Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi

For Californians seeking an elevated and intimate Japanese dining experience, Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi presents a delightful discovery. Tucked away as something of a "hidden gem" in Los Angeles, this restaurant specializes in Kaiseki, a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner that emphasizes seasonality, exquisite presentation, and meticulous preparation, alongside a selection of fresh sushi. While it might be easy to miss from the outside, stepping inside reveals a chic decor and a surprisingly spacious interior, complete with a full bar boasting an impressive array of Japanese whiskies and other spirits.

Umaya LA prides itself on delivering a refined culinary journey. Guests can explore various tasting menus, including multi-course Kaiseki experiences and dedicated sushi Omakase. Dishes like delicious Wagyu with noodles and traditional Sukiyaki are highlights, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality and authentic flavors. The attentive service, where dishes are thoughtfully explained as they arrive, significantly enhances the experience, making Umaya LA an ideal spot for special occasions like anniversary dinners or a sophisticated date night. Despite some reports of busy periods, the overall consensus points to a memorable dining adventure that celebrates the artistry of Japanese cuisine.

Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi is strategically situated at 3322 Wilshire Blvd #100, Los Angeles, CA 90010, USA. This address places it squarely on Wilshire Boulevard, a major and iconic artery running through the heart of Los Angeles, particularly in the bustling Koreatown area.

Despite being described as a "hidden gem" that is "easy to miss when walking by," its location on a prominent boulevard makes it centrally located and generally accessible. Given its address within a building (Suite #100 suggests it's likely on the ground floor or a designated commercial space within a larger complex), specific parking might vary. However, commercial areas along Wilshire Boulevard typically offer a mix of metered street parking and numerous paid parking garages or lots in the vicinity. For those utilizing public transportation, Wilshire Boulevard is extensively served by Metro bus lines, and it is also within reasonable proximity to Metro subway stations, providing convenient access for many Angelenos without the need for a personal vehicle. Its location makes it a suitable destination for locals seeking an upscale dining experience in a vibrant and accessible urban setting, whether coming from nearby neighborhoods or across the greater Los Angeles area.

Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi offers a sophisticated and comprehensive Japanese dining experience, emphasizing multi-course tasting menus and a well-curated beverage program.

• Dine-In Service: Provides a chic and spacious dining environment suitable for intimate dinners and special occasions.

• Kaiseki Tasting Menus: Specializes in multi-course Kaiseki experiences that highlight seasonal ingredients and artistic presentation. Options include:

  • Three-Course Tasting Menu: Described as a "bargain" with "just right portion size" that is filling but not overstuffing, often featuring dishes like Wagyu with noodles as a main.

  • Chef Nao's Omakase (Kaiseki): A higher-tier 6-course menu (e.g., $260 per person with a $75 prepaid deposit), served at the Chef's counter only, designed to be a gastronomic adventure showcasing seasonal masterpieces.

  • Six-Course Omakase (Kaiseki): Another 6-course option (e.g., $185 per person with a $50 prepaid deposit), also served at the Chef's counter, focusing on culinary artistry and fresh seasonal ingredients.

  • Seasonal Kaiseki menus reflect the essence of each season.

• Omakase Sushi Course: An indulgent sushi craftsmanship experience (e.g., $120 per person), featuring handcrafted sushi creations with the freshest seafood and premium ingredients.

• A La Carte Options: While tasting menus are prominent, they also offer individual sushi (nigiri) and roll selections, including:

  • Nigiri: Salmon, Akami (Bluefin Tuna), Albacore Belly, Hamachi (Yellowtail), Hotate (Scallop), Ikura (Salmon Roe), Unagi, and many more.

  • Rolls: Dragon Roll, Spicy Tuna Roll, Shrimp Tempura Roll, California Roll, Rainbow Roll, Umaya Roll, Baked Salmon Roll, and a variety of handrolls.

• Sukiyaki: Available as a main dish option, showcasing their expertise beyond just sushi and traditional Kaiseki sequence.

• Full Bar with Extensive Beverage Program: Features a "nice list of Japanese Whiskeys (Sorry, no Yamazakis!)" along with other spirits, specialty cocktails (like Umayatini, The Outlaw), beers (Sapporo, Asahi), wines, and non-alcoholic drinks.

• Attentive Service: Wait staff are praised for being "very attentive" and explaining each dish as it arrives at the table.

• Private Dining/Spaces: The restaurant is noted for having "a lot of spaces," suggesting potential for more private dining areas, though not explicitly confirmed.

• Lunch and Dinner Service: Offers both lunch (Tue–Sat 11:30 am–2:00 pm) and dinner (Tue–Sat 5:30 pm–10:00 pm) hours.

• Reservations Recommended: Especially for popular tasting menus and weekend evenings, booking in advance is advisable.

Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi boasts several distinctive features and highlights that position it as a premier destination for refined Japanese dining in Los Angeles.

• Specialization in Kaiseki Dining: This is their defining feature. Umaya LA offers traditional multi-course Kaiseki tasting menus, a rare and highly artistic form of Japanese cuisine that emphasizes seasonality, meticulous preparation, and stunning presentation. This provides a truly immersive culinary journey.

• Exquisite Tasting Menus: Patrons rave about the structured tasting experiences, highlighting the "just right portion size" of the three-course option, which fills without overstuffing. The more extensive Chef's Omakase and Six-Course Omakase options promise a "gastronomic adventure" with each dish a "masterpiece."

• Delicious & Unique Dishes: Specific dishes receive high praise, such as the "delicious" wagyu with noodles as a main course and the traditional Sukiyaki, indicating a broad culinary prowess beyond just sushi. Their appetizers are also noted as a "collection of different stuff," suggesting variety and creativity.

• Chic Decor and Ambiance: Despite its somewhat hidden exterior, stepping inside reveals a "chic decor" and a spacious interior. This sophisticated atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for special occasions, romantic date nights, or business dinners.

• Attentive and Informative Service: The wait staff are consistently lauded for being "very attentive" and for providing detailed explanations of each dish as it arrives. This level of service enhances the educational and appreciative aspects of the Kaiseki experience.

• Full Bar with Japanese Whiskey Selection: A significant highlight for connoisseurs, the restaurant features a well-stocked bar with a "nice list of Japanese Whiskeys" and other premium spirits, elevating the overall beverage program and complementing the fine dining experience.

• "Hidden Gem" Status: Its discreet location adds to its allure, making it feel like a special discovery for those who venture inside. This adds to the exclusivity and charm, particularly for those looking for a less overtly bustling fine dining spot.

• Adaptability (DineLA participation): Its participation in events like DineLA demonstrates its ability to offer special, multi-course experiences, making fine dining more accessible to a wider audience and showcasing its capabilities.

Based on the provided customer reviews and available public data, Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi occasionally participates in special dining events and offers specific tasting menu experiences that serve as their primary "promotions" or "special offers."

• DineLA Restaurant Week Participation: As noted by a customer, Umaya LA has participated in DineLA, offering multi-course meals (e.g., a 5-course meal) during these special periods. This provides an excellent opportunity for new guests to experience their high-quality offerings at a potentially special price point.

• Three-Course Tasting Menu: While not a "promotion" in the traditional sense, the "bargain" pricing and "just right portion size" of this menu option make it an attractive and accessible way to experience their elevated cuisine without committing to a full Kaiseki journey. It offers significant value for the quality provided.

• Chef Nao's Omakase (Kaiseki) and Six-Course Omakase (Kaiseki): These curated multi-course experiences, while a premium offering, serve as a comprehensive culinary journey. The structure and quality inherent in these menus act as a self-contained special offering for those seeking an immersive dining event.

• Omakase Sushi Course: A distinct and dedicated offering for sushi enthusiasts, highlighting the chef's craftsmanship and the freshest seasonal ingredients.

• Cocktail Hour: Umaya LA offers a "Cocktail Hour" from Tuesday - Thursday, 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm & 8:30 pm - Closing. This may feature special pricing on drinks or a select bar menu.

For the most current information on any upcoming special events, new tasting menu options, or seasonal promotions, it is highly recommended to check Umaya LA's official website, their listings on reservation platforms like OpenTable or Tock, or their social media channels. These platforms are typically where such exclusive offers and events are announced. The focus on high-quality, experience-driven dining means their "promotions" often come in the form of specially curated menus designed to showcase the best of Japanese culinary artistry.

To reserve your experience at Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi, or for inquiries, here's how you can get in touch:

• Address: 3322 Wilshire Blvd #100, Los Angeles, CA 90010, USA

• Phone: (323) 997-4349

• Mobile Phone: +1 323-997-4349

• Website: umayala.com (Recommended for reservations and menu details)

For Californians, especially those in the Los Angeles area, Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi is an exceptionally suitable and appealing dining destination, particularly for locals who appreciate nuanced, high-quality Japanese cuisine and a refined dining experience. It caters to a specific desire for culinary artistry and intimate atmospheres that many discerning Angelenos seek.

Firstly, its specialization in Kaiseki dining and Omakase sushi courses offers a truly distinct experience not commonly found at every Japanese restaurant. For locals who are beyond typical sushi rolls and seek a deeper dive into Japanese culinary traditions, Umaya LA provides an avenue for "gastronomic adventures" where "every dish is a masterpiece." This caters to a sophisticated palate and a desire for experiential dining that is increasingly valued in California's food scene.

Secondly, the attentive service and detailed explanations of each dish elevate the meal from mere consumption to an educational and appreciative journey. This personalized attention, combined with the chic decor and comfortable ambiance, makes it an ideal spot for a "great date night" or an anniversary celebration. Locals often seek out places that offer more than just food, but an entire memorable evening, and Umaya LA delivers on this front. The "hidden gem" status adds to the allure, making it feel like a special discovery.

The quality of the food, highlighted by dishes like delicious Wagyu with noodles and excellent Sukiyaki, demonstrates a commitment to premium ingredients and expert preparation. Even with the presence of sushi, the focus on diverse Kaiseki components ensures a well-rounded and deeply satisfying culinary exploration. For those seeking a higher-tier Japanese meal that isn't solely centered on raw fish, Umaya LA offers compelling alternatives.

Finally, the full bar with a "nice list of Japanese Whiskeys" caters to the growing appreciation for sophisticated beverage pairings, allowing locals to complement their exquisite meal with equally refined drinks. While it might get busy, the overall "great experience" ensures that any minor service delays are overshadowed by the quality of the food and the unique atmosphere. Umaya LA is perfectly positioned for Angelenos looking to celebrate, impress, or simply indulge in a meticulously crafted and artistically presented Japanese culinary journey.

Umaya LA - Kaiseki & Sushi

3322 Wilshire Blvd #100, Los Angeles, CA 90010, USA