Shin Sushi

Tucked away on Ventura Boulevard in Encino, Shin Sushi offers one of the most authentic omakase experiences in Los Angeles. There’s no menu here—not online, not in person, not even as a keepsake after your meal. You simply sit down and trust the chef to guide you through a parade of exceptional fish until you’re satisfied. It’s the purest form of chef’s choice dining, and any initial uncertainty melts away once the first course arrives.

The meal typically unfolds with a stunning six-bite appetizer platter featuring Hokkaido conch, firefly squid, silky jellyfish, and a show-stopping fried mini crab that eats like a chip. From there, expect around thirteen pieces of nigiri, each presented with the precision of a ballet performance. The snapper course demonstrates remarkable attention to detail, while the akami bluefin tuna achieves that coveted “melty” texture that lingers on the palate. The anago—saltwater eel—arrives toward the end, its lean, delicate flavor needing no sauce to shine.

What sets Shin apart from other omakase spots is the personality infused into every course. The quirky owner-chef doesn’t just serve fish; he delivers an education wrapped in entertainment. You’ll leave knowing the weight of the average Spanish bluefin tuna and why Japanese mackerel peaks in summer. It’s like attending a masterclass where the textbook happens to taste incredible.

For those willing to embrace the unknown and drop around $200 per person, Shin Sushi rewards with both outstanding quality and genuine connection. It’s proof that when you surrender your meal to a true expert, menus become entirely optional. Perfect for impressing clients or treating yourself to something special on the company card.