Sakurako in Little Tokyo delivers a lively, top-tier omakase with expertly crafted nigiri, kaiseki appetizers, and artful desserts in an intimate nine-seat setting.
"Sakurako from chef Kimiyasu is the newest contender in LA’s stacked kaiseki scene that includes N/Naka, Uka, and Hayato. Though a large portion of the menu is dedicated to top-notch nigiri sushi, fans of the Japanese tasting menu format will welcome the intricately plated amuse and appetizer courses, plus the thoughtful desserts from a veteran pastry chef. Reservations are available on Tock for $280 per person." - Kimberly Madrid, Eater Staff
"It’s not often that a high-end omakase restaurant resides at the street level, but that’s the case with Sakurako, which comes from Sushi Enya founder Kimiyasu Enya. Enya staffs three talented, Japanese-trained chefs, including head chef Akira Yoshida preparing an array of nigiri, master chef Tatsuki Kurugi composing kaiseki-style appetizers and sashimi, and pastry chef Shota Takaki taking care of desserts." - Matthew Kang
"If you look past the servers in suits giving monologue dish descriptions, Sakurako is a surprisingly fun, free-wheeling omakase experience. The chef behind the nine-seat counter cracks jokes while slicing snapper filets, and strangers pour sake in their neighbors’ glasses like it’s a dinner party. The sushi here relies on gorgeous fish to shine, and most nigiri need only a gentle swipe of soy or dab of wasabi to melt like margarine on toast. At $280 per person, Sakurako is firmly in the “major birthday or anniversary” camp, but the delightful mayhem and attention to detail make it a satisfying splurge. Expect an entire dry-aged sushi section, plus a few appetizers, grilled fish, and tiramisu. " - nikko duren, brant cox, kat hong
"If you look past the servers in suits giving monologue dish descriptions, Sakurako in Little Tokyo is a surprisingly fun, free-wheeling omakase experience. The chef behind the nine-seat counter cracks jokes while slicing snapper filets with the precision of a diamond cutter. Strangers lean over to pour sake into their neighbors’ glasses like it’s one big dinner party. The sushi here relies on gorgeous fish to shine, and in most cases, the nigiri only needs a gentle swipe of soy, a dab of wasabi, or a bit of yuzu to melt like margarine on toast. At $280 per person, Sakurako is firmly in the “major birthday or anniversary” camp, but the dining room’s delightful mayhem and the kitchen’s attention to detail make it a satisfying splurge. Sakurako’s 12-piece nigiri selection changes based on the season, but expect an entire dry-aged sushi section, plus a few appetizers, grilled fish, and tiramisu." - Nikko Duren
"Sakurako from chef Kimiyasu is the newest contender in LA’s stacked kaiseki scene that includes N/Naka, Uka, and Hayato. Though a large portion of the menu is dedicated to top-notch nigiri sushi, fans of the Japanese tasting menu format will welcome the intricately plated amuse and appetizer courses, plus the thoughtful desserts from a veteran pastry chef. Reservations are available on Tock for $250 per person." - Cathy Chaplin, Eater Staff
