Q Sushi in Downtown Los Angeles. Q is a beautiful cozy little space tucked in the midst of the 7th Street hustle who’s neighbors include Bottega Louie, Seven Grand, and BS Taqueria. Understated yet warm, quiet yet inviting, minimalism is clearly a driving force in the Q foundation from decor to cuisine. What makes Q incredibly special and distinctive in Los Angeles is the Omakase style dining experience – Omakase meaning “chefs choice”. An even more incredible facet to the Q experience is the fact that you have the privilege of sitting back and allowing sushi legend Chef Hiroyuki Naruke create a masterful “edomae” style meal prepared right before your eyes. Simple and pure are the core principles to this style of dining and with each dish passed you’ll taste each piece of fish exactly as it is meant to be tasted, in it’s most authentic, clean, and fresh form. Any added flavor is minimal and only meant to enhance natural flavors already existing in the fish.
From the impeccable (borderline perfect) service to one of the most special meals I’ve had in my short 26 years of existence I can’t say enough positive things about Q. This is definitely the sushi for sushi connoisseurs and cuisine curious folk, but if you’ve got the appetite and the appreciation (or at least the dough to find out if you do), Q will most certainly not disappoint. My eyes have been opened and my palate challenged – chef Hiro, you are my hero.
Favorite Drink | The Pinot Grigio by the glass is a great pairing for the fish. It’s light, crisp, and acts more or less like a complimentary palate cleanser.
Must Order | Good/bad news – you don’t have a choice! It’s all up to chef Hiro. My favorites (which you can “request”) were the octopus and fatty tuna dishes.
Perfect Spot For | a serious sushi maven, or a means to seriously impress someone (i.e., a date, a business partner, etc.)
Pro Tip | Unless you have allergies, try not to say no to anything. You’re broadening your horizons and you’re probably not getting a different piece of fish in its place!
Fun Fact | Chef Hiro is originally from Tokyo Japan and has been a sushi chef for almost 30 years now. He is one of the most renown edo-style chefs and was actually flown out from Japan to Los Angeles to open and lead Q.
Q Sushi | 521 W. 7th Street Los Angeles, CA 90014 | 213.261.3479 | Lunch: M – F 12 – 2 pm | Dinner: Tues – Sun 6 – 9:30 pm
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