*** 1 Michelin Star ***
** Los Angeles Times 101 Best Restaurants (2025): #7 **
As the top ranked sushi bar in Los Angeles, and one of only seven that currently has a Michelin star, Morihiro not only lives up to the hype, but manages to far exceed it every time I visit. This past Friday was my first time since they moved locations from Atwater Village. I was very excited to see Chef Morihiro "Mori" Onodera at his new space off Sunset, and of course, the food did not disappoint.
Having been to nearly all of the best sushi bars in and around Los Angeles (including Sushi Kaneyoshi, Sushi Takeda, Sushi Ginza Onodera, Shunji, Shin Sushi, Sushi Zo, Nozawa Bar, Sushi Tsujita, Matsumoto, Sushi I-NABA, Mori Sushi, Yasu Beverly Hills, Asanebo, and many more), I can confidently say Morihiro is the best in town. In fact, Chef Mori makes the best sushi l've had outside of Japan.
For those that don't know, Mori is the original Chef-Owner of Mori Sushi, the legendary Michelin-starred sushi restaurant that many considered to be the best in all of Los Angeles. Mori has long been regarded as one of the top sushi chefs in LA, being one of just a few to earn a Michelin Star in this city in both 2008 and 2009, prior to his temporary retirement as a chef. Since opening Morihiro, he has consistently earned a Michelin Star and has again been widely regarded as the best in the city.
What distinguishes Mori's sushi from the rest? His attention to detail is unrivaled and he sources only the highest quality ingredients. Mori's rice (shari) is some of the best you'll ever try, having gone through extensive quality control. He is obsessed with rice and it's apparent. The temperature, seasoning, texture, density, and consistency is flawless. The seafood quality, preparation techniques, knife skills, and presentation is about as good as it gets. His sushi is some of the most balanced and flavorful you'll find.
To eat, we ordered a la carte at the counter. Nigiri included Baby Amberjack (Shiokko), Yellowtail (Buri), Golden Eye Snapper (Kinmedai), Lean Tuna (Akami), Semi Fatty Tuna (Chutoro), Fatty Tuna (Otoro), Gizzard Shad (Kohada), Spanish Mackerel (Aji), Barracuda (Kamasu), Geoduck (Mirugai), Surf Clam (Aoyagi), and more. In addition, we tried the Agedashi Nasu, a few traditional tuna cut rolls, and a himokyu roll. Everything we had was prepared to perfection and delicious.
If looking for the best sushi restaurant in Los Angeles, you found it here at Morihiro. Chef Mori's sushi is simply unrivaled and definitely my all-time favorite. Though their new location is a bit bigger and offers plenty of tables, I highly recommend reserving a seat at the counter to maximize your experience. The ambiance, decor, and service are also impeccable. Don't forget to order a signature cocktail or a perfectly poured Suntory draft. read more