The chef takes amazing pride in his work and his cuts are precise and accurate All fish selection is fresh and selected with care I had the scallop done two ways which was unexpectedly good. I thought I had scallops, but this dish took it to the next level. Taking a bite was such an explosion of flavor that it shook my taste buds Worth coming here ! read more

My go to neighbor hood sucho spot very small but has big flavor and great staff and service

I didn't know what to believe from all the other reviews, but I was coming up from Huntington Beach and meeting friends from far out in the Valley. We wanted a good dinner spot, somewhere we could make a reservation at before our show at the Troubador! This restaurant worked out so well! They were super responsive to the email through Yelp for reservations. I only made them the night before, and even had to push them back once. They were so accommodating. I was surprised that there weren't more patrons at the restaurant! Everything we ordered was perfect- and we've had our share of sushi experiences! The garlic albacore was to die for, all the sushi tasted fresh and at perfect temperature to melt in your mouth. I could not have been happier with the service. Our waitress, the hostess, the sushi chefs....everyone was super friendly and courteous. Thanks for helping our night be perfect Ajisai!!! If we get back to WeHo soon, we know where to go! For real!! read more

I've passed by this place numerous times, while bar hopping West Hollywood. I normally write long reviews, however for this place it's unnecessary. I have 3 words: YUMMY YUMMY YUMMY!! read more

The best sushi secret in LA. Mr Shoei, the owner chef takes pride and perfection. Simply the best.

Incredible hole in the wall hidden gem. Great food & service and always solid and consistent. Highly recommend the Trump Roll!!!

Good quality fish, seems like they specialize in tuna The selection is not the greatest but overall we really enjoyed our food even though we ordered it through postmates, nothing was damaged, everything was packed with care read more

Came across this tiny sushi spot randomly and for the price it was delicous ! Free appetizer (cold soba) i believe? Had great flavor, coated the cold noodles well. Biscotti- which is spicy tuna on top of crispy rice. The rice was great, super crispy outside yet soft and tender on the inside and the tuna complimented the rice very well, lightly seasoned fresh tuna yum Chu toro- was good for $15 but I definitely had better Salmón & yellowtail- was just okay to me nothing out of the ordinary Uni from Mexico- was delicious ! Fresh and plump with great flavor! Eel- was nice and soft had great flavor. Everything had great rice to fish ratio, definitely a great spot for sushi for a casual night with your spouse or a group of friends. Parking can be a bit hectic around here so keep that in mind, they also have parking meters in front of the restaurant but it's for an hour! read more

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Great big rolls and very fresh fish. The service was friendly and welcoming. Called ahead and held a table for us and had it ready when we got there. Cute and small restaurant with good food I'd recommend to anyone. read more

Manager on 8/3/24 in the evening 6pm did not honor the birthday girl's complimentary meal she was promised when making reservations for a party of twelve. Stated if he did it for her he would lose his job. BS! Her birthday was on 8/4. He told her she could come back tomorrow. I would not have him managing my establishment. Honor what was told or don't offer it at all. And then he had the nerve of giving her the check instead of me. He knew she was my wife and the birthday girl. He definitely did not do right. read more

Visiting LA for a short family vacay and decided to try Ajisai when everyone agreed we were in the mood for sushi. Food was excellent (the biscotti apps were especially delicious!) and everything tasted fresh. The service was fast and friendly. Loved the jazz playlist. read more

My colleagues and I stumbled at Ajisai for lunch during our exploration walks to WEHO. Just like a tourist with our trusted smart phone map (minus the fanny pack of course), it pointed us to Ajisai. In fact, Google review surprisingly directed us here for their authentic Japanese cuisine and excellent service. Sure enough, it did not disappoint. Our sushi rolls were fantastic, service was excellent, and this tiny hole-in-the-wall restaurant, in the corner of nowhere out of sight from Santa Monica Blvd, was packed for lunch, just like any day of the week. I'd definitely come back again if I am in the area. Until then, Cheers! ~ :p read more

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Ajisai is a hidden gem in WeHo. It doesn't even have its name on the outside; it just says "sushi" and looks completely unassuming. Thanks to yelp for tipping me off to this amazing spot! Luckily for me, I live on Palm and can walk here so parking isn't a problem (which seems to be the only complaint that people have about Ajisai). You can tell that they have a lot of regulars who live in the area like me. Like others have mentioned, it is small... which makes it cozy and intimate. We were lucky to have no wait on a Friday night (late, past 9 pm) but they do take reservations if you are a planner and want to ensure no wait. Because it is such a hidden gem, I've never seen a line outside or anything like that (hopefully it stays like that!) We were seated at the sushi bar, and were able to see Shoei at work and get recommendations directly from him. The vibe is interesting and cool - jazz and sushi? Why not! It's not cheap by any means (we spent about $130-$150 on two) but each piece of sushi that we had was extremely high quality, fresh, and flavorful. You could definitely spend less if you opt for the more filling rolls or bento boxes, but we opted mostly for sashimi. The iced green tea was delicious, and they kept refilling my glass so that it was never empty (amazing service). Can't wait to go back! read more

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3 stars for lack of parking and most of the reviews are for the bentos. Uni is $20 for an order. You go figure!! Don't get me wrong, the food is fresh here, but that to me should be a given right?? I am not a bento or roll type of customer so I'm sure you can figure out the rest. Maybe my expectation is a bit out of whack but I've had the same fresh stuff just down the street in BH that's not this price. So more power to you WeHo people!! Peace out!! So 5 star for the fresh fish. minus 1 star for tough parking and 1 star for the prices of the raw sashimis!! read more

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I love sushi! and i love, love love ajisai! the place just hits the spot. it is small and cozy and never too crowded and not at all pretentious. in fact the owner and all the employees are genuinely warm and friendly and attentive which you usually don't find in a place with the discipline and attention to detail required to serve up great sushi. is clear, the owner hits the fish markets himself and early to get the freshest stuff. moreover he is an artist with a generous heart so you don't get an offering that is minimalist or a giant chunk of something, you get exactly what it should be to be amazingly satisfying. this is great food for your soul. the place is so warm and friendly and accented in jazz and subtle touches that all speak to cozy-elegance while the food is made with care that you can feel coursing through you long after you leave. have a great night and enjoy ajisai it will be a very special occasion... read more

In good conscience, I can only give Ajisai 3.5*. I wanted to love this place because the owner is so earnest, but it's really not doing anyone any favors by over-inflating ratings. Here's my take: The many comments re: parking are valid. Went for lunch at 1:30 on a Wednesday and had to pay $10 to park for 45 minutes. Even the owner complained about the parking situation. No signage. I looked around, then poked my head in. Then asked - is this Ajisai? Why make it so hard if you want to be found? Small. Very small. There was only one other group while I was there, but I imagine it would be very loud on a busy night. In fairness to Ajisai - I think I ordered all the wrong things. It looks like they're known for their fresh sushi and sashimi. The hamachi I tried was outstanding. But the other dishes - "biscotti" (spicy tuna on fried rice) and soft-shell crab -were overly fried and greasy. The spicy tuna was not at all spicy, but bland. Decor was a little strange. Jazz nightclub? I didn't get it and it didn't add anything for me. A little cluttered. Pricey. $65 before tip for 2. Plus $10 for parking. It's just not justified. With so many sushi venues in LA, I won't go back. Although the owner was lamenting why he wasn't busier - it seems that if he looked around or read some of the less favorable reviews, he might get a clue. I don't understand how this is a 4.5 star restaurant. And when I mentioned the good ratings to the owner at the outset, he expressed dissatisfaction and wanted 7* (joking, sort of). Hmmm ..... try gratefulness? read more

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Terrible service, incredibly rude waitress, average food. You'll never see us here again.

For what it's going for, I think this sushi place does it perfectly. Ajisai is located on Palm Ave., a side street off the heart of the West Hollywood scene. The chef chooses to cater specifically to this crowd, though he'd probably fit right in with the likes of Sasabune, Zo, and other well-known pricey sushi bars of LA. The dishes here are creative, packing more of a punch than the more subtle flavors of more traditional sushi spots. Prices are on the lower side of moderate. Rather than upscale, the intimate interior is comfortable and full of harmonious details paying homage to jazz culture--the ownership is clearly a fan. Not much not to like. I was looking forward to coming back after trying it for the first time earlier this year, and was lucky to have that chance last night! Here are some of my notes: *You MUST try the biscotti! A scrumptious Ajisai specialty. It's basically a block of rice encased in a slightly chewy, slightly crunchy deep fried shell, topped with a layer of tuna tartar. So good you'll want to order more than one plate of 4. *The nigiri isn't afraid to come pre-seasoned for you. The chef loves adding garlic, yuzu (Japanese lemon), and other strong flavors, which to me is what sets this place apart from more traditional places. Most of the time it's a hit, though sometimes the sauce can be overpowering. *They do take reservations, but from my experience there's never been a huge line here. *Look for free street parking on San Vicente, north of Santa Monica, up til 9pm. *Sit at the bar if you can. Chef Shoei is a super fun and friendly guy! read more

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I am relatively new to Los Angeles, so I do not as yet have a favorite sushi restaurant, or even my go-to sushi place. I have now been to Ajisai (apparently the Japanese word for the hydrangea flower) twice and I believe that I have found "my" sushi place. The fish is very fresh, the sushi comes out quickly and it is expertly prepared. The Aji is mouth-watering. There are no real negatives, but understand that it is a smallish place and the decor could be described as having "rustic charm". The prices are average for West Hollywood, but the food is superlative for anywhere. If you go there, you will never regret it. read more

We were a bit worried about ordering sushi for delivery however this place was amazing. The sushi was so fresh and everything we ordered was delicious. The hand roll was great and they were generous with their fish portions. 10/10; would recommend read more

Ajisai - a variety of sushi and rolls - Japanese Near Me - West Hollywood, California

One of the best sushi restaurants in LA! Great food. Great service. Good prices. Order the Biscotti, you won't regret it. read more

Since being introduced to this Sushi bar about a year ago it has been my number one favorite. I eat sushi all the time and this is LITERALLY one of the best places I've ever been. The food and flavors are amazing and always served to perfection and with great care. The atmosphere is friendly, cozy, and warm. Everything I've had here is excellent, though a couple of items which I always end up ordering include the Spicy Tuna Biscotti, the Ajisai roll, Spanish Mackerel....ok come to think of it all the sushi is the bomb! Can't say enough great things about this place! read more

This place is still my favorite sushi spot after all of these years! They're West Hollywood legends at this point. Pro tip: order the yuzu halibut & garlic albacore sushi for the best time of your life read more

I would stick to the recommendations. The recommended sushi (on the chalkboard they have on the wall) was legit. The chu toro was melt in your mouth good. The spanish mackerel was also fresh. We also ordered nigiri that wasn't on the list, and they were a bit fishy. The amaebi was pretty fishy and not very fresh, though the fried head was good. The tamago was also spongy and had the consistency of a sponge, slightly dry, and not very flavorful. The inside decor is very unique and if you stick to rolls, maybe this is your spot. read more

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The sushi here is tasty, but a little too pricey for what you get. My friend and I split four of the specialty rolls and paid over $30 each. I tried the Mr. Rock Roll, Mr. Clinton Roll, Caterpillar Roll, and Ajisai Roll. I love albacore, but unfortunately the Mr. Rock Roll was a little disappointing because there was too much rice. The Mr. Clinton Roll was my favourite; the spicy shrimp and avocado paired really well and the tuna on top was very fresh. The Caterpillar Roll and Ajisai roll were both yummy, but not memorable. Like many authentic sushi places, the interior here is pretty small, with only a few tables and a sushi bar. When I came on a Thursday night, it wasn't that busy so the lack of seating wasn't a problem. Our server was very attentive and our food was prepared quickly. Although I enjoyed my sushi, I don't feel that it justified the price. If you want to get your money's worth, I'd pass on this place. read more

A little pricey, but this place is legit. Came in on a Friday evening for dinner and was surprised to find that there were plenty of open spaces available. My friend and I were seated right away. The place is professionally run and the employees are very attentive and accommodating. Before I go into the food, let me just say that we ordered way too much and paid for it dearly with our wallets. Started out with the Biscotti, which was really good. The rice cakes are perfectly fried and the spicy tuna on top is some of the best I've had. I prefer rolls over sushi, but the Tuna and Yellowtail here are really good. We got our Yellowtail with some jalapenos, which added a nice spice. The rolls are really something else here. I ordered the Dragon Roll because I love shrimp tempura and I was not disappointed. The Polk Roll was also really good. I love mushrooms but rarely see them in sushi, so this was a real treat. Last but not least, the DOC. Wow... This thing is no joke. It combines one of their appetizers (the Dynamite) over a California Roll. There were so many different flavors swirling around on my tastebuds, that I had to take a second to take it all in after the first bite. Definitely the highlight of the whole meal! My friend and I paid well over $100 for our meal, but it was kinda worth it considering how much we ordered. Overall, I'm really glad I got to try this place out and will definitely be back for the Biscotti and especially for the DOC. read more

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Came here last Tuesday night for dinner with a friend. It was both our first times. I would say to come after the pandemic since they only have 3 tables outside, which I didn't know before going, but anyways luckily I made a reservation. My friend and I shared the crispy rice spicy tuna which was good and we each got the trump roll with spicy tuna inside and albacore on top except she got hers without albacore. The roll was very good and it came with 8 pieces. I definitely would come back especially if I want sushi in weho!! read more

It was referred by a friend and to be honest the first experience was not the greatest, the rice was overcooked and unsalted, the fish cuts weren't that good either. A couple days later I decided to give it another try and yes, my friend was right. I went back another few times and I will come back again! It does happen from time to time to get the wrong impression, but I'm glad I gave them another chance. read more

Ajisai - Japanese Near Me - West Hollywood, California

This is truly one of LA's hidden gems. Intimate, family-run operation that doesn't hold anything back - the freshest product and warmest service. They have a very loyal following and it's easy to strike up a conversation (and even a long-standing friendship or two) just by sitting at the sushi bar. It's the place where everyone knows your name and the sushi chef always remembers your last order. See you tomorrow! read more

Ajisai - Toro is amazing. Ajisai is fantastic. Toro at Ajisai is life changing. - Japanese Near Me - West Hollywood, California

Ajisai is now open, both Lunch and Dinner. Come support this awesome local spot. Shoei is ready! Dine-in(limited seating) & Take out. Reservations Required. Face masc required. read more

Ajisai - Spider Roll(the best!) - Japanese Near Me - West Hollywood, California

Just a wonderful operation for going on 20 years now. Chef Shoei is nicest person you could ever want to meet. Quality of fish and service is very much old school excellent. A neighborhood institution. read more

If you want the most fresh sushi around, hands down this is the place to come. Ajisai is a small hidden restaurant on Palm. Every time I have gone here, the restaurant is busy yet still has no wait and a table somewhere, even though they have a small building. The sushi and all of the food is fantastic. It is fresh, the sushi is large, and it is delicious. The chefs are making the pieces near the tables behind a bar. The prices are a little higher than other places in the area, but the sushi is much higher quality and bigger. It's worth it. I would recommend keeping in mind parking if you come because it's not very easy in this area, but that's basically everywhere in West Hollywood. This place is great, and the place to go if you want the best sushi in this area. read more

WOW WOW WOW. That's all I got to say. The place is small and cozy which I LOVE. The sushi was out of this world. So fresh that it was melting in my mouth instantly. Prices were very very reasonable for the quality of sushi served. The chef was very very friendly. The owner was ver nice. Bottom line is if you're ever in WLA and in search for a sushi place, this is the place without even thinking about it. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED read more

Continues to be the best sushi in West Hollywood. Fresh seafood and the Clinton roll does not disappoint!

Solid spot to catch up with a friend over sushi and beer/sake! The ambience is cozy and warm. Servers were attentive and helpful! The market price toro is solid and worth at least getting one order of! Super savory unagi served at the perfect temperature also should make it on your list of items to definitely check out as well! read more

Ajisai - Salmon Roe - Japanese Near Me - West Hollywood, California

I have been a regular at Ajisai for the last 10 years, and I can tell you very few sushi places can compete with their freshness, taste, and portions. The owner and grand master sushi chef Shoei picks the fish himself daily and you can taste it and see his perfection in all his dishes. read more

Cute and cozy sushi restaurant in the heart of West Hollywood. Great spot for a date. Staff is nice and I don't recall them providing parking. Prices are and sushi is good (not amazing). Keep in mind with sushi I don't eat many of the options. read more

The chef is amazing! The service even better! And i met a great friend!! Will come back again for sure !

Hidden gem in West Hollywood! Has a very cute and intimate ambience with excellent service. The sushi is extremely fresh, and everything from the plating to the salad dressing (I'm serious!) is one-of-a-kind. Try the spicy tuna biscotti, you'll never forget it. read more

Ajisai - Bento Box and Sushi Roll - Japanese Near Me - West Hollywood, California

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I was in the area to wait for a friend and decided to stop in for a quick lunch. This small restaurant is off to the corner of Palm and Santa Monica Blvd, and the wooden décor is surrounded by artwork of music with a yellow backdrop and a small sushi bar tucked in the back. The vibe was serene past lunch hours and the menu was short and simple so I ordered their Sushi Lunch ($13.95) that came with five nigiri pieces, six spicy tuna rolls, salad, and miso soup. The nigiri pieces included tuna, salmon, sea bass, albacore, and shrimp. The dish was nicely arranged in the order of light to dark pieces followed by spicy tuna rolls nicely stacked. The nigiri came in a decent size and had good color and shine. For some reason, each piece had a splash of lemon so the weighted sour dimension hindered my ability to detect the extent of its freshness and fully enjoy the flavors. The textures were good and the spicy tuna was on point without too much mayo. Intrigued but not fully satisfied, I decided to order a pair of Uni ($7) which had a moderate sweet surge but without the dramatic climax to worth the price. The humongous bowl of salad with vinaigrette carrots was fresh and delicious, and the miso was standard and ordinary. Overall, the meal encompassed a few bright but puzzling phases where good presentation fell short of the sweet, melt in your mouth experience. The price was also high as I could easily get a better meal at Sushi Masu with a similar price tag. This said, it was still an overall decent meal that did not live up to the 5 stars rating that 49% of the reviewers had purported to experience. Service was brief and not noteworthy. With plenty of other sushi restaurants in the area, I'm not likely to return. read more

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