We loved Sama! I'm always looking out for new spots and so happy arts district has this new addition! We went in for my husband's birthday with a party of 6 on a Friday night. We left so full and impressed I had to share a detailed review: Ambience: Intimate! Perfect for date nights, meetings & larger parties Food: I've been to almost every local and notable spots in LA that serve similar food but SAMA's robota menu really blew me away. I'll share the dishes that really stood out bc I can go on forever about every dish: Their green bean tempura is a must. It's huge, perfectly fried & comes with a delish aioli! Their Gyutan (beef tongue) is the best in the area. They are generous with thick & perfectly cooked cuts, it basically melts in your mouth. Not a lot of places still serve or offer gyutan anymore & if they do it's tiny and expensive. Another amazing dish is their miso cod! Generous portions, perfectly marinated & also melts in your mouth. It's giving Nobu without the Nobu price tag! I also highly recommend their lobster dashi pasta! Soooo creamy and generous pieces of juicy lobster! From their cold & hand roll menu, i highly recommend trying bluefin burrata, truffle sashimi, and their signature SAMA HR. Amazing. Cocktails: They have an assortment of well thought out signature cocktails, beer and sake. I'm not a mixed drinks kinda gal (calories hehe) but I did try their Lychee Mint Mojito and Yu So Cutecumber and they were refreshing! And of course enjoyed some Dassai 23 and Orion beer. Service: The servers know exactly what they're doing and they're good at what they do. I feel like the service in the restaurant industry has declined for some time but it was refreshing to see a team so knowledgable of the menu with good co-working chemistry. They are patient, friendly, attentive, and kind. I feel like good service elevates your dining experience and that's exactly what they did for us. Parking: It's rare to find easy parking in arts district so it was convenient having a parking structure just steps away! It's by 3rd St by arrow lodge brewery. AND THEY VALIDATE up to 2 hours!! That's so rare in LA these days. It gives you plenty of time to dine, enjoy and leave with comped/discounted parking! Restrooms: there are 2 co-ed single restrooms with a common area sink. Appreciated the cleanliness! At the end of the meal, the owner personally brought out a cake that our friends secretly stored with them. It was such a special night. We can't wait to come back with more friends and family. So happy it's so close to our place so will definitely with be back soon! read more

Inthe Arts District, Sama restaurant offers a culinary experience that beautifully blends traditional Japanese flavors with modern flair. From the moment you step inside, the ambiance welcomes you with a warm and inviting atmosphere, classic hip hop tracks, and lively gatherings. Miso Cod: The miso cod is a true standout and a must-try for any seafood lover. The fish is perfectly cooked, boasting a melt-in-your-mouth texture. Shrimp Tempura: The shrimp tempura is another highlight, showcasing the restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients and expert preparation (even removed the tail). The batter is light and crispy, enveloping plump, juicy shrimp. Served with a side of dipping sauce, the tempura is a delightful appetizer that sets the tone for the meal to come. Wagyu Beef Short Rib: For the meat lovers, the wagyu beef short rib is a revelation. The marbling of the beef is exceptional, resulting in a dish that's incredibly tender and flavorful. Yellowtail Serrano: The yellowtail serrano is a refreshing and vibrant dish that showcases the freshness of the fish. The delicate slices of yellowtail are enhanced by the spicy kick of serrano peppers Crispy Rice Spiced Tuna: Last but certainly not least, the crispy rice spiced tuna is a creative and delicious offering. Overall Experience: Sama restaurant impresses with its carefully curated menu and exceptional execution. The dishes are not only visually appealing but also thoughtfully crafted, allowing the natural flavors to shine. The attentive service enhances the overall experience, ensuring that every guest feels valued and well taken care of. Sama is a culinary gem that deserves a spot on your dining list. read more

A Sushi Lover's Dream - Top-Tier Quality and Flavor As someone who's passionate about sushi and always on the hunt for top-notch spots, Sama completely exceeded my expectations. From the presentation to the freshness of the fish, every detail showed precision and care. This is a place that truly respects the craft of sushi. The flavors were clean, balanced, and elevated without being overcomplicated. Whether you're a sushi purist or love creative bites, there's something here to love. Top must-try dishes: Bluefin Burrata - A genius combination of creamy burrata and buttery tuna. Rich, unexpected, and absolutely delicious. Hamachi Serrano - Bright and refreshing with just the right touch of heat. The yuzu soy brings it all together perfectly. Sama Hand Roll - An absolute standout. Generous cuts of premium fish in perfectly crisp nori--simple but exceptional. Hotate (Scallop) Nigiri - Silky, sweet, and ultra-fresh. One of the best scallops I've had in recent memory. The atmosphere is modern and elegant, and the staff is knowledgeable and welcoming. You can tell the team takes pride in the experience they're delivering. Sama is a must for anyone who appreciates high-quality sushi. read more

Delicious Handrolls & Donburi in the Arts District! I recently dined at Sama Handroll, a fantastic spot in the Arts District, and everything was delicious. Here's what I tried: Brussels Sprouts ($10) - 10/10 These were amazing--crispy Brussels sprouts topped with negi, bonito flakes, and a champagne tsume glaze. A must-order! Pork Belly Don ($19) - 7/10 Good, but not my favorite. The pork belly was tender, and the takitori sauce with sesame seeds added nice flavor, but it didn't wow me as much as the other dishes. Sama Don ($38) - 9.5/10 This one reminded me of Tsujihan in Japan--a luxurious mix of toro, blue crab, uni, ikura, and a silky jidori egg, all seasoned with sweet soy and wasabi. So flavorful and well-balanced! Wagyu Short Rib Don ($24) - 10/10 The wagyu was melt-in-your-mouth tender, and the yakitori glaze paired perfectly with the onion, sesame, and rich egg yolk. A great value for the quality. Overall, Sama Handroll is a great addition to the Arts District--fresh, high-quality ingredients with creative flavors. I'll definitely be back for more handrolls and that incredible Brussels sprouts dish! read more

This place delivers an excellent hand roll experience with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a well-thought-out menu. The hand rolls are made to order, featuring crisp nori, perfectly seasoned rice, and premium seafood options like toro, uni, and blue crab. There are also great vegetarian options, like truffle avocado and sesame tofu rolls, ensuring something for everyone. Beyond sushi, the robata selection is impressive, with standout dishes like miso cod, pork belly, and wagyu short ribs. The appetizers are equally strong, with crispy rice tuna, lobster bites, and spicy edamame adding to the variety. The drinks are another highlight, with unique takes on classic cocktails. Their Old Fashioned, made with oak-aged shochu and hints of orange, ginger, and rosemary, is a standout. Other creative options, like the Lychee Mint Mojito and Yuzu Lemonade, make for refreshing pairings with the food. The atmosphere is stylish but welcoming, and the service is friendly and attentive. Whether you're stopping in for a quick hand roll or a full meal with drinks, this spot is definitely a must visit. read more

This place is quickly becoming one of my go-to spots. The handrolls here are absolutely amazing - every bite was fresh and flavorful. You can really taste the quality of the ingredients, and each roll was perfectly put together. If you're a fan of sushi or handrolls, you're in for a treat! The grilled dishes were just as impressive. Each item was cooked to perfection, with just the right amount of char and flavor. I loved how everything was so well-seasoned without being overwhelming, making each dish a delightful experience. The ambiance of the place is also spot on. The lighting is perfect - not too bright, not too dim - just the right atmosphere for a relaxed meal. The music selection was also on point, setting a nice, laid-back vibe that complemented the whole experience. The staff was friendly, attentive, and well-prepared to handle a busy crowd. It's clear they've got things running smoothly already, which really impressed me. Overall, this place has quickly become one of my favorites in the area, and I can't wait to return for another amazing meal. read more

I had an incredible dining experience at Sama Handroll Bar and can't recommend it enough! From the moment I walked in, the ambiance struck the perfect balance between modern and welcoming. The service was attentive without being overbearing. Everystaff member made sure I was comfortable and well taken care of. I ordered a selection of hand rolls and the premium chirashi, and both completely exceeded my expectations. The hand rolls were made to order, allowing me to savor each one at its peak crisp seaweed, warm rice, and incredibly fresh fish. Every bite was thoughtfully crafted and full of flavor. The premium chirashi bowl was equally impressive. A beautiful assortment of sashimi over perfectly seasoned rice, with each cut of fish tasting exceptionally fresh and clean. It was both generous in portion and refined in presentation. Whether you're a sushi aficionado or just looking for a high-quality, satisfying meal in a cool setting, Sama delivers on all fronts. I'm already looking forward to my next visit (tomorrow!!!). read more

SAMA Handrolls completely blew me away. From the first bite to the last, everything was spot-on. The handrolls were unbelievably fresh, with crisp seaweed, warm rice, and super high-quality fish. Each roll was made right in front of us and served immediately--exactly how handrolls should be. The yakitori was just as impressive. Every skewer came off the grill with that perfect char and juicy center. The chicken thigh and beef skewers were standouts, but honestly, everything we tried had that smoky, savory flavor that hits just right. The vibe at SAMA is casual but stylish, and the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and quick without making us feel rushed. Whether you're a sushi lover or a yakitori fan (or both), this place delivers. Already looking forward to my next visit. Highly recommend! read more

I had an amazing experience at Sama Handroll! From the moment I walked in, the atmosphere was inviting, and the staff was incredibly friendly and attentive. The handrolls were the star of the show--perfectly crisp nori, warm seasoned rice, and the freshest fish I've had in a long time. Each bite was packed with flavor, and you could tell the ingredients were top quality. The menu had a great selection, from classic toro and salmon to more unique combinations that were a delight to try. They just started their lunch menu, the Samadon is definitely a must try. Service was fast, and everything was made right in front of me, adding to the experience. Whether you're a sushi lover or new to handrolls, this spot is a must-visit. I'll definitely be coming back soon! read more

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Sama and I was thoroughly impressed! The moment I walked in, I was struck by the modern and sleek atmosphere. But what truly stole the show was the incredible food. Each piece was expertly crafted, with fresh, flavorful ingredients that simply melted in my mouth. The menu offered a great variety of options, from classic rolls to more unique creations. I specifically came for the handrolls, and it did not disappoint. The service was also top-notch, with friendly and attentive staff who ensured that our glasses were always full and our plates were never empty. Overall, I highly recommend to anyone looking for exceptional sushi in a stylish and inviting setting. I'll definitely be back! Compliments to the chef!!! read more

SAMA is a delightful spot for anyone looking to indulge in exquisite Japanese cuisine. The highlight of the menu is undoubtedly the truffle sashimi, which is a luxurious twist on the traditional dish, perfectly balancing the rich flavor of truffle with the freshness of the fish. The wagyu short rib is another must-try; it's incredibly tender and full of flavor, showcasing the quality of the meat beautifully. The service at SAMA deserves special mention as well. The staff is attentive and knowledgeable, ensuring a pleasant dining experience from start to finish. Overall, SAMA combines outstanding food with excellent service, making it a fantastic choice for a special meal or a night out. read more

Sama Handroll is a hidden NEW gem in the Arts District. The spicy scallop handroll is a standout--fresh, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. The toro + caviar handroll is rich and indulgent, a must-try. The grilled dishes are also solid, especially the miso cod, which is melt-in-your-mouth tender and so flavorful. The service is friendly and attentive without being overbearing. The staff make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in. The space itself is stylish and warm, with a dope mural along the wall that adds a cool, artsy vibe to the experience. Great spot for high-quality handrolls and chill vibes with friends or a date. read more

Sama Handroll is such a gem! The food was fantastic and beautifully presented. My absolute favorite was the fish sandwich with added caviar -- definitely a must-try! The green bean tempura was another standout: super simple, perfectly crisp, and paired with a delicious aioli for dipping. I also loved the chicken sando -- lightly crispy chicken with egg salad, tucked between soft white bread that felt straight out of Japan but with their own unique twist. The service was equally impressive -- friendly, attentive, and prompt. Overall, I had a wonderful experience here and can't wait to come back. Highly recommend! read more

Best new hand rolls and appetizers in LA! Tucked in the arts district, I had one of the best dinners. Faves of the night: -brussels sprouts -truffle carpaccio -unagi tempura was the most unique -spicy scallop hand roll -everything else I ordered I can't wait to go back already! I NEED the rest of the menu. I won't be going back to Kazunori This restaurant had much better table seating where I was able to connect & drink w friends. Family friendly - they had high chairs and were able to serve some rice & seaweed hand rolls for my kids!! read more

If you're looking for a modern take on Japanese flavors with an LA twist, this spot is an absolute must-try! From the moment we walked in, the vibe was effortlessly cool. The appetizers were fantastic, everything I tried on the menu was great. But my favorite dish was the pork belly. The service was warm and attentive, making the whole experience even better. If you're in LA and love Japanese cuisine with a fresh, modern twist, this place needs to be on your list! read more

This hand roll and yakitori spot is a hidden gem. The hand rolls are made to order, with crisp seaweed, warm seasoned rice, and ultra-fresh fish -- the toro and spicy salmon are standouts. On the grill side, the yakitori is flame-kissed and full of flavor. The vibe is warm and casual and inviting, with chefs who clearly love what they do. Whether you're here for a quick bite or a full-on skewer feast, you'll leave full and happy. read more

The fish here is unbelievably fresh -- melt-in-your-mouth quality. You can really taste the difference in every bite. The chef clearly knows what they're doing, and the attention to detail in both flavor and presentation is top-notch. I've had sushi all over, and this spot easily ranks among the best. If you're a fan of high-quality fish, this place is a must-visit. Already planning my next trip back! read more

Sama Handroll was such a great experience! The service was friendly and attentive, the happy hour deals were awesome, and the ambience was superb. We ended up ordering way too much because everything on the menu sounded so yummy and honestly, it was all worth it. Left with serious food coma but so happy. This place was absolute fire, and we'll definitely be back! read more

This sushi restaurant is top-notch, my absolute favorite! The sama roll, with its delectable combination of Toro, salted duck egg, caviar, and uni, is simply divine. The toro hand roll is amazing, and everything else on the menu is beyond exceptional. The service is great, and I love the ambiance. Highly recommended! read more