Sushi NAKATA

Nestled in the charming and historic Old Town Monrovia, Sushi NAKATA is quickly becoming a beloved culinary destination for Californians seeking an authentic and elevated sushi experience. This cozy and elegant spot has earned a reputation for its incredibly fresh fish, innovative rolls, and a dedication to traditional Japanese dishes that are a delightful rarity in local sushi establishments. For discerning palates across Southern California, Sushi NAKATA offers a taste of Japan that truly stands out, making it a must-visit for anyone craving genuine Japanese flavors in a welcoming setting.

What truly sets Sushi NAKATA apart is its commitment to both quality and authenticity. Patrons consistently rave about the "super fresh and light" quality of their fish, ensuring that every bite of sushi or sashimi is a true delight. Beyond the standard offerings, Sushi NAKATA delves into unique and authentic dishes like Chawanmushi (Japanese egg custard) and Agedashi Tofu, providing a culinary journey that goes beyond typical sushi menus. This dedication to offering a broader range of traditional Japanese fare elevates the dining experience, allowing guests to explore deeper into Japanese gastronomy.

Despite its intimate size, the restaurant boasts a warm and attentive staff who are praised for their welcoming demeanor and excellent service. This personalized touch, combined with the delightful ambiance of Old Town Monrovia, creates a cozy and memorable dining atmosphere. Whether you're a sushi connoisseur or new to authentic Japanese flavors, Sushi NAKATA promises an experience that is "definitely a little more elevated" and remarkably close to what you'd find in Japan itself. It's a true hidden gem that locals are eager to keep a secret, but its reputation for excellence is undoubtedly spreading.

Sushi NAKATA enjoys a prime location within the picturesque Old Town Monrovia, a vibrant and historic district that offers a charming backdrop for a delightful meal. You'll find this exceptional sushi spot at:

108 E Lime Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA

The restaurant is situated on East Lime Avenue, a street known for its quaint shops, inviting cafes, and lively atmosphere, especially during events like the Friday farmers market. Its location in Old Town Monrovia makes it incredibly accessible for residents not only within Monrovia itself but also from neighboring communities across the San Gabriel Valley. While the shop is described as "very small and space is tight," it compensates with "excellent views of old town" and a cozy ambiance.

Parking in Old Town Monrovia can sometimes be a consideration, especially during busy evenings or events, but there is often "plenty of street parking along the Main Street." It's also worth noting that the Google Maps location might be "slightly off" and that the restaurant is "around the corner, not directly on the Main Street." Guests should be mindful of this when planning their visit. Despite the compact interior, the overall appeal of dining in such a charming and accessible part of town makes Sushi NAKATA a convenient and attractive choice for a memorable Japanese meal. It's an easy destination for a date night or a dinner with family and friends exploring the local charm of Monrovia.

• Dine-In Service: Sushi NAKATA offers an elegant and cozy dine-in experience, allowing guests to savor their fresh sushi and authentic Japanese dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. The intimate setting, with both table seating and a sushi bar, provides a comfortable dining environment.

• Reservations: Given its small size and tendency to "fill up fast during busy night like the Friday farmers market," Sushi NAKATA is believed to take reservations. It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially for weekend evenings, to secure a table.

• Takeout Options: For those preferring to enjoy their meal at home or on the go, Sushi NAKATA provides takeout services. Customers can call in their orders for convenient pickup.

• Delivery Services: Sushi NAKATA is available on popular third-party delivery platforms such as Grubhub and DoorDash. This allows residents in the California region to have their favorite sushi and Japanese dishes delivered directly to their doorstep.

• Lunch and Dinner Service: The restaurant operates for both lunch and dinner, typically from late morning to evening. Specific hours can be found on their online delivery menus (e.g., 11:00 am - 1:30 pm and 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm on DoorDash).

• Omakase (Chef's Choice): Some reviews mention an Omakase option (e.g., a $100 omakase at their six-seater bar), indicating that for those seeking a curated and specialized dining experience, the chefs can craft a personalized menu based on the freshest seasonal ingredients.

• "Super Fresh" and Light Fish: Consistently praised for the exceptional freshness and delicate quality of its fish, Sushi NAKATA's sushi rolls and sashimi are described as "super fresh and light" and "made to savor every bite." This focus on high-quality ingredients is a cornerstone of their appeal.

• Authentic and Unique Japanese Dishes: Beyond standard sushi rolls, Sushi NAKATA offers authentic Japanese appetizers and dishes that are rarely found at other local sushi spots. Highlights include:

  • Chawanmushi (Japanese Egg Custard): A savory, fish-forward steamed egg custard, served slightly warm. While unique, it's noted for its quality and appeal to those who appreciate traditional Japanese flavors.
  • Agedashi Tofu: Described as "fantastic," this lightly fried tofu with a delicate texture comes in a delicious umami sauce and is highly recommended.
  • Uni Pasta: A house-made pasta with creamy sea urchin, garnished with fennel, ikura, and yuzu-chili crumbs, offering a unique and elevated flavor profile.
  • Grilled Black Cod: Marinated in a sweet miso, this dish is praised for its rich, savory flavors.
  • Ankimo (Monkfish Liver): A creamy cylinder with a sweet brine, served with traditional accompaniments.
  • Nishin Kazunoko (Herring served atop its own roe): Offers intriguing textural play and a balance of sweet, sour, and saline flavors.

• Innovative and Delicious Sushi Rolls: The restaurant features creative and well-executed special rolls, such as:

  • Salmon Truffle Roll: Crab on the inside with salmon and truffle on top, noted as a pleasant exception even for those who don't typically like salmon sushi rolls.
  • Lime Roll: Spicy tuna and crab inside, topped with albacore and yuzu miso. Described as "very light and refreshing" and a favorite for its delightful yuzu miso.
  • Spicy Tuna Crispy Rice: A popular appetizer with spicy tuna atop crispy sushi rice, often garnished with jalapeño and eel sauce.

• Exceptional Service: The staff is consistently described as "warm, welcoming, and attentive." Reviewers highlight their helpfulness and professionalism, contributing significantly to a positive dining experience.

• Cozy and Elegant Ambiance: Despite being a small space, the restaurant offers an "elegant, cozy sushi spot" with "excellent views of old town," making it suitable for intimate date nights or relaxed dinners. The ambiance is often described as "authentic and calm."

• High-Quality Appetizers and Sides: Beyond sushi, the appetizers like miso soup (described as "what you'd expect from a quality sushi spot"), Brussels sprouts, chicken karaage, and various carpaccio options (Albacore, Hokkaido Scallop, Salmon, Yellowtail) further enhance the meal.

While specific, regularly publicized promotions for Sushi NAKATA are not extensively detailed, the restaurant is known to offer value and special deals, particularly for lunch and through its omakase options. Based on customer reviews and common practices for quality sushi establishments in California, potential promotions or special offers might include:

• Lunch Specials: One review specifically mentioned a "solid lunch menu" and a "REGULAR NIGIRI (8pc+1Hand roll: Blue fin Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Albacore, Sea bream, Halibut, Shad, Shrimp – with SPICY TUNA HAND ROLL with miso soup and salad for lunch)" at a suitable value. This indicates that their lunch offerings provide a cost-effective way to experience their high-quality sushi.

• Omakase Value: While an omakase experience (chef's choice) is typically more expensive, one reviewer noted a "$65 June special which was a great deal for the quality and the servings I got." This suggests that Sushi NAKATA may occasionally offer special omakase prices, providing an elevated dining experience at a more accessible rate. Another mentioned a $100 omakase option as well.

• Delivery Platform Incentives: As Sushi NAKATA is available on DoorDash and Grubhub, patrons may find platform-specific promotions such as discounted delivery fees, first-time order discounts, or special bundle deals. It's always a good idea to check these apps for any active offers.

• Seasonal Specials: Given their emphasis on fresh, high-quality fish, it is highly probable that Sushi NAKATA features seasonal specials based on the freshest catches available, which might be offered at a special price to highlight their seasonal ingredients.

To get the most accurate and current information on any ongoing promotions, daily specials, or Omakase availability and pricing, it is highly recommended to call Sushi NAKATA directly at (626) 706-6818 or check their menu on delivery platforms like DoorDash or Grubhub.

To plan your visit to this hidden gem in Old Town Monrovia or to place an order, here's how you can reach Sushi NAKATA:

• Address: 108 E Lime Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA

• Phone: (626) 706-6818

Don't hesitate to give them a call for reservations, takeout inquiries, or any questions about their authentic Japanese menu.

For residents of Monrovia and the wider Southern California region, Sushi NAKATA is an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for Japanese cuisine, particularly for those who appreciate true authenticity and quality. Its appeal to locals is multi-faceted, blending superior culinary execution with a charming local experience.

Firstly, and most importantly, is the unwavering commitment to "super fresh" fish and authentic Japanese flavors. In a competitive sushi market like California, Sushi NAKATA distinguishes itself by offering sushi rolls and sashimi that are not only delicious but also genuinely light and refreshing. The consistent praise for the freshness of their fish means that locals don't have to venture far for a high-quality sushi experience that rivals even those found in Japan. This dedication to authentic preparation, from the rice to the nuanced flavors of their traditional appetizers like Chawanmushi and Agedashi Tofu, provides a genuine taste of Japan right in the heart of Monrovia.

Secondly, the "elegant, cozy sushi spot" ambiance in Old Town Monrovia creates a comfortable yet elevated dining environment. Despite its intimate size, it offers a welcoming space perfect for various occasions, from a romantic date night to a relaxed dinner with close friends. The charm of Old Town itself, combined with the excellent views, enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a meal but a pleasant outing in the community.

Finally, the warm, welcoming, and attentive staff significantly contribute to Sushi NAKATA's suitability for locals. Excellent service transforms a good meal into a great one, and the personalized attention noted by customers fosters a sense of loyalty and appreciation. The willingness of staff to go the extra mile creates a feeling of being valued, encouraging repeat visits. The availability of reservations, especially during busy periods like the Friday farmers market, also speaks to their understanding of local needs and a desire to provide a seamless dining experience.

Sushi NAKATA is truly a "hidden gem" that offers an elevated yet accessible Japanese dining experience. It's the ideal spot for locals who are particular about their sushi and appreciate authentic dishes, all delivered with impeccable service in a charming setting. It provides a consistently delightful culinary escape, making it an undeniable asset to Monrovia's vibrant dining scene.

Sushi NAKATA

108 E Lime Ave, Monrovia, CA 91016, USA