Asakura

Asakura takes over the old Yamakasè space with a cleaner, more organized look decorated with auspicious, Japanese symbols discreetly displayed. Very limited seating with 3 tables and 6 high chairs at the Chef's counter so reservations are de rigueur. Executive Chef Yoshida and General Manager Ishiba set the pace in friendly, warm service. There is a short course Omakasè (oh mah kah seh) seating at 5pm and a full course at 7pm. The Omakasè start on time so make sure to arrive on time or be left behind. As is typical of high-end Japanese restaurants, the seasons are recognized in terms of ingredients as well as touches of seasonal motif on ceramic accoutrements. So wonderful that DineLA on occasion brings to attention a restaurant so finely tuned in exquisite, understated, elegant cuisine

Asakura is a small, serious room devoted to precision cooking, where ingredients like smoked caviar and eggplant mousse are elevated with quiet confidence. Behind the minimalist setting is a chef whose training in Japan shows in every composed bite. Every course impressed — I’ll be recommending this place to anyone who cares about truly thoughtful food.

Dining at ASAKURA was a truly exceptional experience. The attentive service and beautifully crafted dishes and drinks made me feel as if I were back in Japan. Premium ingredients were used generously, and each course reflected remarkable skill and aesthetic sense. The space was impeccably clean and inviting—a feast for all five senses. With this level of quality, I genuinely believe ASAKURA has what it takes to earn a Michelin star！

A gem in Santa Monica, if you’re interested in experiencing something different versus your normal sushi omakase. Overall experience was amazing and absolutely overfilling! Kaiseki * Definition: A traditional, ceremonial, and highly precise multi-course Japanese meal. * Structure: Follows a fixed, meticulous sequence of dishes, each designed to showcase a particular cooking method and presentation style. FOOD 4/5 Can’t remember all the names, so I’ll have the pictures do the talking for me. Haha! I believe the chef said 80% comes direct from Japan and the additional 20% is carefully sourced locally. PARKING 4/5 Easy underground parking esp. since the plaza is not busy during Asakura operating hours SERVICE x AMBIENCE 4/5 (based on chef) 6 total seats via bar and the chef was super kind

On a recent visit to Los Angeles, I discovered that a famous Tokyo restaurant, had opened a new branch there. My expectations were naturally high, and I'm delighted to say that the LA experience was every bit above my expectations. Every plate arrived beautifully arranged, the ingredients were first-rate, fresh, and genuine—exactly what you’d hope for. I was also delighted by their thoughtful sake list, with selections that perfectly complemented each dish. This restaurant beautifully captures the essence of Japanese dining and brings it to LA. For an authentic and heartwarming experience, I can't recommend it enough – it’s like a little piece of Tokyo right here!