30 Photos
Master Critic Review
Yamashiro Hollywood
7.9
Vibes:
Date Night Magic
Birthday & Celebration Central
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Instagram Worthy Wonders
The historic 1914 hilltop mansion serves Japanese-inspired cuisine with panoramic city views stretching across the Hollywood Hills. Koi fish over 60 years old swim in the garden courtyard of this former palace replica. Wagyu sukiyaki, matcha soba noodles, and specialty rolls are served in a setting that prioritizes atmosphere over cutting-edge technique.
Must-Try Dishes:
Wagyu Sukiyaki, Matcha Soba Noodles, Specialty Sushi Rolls
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Historic 1914 hilltop mansion with sweeping LA views and 60-year-old koi
Who should go: Tourists and locals celebrating special occasions with scenic dining
When to visit: Sunset for optimal city views and garden strolls
What to order: Wagyu sukiyaki while watching the sprawling city lights
Insider tip: Stroll the spacious garden courtyard before or after dinner
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet parking available ($15-20), limited self-parking on-site. Street parking nearly impossible in Hollywood Hills
Dress code: Smart casual to dressy - the elegant setting calls for elevated attire, avoid shorts and flip-flops
Noise level: Moderate to quiet - the spacious mansion layout allows for intimate conversation
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation, especially at sunset. Reservations strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually available with 15-20 min wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable tempura, tofu dishes, and vegetarian sushi rolls available
Vegan options: Limited - 2-3 options including edamame and vegetable dishes, ask server to modify
Gluten-free options: Available - sashimi and some dishes can be prepared gluten-free, tamari available for soy sauce
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent for first dates if you want to impress - the stunning views and romantic garden setting create natural conversation starters, though prices run high so save it for when you want to make a statement
Can I get a table without a reservation? Risky on weekends and sunset hours - they may accommodate bar seating or garden cocktails while you wait, but prime dining times book up days in advance. Weekday lunches are your best bet for walk-ins
Is it kid-friendly? Acceptable for well-behaved older kids (10+) at lunch, but the upscale atmosphere and long dinners make it less ideal for young children. No kids menu, though kitchen can modify dishes
Best For
Better for: Unbeatable for atmosphere and views over food innovation - choose Yamashiro when the experience and Instagram moments matter more than cutting-edge Japanese cuisine. Perfect for out-of-town guests wanting that 'Hollywood' moment
Skip if: You're a serious Japanese food purist seeking authentic technique or omakase-level execution. For food-first experiences, head to West LA's specialized sushi counters. Also skip if you have mobility issues - the hillside location involves stairs and uneven paths
Hours
Monday5pm - 11pm
Tuesday5pm - 11pm
Wednesday5pm - 11pm
Thursday5pm - 11pm
Friday5pm - 11pm
Saturday5pm - 11pm
Sunday11am - 11pm