Kojima

Tucked away on the second floor of a Sawtelle mini mall, above a Daiso of all places, sits one of LA’s most captivating dining experiences. Kojima is the kind of place that rewards those who prefer surprises over certainty. With just eight counter seats and a single table, this intimate kappo-style restaurant offers no menu—just Chef Hayato Kojima’s spontaneous culinary instincts honed over a decade running his own acclaimed Tokyo izakaya.

The $200 omakase unfolds like a conversation rather than a rehearsed performance. Chef Kojima casually tends to skewers over charcoal, jokes with guests while practicing his English, and pulls ingredients from a fridge overflowing with pristine seafood and seasonal vegetables. The result is a dozen or so courses where premium ingredients speak for themselves—think poached eggplant swimming in umami-laden sardine broth or buttery tuna belly straight from Toyosu Market. While no two visits are alike, expect beautiful sashimi courses, the signature chawanmushi, and a finale of donabe rice with miso soup.

This is dining for adventurous souls who find joy in not knowing what’s coming next. The pace can stretch past three hours as dishes arrive when they’re ready, not on a rigid schedule. But the warm hospitality, an impressive sake selection, and Chef Kojima’s genuine warmth make every moment feel intentional rather than drawn out. For those wanting a smaller taste, an $80 four-course mini-omakase is occasionally available for walk-ins.

Kojima asks for a leap of faith and delivers a genuinely memorable evening in return. It’s sophisticated enough for a milestone celebration yet relaxed enough for a solo dinner at the counter. If you appreciate Japanese cuisine crafted with both precision and personality, this hidden gem in Sawtelle deserves a spot on your list.