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Japanese RestaurantJapanese Restaurant Near MeCaliforniaLos Angeles CountyLos AngelesDowntown Los AngelesJapanese Restaurant in West 9th StreetSakana Sushi Lounge DTLA
Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA ico

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA

321 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA

4.0
Exactly what we needed tonight to stay warm. It was colder than we expected and we didn’t come prepared with jackets, but Sakana came through. High quality Japanese food that’s open late—hard to beat. This was our second time here and we’ve officially declared it a solid downtown dinner spot. Warm sake, fresh fish, and killer bentos. The uni burrata gets points for thinking outside the box, but I wouldn’t order it again. Still, 9/10 would recommend! - Natalie Tran
Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA Overview Intro Photos Location Reviews

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA Introduce

For Californians seeking a reliable and high-quality Japanese dining experience in the heart of Los Angeles, Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA presents an inviting option. Nestled in the bustling downtown area, Sakana offers a delightful blend of traditional Japanese cuisine with a modern twist, specializing in fresh sushi, sashimi, and a variety of hot dishes. It’s a place that caters to diverse cravings, whether you're in the mood for expertly prepared raw fish, a comforting bento box, or a lively spot for a late-night bite.

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA prides itself on providing a welcoming atmosphere where quality ingredients meet attentive service. From their selection of fresh fish to their innovative rolls and hot Japanese specialties, the menu is designed to satisfy both sushi purists and those looking to explore new flavors. It's a versatile spot perfect for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner with friends, or a vibrant late-night outing, solidifying its reputation as a solid downtown dining destination for locals and visitors alike.

Location and Accessibility

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA is conveniently located at 321 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA. This address places it firmly within the energetic and rapidly developing downtown Los Angeles core, making it easily accessible for anyone in the greater LA area. The 9th Street corridor is known for its blend of historic architecture, contemporary businesses, and a growing residential population, ensuring a steady stream of activity around the restaurant.

Accessibility is a significant advantage for Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA. For those who prefer public transportation, the restaurant is just a few blocks away from several key Metro stations. The 7th Street/Metro Center station, a major hub for multiple Metro lines (including the A, B, D, E, and J lines), is within easy walking distance. This makes it a stress-free option for commuters and residents looking to enjoy quality Japanese food without the hassle of driving.

For drivers, while downtown parking can sometimes require a bit of searching, there are numerous paid parking lots and garages available in the immediate vicinity of 321 W 9th Street. These typically offer various rates, including fixed-price options for evenings. Ride-sharing services are also readily available and widely used in downtown LA, providing a convenient drop-off right at the restaurant's doorstep. The vibrant street life of downtown Los Angeles also makes for an enjoyable stroll before or after your meal, adding to the overall experience.

Services Offered

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA offers a comprehensive range of Japanese culinary services, catering to various dining preferences and times of day.

  • Dine-In Service: The lounge provides a comfortable and inviting atmosphere for guests to enjoy their meals. The space is often described as beautiful and chill, with a background of cover songs creating a relaxed vibe.

  • Extensive Sushi & Sashimi Menu: At the core of their offerings are a wide variety of freshly made sushi and sashimi. This includes classic nigiri and sashimi options (Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Albacore, etc.), as well as a range of classic rolls (California Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Philadelphia Roll) and creative specialty rolls (e.g., Shrimp Crunch Roll, Rainbow Roll, Flaming Volcano Roll, Lemon Toro).

  • Hot Japanese Dishes: Beyond raw fish, Sakana also features a selection of hot dishes. These include popular appetizers like Crispy Tuna, Edamame, Gyoza (fried pork dumplings), Chicken Karaage, Firecracker Shrimp, and various Carpaccio selections (Onion Albacore, Yellowtail Jalapeno, Wagyu Tataki). They also offer Hamachi Kama (broiled yellowtail collar).

  • Bento Boxes: A highlight for many customers are their "killer bentos." Sakana offers a variety of bento boxes for both lunch and dinner, featuring options like Beef Bento, Chicken Bento, Salmon Bento, and classic Sushi and Sashimi Bento Boxes. These typically include a main protein, rice, salad, and a choice of roll, providing a well-rounded meal.

  • Beverage Selection: To complement the food, Sakana offers a full cocktail bar and a selection of Japanese sake, including warm sake, which customers have noted is perfect for colder evenings. They also serve whole leaf green tea, a detail appreciated by tea connoisseurs.

  • Late-Night Dining: One of Sakana's key services is its late operating hours, making it a rare and valuable spot for high-quality Japanese food open late in downtown LA, often until 2 AM.

  • Takeout and Delivery: For added convenience, Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA offers pickup and delivery services. Customers can order their favorite dishes online through various third-party delivery platforms, allowing them to enjoy Sakana's cuisine from the comfort of their home or office.

Features / Highlights

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA stands out in the bustling Los Angeles dining scene due to several distinct features that contribute to its appeal and positive customer experiences:

  • High-Quality, Fresh Sushi & Sashimi: Customers consistently praise the freshness and quality of the fish. Reviews highlight "fresh fish" and "high quality Japanese food," indicating a strong commitment to sourcing excellent ingredients for their sushi and sashimi offerings.

  • Excellent Happy Hour Deals: A major draw for Sakana is its renowned Happy Hour. They offer not one, but often two happy hour periods daily – a typical early evening happy hour (e.g., 5 PM-7 PM) and a late-night happy hour. These deals frequently include "Buy One Get One Free" offers on sushi and sashimi, making high-quality Japanese food incredibly accessible and budget-friendly for locals.

  • Attentive Service: Despite being a popular spot, many reviews highlight "very attentive service." This indicates a staff that is focused on providing a positive dining experience, which is crucial in a busy downtown environment.

  • Late-Night Operations: Being open late, often until 2 AM, is a significant advantage for Sakana in downtown LA. This makes it an ideal spot for those seeking high-quality Japanese food after events, concerts, or late work hours, filling a niche that few other high-quality Japanese restaurants do.

  • "Killer Bentos": The bento boxes are frequently mentioned as a highlight, indicating they are a well-executed and satisfying option, offering a balanced and delicious meal for both lunch and dinner.

  • Warm Sake & Relaxed Ambiance: The availability of warm sake is appreciated, especially on colder evenings, contributing to the "warm" and inviting atmosphere. The overall "beautiful space" with "chill cover songs in the background" helps create a relaxing and enjoyable dining environment.

  • Unique Menu Items: While some dishes might be experimental (like the Uni Burrata, which one reviewer found interesting but wouldn't reorder), it shows a willingness to innovate and offer unique items alongside traditional favorites, appealing to adventurous palates.

Promotions or Special Offers

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA is particularly known for its attractive and frequent promotions, making it a favorite among locals looking for great value without compromising on quality.

  • Daily Happy Hour: This is perhaps their most celebrated offer. Sakana runs a daily happy hour, typically from 5 PM to 7 PM. During this time, they often feature a "Buy One Get One Free" deal on select sushi and sashimi items (up to 5 orders per party, dine-in only, excluding specialty 1pc sushi, uni, and wagyu). This makes it an incredibly appealing option for both casual dinners and larger gatherings.

  • Late-Night Happy Hour: What truly sets Sakana apart is their additional late-night happy hour. While specific times can vary, they consistently promote a late-night special that continues the value after prime dinner hours, often extending until close (e.g., 2 AM). This is perfect for those seeking a high-quality, yet affordable, late-night meal in downtown LA.

  • Thursday Vegan Night: According to their website, Sakana offers a "Thursday Vegan Night Menu," with "$2.00 off select Vegan Sushi Thursdays from 5 PM-10 PM." This is available for both dine-in and carry-out, catering to plant-based diners with specific savings.

  • Lunch Specials/Bento Box Deals: While not always explicitly advertised as "specials," their bento boxes offer a comprehensive meal at a set price, providing excellent value for a lunchtime option.

For the most current and exact details on happy hour timings, specific BOGO items, and any other ongoing promotions, Californians are highly encouraged to check the Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA official website or their social media pages. Promotions are subject to change, and direct confirmation is always the best approach.

Contact Information

To experience the fresh sushi, delightful bentos, and vibrant atmosphere at Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA, here's how you can get in touch:

Address: 321 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA

Phone: (213) 683-0008

For reservations, current operating hours, and the latest information on their happy hour specials, it is recommended to visit their official website or call the restaurant directly. Given its popularity and attractive happy hour deals, making a reservation, especially during peak dining times, is advisable.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians residing in or frequently visiting Los Angeles, Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA emerges as a highly suitable and appealing Japanese dining destination. It perfectly balances quality, value, and convenience, catering to a wide array of local preferences.

Firstly, Sakana offers high-quality, fresh Japanese food that consistently impresses. Locals who prioritize fresh fish for their sushi and sashimi will find Sakana's offerings to be a reliable choice. The menu extends beyond raw fish, providing "killer bentos" and a variety of hot dishes, ensuring there's something to satisfy every craving, from a light sushi meal to a hearty dinner. This versatility makes it ideal for different occasions and dietary preferences.

Secondly, the restaurant’s location in downtown Los Angeles makes it incredibly accessible. Whether you're working late, enjoying a night out, or simply passing through the area, its central position and proximity to public transportation (including major Metro lines) make it a convenient spot to grab a meal without the usual LA traffic and parking hassles. This ease of access is a significant benefit for busy Californians.

Perhaps one of the most compelling reasons for locals to frequent Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA is its outstanding happy hour offerings and late-night availability. The "Buy One Get One Free" sushi and sashimi deals, often available during both early evening and late-night happy hours, represent exceptional value, allowing diners to enjoy premium Japanese cuisine at a more affordable price point. The fact that it's open late makes it a rare find for high-quality dining options after traditional restaurant hours, perfect for those with unconventional schedules or a sudden late-night craving.

Finally, the "beautiful space" with "chill cover songs" and "very attentive service" creates an enjoyable and relaxing ambiance. It's a place where locals can unwind, enjoy fresh food, and feel well taken care of. This combination of quality food, great value, convenient location, and a pleasant dining environment firmly establishes Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA as a highly recommended and go-to spot for the diverse and discerning palates of Californians.

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA Photos

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Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA Location

Sakana Sushi Lounge DTLA

321 W 9th St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, USA

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