One Poke

"Finding your secret sushi spot is an essential component of living in LA, up there with discovering your route to LAX or picking your preferred level of The Grove parking structure (it’s the roof, btw). When we say “secret sushi spot,” we’re not talking about the place that’s closest to your office. We’re talking about where you go when you need a quiet place after a long day, and a reliable backup when your friends suggest Sugarfish on a Friday night again. Ideally, a meal here won’t leave you on the brink of bankruptcy. Unquestionably, the sushi needs to be great. If such a place doesn’t exist for you, don’t stress. We’ll share ours - Sushi One, the tiny spot in Koreatown with an omakase experience that far exceeds its $65 pricetag. As you walk up to this bare-bones spot on 6th Street, you’ll see a large awning hanging outside that reads “Sushi Omakase Bar.” That should tell you everything you need to know. You could certainly come to Sushi One, order a bunch of à la carte sushi, a roll or two, and walk out pleased. But if you want to leave full - and secure in the knowledge that you’ve just found your secret sushi spot - order the $65 omakase, and put your meal in the hands of the chefs behind the counter. Unlike the not-secret sushi spots of LA, Sushi One doesn’t have a legendary figurehead running the show. But that’s also what makes a meal here so exciting. Yes, you come here to eat fantastic fish, but you also come to watch young sushi makers hone their skills before probably becoming famous in their own right. If that sounds like an overstatement, just wait until the fish starts coming out. Outside of the fact that you’re getting around 15 courses for $65, the best part of the omakase here is that it’s a different experience each time you come. One night you might get served perfectly-cut clam nigiri and seared sea bass on top of uni rice, the next it could be mackerel three ways and crispy shrimp heads. No matter what you end up getting, you can trust that it will be fresh, flavorful, and on a different level than whatever place your friend suggested. Even if you already have your secret LA sushi spot, give Sushi One a shot. The fish is excellent, the omakase is an incredible value, and let’s face it - your secret place has been getting a little too crowded lately anyway." - Brant Cox