ikigai

Sushi restaurant · Eagle Rock

ikigai

Sushi restaurant · Eagle Rock

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2146 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041

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Highlights

Fresh fish & creative rolls, omakase options, modern & clean space  

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2146 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041 Get directions

sushiikigai.com
@ikigai.sushiya

$30–50 · Menu

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2146 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041 Get directions

+1 323 999 7190
sushiikigai.com
@ikigai.sushiya

$30–50 · Menu

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Last updated

Aug 17, 2025

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Salt & Pearl Seafood Restaurant Brings Lobster Rolls to Redondo Beach - Eater LA

"Ikigai opened in late December at the corner of Colorado and Eagle Rock boulevards in Eagle Rock. The casual Japanese neighborhood spot serves a menu of nigiri, sashimi, and rolls, as well as homey comforts like tonkatsu, tempura, udon, and more. The restaurant’s three omakase options include eight pieces for $45, 10 pieces for $55, and 12 pieces for $65. Co-owners Peter and Sooji Park previously operated Peter’s Sushi Spot in Anchorage, Alaska for two decades." - Cathy Chaplin

https://la.eater.com/2024/1/3/24022791/salt-and-pearl-seafood-restaurant-redondo-beach-opening-los-angeles-lobster-rolls
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Moe Aly

Google
This Japanese restaurant sets a new standard for sashimi. Forget thin slices; expect generous, succulent chunks that melt in your mouth. The fish is undeniably fresh, a testament to their commitment to quality. The sushi, equally impressive, showcases masterful technique and balanced flavors. The interior design is a sleek, modern marvel, creating an ambiance that's both elegant and inviting. The service is not only efficient but also remarkably warm and attentive, making you feel genuinely welcomed. They anticipate your needs before you even ask, adding a layer of seamless comfort to the meal. Every detail, from the minimalist decor to the exquisite plating, speaks of refined taste. This isn't just a meal; it's a culinary journey. If you crave top-tier sashimi and a stylish atmosphere, look no further. It's a must-visit for any sushi aficionado. Highly recommended.

J L

Google
The sushi rolls were OK. The sunomono was just raw cucumber with sesame seeds sprinkled over, no vinegar. The rice was a little stale for some of the sushi rolls. Found the service to be very inattentive. People would just randomly set dishes down in a hurry and leave right away, no explanation to what they were serving us. They forgot the cucumber salad and unceremoniously gave it to us after they brought us the rolls. No one checked in on us.

Zachary Thoennes

Google
Very fresh fish is always a plus. I had the sashimi teishoku and it was absolutely a home run. Paired nicely with the hot sake.

SC

Google
Zooming down Colorado Blvd., you wouldn’t realize this gem sits right smack near the corner of Colorado and Eagle Rock. Its neon sign is warm and inviting and its service is great (they made great recommendations). Met a gf here for a dinner to catch up and we loved every minute! I ordered the triple delight, negihama 6pc roll (yellowtail), and negitoro 6pc roll (toro). None of the rolls missed! The triple delight was wrapped with soy paper and it really helped bring out the flavors of the fish — salmon, tuna, yellowtail. I was really sad that it was only a 5pc roll. Their service was quick and fish were fresh! Nothing disappointed! To top our dinner off, we were recommended the dessert menu and everything on it sounds amazing! We went with the match cake! It was so rich. So dense. I literally couldn’t even find the words to describe it when I took the first bite (shout out to my friend, Kaia, for the vocabulary help). We were so pleased with our meal I am already craving to go back! I took a triple delight roll home for my fiancé and he absolutely loved it too! 100/100 Ikigai! So looking forward to my next visit!

Dan P

Google
so i've been here three times now, and have been very happy each time. the servers are attentive, and it's a clean space with high ceilings; maybe a little sparse but i like a minimalist vibe. the fish is excellent: fresh, flavorful and the omakase is well-curated with good value. i'm excited to have a great option close to home. update: ordered my first bento box here after realizing they’re open for lunch! still amazing. i’m posting a photo of something that reinforces how great this place is… they TAPED the tempura dipping sauce and salad dressing to the box! this prevents them from sliding around during transport, and potentially leaking all over the bag. and as someone that eats out too much and often orders to go… this attention to detail is what makes me want to come back again. so awesome!

M C

Google
10/10 would recommend!!! High quality sushi! Melt in your mouth type stuff!!! Service is fast and prompt!! Love this place! Small sushi spot hidden in Eagle Rock. We started with their flavorful miso soup. We then ordered the yellowtail king, Amaebi sushi, waygu A5 sushi, negitoro gunkan maki, shrimp tempura, the chicken kushiyaki! Lastly, we ended our meal with green tea ice cream! The food was delicious. Definitely coming back! Great place for a simple dinner or even a date night!

S.E lee

Google
I’ve been looking for a good sushi spot in near LA, and I’m so glad I found this place! I ordered the omakase, and it was absolutely amazing. The sushi was incredibly fresh, melt in your mouth creamy exactly what I was craving. I’ll definitely be coming back soon. Highly recommend this place to any sushi lover!

Valerie Petralia

Google
Wow what a great spot. Good atmosphere (lighting and music levels), great service (kept the dining area clean without being disruptive), great sushi and big menu with lots of options. Great beer and wine list! So excited to have his spot in the neighborhood. Everyone was so kind. Will be back.
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Michael L.

Yelp
I was pleasantly surprised by how fresh and succulent the food was. I tried the tuna sashimi and spicy tuna rolls, and they exceeded my expectations. The tuna was served in generous, flavorful chunks, and everything was light and delicious. The spicy tuna rolls were equally impressive. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was friendly and accommodating. Our meal, which included my dinner, my daughter's California rolls, my wife's dinner plus two miso soup, extra rice, and sake, came to $106, including a 22% tip. It was well worth it, and I'll definitely be returning!
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Miso J.

Yelp
Grabbed dinner here with a friend and we arrived right at 5pm so we were the first ones seated. The staff were attentive and I ordered 2 of the hand cut rolls. The toro and hamachi were both really good quality fish and I think their sushi rice is well seasoned. We shared the yuzu police cake with vanilla bean ice cream which was really good too. -1 star because I felt a little rushed. The moment I finished my sushi, the staff immediately handed us the check and we had to ask for the dessert menu and a new check with the yuzu cake. Parking: street parking
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Michael M.

Yelp
For a sleepy neighborhood place, the quality of the fish at Ikigai is positively phenomenal. It's our 8-year-old's favorite restaurant, and we celebrated her birthday here by splurging on the 10-piece omakase. I had never had barracuda before--it was so unique. The rolls are also fish-forward. This isn't the kind of place where everything is doused in sauce. They're far more elegant than what you typically see. I had a simple spicy tuna roll, but even then, the fish was the most pronounced flavor. Our server, Lee, was perfect. He brought out a scoop of green tea ice cream with a birthday candle for our daughter and even sang Happy Birthday with us. What really sets this place apart is how unpretentious it is. The dining room is beautifully minimalist and simple. I feel comfortable bringing my relatively well-behaved children here, but it also works perfectly as a date spot. If you've been to Blair's a few blocks down, this is like the sushi version of that kind of experience. I don't write a lot of Yelp reviews, but I'm so happy we don't have to drive all the way downtown or deep into Studio City anymore. If you're thinking of checking this place out, this random person on the internet thinks you should do it.
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Linda T.

Yelp
I love me some sushi, and have been wanting to check this place off my list for a while now. I came here with my partner on a Friday around 7:30 pm. We had to wait about 15 mins to be seated. Upon entering the restaurant, I was confused where to check in as no one greeted when we walked through the front door, the register is located at the back of the restaurant so I wasn't sure if I was supposed to walk to the back to put myself on a list. Come to find, there was a list hidden off to the side when entering. Maybe establish a clearer way to check in or have employees acknowledge when customers are coming in and let them know they'll be right with them. Besides that little rant, I'd say that our server was really attentive and helpful. The restaurant itself is spacious and there is also seating at the counter. Their menu offers a lot of different appetizers, sushi, rolls. Omakase is also offered. I definitely appreciated the variety. What we ordered: Karrage Chicken (5/5) Super crispy, tender, and juicy chicken. The sauce that accompanied the chicken was really good. Highly recommend. Crunch Roll (5/5) Spicy Blossom (4/5) Overall the food felt very high quality, portion size is just enough, and price seem fair. Enjoy
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Jam G.

Yelp
This is one of those places that you want to keep a secret so when you go last minute you can still sit in your favorite spot. The owner and his team are professional and take serving excellent food VERY seriously! Everything is fresh and if you want an education about where the best fish should be purchased ask the owner; he knows his business well. Details are paid attention to in service and quality; water tastes crisp and filtered, the shishito peppers with bonita flakes are quite the show, beer is served ice cold in a beautiful frosted glass. Our favorite rolls seem to evolve and grow in exotic flavor surprises and beauty every time we visit. It is a small quaint place, very clean and we love to sit far left side of the sushi bar; so go and enjoy, just don't sit in our spot!

Angelo R.

Yelp
Best sushi spot in eagle rock. Service and seating is quick. Waiters are so attentive. It is pricey due to me always ordering any variation of their omakase but i always leave satisfied and wanting to come back sooner rather than later.
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Mary D.

Yelp
Seriously the best. One of the best oysters I have ever had! Wonderful, kind staff and the food is top notch. Always looking forward to the next time.
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Richard P.

Yelp
Overall: tucked in an unassuming location in Eagle rock this spot scratches the itch at a fairly reasonable price. Food: the savory selections were very traditionally made. The Unagi rice bowl wasn't lathered with yaki sauce but allowed the fish tell the story. The miso black cod was melt in your mouth goodness with that rich umami miso flavor. The sushi/sashimi is the opposite of the flavor packed savoriness as it was incredibly light. Nothing stands out especially but overall solid. Ambience/Decor/Service: friendly rapid service and very clean modern decor. Definitely a good spot to hit if you're feeling sushi without feeling the $150 + that can come with it!
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Averie H.

Yelp
So happy to have another nice sushi option in the area! I've been living off of Ichijiku, which I love, but it's always nice to have a little variety and ikigai is here to offer it. Their Nigiri selection is large and excellent, while still being quality. And the Butter Saba is a definite must - it's the perfect balance of smoky and savory. The rolls are great and LARGE. The Yakimaki is so good (ask for light sauce), my expectations were low because I'm not usually a fan of a saucy roll, but the flavor was top notch. Service was fast and attentive - we had multiple servers coming to our table to check on us and they were more than happy to offer suggestions. And the restaurant is very clean with a lovely, neutral look reminiscent of Little Tokyo or Sawtelle sushi bars. A really great addition to the neighborhood!
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Randy B.

Yelp
On our way to a event in Eagle Rock, my date and I stumbled upon ikigai a few moments before they opened for dinner. We walked in as the first guests that evening and sat ourselves down in a comfortable booth for two. This sushi-ya shokudo is quite modern, clean, well-lit and with only about a dozen tables seating around 30 guests total at a time. The menu is quite extensive, ranging from omakase and à la carte sushi to traditional Japanese comfort foods, alongside a full beer, wine, and saké list. We decided to start with a large sparkling water, an order of the gyoza, along with a "chilled edamame." Our waiter came back with the sparkling water, and guests began to arrive. The space is quite nice, totally open to see the sushi-ya preparation up front. First up, the Gyoza ($10). 7 pieces of delicious pan-fried pork dumplings with a chili oil / rice vinegar dipping sauce. The dumplings were cooked to perfection, which a soft exterior and wonderfully tasty filling. A few moments later, our waiter returned with the pan-fried edamame, with "chili," and garlic. I explained to him that we didn't order this version, but instead the other edamame. For a brief moment he attempted to argue with me, citing that I ordered this version. I pointed out to him that I ordered it exactly how it was written on the menu, "edamame, chilled with sea salt." He didn't apologize, but told us that he would bring out the other edamame version. Apparently he was confused with "chilled" and "chili." The correct version was delivered a few minutes later with our server mentioning that he would take the other edamame off the bill. No apology. We then decided to order a few Signature Rolls. Rainbow #1 ($19): 8 California Roll pieces, topped with Tuna, Salmon, Yellowtail, Avocado. These were artistically prepared and presented. The depth of flavors and freshness of each of the fish was absolutely top-level. Great options with this roll and delicious no matter which California Roll you opt for. Triple Delight ($19): 5 Tuna, Yellowtail, Salmon and Avocado Cucumber Roll pieces, wrapped with Soy Paper. These rolls were also artistically laid out and incredibly delicious. The fish here is amazingly fresh, full of flavor and tasty. The prices are quite reasonable given the quality, and you can't go wrong with a few Speciality Rolls, or even the omakase (ranging from $55 for a Chef's Choice of 8 pieces to $120 for 16 pieces of chef's favorites). I wanted to give this place five stars, as I think the food is clearly the star here (and you won't be disappointed with the quality) but the customer service from our server on our maiden visit wasn't the best, especially since we were the first ones in for dinner that evening. By the time we were finishing up (around 6pm), the restaurant was 90% full. You definitely notice the noise level creeping up a bit as the restaurant was at full capacity, including the occasional screaming of young children at a few family tables. Walk-ins only at ikigai. No reservations accepted. Street parking on Colorado if you are lucky, but also a metered lot directly behind the restaurant off Caspar Avenue ($2 All Day, 7am-9pm).
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Alec A.

Yelp
3.7/5.0 - Only had non-sushi lunch option so far. It was not great, but I will come back for the sushi and leave another review. Taste: I got a pork katsu. Really not great. Passable, but the value for the price wasn't there even on a lunch special. These are thin cuts of meat, and I know it makes them easier to be dry and less tender/juicy. Honestly this was like the frozen tonkatsu I buy myself at hmart. The tempura it comes with was nice. Experience: I mean, I 100% know I ordered the wrong thing at a sushi place, but that's just what I wanted that day. The service was attentive and good. The decor was kinda bland and minimalist, but I think it's pleasantly bright and airy for a lunch spot. I generally had a positive impression and wish I had tried the sushi so I'll come back. However, the $21 price tag did not come with $21 of value for me. That's a pretty expensive for a lunch special, which I expect to be more budget-friendly options. Mood Before/After: I was excited to try the newest restaurant in my neighborhood and a little disappointed after. Fullness: 75% full. I just thought it was a little expensive for a lunch special that wasn't sushi. What else did I eat/do today affecting my experience: I worked before lunch, nothing out of the ordinary.

Stella Leonila M.

Yelp
Food: Ok, I am still looking the authenticity taste of Japanese sushi and sashimi. A bit pricey than the place we use to eat at Japanese town. Sushi Gen still my go to... Service: Fairly good Ambience: Fairly
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Ophelia N.

Yelp
Lovely dining experience. The staff was incredibly nice and balanced the line between attentiveness and giving privacy really well. The food was so fresh and delicious, overall really enjoyed our meal!
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Kristal B.

Yelp
Stopped in for lunch and truly it's dangerous how good & close this is to me. Will be back many many times I'm sure! This time I tried to the pork cutlet lunch & my husband got the garlic salmon plate. Super tasty & we got a couple pieces of toro to go along with it. Friendly & speedy service + nice chill & quiet lunch atmosphere.
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Jin Y.

Yelp
I came once in Feb and once today (July). In Feb we came during Superbowl Sunday so we were the only ones there and the service was good. The food was good for Eagle Rock, where a good sushi place is not so easy to find. We usually make the drive to Little Tokyo, Pasadena, Glendale, etc. I thought it was good enough that we would return. Fast forward to tonight. We came back on a Thursday night and the place was maybe 30% full at 6:30pm. That's not usually a good sign but I figured it was the weekday crowd and the price is a bit higher than eating elsewhere since it is sushi after all. When we sat to order, I asked a few questions about allergies because my son is severely allergic to dairy, and allergic to eggs and nuts. I asked if the tempura in the kids bento had any dairy and eggs and the waiter said he would ask and let us know. We ordered the rest of our food. Then, the food started coming and the kids bento came. I asked the person who brought it if he knew if there was any dairy and eggs in it since the waiter never came back to let us know about the allergies. He said he would go ask the kitchen. He came back saying it was only flour. I thanked him. Towards the end of the meal, I went to our waiter to ask him if they do anything for birthdays since it was my friend's birthday. They said they can put a candle in the ice creams. I thanked them and gave them my card so they can charge the entire meal on my card. When the ice cream came, we asked if any of the ice cream was sorbet, to which the waiter said the mango and the lychee were sorbets. Great. As far as I ever knew, the difference between a sorbet and an ice cream is that sorbet does not contain any dairy or egg. Ask google. Ask anyone who knows anything about frozen desserts. Sherbert has some dairy but not sorbet. RIGHT??? Well, no, not in this case. My son reacted right away. His lips puffed up and he had to barf. We went to the bathroom so my son could throw up. I texted my husband to tell him to tell the waiter what happened. When I came out, I told the waiter and the cashier/owner (?) what happened. The waiter looks at me and says all ice cream has milk. I'm like yeah, but you said it was sorbet. He apologizes and says that he will ask the manager. The manager (or owner?) comes out and says that the container that contains the ice cream says sorbet but it says it contains milk. Another waitress comes out and repeats that it says sorbet on the container and that it contains milk. Okay... so are you saying that because the container that is labeled as sorbet and that it contains milk that I am wrong for thinking that sorbet does not contain milk? Was it not enough that I asked if there was milk/eggs in other foods prior to this interaction? How inattentive do you have to be with customers who have food allergies? At this point my son's lips were very puffy and his throat was closing up so my priority was to pay and get the hell out of there since we left our epi pen at home. They apologized saying they didn't know. I just told them to take allergies seriously because I now have to take care of my son and monitor him to see if I have to take him to the hospital. There are many people with severe allergies and things need to be properly labeled. On the menu it says "Ice Cream/Sorbet" and it lists the flavors. My suggestion is that they include an asterisk and type out "contains milk" or get rid of the word "sorbet" from the menu. Most people with dairy allergies or vegans would be appalled to find out there is dairy in sorbet. TRUST ME. I've been doing this for 10 years. Take allergies seriously. The other suggestion I have is to train the waitstaff about ingredients or to pay more attention to customers who are asking about specific ingredients. They're doing that because they're allergic or cannot eat that ingredient. The first waiter never came back to us to let us know if the tempura batter contained egg or dairy. Very inattentive, There was not a lot of customers at the restaurant. Another point, which I doubt they can do much about it, but there were SO MANY FLIES around our table, which was close to the entrance. It was literally disgusting to have to swat flies indoors every three seconds. I haven't written a negative review in a while. I usually spare my energy. Tonight though, I couldn't help it because it's my son's health. I hope this helps anyone with food allergies or vegans who thought the ice cream was safe to eat. The only reason I'm not giving them one star and I'm rounding it up to two stars is that the first time I went was fine, and good enough for me to want to return. However, I will say the quality of the rest of the food has diminished from when we visited in Feb. Pics of food are from Feb.
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Priscilla K.

Yelp
Ikigai is the friendly neighborhood sushi place I've always longed for. It's clean, modern, and simple. My go-to's are the raw oysters, sashimi, chirashi, and omakase. Their omakase cuts are premium and taste way better than what you expect (especially what you pay for)! It's a great deal considering the quality of sashimi you get. I'd come every day if I could! :)
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dan o.

Yelp
We go pretty much once a week now. The environment is clean and bright, staff are efficient (probably need one more wait staff around 6-7). Produce is excellent- love the saba butter and that bell mushroom. The one with the quail egg is pretty decadent - love it. I'll end by saying they have Orion on tap..iykyk.
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Dania W.

Yelp
I went back recently and the fish quality was top notch. Still didn't like the miso soup.

Jeff B.

Yelp
Great food here every time. Excellent quality fish, service is attentive, and the appetizers and drink options are fun and imaginative. Our go-to spot for sushi!
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Good Ol B.

Yelp
Don't eat here!!!!! My partner and I walked in and were ignored for at least the first 5 min, then I approached the counter politely and said "do we seat ourselves?" And they said we have "no tables open" keep in mind we walked by 3open 5 seater tables on the way in. I asked are these big tables reserved they said NO those are just for bigger parties, I said have they notified you that there on their way? She said no, no one has them they are just for bigger parties. If this has ever happened before ALL Restraunt s have either opened closed sections or at least sat us on a big table. But turn a customer away because they are hoping for a big table is just Stupi
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Mikaela M.

Yelp
By far, my favorite sushi place in LA. I ordered the premium omakase which comes with 16 pc chef's choice, hand roll, oyster, and dessert (crème brûlée cheesecake). 1000/10 would recommend. Fish is so fresh and delicious. Some fish just melted like butter in my mouth! Everyone was super friendly and welcoming. Environment was so chic and simplistic. Owner seems genuine and down to earth. My experience was great. Looking forward to my next visit!
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Yoon P.

Yelp
This restaurant has such a cozy vibe and great food. We first tried out this place back in May and we were amazed by the quality. We drove to LA from Arizona for the holidays and we had to come back a second time and it did not disappoint. The owner is so personable and will put in extra care for his customers. Would highly recommend!! Y

Kenneth L.

Yelp
My first experience here was to order some to go food on my way home. The server said it would be 20 minutes and then offered me something to drink while I waited. First, the place was impeccably clean including the restroom. Secondly, everyone who worked there, from the servers to the Sushi Chefs were friendly. That sets me up to discuss the food which was amazing. Some of the best sushi I have had which included blue fin tuna loin, chopped toro and the tempura udon was incredibly flavorful. Their to go packaging is some of the best I have seen particularly how they kept the noodles and broth separate. It is the little things like this that pushes a place like Ikigai into the 5+ Star category for me. Looking forward to dining in next time.

Mt B.

Yelp
Quite good food, but way too bright lightning. It creates a vibe of an airport restaurant, where you go only to fill your stomach, not to enjoy the food.
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Mac S.

Yelp
Visited Ikigai for the first time with the wife in Eagle Rock. First of all, nice location, and the interior is pretty nice/classy. The customer service was friendly and attentive throughout (it wasn't that crowded when we went there for dinner), so no complaints there. We had an assortment of sushi, tempura, and chicken karaage' and they were all very tasty. Great place in Eagle Rock to get sushi.
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Sam S.

Yelp
I've been a regular customer of Ikigai since they opened, and it's been consistently delicious. I saw a Facebook post yesterday from them describing some of their new menu items, so I placed a takeout order to try some. Karaage Chicken - I liked the previous recipe for this too, but this new recipe was something special. The chicken is marinated using koji, before being fried and served with a yuzu kosho aioli. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The portion is pretty large and 3 people could split it. Mushroom and Shrimp Chahan - very traditional Japanese fried rice with just the right amount of sodium. Large enough for 4 people to split and get a cup of rice each. Shrimp were perfectly cooked. Katsudon - Delicious, large portion, could easily be split between two people as their main dish. I also ordered my usual negitoro cut roll and negihama cut roll. They are consistently great, and even though they are advertised as smaller cut rolls, they are the size that most would assume are regular cut rolls. Really great value. I'm looking forward to trying their other new menu items soon.
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Loc H.

Yelp
A huge welcome to the neighborhood. We tried so many things today and all was fresh and super tasty. Service was great as well. We will definitely be back! Things we got that we would definitely get again... udon, cali lunch special, yellowtail seared YUM, Tobiko sushi, donkatsu, salads and miso soup. It was all super solid! Woo hoo!!!
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Jennifer C.

Yelp
Strolled in around 6pm on a Friday night and was immediately seated at the counter. The restaurant has minimal decor with music playing in the background, loud enough to be heard but not loud enough that you can't carry a conversation through dinner. The servers, as well as sushi chefs, were welcoming, and service was fairly quick. The amount of food we ordered [ika sansai, rainbow roll #1, and 10 pieces omakase w/ miso soup] was the perfect amount for my cousin and I. We came ready to eat but not starving. I normally don't like miso soup because I find it's on the saltier side for my taste, but this one was just the right amount and not grainy. The fish was super fresh, and the calamari salad was so flavorful! Even the ginger was delightful. Looking forward to returning to try out the other items on their menu! As for parking, there is plenty of metered street parking nearby.
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Darlene S.

Yelp
Soggy nori (seaweed), tasteless fish, greasy tempura... it's unfortunate, because the ambience is great. It's not Japanese owned I think. It makes a difference.
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Samson B.

Yelp
I had the pleasure of dining at Ikigai recently, and it was an exceptional experience from start to finish. The ambiance was welcoming and the setting the perfect mood for a delightful meal. Our server, Lee, was outstanding. From the moment we were seated, Lee provided attentive and friendly service and overall made our experience very smooth. The sushi itself was fantastic--fresh, flavorful, and expertly prepared. Each dish was a testament to the chef's skill and commitment to quality. Overall this place is great if you are looking for some very good quality sushi.

Alejandra S.

Yelp
Love this place. Great selection and great quality. Wanted to point out that the dessert is all made in house by the chef's daughter and is better than what you can get at some bakeries! As if the sushi wasn't enough!! Might have to come back just for dessert!
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Bianca R.

Yelp
A great discovery around my neighborhood! Ikigai is a very quaint Japanese restaurant that serves authentic Japanese food at a good price point. Everything was served fresh, we loved everything we ordered. The staff were attentive and we also got seated right away.

G C.

Yelp
After recently moving to Eagle Rock from the westside, we set off in search of a new local spot for sushi... and simultaneously discovered our favorite new restaurant, period. Nestled on an easily accessible block of Colorado Blvd, you'll find ikigai; an outstanding sushi-ya and shokudo (casual Japanese) restaurant that's worthy of all hype. The spacious, warmly-lit ambience feels instantly inviting whether you're at a table or the sushi bar. The staff is entirely attentive, thoughtful and thorough, which adds to the overall experience-- Especially if you're fortunate enough to get Lee as your server. He's a blast to chat with and happy to share his favorite selections from ikigai's impressive, carefully curated menu. Over two visits, we sampled many of the small plate 'comfort foods', some hand rolls and most of the nigiri... and loved *everything*. Both nights, we wound up ordering several items twice because they were sooo delicious. The nigiri / sushi is fresh, the pieces are generous and all the small plates (with all their unique flavors) are on point... And there's still so much on the menu left to explore. We can't wait to go back. Bottom line: If you're looking for *great* sushi and delectable Japanese comfort food, you'll find it at ikigai.
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Joe B.

Yelp
Update to my original review: I returned for a birthday lunch with my friend and neighbor. Per the reply for my original review on the freshness of the fish it was recommended I dine in instead of take away. I did just that, the nigiri was generous but bland ( salmon, tuna) and * not fresh *. I also ordered the hand roll lunch special which while tasty was untraditional in how it was served (like a Mexican flauta or taquito). Eating it was a mess and it basically poured itself out of the ends. Definitely no thought on serving handrolls the traditional way. Definitely not returning.
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Eric M.

Yelp
Ikigai is a clean modern location, the sushi is fresh and well made with a good sake/beer selection.
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n k.

Yelp
Yelp recommended, I listened, and I have renewed faith in sushi! I got the small omakase to go and the to-go experience was not great. Woulda given 4.5* but I couldn't so I gave 5. (Which says something) They couldn't accommodate me while I waited (even offering to buy a sake) and they weren't terribly friendly but to be fair it was a Friday evening after 7 and they were busy. Fine. Packaging: The miso soup leaked into the plastic bag. There has to be a better way. Maybe a beverage container? A flat bottom? Dunno about you but won't drink the miso soup that leaked into the bag. But the makimono and nigiri were packaged well and sustainably-ish, if I recall correctly They also forgot to give me soy sauce. Luckily I had some, albeit Chinese, but beyond that...! The actual meal was fantastic. The fish was fresh and delish! No sashimi, the nigiri was all white fish m, well-sized and proportioned and the tuna roll was excellent. I think it was negi toro. No eel no roe - no stranger offerings. Just a conservative set and it pleased me. All here I n ER? Love it! Will try again soon and eat-in, stay tuned for an update. But best sushi from ER to Mt Washington to silver lake. Yea I said it. And apparently the chef is well-known from Alaska, so there's that. I love to order omakase first time and it didn't disappoint. If you think you might have been a sea mammal in a past life, swing through and delight in their offerings. Cheers!
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Nancy R.

Yelp
Atmosphere was great and ambiance. Rolls and sushi was great. The offer pitchers of beers. They forgot our Miso soup but will try it next time.
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Dan N.

Yelp
I've only tried the lunch special for take out so far but I loved it! Sushi combo A was really good with miso soup and lots of fresh fish to enjoy. It came with akami zuke, salmon, seared tuna, madai, yellowtail, and California roll; really delicious. I'm excited to bring my kids here since we live just a few minutes away and it was a beautiful restaurant inside. I came in on 12:30 on a Wednesday and it was a really quiet/laid back vibe. The sushi bar was gorgeous and the chef was very friendly! Welcome to the neighborhood :) Update, my entire family went back for dinner and everyone loved the meal. My 8 year old was a big fan of the crunchy roll! We saw friends from our little one's preschool sit down just as were finishing up our dinner. It's a great family friendly restaurant!

Peter G.

Yelp
Food and ambience was good. Service was horrible. We felt ignored and finally got attention after we asked about the long wait for our food and when we were paying for our bill. It took 10 minutes to get a menu and they forgot about our drinks until we asked. Had to ask for more ginger three times. When the bill came and we put our card out, the staff was quick to come to our table.
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Joe I.

Yelp
Stellar sushi is HERE in Eagle Rock! We came in on a mission for salmon sashimi and left sated with a rich array of nigiri (try the kinmedai if they have it) and warm service. Lee is the best. Come through!
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Cindy V.

Yelp
Came in for a last minute bite on a Friday afternoon & didn't wait that long since it was early but as it got late it stated to get busy. I will come back for some more !

Christian V.

Yelp
The service was phenomenal highlight of the meal I would say was the omakase though everything was amazing. All plates came out in a timely manner servers and chef were incredibly polite and the ambiance of the place is incredibly modern and clean. Food quality was fantastic nigiri melted in your mouth, tempura incredibly crispy, and the mushroom skewers with miso butter were unforgettable. Will definitely be returning and I thank you again for the delicious meal.

whitney a.

Yelp
Went on a whim and it was honestly some of the freshest, most deliciously prepared nigiri I've had in LA, with many freshly procured specialty fish to try. Service was great. The ambiance would benefit from dimming the lights dramatically, but hoping they read this and make the adjustment to achieve perfection! So happy to have found this place and looking forward to going back.

Hudson G.

Yelp
Amazing food, seriously some of the best Nigiri I've ever had, the service was attentive and professional. The music and layout of the restaurant really allows you to relax and enjoy everything. Everyone feels like they truly take pride in working here and giving you truly delicious food. Prices are actually really fair compared to the "$$$" that google gave the restaurant. The rolls seem pricey at first but they give you both quantity and quality unlike other sushi restaurants.
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Stu G.

Yelp
This is one of the greatest sushi restaurants in Los Angeles. Absolute top 3 in all of the LA metropolitan area. If you know, you know. A creative menu, remarkably fresh, unique, and artful. It is just a matter of time until you will have to wait for a reservation, as word gets out about Peter and the magic, care, and love that he brings.
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Jaelynn D.

Yelp
Visually the place looks sterile. I think Eagle Rock is a nice neighborhood place. I wish they made it look more inviting. Idk, maybe some old Japanese billboards and wood paneling. It seems unnecessarily bright. The calamari tempura was clunky and the mixed tempura was heavy and oily. Their sushi rolls were only okay. Most of them were California-roll based. Idk, maybe it's because they're in their soft opening stages but I hope their product and message gets better. Their water glasses were also weird. I felt like I was drinking out of a candle holder. Staff service was fine.
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Leda H.

Yelp
The sushi chef was great and very informed. The food was amazing. Tried their special hand rolls and have no complaints. Our server Lee was very attentive and always making sure we had water or drinks. Love that eagle rock has a sushi spot now.

J.B. P.

Yelp
We've been to ikigai many times and have always enjoyed it. The food is well-prepared, beautifully served, and delicious. We also love the house saki and the wall art (red fish). :) We went again last night and had Lee as our waiter for the first time. He really enhanced our experience with his warm, friendly, and professional demeanor. We look forward to eating at ikigai many more times and hope Lee is working each time!
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Scott J.

Yelp
The space is clean and spacious. The menu is simple but wide-ranging. Service was attentive. They literally just opened, and still had a little feeling of figuring things out. Despite that, the food came out surprisingly fast AND looked and tasted fresh and thoughtfully-prepared. The fish was spectacular. Maybe I'm an uncultured hillbilly, but I've never had consistently delicious, buttery-textured fish as this. I'm excited to have such a modern, clean, classy and high-quality sushi place in Eagle Rock!