Ichijiku

Tucked away on Figueroa Street in Highland Park, Ichijiku is the kind of unassuming neighborhood sushi spot that feels like a well-kept secret. The vibe is refreshingly casual—order at the counter, grab a seat on the shaded back patio, and let the simplicity of quality fish speak for itself. Whether you’re picking up takeout or settling in for a leisurely outdoor meal, the experience here is seamless and stress-free.

The fish at Ichijiku punches above its weight class. The branzino nigiri is a standout—light, translucent, with a peppery finish that makes you wonder why it’s only six dollars. The yellowtail and habanero roll delivers genuine heat alongside buttery fresh fish, while the baked crab handroll is so good you might find yourself walking back to the counter for round two. Even the classic salmon nigiri is executed with enough care to satisfy both casual diners and sushi devotees.

What sets Ichijiku apart is its thoughtful approach to vegan options. These aren’t afterthought rolls cobbled together from cucumber strips. The beet roll with creamy tofu sauce and the roasted red pepper with crispy lotus root are genuinely inventive creations worth ordering regardless of your dietary preferences. It’s the kind of inclusive menu that makes the restaurant work for groups with mixed tastes.

For anyone seeking quality sushi without the pretense or price tag, Ichijiku delivers. It’s the perfect spot for solo dining, casual catch-ups with friends, or grabbing well-made takeout on a weeknight. Come for the affordable nigiri, stay for the patio, and don’t skip the tamago to end your meal on a sweet note.