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ZipPicks Awards
Best Luxury Dining Japanese in Santa Monica
Best Date Night Sushi in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Noma Sushi
8.3
A beloved local institution serving authentic Japanese cuisine in an unpretentious setting since establishment. Known for consistent quality, generous portions, and exceptional value alongside traditional preparation methods that honor Japanese culinary heritage.
Must-Try Dishes:
Omakase Selection, Chirashi Bowl, Yellowtail Sashimi
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Authentic preparations without pretense or high prices
Who should go: Locals seeking quality neighborhood sushi
When to visit: Weekday lunch for best specials and seating
What to order: Daily specials, omakase, fresh yellowtail
Insider tip: Phone reservations only during peak hours
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small lot behind restaurant (free), street parking on Wilshire usually available, valet $8 Friday/Saturday nights only
Dress code: Come as you are - locals in everything from workout gear to business attire
Noise level: Moderate buzz - comfortable conversation at normal volume
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, phone ahead strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Usually seated immediately, 10-15 min during 12-1pm rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - excellent vegetable rolls, agedashi tofu, multiple tempura options
Vegan options: Limited but doable - avocado/cucumber rolls, veggie tempura (request no egg batter), edamame
Gluten-free options: Yes - sashimi, most nigiri, tamari available on request, staff knowledgeable about cross-contamination
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for a low-key first date - intimate without being overly romantic, conversation-friendly acoustics, and prices won't break the bank. Skip the tatami room if mobility is a concern.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunches and early dinners (before 6pm) usually fine for walk-ins. Friday/Saturday after 6:30pm almost impossible - they don't use apps, so call at least 2 days ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Very - high chairs available, patient staff, kids love the tempura and California rolls. They'll make simple rolls without wasabi. Best before 7pm when it's less crowded.
Best For
Better for: Traditional technique without the pretense - their fish buyer has 30+ years experience, rice is perfectly seasoned, and portions are notably generous compared to trendy competitors
Skip if: You want Instagram-worthy presentations or fusion creativity - this is about pure technique and fresh ingredients, not gold flakes or truffle oil
Hours
Monday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Thursday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm
Friday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9:30pm
Saturday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9:30pm
Sunday11am - 2:30pm, 4:30pm - 9pm