Corridor 109

Tucked away behind Bar 109 in Melrose Hill, Corridor 109 offers an intimate dining experience that stands apart from LA’s typical omakase scene. This sleek 12-seat chef’s counter, helmed by a Sushi Noz alum, takes a decidedly different approach—there’s no nigiri here. Instead, expect a seafood-forward journey that showcases the ocean’s finest in unexpected preparations.

The 11-course tasting menu opens with a trio of dishes that immediately set the tone: a tartlet brimming with wasabi-kissed lobster tartare, ethereal sea bream sashimi complemented by dashi jelly, and silky cured mackerel draped over perfectly toasted milk bread. These first three courses alone make a compelling argument for the $325 per person investment. While there’s one nod to land-dwellers—a gorgeous charcoal-seared wagyu in rich oxtail jus—the kitchen’s heart clearly belongs to the sea.

This is the kind of place where you want to bring someone who shares your enthusiasm for exceptional seafood. The beverage program thoughtfully pairs French wines with lesser-known sake selections, but don’t overlook Bar 109 out front—an oolong boulevardier before dinner or a fried fish sandwich afterward (if you somehow have room) makes for a perfect bookend to the experience.

For those who’ve worked their way through LA’s omakase circuit and crave something fresh, Corridor 109 delivers. It’s ideal for special celebrations, client dinners, or any occasion worthy of a splurge. Just be sure to secure reservations well in advance—with only a dozen seats, this hidden gem fills up quickly.