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ZipPicks Awards
Best Business Lunch Japanese in Santa Monica
Best Japanese in Santa Monica
Best Sushi in Santa Monica
Best Instagram Worthy Sushi in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Kappo Miyabi
8.5
Since 2019, this kappo-style restaurant showcases the art of knife and fire cooking with an extensive menu spanning sushi, robata, and hot pots. The lunch omakase special provides exceptional value with its chef's selection of premium cuts and traditional preparations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Miyabi Omakase Lunch, Wagyu Dumplings, Aburi Shime Saba
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Traditional kappo cooking style rarely found outside Japan
Who should go: Teams seeking authentic Japanese beyond sushi
When to visit: Weekday lunch for special omakase pricing
What to order: Lunch omakase, wagyu gyoza, grilled lamb
Insider tip: Outdoor seating available with heaters for comfort
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small private lot fills quickly, valet $15 during dinner, metered street parking usually available within 2 blocks
Dress code: Business casual recommended, collared shirts common at lunch, smart casual for dinner
Noise level: Moderate to lively - business conversations possible but gets energetic during peak hours
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, Saturday books out days ahead
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10 min except 12:30-1:30pm rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetable robata, agedashi tofu, vegetable rolls, multiple appetizers
Vegan options: Limited - 3-4 modified dishes, inform server for oil substitutions
Gluten-free options: Yes - sashimi, robata without sauce, staff knowledgeable about modifications
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for dinner - intimate lighting, shareable plates encourage conversation, outdoor seating adds romance. Lunch is more business-focused.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch usually yes if you avoid 12:30-1:30pm. Dinner walk-ins best before 6:30pm or after 8:30pm, bar seating often available.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older children (10+) who enjoy Japanese food. No kids menu, but kitchen can modify dishes. Early dinner timing recommended.
Best For
Better for: Authentic kappo experience with live fire cooking you won't find at typical sushi spots, lunch omakase value beats comparable restaurants by 30%
Skip if: You want quick casual sushi rolls or prefer traditional sushi bar experience - this is about the full Japanese dining journey
Hours
Monday11:30am - 10:30pm
Tuesday11:30am - 10:30pm
Wednesday11:30am - 10:30pm
Thursday11:30am - 10:30pm
Friday11:30am - 11pm
Saturday11:30am - 11pm
Sunday11:30am - 10pm