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Hama Sushi
Categories: Restaurants Sushi Bars Restaurants Japanese Sushi Bars, Japanese
347 E 2nd StLos Angeles, CA 90012
Neighborhoods: Downtown, Little Tokyo
(213) 680-3454
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- Attire:
- Casual
- Good for Groups:
- No
- Good for Kids:
- No
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take-out:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- No
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Beer & Wine Only
- Noise Level:
- Average
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- No
- Caters:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
Amy Y. said: "I love going here, it's so good each and every time I go. I almost always get the Chirashi Jyu Sushi Box Matsu, it's two boxes placed on top of each other. The top box has an array of different types of sashimi and the bottom has all…" read more »
562 reviews for Hama Sushi
Review Highlights
"the most scrumptious albacore sashimi ever."
(in 49 reviews)
"LOVE their spicy tuna hand roll."
(in 27 reviews)
"Red Snapper, slightly seasoned with sea salt."
(in 62 reviews)
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561 reviews in English
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Review from Kristen C.
Los Angeles, CA
2/2/2012
FAVORITE sushi placed in LA! The fish is SO fresh and just melts in your mouth. The yellowtail and red snapper are by far my favorites. But the tuna and salmon are delicious as well!
For people who have never been, they don't serve tempura or rice dishes. It's basically just sushi (hand rolls / cut rolls) and sashimi. So if you like a variety of fancy sushi rolls and baked dishes, you should probably go elsewhere.
If you aren't a very assertive type, you'll probably feel better going with a small group (3-4) and try to get a table. If you get seated at the bar, you have to make your move to place an order. You'll need get the sushi chef's attention (there are 2 that make the sushi right there in front of you). Some people don't like this since there is some waiting involved. I don't mind because it's TOTALLY worth it! -
Review from Anna N.
Glendale, CA
2/7/2012 1 Check-in Here
We were on our way to Sushi Komasa, but realized they are closed on Mondays when we got there...?!?! What's up with that!?!? So we ventured next door to this place.
This is a quaint spot, with only bar sitting. The sushi chefs are quite old, but that says they must have a lot of experience (I hope..)!!
The menu is fairly simple, but since it was my first time there I didn't realize there is another menu with rolls instead of sushi & sashimi. Oh well, next time!
This place does not have fancy rolls like at Americanized sushi places like Kabuki, Katsyua, etc. so don't be disappointed.
My mom & I had Albacore Tuna Sashimi, Red Snapper sushi, Albacore sushi, Spicy Scallop hand roll, Sweet Shrimp sushi & Spicy Tuna roll. All the fish were SO fresh, they melt in your mouth.
I'm definitely going back pretty soon. -
Review from juliet k.
Studio City, CA
2/2/2012
I love their fresh sushi here. Their uni, red snapper, and sweet shrimp is always best here. never a disappointment.
The only draw back is that its TINY. very tiny. So try to come before or after peak times and sit by the bar. -
Review from Captain G.
New York, NY
2/2/2012
One of the best sushi restaurants in LA. I think it's the best restaurant in Little Tokyo!
This is a no nonsense joint. No cellphones allowed. All parties must be present to be seated. This place only serves sushi and sashimi so forget the tempura, rice, noodles, etc.
You're seated right in front of the sushi chef and he'll make you whatever you want. The sushi and sashimi combos are extremely fair in terms of portions. Chefs make excellent hand rolls. The shrimp was extremely fresh... Make sure you deep fry the head. Try the blue fin toro too. I'll definitely visit this place when I'm in LA. -
Review from Samuel L.
Long Beach, CA
1/28/2012
First off, I think Randy and Chloe are way off the mark. I'm not one to insult so I'll just leave it at that.
The thing about Hama Sushi in little Tokyo is that it's not a typical American sushi restaurant. It's a Japanese sushi bar! Your servers aren't going to kiss your ass and wait on you hand and foot. It's not that kind of place. You have to know how to take initiative and order your sushi when you want it, and know what you're ordering. If you get that basic concept you'll do just fine. It is what it is, and that's just fine. Not all cultures or environments are what we expect or may be used to. Get out, expand your horizons and live a little.
With that said, the rest is simple. Fish is always top notch and fresh, some of the best on the west coast, and yes, I've eaten my fair share of sushi. Yellowtail is often a fish that doesn't bode well if not super fresh and Hama is one of the few places that does it right. Service is great if you give your respects by not being a typical American idiot.
Price is average for "good/great" sushi. There's definitely more expensive and less if you want to judge sushi by price. I mean if you really want inexpensive sushi, you better get your ass to a buffet or a conveyor-belt fish go round. If you want to save a few bucks, there are some good happy hours around, just takes a little research or dining experimentation. -
Review from Joa K.
The bf and I thought this place was pretty arrogant (at first sight anyway). They have a lot of rules and FYIs like "hey dummies, we only serve sushi or sashimi - no tempura, teriyaki, rice alone, etc!" Also, you must spend a minimum dollar amount per person. AND there's a minimum charge for any CC transactions...But we were ready to eat actual sushi so no problem.
We waited about 30 minutes on a Saturday night - which isn't bad for such a popular spot. We were seated at the bar just like I was hoping for. The servers pulled out the chair for us - probably because the seating is super cramped and they know how to do it. I tried getting out of the chair by myself to go wash my hands and it was sort of hectic, haha.
The atmosphere is really similar to small sushi restaurants in Japan. Small, tight seating, bar, maybe a tiny room for larger parties....it's intimate seating and you can hear almost everyone's conversation. The sushi chefs are right in front of you but don't expect them to pay 100% attention to you - they're in the zone making your sushi!
The Tuna was amazing. Melted in our mouths and couldn't have asked for better quality. At first bite, I instantly recalled the huge difference between low-grade and high-grade sushi. The low grade stuff at kaiten sushi places (usually) will have too much of a bite to their fish. Higher grade sushi will normally have a melting effect. Hama sushi isn't some sort of luxury place. It's simply quality sushi and it was apparent in their tuna pieces.
Salmon was also fantastic. I think it's one of my favorites at Hama! Perfect temperature, perfect texture. I always order salmon at sushi places and Hama does it right :)
Tuna belly - Good grief, this tasted like quality :) It was indeed very fresh and beautiful. However, it tasted like the ocean, which I don't really like...especially when everything else lacks that strong oceany smell or taste. Oh well. It was still a great cut and I'm overall happy with it.
Eel (Unagi) was great. I should have asked for no sauce though because it was a bit salty for my taste. However, it was perfectly "cooked" and at the perfect temperature!
The sea eel was so perfect. Melted right on my tongue and had that perfect warmth and flavor. I would get 10 of these if I had the stomach space! :D
I would definitely return to Hama. Though, I'm intrigued to go to Sushi-gen. I've had it on my bookmarks for a while now but I was (fortunately?) swayed into going to Hama instead. -
Review from Nicole L.
1/28/2012 1 photo
Too legit to quit Hama, you're stellar. You've filled the void in my life that I never knew existed!
PARKING: Street, or validated lot (for two hours!)
FOOD: I'm not a huge sushi fan, but I think Hama has made me a lover. Baby steps to yellowtail, but I love their spicy tuna hand roll and salmon cut roll. The freshness of this fish, oh my! You MUSTMUSTMUST order their eel and avocado hand roll. As I was staring into this hand roll's soul, I was thinking "oh my goodness, you ARE 5-stars on Yelp, I know it!". As I was devouring every morsel, I was thinking *5stars5stars5stars!* This thing is BEYOND delicious! MUST order! My little ordered the soft shell crab roll, and she said it was DELICIOUS. Nomage!
Must come back here to satisfy my craving :)
Only setback was that my diet coke was expired! I only learned my lesson from Daikuokya,..who apparently also serves expired Coke :( -
Review from Randy P.
Los Angeles, CA
1/24/2012
I don't really have anything new. I had the same exact experience as Chloe C. So here's her review and read it again. If you make expect to pay $50 or less per person, work out regularly and eat around 1500 calories per day, do NOT come here.
They take the Komasa's sloppy seconds (people who don't want to wait on their wait list).
Also, if I ever see that sushi chef with glasses on regular LA streets, he's goin down. I almost caused a serious scene, but my girl was there. He outright said "Wassamatta wich u?! U ordah or waht?"
Here's Chloe's review for emphasis:
"I read all the "you'd better get here early or you'll have to wait forever!" warnings and thought- I'd better get there early! So we arrived about 45 minutes after they opened- and were the only ones there.
I could go into detail about how awkward it was to be there with 3 sushi chefs and 2 cranky waitresses just STARING at us, and how uncomfortable it was that there was NO music playing, and how strange it was that there was no menu, and how we felt like they really would have preferred we not be there at all, but I'll just say this- $40 later we left, still starving, because the atmosphere was too hostile to stay another minute. We walked down the street to another restaurant, where the staff made us feel like we weren't complete assholes for just walking in the door."
Btw, I have never met Chloe and don't know her. Same experience. -
Review from Ray L.
Philadelphia, PA
1/29/2012
This is my favorite sushi joint in LA! So, I'm sure some reviews have ripped this place for their no-rice policy or lack of more American fare. Let's get that out of the way. This is a no frills sushi bar. If you don't like raw fish or don't like sushi, don't come here! You're not going to have much to eat! If you're the kind of person who likes fancy rolls (cherry blossom rolls, baked salmon rolls, super duper dragon rolls etc.) that you might find in a more fusion type sushi place, Hama may not be your cup of tea.
Like I said, Hama is for traditional sushi lovers. It's not for the type who wants to stick to California rolls. Read on if you're okay with raw fish and sushi:
Their albacore sashimi is a must have.
Toro (fatty tuna) is wonderful here.
So is the ama ebi (raw sweet shrimp). It comes in a pair, and then you get to decide whether you want the heads deep fried (my fav) or thrown in a soup. Yum!
I usually drop around $35 (including tax + tip) when I come here. There's usually a wait--just FYI. There is validation and free parking for 2 hours. But if there's a wait, sometimes you could be parking for more than 2 hours. So on occasion, I will just opt for street parking. -
Review from Pearl L.
Los Angeles, CA
1/17/2012
I've been coming here for almost 5 years now and I love how nothing has changed. I love the sushi chef with the big-ass Disney pen. It used to be Little Mermaid but recently I haven't gotten close enough to see what character it is. It's red, btw.
There was one night where one chef was swaying a bit but I would argue that I had the best sushi that night! You have to come at the right time in order to avoid the long wait (that's my secret) but even if you do have to wait, just drop by the little shops next door to pass the time - my stores of choice are American Apparel + Ninjiya market + the bakery shop that sells those red bean round-thingys.
Nothing beats the spicy yellowtail & salmon handrolls, I mean, what could be better than spicy mayo + fish??? So YUM. Some other tasty items that I frequently shove down my esophagus include the Uni - so oceany, so creamy & fresh and ALL THEM BELLIES (yellowtail, albacore, salmon, etc etc etc). -
Review from Diane L.
Los Angeles, CA
1/10/2012
Freshness guaranteed and let's not forget that they are a very traditional japanese restaurant. If you show empathy to their craft, you will earn their respect and come to realize how they will treat you as opposed to the other guests who expect rolls from this joint....
Ask to sit in front of Frank (the stout one with glasses), he is pleasant and treats you well.... -
Review from Su L.
Culver City, CA
2/1/2012
Been to this restaurant twice so far, lunch once and ordered only hand rolls and fish soup, then dinner last weekend and ordered sushi and one hand roll. Everything i had was excellent. Fish was very fresh - toro and yellowtail belly were amazing! It's pricey but considering it's a sushi resturant at the heart of Little Tokyo, i wasn't surprised. Serve was good too. I will definitely go back.
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Review from Willy W.
1/4/2012 1 Check-in Here
When I'm in Little Tokyo and craving sushi, I automatically think of a certain immensely popular place in Honda plaza. However, I happen to know that the line at this particular place occasionally gets a little out of hand especially between Friday night through the rest of the weekend.
But despair I will not for I know that Yelp is my friend. And as such, my trusty app gave me a few options, but I opted for Hama Sushi, which is located just outside of the Japanese Village.
It's a small joint, and I mean small... they can probably feed 20-30 people at a time. Luckily as such I did not have to wait as a spot at the bar had just opened up! There's a small seating area with tables and the sushi bar - where I prefer to sit.
The waitress made sure to point out their sign denoting that they do NOT serve rolls... just sushi (nigiri) and sashimi. I applaud them for this boldness and courage for it must drive away some customers. There's another sign that reminds patrons of a $12 minimum per diner. Gosh, I hope they don't have a problem with that cuz it is far too easy to eat more than $12... just order the toro ;-)
And order the Toro I did... among other yummy sushi. Everything was quite good, but the standouts of the night were: yellowtail belly (got the last one and wasn't even on the menu), albacore tuna belly (ordered this twice), and unagi (good as usual, but was better than their sea eel).
Hama Sushi does serve hand rolls though.
All in all, I had a very enjoyable dinner. The 3-4 sushi chefs work harmoniously and the one serving me paid good attention to his section. While I would not say that it's better than the other particular sushi restaurant, I would definitely go back because it is 1) cheaper and 2) shorter wait. -
Review from Stephanie P.
San Francisco, CA
1/11/2012
After a tumultuous $255 towing in Laguna Beach the day after Christmas, my partner thought it appropriate to take me to sushi to make me smile. Am I oh so glad she did! We found Hama on Yelp on our drive up to LA and couldn't have been happier. The wait was LONG but so worth it. Once you sit down at the 18 table bar, they don't joke around about not having any cooked food; there are signs on every wall and every menu. We promptly ordered sake (all sakes on the menu are under $20 and very smooth). We then ordered hamachi, salmon, snapper, some whitefish I can't remember the name of and tuna. Every piece of fish tasted like nothing, they way it should taste. The fish was so fresh that the texture stood out the most.
I also had the best snapper of my life here. Served with a bit of lemon and sea salt (Chef was adamant about no soy), the fish melted in my mouth so delicately I knew I could eat it every day for the rest of my life and never get sick of it.
I highly, highly HIGHLY recommend this place. If you are looking for some of the freshest fish available in California, Hama has it. If only I lived in LA, I would be here at least once a week.
Oh yeah, and it's actually reasonably priced for sushi (and for LA!). -
Review from Chloe C.
Los Angeles, CA
1/15/2012
I read all the "you'd better get here early or you'll have to wait forever!" warnings and thought- I'd better get there early! So we arrived about 45 minutes after they opened- and were the only ones there.
I could go into detail about how awkward it was to be there with 3 sushi chefs and 2 cranky waitresses just STARING at us, and how uncomfortable it was that there was NO music playing, and how strange it was that there was no menu, and how we felt like they really would have preferred we not be there at all, but I'll just say this- $40 later we left, still starving, because the atmosphere was too hostile to stay another minute. We walked down the street to another restaurant, where the staff made us feel like we weren't complete assholes for just walking in the door. -
Review from Les S.
This place keeps it simple, just sushi and sashimi, no tempura, teriyaki dishes, noodles, or funky rolls. Selection of fish is pretty limited but whatever they have is really fresh and tasty.
The place is pretty tiny like most other sushi places in the area. I think they have about 18 chairs at the bar and few small tables but it would be best to sit at the bar. You just tell the sushi chefs what you want from the little menu on the table. It's a pretty tiny menu. When I first sat down I said to myself, "is that all there is?" But maybe this is good thing so you don't have too many indecisive customers looking through the menu.
My wife and I had the following:
Salmon - pretty common stuff at any sushi joint but this was so smoothy and buttery, it almost tasted like a different fish. Either that or I've just been eating crappy salmon at other places.
Red snapper - the chef tells people not to dip this in soy sauce. There's a reason for this; it tastes excellent without it. It would actually ruin the flavor if you did. The chef just sprinkles a little bit of salt on top and that's all you need. I don't think I had red snapper before as a sushi. This was so good I wanted to order 10 more but I had to leave room to try other stuff.
Kanpachi - not sure how to describe this. I was still blown away by how much I liked the red snapper, I forgot what this tastes like.
Albacore toro - not as buttery as the salmon but was still melt in your mouth good.
Albacore sashimi - I don' think I saw this on the menu but I ordered it from looking at some of the pictures on Yelp. This was quite refreshing. Slightly seared on the outside with some green onions and lime juice. This seems to be the favorite among many customers.
Sweet shrimp - Pretty good. They don't kill the shrimp in front of you like they do at Sushi Go 55 but they also don't charge you over $25. You still get the head of he shrimp, either in a miso soup, or fried. We opted for the soup.
Spicy tuna handroll - Not over the top but still pretty good.
The service was good and price was very reasonable. On top of all the items above, we also ordered a bottle of premium sake and the total bill was about $65 before tip. Not bad at all. I am so looking forward to coming back here in the near future. The place was pretty packed but wasn't too crazy and didn't have to wait. The place next door had about 45 minute wait at 6:45 p.m. on Saturday. -
Review from sharon e.
12/19/2011 1 Check-in Here
I've been denying myself a favorite food for a very long time... I really do like sushi. a lot. and i miss having it.
but when I finally allowed myself this special treat - i wanted it to count.
Lisa: well, i'd have gone to Hama, but I know you don't like sushi.
Me: is Hama really worth it?
Lisa: absolutely - the albacore belly is the best... but they don't have cooked foods or anything like tempura or teriyaki.
Me: that's fine - let's go for sushi if you say it's *that* good
why have I been denying myself a favorite food? because I have issues with over-fishing & sustaina... blah blah blah... it's just easier to LIE about it and SAY "i don't like sushi" instead of pontificate about the real reasons I don't go.
It's a treat to have once a year or so.
So if you want to make your sushi experience count - go here. It really was good.
side note:
me: 3 o'clock - vincent gallo
Lisa: what are you talking about - that's right next to me
me: uh - yeah.
Lisa: (casually glances to her right) Hi K____ !
K___ : Hey Lisa, how are you? - this is my friend Vince...
only in LA - you sit in a tiny hole in the wall, have a celebrity sighting, and actually know the friends of the celebrity... btw - he was waxing poetic about the red snapper soup - i might have to return just for the soup. -
Review from Karen T.
Updated - 12/8/2011
Holy wow, did I have a crappy experience this last visit. The sushi chef that was helping my friend and I clearly disliked us, as he made it a point to ignore us most of the time and was obviously more attentive to everyone else around us. Why exactly, I really can't say. We were a bit engrossed in our conversation as we were catching up over some chisme (gossip for the non-spanish speakers), and I suppose because we weren't giving him our undivided attention, we were consequently snubbed. Apparently conversing with your dinner mate is offensive to the staff here. It was clearly evident that we were getting the shaft when at the end of our meal, we were not given oranges as the other patrons were. Really? Thank you very much too, ya a-holes.
It's a shame, because the sushi is good. However, I don't go out to dinner and spend good money to feel like a piece of sh*t.1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/8/2010
I'm not sure how I've never been here before, as I dine in Little Tokyo quite frequently. I met with… Read more »
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Review from Aaron G.
Downtown, Los Angeles, CA
12/2/2011
Cozy, like the hull of a ship, or a secret, underground hideout, Hama offers fresh and well priced sushi, without the hype or uber-modern decor of your average LA sushi joint.
They make no attempt to "wow" the patron with overly complicated fusion rolls, nor do they attempt to cater to an indecisive audience. Know what you want, order it, order some sake or beer, and let them do their thing.
You will not be disappointed.
But if you're one of these people who enjoy the spectacle-sushi spots, go ahead and try:
http://www.yelp.com/bi...
you'll enjoy it there.
As for myself, Hama is my new "go to" spot. -
Review from Lesley H.
Los Angeles, CA
1/6/2012
So perfect.
No crazy flashing lights to draw customers in or little boats floating around the bar.
In fact there's a sign on the door, making sure you know what you are getting yourself into--
Simple, elegant, authentic sushi and sashimi (technically that's not what is written on the door but this is what I inferred)
It's a place where you go to eat delicious sushi and sashimi w/o the frills of dim lighting and hipsters running amok. Just kidding I love hipsters...
Only downside is I can't really go here if I'm low on rent money.
Also they can occasionally run out of certain fish but no matter there are plenty of things on the menu that will fulfill your sushi needs. -
Review from Ramy S.
Los Angeles, CA
1/23/2012
No messing around with any bs rolls here, just the real deal. Just great high quality sushi at very reasonable prices. One of my favorite places downtown. Their salmon is some of the best around.
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Review from Nick K.
Los Angeles, CA
[4.5 stars]
Following my first date from Il Buco, i decided that sushi was in order for the 2nd and we first headed out to Sushi Gen for some quality fish. Silly me, it was a Saturday night and regardless of which night, Sushi Gen was just not gonna happen. Just looking at the crowd waiting outside seemed to be about an hour minimum. Using trusty Yelp, i looked at the possible candidates nearly: Komasa, Mako, Toshi and Hama. Komasa was already out of the question since it was just as busy as Sushi Gen. My intuitions told me that Hama is the place to go. i love it when my intuitions are right!
Immediately when you enter the small sushi bar, a sign in English tells you to not except them Westernised rolls or teriyaki; just simple and pure sushi/sashimi. Excellent! We waited about 10 mins or so and were promptly seated by the waitress lady. As we sat down, i noticed the sushi men as they prepared their food. Like what Eli R mentioned, they gave an aura of steadfast devotion and care to their craft and i too felt like they wouldn't feed me something that they'd be displeased with themselves
i was super excited to see that toro (tuna belly) was on offer and along with salmon, albacore and flounder, i placed the first order in. OH MY GOODNESS. Even before the toro, i was floored by the quality of the fish they serve at Hama. i don't ever think i've had salmon taste so delicious before. i admit that salmon is a relatively tasty fish for sashimi, but nonetheless, my mouth was in aquatic heaven. i've never had a full taste of toro before and the ones i had at Hama... my mouth still waters at the mere thought of it
i used my limited Japanese to interact with the sushi man in front of me (didn't get his name unfortunately) and that helped to get me some wonderful service. Whomever he was (by far the youngest sushi man in the house), he was truly proud of serving you some dericious sushi and it showed in his deft knifing skills and affable attitude. When i placed my last order for toro, he happily gave me another serving and told me that he cut from a different location of the stomach for me to try. If you're Korean, that sushi man will surprise you with his Korean~
By dinner's end, me and my date had tried every single fish sashimi offering. i even tried kampachi (or officially known as Almaco Jack; cousin to the yellowtail). i guess my mouth was already "ruined" (in a good way) by the toro i had, but i couldn't quite discern what kind of taste kampachi has. Looks like i'll have to go back and try it again... with some more toro in order! :)
i still have yet to try them more expensive joints here in LA, but my experience at Hama was truly top-notch. Whilst i am making a list to visit the more well-known places, Hama is definitely on my list for getting quality sushi -
Review from lil timmy j.
Los Angeles, CA
1/22/2012
Came here for lunch only because my fav spot Komasa was closed. Wasn't stoked on the service here. They make it seem like your bugging them, when all you would like to do is order food. I wasn't a big fan of their spicy tuna. I've never seen it served this way? It looks like something you'd scrape from a jar and put on the end of your hook to go fishing. I will say however, the sweet shrimp was tasty... as was the tuna, yellowtail and albacore.
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Review from Matt H.
Encino, CA
11/30/2011
Last night my friend Jon took me here to lament over bitches of the past that had broken our hearts. Yeah, it's a bit of a drive to downtown, but so what!?!? He had expressed that this was going to be the best sushi I'd ever had.
What I didn't know is that we'd be too busy scarfing down some of the best traif I've ever had sitting at the bar at Hama Sushi to even notice that we were supposed to be having BoyTalk/GirlTalk. FTW Sushi for Life! Who needs girls when you have sashimi? Am I right, my dogs?!?!
Let's break this mother down:
Yellowtail Sushi
Albacore Toro *yeah ALBACORE TORO BOOM!
Halibut Sushi
Spicy Salmon Handroll
Salmon Sushi
Tuna nigiri
Red Snapper Sushi
Black Snapper Sushi
Fried Soft Shell Crab with lemon -- I'm still having orgasms over this a day later.
Octopus Nigiri -- I still have yet to meet a puss I didn't like.
Unagi sushi to wash it all down with many bottles of Asahi. Shit was DELISH.
HOLY FUCK. I'm sorry, but Hama sushi just blew every other joint I've ever been to our of the water. We only waited two minutes (at 7PM on a Tuesday night...pretty nice). Everyone was super nice, and the service was quick. It was like $80.00 a person but we drank like fish and ate more fish than we drank...so ....you do the math. -
Review from Shana F.
Anaheim, CA
12/5/2011 1 Check-in Here
Fabulous service, fabulous food. Great little place in the heart of Little Tokyo. Nigiri sushi, sashimi, and authentic Japanese dishes only.
For a party of 4 on a Saturday night at 7pm, we only waited about 10 minutes to get seated. Small place, maybe holds max about 30 patrons - most of the seats are around the sushi bar and there are some small tables. Not a place you want to bring a large group.
My fave eats of the night were: albacore sashimi plate (lots of pieces to share), salmon collar, yellowtail collar, steamed egg and seafood, and spicy tuna hand roll. Our group enjoyed the spicy tuna hand roll so much that we ordered seconds!
Definitely a great find in the sea of many sushi places (but not necessarily good) in Little Tokyo! -
Review from Stephanie L.
Long Beach, CA
1/20/2012
Hands down, the best sushi/sashimi I've EVER HAD.
Everything is amazing but my top reviews are for:
Albacore sushi/sashimi = A+++. They add special sauce/chives on it. Heaven.
Softshell crab handroll = A+ (for those looking for that extra crunch and dont want to give into tempura). Ask for an extra side of the dipping sauce for the rest of your sushi.
Rolls/handrolls range around $4.
Oh, and buy the chefs a round of Sapporo. (I'm not kidding). They are a lot of fun to be around and make the experience worth while.
Don't sit in that little room in the back, it always ends up taking a while to serve you. Be patient for a spot at the bar. -
Review from Allen D.
Norwalk, CA
12/3/2011 1 Check-in Here
We intended to go to the place next door and found it closed, but were pleasantly surprised as Hama welcomed us in with open arms.
Excellent service, and their SUSHI is TOP NOTCH. I usually judge a sushi place by 2 items, the TORO (fatty tuna) and the UNI (sea urchin). The TORO melts in your mouth and the UNI is like a breath of ocean. -
Review from Amy S.
Woodland Hills, CA
12/11/2011
THE best place for sushi in LA... Their spicy tuna is like cocaine! I could eat and eat their rolls.. Also the Albacore Sashimi is amazing too..Check this out to see
http://youtu.be/62vzyX... -
Review from Tuns S.
Los Angeles, CA
Updated - 2/6/2012
The food is amazing, but the service is HORRENDOUS. I used to come here at least twice a week. THey are always SO RUDE. The 2 women waitresses and the owner- the older Japanese man. Every time I am there, they act like they are doing me a favor in serving me. I never tip less than 20%, sometimes even 25% just to see if they would change their demeanor. NO! Finally had our last straw a few months ago, when they greeted the people that came after us and gave them a table. Not sure if it was because they were of the Asian descent, but welcomed them with open arms. When I said "a table for 2", they looked at me like they wanted to kill me and made us wait another 30 mins. I was LIVID and asked her what her problem was, and why she is like that every time we come in. She had nothing to say. I asked to speak w/ the owner and he came over to speak to me. Conveniently, when I went to ask him what the hostility was about, he doesn't speak English today. Very convenient! I've heard him speaking in English numerous times before. I wish they would change their attitude, but the lack of common respect or decency to their dining patrons has driven me away. There are other places I would rather spend my money and time. Try Sushi Enya- it's a new sushi spot on 1st Street and fairly comparable to Hama. I am tired of them making the rules as they go, or depending how they feel. They are completely inconsistent and decide on what nights you can order take out. I hate all the service staff and owner at this restaurant and will probably never go back.
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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7/10/2011
Best sushi place in LA. Things to order: spicy salmon roll w/ avocado, spicy tuna roll w/ avocado,… Read more »
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Review from Eli R.
Los Angeles, CA
11/14/2011
I had originally planned on eating at Komasa to lose my Little Tokyo sushi virginity.
However, it was a Friday night, and the wait at Komasa was 90 minutes. Because of this, my friend and I decided to put our name on the list at Hama, which had half as long of a wait. I was impressed by their sign that proclaims, "No tempura or teriyaki chicken." This was a a good omen...
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As soon as I sat down, I noticed the discerning, Japanese chefs. They took the job very seriously, and I could see them meticulously cut each piece of fish. I felt that if a piece wasn't perfect, they wouldn't feed it to me.
I had albacore, yellow tail, and salmon, a tuna roll, a California roll, and hot tea.
The fish was some of the freshest I have ever had. Writing this review is literally making my mouth water. The yellow tail was perfectly buttery, and the albacore had a brilliantly balanced sauce. Prices are standard---about 4-5 dollars per two pieces of fish, and the same price for a roll. (Although their roll selection is very limited)
My only possible complaint is the soy sauce they have is EXTREMELY salty, but that may just be my perception due to years of green-bottle (low sodium) consistency. -
Review from Bryan V.
Orange, CA
11/14/2011 1 Check-in Here
Komasa, next door, was filled, and had a big crowd waiting to get in. So we just "settled" and went next door. It was...
====Frikkin ridiculous====
I couldn't stop talking about how good the food was while I was eating it. The nigiri was incredible. Good fish, good rice. Salmon skin handroll = explosive.
I think I only work so I can pay for my food/sushi addiction.
====O-K, but I'll look the other way====
Their crab handroll was good, but not as good as at Sushi Wasabi in Tustin. Also, the over-mayoed spicy tuna (or salmon?) handroll was a no-go. Over-mayoed = gross.
The place is made up of maybe a few tables and about 90% bar seating with 3-4 chefs working behind the counter. It's a fairly quiet joint, great for conversation. Pricing is decent for the quality.
I CAN'T WAIT TO RETURN! -
Review from Alex M.
Potomac, MD
1/29/2012
best sushi i've had other than Japan itself.
for the people saying they've had issues with this place, i've read their reviews, and it sounds more or less like they have an anti-social disorder, or just plan indecisive.
If you get there early, you have to realize they are setting up. Typically if you just stare at people, can't make up your mind, fail to try and interact, or neglect to ordering in a timely manor anywhere; the staff is going to get impatient. If you don't know what to order at a sushi bar, ask what their special is, tell them the fish you want to eat, etc. If your not in tune with sushi/sashimi, and need direction, either do your research before coming, don't go, or just don't complain you can't find a menu. (interestingly enough, i've never had an issues not having a menu. they will have a sheet in which you fill out what you'd like to order, if you want tea/sake, its on a list, and other item are on a menu as well.)
The fact of the matter is that this is a legit sushi place, where you come knowing what you want to eat, no tourist business. If i can recall the door even has a sign "no ordering bowl of rice only". The chef Masa is very accommodating and extremely friendly. The staff was more then friendly with my group, especially knowing that I speak Japanese.
When ordering Maguro (tuna) sashimi, my favorite, masa wouldn't let me have the same cut twice. I ordered it 3 separate times that night, and he in-turn gave me 3 delectable different cuts to experience the maguro taste.
I have to say by far though, I had no idea sushi was able for carry out. I'm from the east coast, and I cringe at the thought i've gotten sick from carry out sushi. My friend decided to get some hama to go, after a successful work day for the both of us. Our place was only about 15minutes away (so, not entirely a long wait), but my god, Hama, I absolutely love this place. Its always the first place i go to when in Cali.
though.. delicious can be pricy, its well worth the visit. -
Review from Darren C.
Los Angeles, CA
11/6/2011
This is some of the best sushi I've had in 'Murrica.
When you walk in, there's a sign telling you that they serve sashimi and nigiri, they don't have deep fried shrimp rolls, and several other foreboding messages presumably intended to ward off people looking for a giant roll with deep fried shrimp, cream cheese, jalapenos and sriracha. I was tempted to slink off and go eat some Westernized sushi at a place where everyone barks "IRASSHAIMASE" the second you walk in, but I decided to stay, and I'm glad I did.
It's a bit difficult to order if you're there for the first time, because the menu consists of specials written on whiteboards and little placards that are scattered across the bar, but we resorted to a strategy of staring at other people's food (which wasn't difficult, it's a small place) and then ordering the same. Despite the warning sign, they did have some fried dishes such as soft shell crab, which was equally as amazing as the raw fare. I also recommend the salmon skin hand roll.
Like anything good in this world, it doesn't come cheap. The bill came in at $60 for two people, but we easily could have run up a bill for twice that much. -
Review from Yi Z.
9/24/2011
Even though Yelp says Hama Sushi is $$, I think it's $$$. In both of my experiences, I've had fresh sushi but it sure wasn't that wallet friendly. For less than a dollar more per order, I can go to Sasabune for a fancier experience.
It ended up costing about $35 for lunch, but I admit I was really hungry. The yellowtail and salmon nigiri sushi were insanely good. The spicy salmon and spicy yellowtail cut rolls were also excellent. I also learned that ordering sashimi is just not a good value. For $15, you barely get anything.
Hama Sushi is a solid choice but I think I will keep Restaurant Komasa as my top choice going forward.Listed in: Japanese Restuarants
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Review from Diana L.
North Hollywood, CA
10/12/2011
Spicy hand rolls = CRACK
I could eat here every other day and only cause I need beef in between. I love sushi and this place is yummy +++++ and affordable. Sure there are other places where the sushi is a higher quality but these handrolls are......did I mention CRACK addictive? -
Review from Jen Y.
Los Angeles, CA
The highlight at Hama Sushi is their FRESH QUALITY fish and seafood.
Menu offers basic sashimi, nigiri and handrolls only.
Sushi bar seating is more abundant than table seating.
It's a get in 'n get out type of high table/seat turnover no-frills restaurant.
There's usually a wait for this place so be prepared. There are plenty of neighboring retail shops to browse while waiting. -
Review from Gran D.
Los Angeles, CA
12/31/2011
Rice and tuna is the freshest and best in town. LA is full of sushi bling. Hama sushi is a dive sushi bar and no-nonsense and not pricey at all (like Katsuya). The characters that inhabit the sushi bar is fun to watch.
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Review from Lily K.
Los Angeles, CA
1/25/2012
Worst service ever. Went there today for lunch and waitress tells us they have no rice, no tempura, just sashimi and sushi. Friend wants steam rice so we tell them we will leave. I ordered green tea which I did not touch. They charge me $1.67 which I don't have cash so I take out my credit card. They will not accept so they tell me to go to atm. We go out to look a bank and the old man owner follows us for half a block telling us that a atm is down the other way. Then the waitress running screaming You have to pay. All for a buck sixty seven cents. I am so applaud. I will never go back there ever. I borrowed 2 bucks from my friend and told them that I:ll yelp my bad experience. Omg!
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Review from Kiko Z.
Los Angeles, CA
9/10/2011 2 Check-ins Here
SO FRESH!
The first time I came here was because Komasa down the road had an hour-long wait time. I had walked pass Hama Sushi hundreds of times before but never paid much attention to it.
I've never been to Japan before, but I imagine this is what a sushi bar would look like in Japan. There are three chefs working and about 20 seats around the sushi bar. Everyone just yells out their order and the chefs would bring out the orders on ur plate, with their bare hands.
Not gonna lie, the bare hand part freaked me out a little at the start. but I'm sure they're clean, because every time I leave Hama Sushi, all I feel in my stomach is awesomeness.
The Uni is soooooo fresh and sweet! When uni is not fresh is tastes overly fishy and sometimes really slime-y. Their uni had a great soft but slightly bouncey texture had a clean and sweet after taste!
Everyone raves about their albacore sashimi and they are NOT exaggerating. When I had the first piece of sashimi in my mouth, it felt like the first time I saw snow when I was 3: I've never seen/tasted something soooooooo pure and amazing before!
I also tried toro for the first time here. I didn't expect the texture to be so...ummm.....fatty but not sickening? It was pretty great :D
Also, when you order the sweet shrimp sushi, you have the option of what to do with the shrimp heads, and they taste really nice in miso soup!
Something that's off the menu: they have BAY SCALLOPS! you can get them spicy or not spicy! they're really sweet and juicy nomnomnomnomnomnomnom
My new go-to dinner sushi spot! (Sushi Gen for lunch, of course :D) -
Review from Bianca D.
Los Angeles, CA
8/29/2011
I'm really not sure why people love this place so much...
Hostesses/waitresses were less than friendly -- in fact, not a single smile to be had in the place.
Terrible lighting and decor. Felt like any old cheapie, run-of-the-mill sushi closet -- which would've been more than forgiven if, in exchange, they were giving customers thick, high quality cuts of fish.
Three sushi chefs behind a 14(?) seat bar and they still forget our eel roll?
(That said, when we did finally get it, it was the best thing we had there.)
This place definitely ain't all that. Maybe I've just been spoiled by Komasa next door... where they charge about a dollar or so less per item and give you a lot more in quantity & quality -- AND with a smile. We won't dare stray again. Trust.
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