What a hidden gem! Like others have said, it's a small place with no frills. Very minimalist on the inside but the place is well maintained and the quality of fish was fantastic. You should be warned that the omakase is not a set menu and no set price so you should be careful when ordering. I can see people easily forgetting how many rounds of food and getting a high bill but to be fair, the staff do warn you about this. If you keep this in mind you're totally fine. They charge market rate for the fish so it's not like it's oddly expensive for what you're getting. It really is great quality and nicely prepared. The chef also checked in with us at round 10 because that was typically when people get full. So he did remind us and wasn't pushy about making you eat more than you wanted. For (2) people 12 round omakase, (2) bottles of sake, and a large beer it was around $430 before tip. I think you're really getting what you paid for. It's not oddly expensive for the quality you're getting. read more

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Have eaten here for years. A eclectic mashup of strip-mall location, kooky little waitress, and frumpy decor, saved by the insanely-high quality sushi. No more. In the past I've taken the wife or a friend there for the standard Omakase, and gotten out the door for $130-$200. This past time was different. Took the wife and a friend to celebrate a birthday and spent the equivalent of a car payment on lunch. No alcohol, just water and tea for 2 of 3. We did the Omakase and the waitress dutifully did her standard routine of, "Yellowtail....from Osaka" presentation. The sushi was of typical high quality. After about 7 rounds, I lifted my hand, and told her I'm done. She said that the chef had already prepared the next round. I gulped and acknowledged. She then brought out THREE more rounds, as if the chef had prepared 20 courses and we were obliged to eat them all. We were stuffed when this was over...and not in a good way. She then brought out the bill and I almost vomited. It was over $600 w/tip! She worked very hard to hide the pricing sheet from us as we ate, and insisted we buy the rounds "already prepared", which stretched out over 3 more courses. I'm all for authentic/traditional food, and for supporting the small family eateries of the community. However, we could have eaten at a 5-star sushi palace in Beverly Hills, instead of sitting in a broken booth in a strip mall in Burbank, and getting taken for a ride. read more

"Hidden" 10/10 Sushi spot in the most unlikely places, a small plaza. No frill. No typical rolls. Price is high compared to typical sushi places but this is /NOT/ your typical sushi.. it's more traditional Japanese style. For the quality and generous portions - there is no regrets here! For the nigiri and omakase lovers - this is the spot! Last year we had the seaweed salmon which we ordered 3 times & the blue crab roll that won us over. It was such a memorable experience! Since then we kept an eye out for blue crab sushi wherever we go. So far nothing has measured up to how chef made it here. -- detailed omakase food section -- Sides - Ginger and wasabi (not the horseradish dyed green, the real one) was so good I was snacking on the ginger in between dishes. The texture of the green sprouts, seaweed and tuna with the special sauce was just perfect. Hamachi/yellow tail & all the white fish I just inhaled. I love eating these and here they just burst in flavor & melt into my mouth. Oyster is not sandy no aftertaste, just texture and flavor. For someone that doesn't like oyster after taste, they will enjoy this one. I would introduce my friends that are first trying oyster to this. Drink - The hot green tea is so warm, tasty, and comforting. I forgot how many cups I've drank! They are good at refilling it from an authentic teapot. When I first saw the mackerel, I thought this will be the one I don't like. Little did I know I was blown away by the combination of green onion and ginger on top of the nigiri with sauce? It was so good. We weren't expecting the flavor and texture! Definitely love it! Usually Uni is usually too salty or strong in profile but the one they served was so clean and smooth to eat. One has a slighter stronger flavor than the other. I would eat this again in a heartbeat! Sweet shrimp was buttery like and firm texture. My least favorite of it all. The next one shrimp with the blue crab was a surprise. You will be surprise by the delicate and tasty shrimp. And the blue crab each taste subtly different not just texture but also flavor. The Chilean sea bass was THE BEST! I would order this in bigger portions as my main entree if I could. W O W!! Toro & Otoro melted and one was smoother while the other was firmer. I wouldn't mind eating more of this! The wasabi was just the right amount too. I appreciate the chef attention to this detail! Marinated Salmon roe usually salty but this one soooo delicious!! Felt like I was in a waterpark around multiple bubbles and playing around for a while until the magic was over. Last one was the Blue crab roll which brought tears to my eyes. That is how good it was (to me). Not sure if it nostalgia only but 100% the deliciousness warm of the blue crab was a great way to end the night. The flavor just right. ---- end of omakase food section--- The swift courteous lady server is not one of many words or makes small talk but she is amazing at what does. She is very attentive with taking away empty dishes, cleaning table and handling refills. The chef works with precision and delicately handles all the pieces. Great spirit with the regulars! I think he is a magician at his craft. Seating? Indoor only. 8 counter seat 4 4-seater table 1 2-seater table May be difficult for wheelchair users due to limited space. Recommend to best to call in advance. Restroom? Yes; good size entrance and space inside for wheelchair users, door isn't heavy, has handle bars and disposable seat cover. Total cost approx $400-$450 read more

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I'm dumbfounded at myself. This is my favorite sushi spot of all time and I have not written a review!? They do not make rolls. Have a limited menu. But everything on the menu is perfect and so delicious, if you are a true lover of sushi you will appreciate this place. I go to all sorts of sushi, in so many different places, but Sushi Nishi-ya is always a treat. If you like omakase, definitely try it here. read more

Fantastic. No frills, no excessive saucing or decor, just very well, balanced nigiri. This place is not for you if you drench your California roll in soy sauce, because that's not real sushi anyways, and this place serves real sushi. Limited simple menu. Every nigiri had good texture, temperature, and just an explosion of the fish. The way nigiri should be read more

Sushi Nishi-ya - Japanese Near Me - Glendale, California

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Average sushi overpriced. Had lunch here Omakase for two bill was almost $500. We ate for about 25mins and no drinks or alcohol food only. Ended up getting food poisoning from this meal both me and my wife got sick. read more

I came here with a group of five The place is small but sooooo good. We found this place last minute and my partner and I will definitely be back. He swears they have the best uni. I really liked their toro, spicy tuna roll, and the yellow tail roll. It's definitely a traditional style sushi bar. The service was good for it being operated by two people. I don't like yellow tail but I loved this one. This is not your Americanize sushi place. Definitely. Definitely. Recommend read more

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Service was lovely and the fish was superb. I loved that the Omakase was not a set menu-you just eat what's good until you're full. Definitely the best uni I've had (or in top 2? Regardless, A+). They kindly accommodated people's allergies and preferences in our group (but I would recommend just eating it all if you have no allergies. You will not regret it). Can't wait to go back. read more

Go and support this local sushi spot in glendale. It's a bit pricey but the food was great! The couple who owns it were helpful and prepared my food quick. The seating there is very homelike and cozy. Took my food to-go and it was delicious my favorite was the yellow tail. read more

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This hidden gem in Glendale will blow your mind. Did the omakase and it did not disappoint! Absolutely worth the price. It's a quiet little corner restaurant. Went right when it opened. Sat at the bar and started getting handed some of the best sushi I've ever had. I even tried some new foods. They only do hand rolls and sushi here. The Chilean sea bass was so well prepared and served piping hot. The chef instructed us on which items to eat with or without soy sauce. I need to ask next time to confirm, but I believe it's a husband and wife team. She is zooming back and forth to serve other customers and keep the water and hot green tea flowing. Would absolutely return. Can't wait for my next experience! read more

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Old school charm, five tables and sushi bar seating serves only sushi/sashimi. Local neighborhood vibe, friendly staff. Enjoyed the real crab roll and the yellowtail sushi. Everything else were pretty basic. Saw all the good reviews and the photos, order myself some fatty tuna. And it was the saddest item ever. Between three people, a la carte menu, it was about $150 total. I don't get the hype. read more

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My first Omakase experience and it couldn't have been at a better place. The sushi was fresh and of the highest quality. I had about 12 dishes during my meal and loved them all. Price is reasonable for the quality and the service was top notch. Must try! read more

Sushi Nishi-ya - Japanese Near Me - Glendale, California

Excellent. A small little restaurant owed by a lovely family. It only seats about 30 people approx. They don't do any rolls, their special is omakase. Leave it to the chef to bring the best to you. Just let them know what you don't like. It's our special treat we love to enjoy from time to time because it can be expensive. The quality and taste is superb. read more

This is sushi only and à la carte style. There's no tiers to pick from and it's not omakase. Although the pieces are brought out one by one, you order the pieces specifically. This is an authentic place so don't expect handrolls, sushi rolls, etc. This is only for real sushi lovers. And this is a solid place for sushi. It'll fulfill your sushi craving and will do the job just fine. It's not super expensive but not super cheap, it's right in that middle grade and everything is reasonably priced for the quality. Customer service is great, no complaints there. The sushi chef was sweet and focused and professional. Don't expect a whole lot of talking or bantering or loud music, etc. I sat at the booth. This is again a more authentic and quiet type of experience. I came here alone and rather enjoyed it. It felt very much just like it's welcoming and perfectly set up for solo diners like myself. Really enjoyed it. If I'm in the area and craving sushi, would definitely return here. You have to try it at least once. read more

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Some of the best sushi anywhere. I live in San Diego and regularly work in Los Angeles, and I love eating here as often as I can when I'm in town. Chef Tetsuya Nakao (of Asanebo fame) and his family were there the last time I was. Just Plain Gorgeous. read more

This restaurant had been on my radar for a while. Finally went on a Saturday night for the omakase. Best sushi dinner we have had in ages. Everything was fantastic. The mixed toro platter, the baked sea bass, all the more subtle fish of the first several dishes; everything was exemplary. And terrific service from the hostess. Thank you. read more

A little hole in the wall, 5 tables in all and the fish is delicious! They will always tell customers no speciality and no California rolls. They specialize in nigiri and hand rolls (temaki). One of the few places I know with real crab rolls and toro, reasonable prices, and care with each bite. whether it's done in or take out the nigiri and hand rolls taste delicious. Always looking forward to my next visit. read more

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A small comfy spot, beer, sake and really good quality. If you're into nigiris... definitely the spot. Not going to have and mayo covered rolls. read more

It's a small tucked in place in Glendale. Always come here when in SoCal. Had omakase everytime we come here though there's a la carte option. Excellent sushi each time. Best Santa Barbara uni! yummm!! Service is great! read more

Experience as master shushi chef creates a memorable taste in one sitting without guessing what to order. He guides you with his own experience dish by dish like a Master. Loved it. Rafael. read more

Okay I'm not sure what happened the first time I went, however I have been back many many times since then and let me tell you the sushi here is a-mazing. The waitress, who's always there when I come- I've never seen anyone else as the waitress- she doesn't speak English very well, so she's a little hard to understand, however she is very good. I always get omakase and she fills my drinks and clears my plate consistently as soon as I finish. The chef is very sweet and consistent. I've come a handful of times now sometimes months apart and the quality is always the same- perfect. The omakase can get very pricey very fast. I consistently spend 120-180 for omakase including tip everytime I go. I promise it is worth it, and I can't even put into words how to describe how good the sushi is. Overall I think the first time I went was a fluke, I always look at the "We reserve the right to refuse service" sign everytime I go now and think about the first time- but I quickly forget when I'm in my happy place eating some of the most amazing sushi. read more

I'd like to call this place a hidden gem, but I'm not sure I can categorize it so... seemed to have a thriving dinner service. We sat at the sushi bar, and enjoying course after course of omakase. Huge portion sizes - incredibly fresh fish. Such an amazing dinner. Will definitely be back when craving another fantastic omakase experience. read more

Solid Omakase restaurant that sits in a small strip mall. This restaurant is very small and feels like a hole in the wall but don't let that fool you, the quality of the fish was top notch. There's no set price for the Omakase course so you'll have to let them know when you want to stop so they can stop serving you. I paid roughly $150 for about 11 dishes which is reasonable for the quality and portion I received. read more

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The food and service were good and I've been there multiple times! But when my friend and I went there in December, we had split the bill and she put 0 tip because I was paying for the entire tip. They had tipped themselves 37%!!!! So if you go here in the future, check your statements!! read more

For someone that has high standards for omakase this has to be one of the best places I've been. They serve omakase chefs choice and you just let the waitress know when you're full. Everything was sooo good I kept forgetting to take pictures because I was just enjoying the food. We had about 14 dishes and I was stuffed. The items that really stood out were the smoked salmon kelp nigiri, scallop (so buttery), and the Santa Barbara uni. SO GOOD. The sea bass was similar to Nobu's miso cod and was a 10/10. The only thing I didn't quite like was the halibut but I think it was a personal preference of halibuts texture. All their fish was fresh and buttery, definitely coming back. Just wish I had room to try the crab hand roll. Our bill for two was a little over $300 but this is definitely a great place to go. read more

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- Locale Destination - It's on S Victory Blvd and Western Ave in Glendale. It's in a small, corner shopping plaza next to bunch of Middle Eastern shops. Who can you assume to have a good authentic Japanese sushi in this area???? Ambiance: very very old school, dated, no fuss, simple, mom & pop. Menu: this isn't the place you order teriyaki chicken (they don't have it!) nor crazy cut rolls at the sushi bar. This is very traditional authentic sushi bar if you don't know. Unless you can trust the sushi chef/owner completely for omakase or know what you're doing, don't even sit at the bar. Save the space for someone who actually enjoy the real sushi bar experience. Service: unlike the reviews, I found quite an enjoyable with a chef. Even I was nervous till I talked to him in Japanese. But it all makes sense till I talked to him ... Basically, how can you expect respect from chef when you just ignore all the traditions, etiquette and manners at the sushi bar? You don't ask for sushi when you go to Mexican restaurant, do you? If you treat him with respect, he'll respect you back. It's reciprocal. He was quite nice and enjoyed me telling him how tasty it was. Parking: it's quite small, so carpool! - Gluttony Expedition - Omakase: but I tell a chef what I must have and what I don't like at first so that the chef can plan my meal better. Omakase is like that. So don't be afraid to tell him that! He'll respect you and plan the menu for you. Black cod: so tasty! Tuna appetizer: sweet sauce with touch of green. Nice starter. Shrimp, ikura, crabs: underwhelming Aji: probably the best for the night. Darn good! Uni: I had it but loved uni, so forgot to take a pic Yellowtail, tuna: I got fatty toro part, too. All amazing! Engawa: very tender. Great. - Conqueror's Deduction - Everything was a nice bite size, so it was easy to eat. The fish quality was pretty good! Especially this area, it'll be hard to find this quality anywhere else. I can't wait to come back for more! read more

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Haven't had sushi this authentic since I've last been to Japan. Amazing. Love the OMAKASE. Kenji is a dedicated artist. Service is wonderful. read more

Sushi Nishi-ya - Japanese Near Me - Glendale, California

Fresh sushi omakase found in a unassuming location in a strip mall. My cousin was in town and his friend had suggested Sushi Nishi-ya. The restaurant is pretty small, only four tables and the counter. Interior is pretty dated and not fancy. However the quality of the fish is superb. Omakase is about $150+. There was no set omakase menu, rather you tell them when you're full and they'll stop serving you--so the price depends on how much you eat. They do have alcohol with reasonable prices. The most expensive sake listed was about $30. I would come back if I'm in the area. Price is reasonable to me. read more

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Excellent omakase! The quality of fish here is amazing! I am so glad I trusted the chef. I appreciate that they do not overload their nigiri with too much rice. The cuts of meat are sliced to a perfect thickness. I appreciate that they gave me a wide variety of fish. The yellowtail, mackerel, & amberjack are some of my favorites. I loved the use of real crab! The uni had so much umami flavor and it was so buttery. The scallops were a flavorful treat! The California sea bass was unlike any other sea bass I have ever had. The sea bass was so flaky. Masako provided us with excellent service. I absolutely love this place! I would definitely come back! Parking can be a little tricky and the place can get rather full. I recommend getting reservations. read more

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My friend was visiting from out of town and was raving about this place for two days straight so I agreed to try it with her one day. But instantly fell in love. It's a small mom and pop own Restaraunt so it's very homey and comfortable. But the sushi was mind blowing. Literally every piece served I was surprised. Each piece tasted like it was made with love. Each fish was paired with a unique ingredient that enhanced the natural umami taste from the fish. The rice is so good it just binds the sushi together and makes each bite so enjoyable. We sat at the bar and enjoyed a omakase. There is no menu, you just eat until you tell them you are full. read more

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I really wanted to support this mom and pop spot, but the shari (rice) was super inconsistent. It was alright in the beginning and then was mushy and fell apart. Not good. The fish was variable as well, the maguro (tuna) quality was not great. The aji (spanish mackerel) and scallop were solid. The unagi was just ok. read more

Whenever anybody asks for a good sushi spot I ALWAYS recommend this place. I can't explain how delicious this place is so you just have to come here and experience it for yourself. Basically they don't serve hand rolls and they specialize in Omakase (Chef's choice.) The chef asks you what you like and don't like and he takes it from there. He also tells you to use soy sauce or no sauce. The Scallops tasted like warm melted butter and the Spanish Mackerel was so fresh. It does tend to get a little pricey but don't let that deter you. Even if you come for a birthday or anniversary. You just have to check this place out read more

Excellent sushi in a traditional environment. The waitress is very Japanese and very gracious. We had the omakase set. Each individual serving was very artistic and delicious. The Fish was top grade.I will definitely be back! read more

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I am reluctant on writing this review as it has been my hidden sushi spot for years. But I guess it's finally time to publicly give this my 5 star review. My favorite food is sushi, I eat it on a weekly basis and at times make it at home. I would argue that Sushi Nishi-ya is the best sushi in LA County. We always get fresh crab hand rolls. And ask for the omakase. You will not be disappointed. read more

If you want to experience authentic no substitute beautiful sushi please come here. Outside, a very unassuming strip mall. (fun fact: Superbad's notorious Liquor store is in the same strip mall.) I started coming here about 15 years ago, so this review is long overdue. The Omakase experience is truly a magnificent journey. The price is very good, and the service is great. The staff keeps the food coming, and also makes sure to refill drinks in a timely fashion. I'm so happy their still around, and I will continue to come and experience this one of a kind place. read more

This place has amazing sushi, but be prepared to pay for such a delicious dish. The ambiance is alright, it feels a little dated from when the last time I was there. The service was great, they were very attentive to what we needed, our drinks, and the bill. It was also nice and quiet as well, which seems like a rarity when everyone wants to be blasting music that's a little too loud to hear. Overall, I had a very pleasant experience. read more

Two seconds after walking into this spot, I had a judgment then I immediately went against it. It was a very strong Pine-Sol smell from maybe some overzealous cleaning. The smell was overpowering the taste of the sushi, but in defense of the staff, they would not be able to smell it through the mask they were wearing. If I had some advice for the staff, I would ask to please use less toxic when cleaning--maybe even just water? I am unable to give a fair review of the food since it just tasted like chemicals. The service was great and efficient. I think it may be a good take out or delivery spot. Maybe. read more

Incredible sushi. You'll pay a little more but still feel like you got a great deal! Great service and excellent professionalism from both server and chef. A gem of Los Angeles in a humble, cozy strip mall space. read more

An unexpected delight of simplicity from menu to service. It's a cozy place like eating with your own private chef and server. Unless you knew it was here you would drive right on by. I loved the food ambience OK. read more

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No, you don't have to go to sugarfish, kazunori, or Pasadena to get amazing, authentic sushi... Nish-ya, a small, charming, family-run sushi restaurant, has amazing sushi for a reasonable price! We've been here several times and are always super satisfied and happy. My sister is a sushi fanatic and I always take her here when she comes to visit SoCal. read more