Sa'Moto

For those in Los Angeles, California, who appreciate the blend of sophisticated dining, vibrant nightlife, and a touch of celebrity chef flair, discovering a restaurant that perfectly encapsulates this experience can be truly exciting. In the heart of West Hollywood, amidst its iconic venues and bustling energy, lies Sa'Moto. This Japanese-inspired restaurant, part of the acclaimed Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto's culinary vision, offers a unique take on Pan-Asian cuisine within a stylish setting.

Sa'Moto aims to provide an elevated dining experience that goes beyond traditional Japanese fare, incorporating global influences and inventive preparations. It's designed not just as a place to eat, but as a destination where the ambiance and the culinary journey intertwine. While some aspects of the experience might spark diverse opinions, its unique positioning and the culinary mind behind it certainly make it a noteworthy spot in the competitive Los Angeles dining scene. This article will delve into what Sa'Moto offers to the discerning palate of Californians, covering its location, services, menu highlights, and overall suitability for locals seeking a distinctive Japanese-influenced meal.

Sa'Moto is prominently located at 9077 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069, USA. This address places it squarely in West Hollywood, a dynamic and iconic neighborhood known for its entertainment venues, upscale boutiques, and lively nightlife. The restaurant's specific placement within the Doheny Room adds to its exclusive and chic appeal, making it a natural fit for the area's social scene.

Santa Monica Boulevard is a major thoroughfare, offering relatively straightforward access for those driving from various parts of Los Angeles, including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and the greater Westside. Given its prime West Hollywood location, parking can sometimes be a consideration. While specific on-site parking details are not provided, metered street parking and valet services are commonly available in this area. It's always advisable to factor in potential parking challenges, especially during peak hours or on weekends. However, for those attending a show next door at The Troubadour, Sa'Moto offers an incredibly convenient dining option, allowing for a seamless transition from dinner to entertainment. The vibrant energy of the neighborhood itself contributes to the overall experience of dining at Sa'Moto, placing you right in the heart of one of California's most exciting locales.

Sa'Moto aims to provide a comprehensive dining experience, offering a range of services designed to cater to its clientele in West Hollywood.

• Dine-In Service: The primary offering is an upscale dine-in experience within the stylish confines of the Doheny Room. This includes table service in an elegantly designed setting, ideal for evening meals, social gatherings, and pre-show dinners.
• Full Bar Service: Complementing the food menu, Sa'Moto features a full bar offering a selection of Asian-inspired cocktails, sake, wine, and beer, designed to pair well with the Pan-Asian flavors.
• Lunch Combos: For midday diners, Sa'Moto offers various lunch combo meals, such as Karaage Combo Meal, Popcorn Shrimp Combo Meal, and Sticky Ribs Combo Meal, often served with a choice of rice or nori fries and dipping sauces.
• Small Plates and Appetizers: The menu emphasizes a variety of small plates and signature appetizers, encouraging sharing and exploration of different flavors. These include items like Edamame, Gyoza, Chicken Karaage, Sticky Ribs, and Popcorn Shrimp Duo.
• Sushi and Sashimi Selections: As a Japanese-inspired restaurant, Sa'Moto offers sushi and sashimi items, including Yellowtail Carpaccio, Toro Tartare, and various rolls like Spicy Tuna and Spicy Salmon.
• Specialty Dishes: The menu includes unique creations like Duck Tacos (Peking duck in fried wonton skin "tacos"), Hamachi Tacos, Kushi-age (panko fried skewers), and various ramen and rice bowls.
• Vegan Options: Sa'Moto is attentive to dietary preferences, offering several delicious vegan options, including the Vegetable Roll and Vegetable Dan Dan Noodle.
• Event and Pre-Show Dining: Its location next to The Troubadour makes it an ideal spot for dinner before attending a show, catering to the entertainment-seeking crowd.
• Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to enjoy Sa'Moto's cuisine at home, takeout and delivery services are available, often through popular third-party platforms.

Sa'Moto, while drawing diverse opinions on certain aspects, boasts several notable features and highlights that contribute to its distinctive presence in the Los Angeles dining scene.

• Striking Location and Ambiance: The restaurant's setting within the Doheny Room is consistently praised for being "pretty." This elegant and stylish environment contributes significantly to the overall dining experience, creating a sophisticated backdrop for a night out in West Hollywood.
• Innovative Pan-Asian Menu: Curated by Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto, the menu blends Japanese cuisine with global influences. This results in creative dishes like Duck Tacos (Peking duck in a fried wonton skin "taco") and Hamachi Tacos, which some customers find to be "Good" and "probably the best thing we had."
• Exceptional Presentation: Dishes like the Toro Tartare are noted for their "beautiful presentation," indicating a focus on aesthetic appeal in addition to flavor. Even if perceived as an "amuse bouche," the visual artistry is a definite highlight.
• Dedicated Vegan Options: Sa'Moto is recognized for offering specific and "delicious" vegan options, such as the Vegetable Roll and Vegetable Dan Dan Noodle. This inclusivity caters to a growing demand for plant-based dishes, making it a welcoming spot for vegan diners.
• Convenient for Entertainment: Its direct proximity to The Troubadour, a famous music venue, makes Sa'Moto an incredibly convenient and attractive option for pre-show dining, allowing patrons to enjoy a meal before catching a performance.
• Excellent Service: Despite some mixed reviews on food or pricing, customer service receives positive remarks, with one review stating "Excellent service!" This suggests a professional and attentive staff committed to ensuring a pleasant dining experience.
• Chef Morimoto's Influence: The association with Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto adds a layer of prestige and curiosity, drawing diners who are interested in experiencing his culinary interpretations.

It's important to note that while the ambiance and some dishes are highly praised, some customers have expressed concerns about the perceived "Americanized Japanese food" and the pricing being "overpriced" for the value, with comments like "totally not worth it" in relation to certain items. For example, the Kushi-age with shrimp and mushroom was found to have "over cooked" shrimp and was served with "ranch tartare (which is just ranch dressing, strange and seemed cheap)." These points highlight that while the concept and presentation are strong, the execution and value proposition can be subjective for some diners.

Given Sa'Moto's upscale positioning and association with a celebrity chef, explicit, ongoing "promotions" in the traditional sense (like daily specials or discount coupons) might be less common than at more casual establishments. However, they are likely to offer specific dining experiences or seasonal features that could be considered special offers.

To get the most accurate and up-to-date information on any current offerings, it's always recommended for Californians to contact Sa'Moto directly, visit their official website, or check their social media channels. Based on the type of restaurant, potential "special offers" or unique opportunities might include:

• Seasonal Menus: The menu may evolve seasonally to incorporate fresh, peak-season ingredients, offering new and unique dishes for a limited time. These culinary updates can be considered a special offering for discerning diners.
• Prix Fixe Menus: For special occasions or specific events, Sa'Moto might offer multi-course prix fixe menus, providing a curated dining experience at a set price.
• Pre-Theater Dining: Given its proximity to The Troubadour, they might have specific pre-show dining packages or early bird specials designed for concert-goers.
• Happy Hour: Some upscale establishments in West Hollywood offer happy hour specials on drinks and select small plates during off-peak hours, which can be a great way to experience the ambiance and taste of Sa'Moto at a more accessible price point.
• Private Events/Catering Packages: For larger groups or events, Sa'Moto might offer customized menus and pricing, which could be considered a special arrangement.

For the most precise information regarding any available promotions or unique dining opportunities, it is best to directly reach out to Sa'Moto via phone or check their online presence.

To make reservations, inquire about the menu, or for any other questions regarding Sa'Moto, please use the following contact details:

• Address: 9077 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069, USA
• Phone: (424) 502-1636

Given its location within a nightlife venue (Doheny Room), it's advisable to confirm their operating hours, especially as they may align with the venue's schedule or vary by day. Direct communication ensures you have the most up-to-date information for your visit.

For many Los Angeles locals, particularly those residing in or frequently visiting West Hollywood, Sa'Moto presents a suitable and intriguing dining option, especially for specific occasions and preferences. While some aspects of the reviews suggest a nuanced perception of value and authenticity, the restaurant undeniably offers a distinct experience that appeals to a particular segment of the Californian dining public.

Its primary appeal for locals lies in its prime West Hollywood location and stylish ambiance. For those seeking a chic setting for a night out, a pre-show dinner before catching a concert at The Troubadour, or simply a vibrant atmosphere for socializing, Sa'Moto delivers on the environmental experience. The "beautiful presentation" of dishes and the elegant decor contribute to a sense of occasion, making it suitable for date nights, celebrations, or impressing out-of-town guests.

Furthermore, the restaurant's commitment to innovative Pan-Asian cuisine and its connection to Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto makes it a draw for food enthusiasts interested in culinary experimentation. The unique offerings, such as the Duck Tacos and Hamachi Tacos, provide a departure from more traditional Japanese fare, catering to those with an adventurous palate looking for creative interpretations. The inclusion of delicious vegan options like the Vegetable Roll and Vegetable Dan Dan Noodle is also a significant advantage, ensuring that plant-based diners have appealing choices in an upscale setting.

While some reviews mention "overpriced" or "Americanized" food, it's important to consider that culinary preferences are highly subjective. For locals who prioritize a trendy atmosphere, convenient location for entertainment, and a menu that blends Japanese influences with global creativity, Sa'Moto remains a viable and attractive option. The "excellent service" also ensures that even if certain dishes don't hit every mark, the overall customer care is positive, which is a crucial aspect of any dining experience.

In essence, Sa'Moto is ideal for Californians seeking an upscale, lively dining experience with Pan-Asian flavors, especially when combined with entertainment plans in West Hollywood. It caters to a desire for style, convenience, and a taste of celebrity chef innovation, making it a relevant and suitable choice for many in the vibrant Los Angeles food scene.

Sa'Moto

9077 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90069, USA