Yama Sushi Sake Attitude - Los Angeles

 

I don't quite get the name, but I totally get the setup. It's a small "shop" with a sushi counter, selling slabs sashimi in styrofoam, poised to be sliced. 

Choose whichever cuts you want, and the chef will make you a plate. This one has Chutoro, Salmon, and Salmon Belly, and every bite tastes like it's made of butter. 

The Uni is creamy but has a bit of a bitter end, but this pre-cut white Sea Bream is smooth. 

Scallops are added on a second visit. This unforgiving shellfish is so fresh, with a sweet finish you won't soon forget. 

Reach into the fridge for sides like this cold, marinade-soaked Calamari Salad or a classic Seaweed to start.

Try not to be put off by the staring eyes. This little fish (is it smelt?) packs a formidable flavor. 

My favorite roll is Spicy Scallop, little dollops with a little spicy mayo. 

Pair with a Negitoro to double your pleasure. 

I didn't think I'd like it cold, but this Portabella Katsu is to die for.

Their Karaage is so differently delicious, with a sauce based in sweet soy that has notes of fish sauce to finish. 

The location is kinda random, with not too much in surrounding Mar Vista, but it's a peaceful place to grab a quick bite and even better for a meal to go. Either way, they don't disappoint. They carry good, clean cuts of quality fish, they offer a variety of foods both cut and cooked, and their skill shines in every bite.

Fish King - Glendale

 

Gliding through Glendale after a rare trip to Burbank, it's too easy to pop into Fish King for some first-class poke.

The Dynamite Scallop is my favorite by far, tender little bay caps, super fresh, super succulent, super sweet. Doused in a spicy mayo that stings but doesn't scorch, best eaten over tostadas to balance a heavy sauce. 

LA Weekly proclaimed the Hawaii Style Tuna LA's best, and I confirm that it rivals the best of the island itself. The tuna is just perfection, and the sauce is so simple, seasoning and sesame seeds with seaweed for umami. I love that it's not overpowered by sesame oil or oversalted by so much soy. 

If you're looking for something to slowly eat, the Octopus is your dish. It's cooked like you'd use in salad and another simple seasoning with ginger and strips of mushroom and bamboo. I was warned it was on the salty side, but it's just right over rice. 

It's pretty ballsy to call yourself a king, but Fish King proves itself with just the poke alone. Super fresh, simple yet sublime, this little shop will always slay.