Santo

Tucked into Sunset Junction in Silver Lake, Santo presents itself as a refined sushi destination. The intimate space features a handsome wooden bar, Japanese artwork adorning the walls, and a secondary counter facing the street. The atmosphere is undeniably calming—exactly the kind of zen setting you’d hope to find when seeking out quality sushi in LA.

The menu at Santo takes some creative liberties with traditional sushi preparations. While certain pieces shine in their simplicity—the akami and chu’toro nigiri deliver clean, honest flavors that let the fish speak for itself—other offerings venture into more experimental territory. Expect to find preparations featuring truffle cream reductions, charcoal-seared presentations, and even unexpected touches like Oaxacan chocolate torched tableside.

This is the kind of spot that works best for diners who appreciate a contemporary take on Japanese cuisine and don’t mind paying a premium for the ambiance. The tranquil setting makes it suitable for casual dinners when you want something a bit more elevated than your typical neighborhood sushi spot. Just be prepared for a bill that reflects the upscale positioning.

If you find yourself in Silver Lake craving sushi in a stylish, peaceful environment, Santo delivers on atmosphere. Focus on the straightforward nigiri options and you’ll walk away satisfied—just temper your expectations for the more avant-garde preparations on the menu.