Kusano

Hidden away in an unremarkable Culver City strip mall sits one of LA’s most quietly impressive sushi experiences. Kusano is the kind of place you could easily drive past a hundred times without noticing—there’s no sign, no fanfare, just a nondescript storefront that belies the culinary talent within. The chef behind this eight-seat counter cut his teeth at respected spots like Kinkan and Yasu Beverly Hills, and it shows in every piece of fish he serves.

The 18-course omakase runs $160, which sounds like a lot until you consider what comparable sushi counters charge elsewhere in Los Angeles. You’re getting exceptional value here for pristine, thoughtfully prepared nigiri. Standouts include sweet shrimp crowned with electric blue roe, delicate sea bream finished with shavings of cured egg yolk, and luxurious uni veiled in a translucent sheet of squid. Each piece arrives with intention, showcasing the chef’s refined technique and deep respect for quality ingredients.

The atmosphere is stripped down to its essence—think storage-unit minimalism with nothing but you, the chef, and some gentle jazz floating from a portable speaker. This spareness might feel austere to some, but it puts the focus exactly where it belongs: on the extraordinary fish being prepared right in front of you. The intimate setting creates a genuine connection between diner and chef that’s increasingly rare in LA’s restaurant scene.

Kusano is ideal for solo diners who appreciate the meditative quality of watching a master at work, or for special occasions when you want something memorable without the pretension. Just be sure to snag a reservation well in advance—with only eight seats, this hidden gem fills up fast.